SARIKEI: Food handlers in new eateries here must undergo training for certification or face fines and even imprisonment.
A notice from the Sarikei District Council (SDC) stressed that under Regulation 30 of the Food Act 1983, it is compulsory for operators or workers of eateries registered with the council to be trained.
“All new food handlers must attend a food handling training course conducted by the officially recognised Food Handling Training School (SLPM),” said the notice.
Effective this year, the SLPM certificate is a prerequisite for the application and renewal of the trading licence.
Without certification, eatery operators are liable to be fined up to RM10,000 or face up to two years in prison.
Meanwhile, SDC in collaboration with Kolej Sedamai, officially recognised by the Health Ministry, will hold a food handling course on April 27 at the SDC hall from 1pm to 5pm.
The fee for the four-hour course is RM65 per participant and would cover the subjects of food hygiene, food safety and critical factors with regards to food poisoning.