BACHOK: Nine food premises here were ordered to temporarily suspend their operations for 14 days for failing to comply with the cleanliness standards required by the Health Ministry.
Kelantan Health Department director Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin said the order was issued following checks conducted on the premises during an operation on Tuesday.
The action against the premises was taken under Section 11 of the Food Act and those who flout the directive can be prosecuted and, if convicted, may face imprisonment for up to five years, a fine, or both.
The operation, he said, involved 71 health officers and covered areas including Bandar Bachok, Jalan Melawi-Kandis, Jalan Bachok-Budi, Jalan Bachok-Beris Kubur Besar, and Jalan Jelawat-Gunong.
"During the operation, the health officers inspected 59 food outlets and restaurants.
"Of these, nine operators and owners of food premises were found to have failed to meet health standards," he said in a statement.
Dr Zaini also said a total of 137 notices were issued to food operators during the operation.
He added that the notices were issued for offences under Section 32B of the Food Act 1983.
"Individuals who fail to pay the compound may be prosecuted and, if convicted, face a fine of up to RM10,000 or imprisonment of up to two years," he said.