Penang's Poultry Markets Face Closure on Health Grounds

MALAYSIA - The halal authority is set to tighten up the rules on religious slaughter in wet markets in Penang because of environmental and food safety concerns.
calendar icon 8 July 2014
clock icon 2 minute read

The state has expressed concern over the halal slaughtering of poultry in Penang, reports The Star of Malaysia.

State Religious Affairs, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman, Datuk Abdul Malik Abul Kassim said firm action would be taken against those who do not abide by the rules and regulations provided under Syariah law.

He told a press conference: “I get disappointed when Muslim chicken slaughterers are perfunctory about cleanliness and do not follow the standards that had been set according to Islamic law.

“We will take firm action against poultry traders who fail to abide by food hygiene regulations as well as those who do not follow the law on halal practices.”

He said the Penang Municipal Council would soon ban the slaughtering of chickens at wet markets, a move that had been implemented by the Seberang Prai Municipal Council.

“This step is to overcome environmental issues such as unpleasant smell and clogged drains.

“We want what is best for consumers. We also want to provide a clean and healthy environment for the people,” Mr Abdul Malik added.

The Star report adds that State Health Department deputy director (Food Security and Quality Division), Ku Nafishah Ku Ariffin, said the slaughtering of poultry the proper way could prevent Salmonella from spreading, as it was the main reason for food poisoning.

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