‘Good for 4 hours’: Ramadan traders reminded of food safety guidelines

Yap (centre), Tan on his left and others flash their approval for the Kota Sentosa Ramadan bazaar. – Photo by Matthew Umpang

KUCHING (March 5): Traders at the Kota Sentosa Town Square Ramadan Bazaar must adhere to food safety guidelines by selling their food within four hours to ensure hygiene and freshness, said Wilfred Yap.

Speaking to reporters at the bazaar yesterday, the Kota Sentosa assemblyman highlighted the recommendations by the Health Department that food should not be displayed for more than four hours.

He also encouraged members of the public to visit the bazaar starting from 3pm onwards.

“The Ramadan bazaar runs from March 2 until March 30, covering the entire fasting month. The Health Department has advised that food should only be displayed for four hours. Anything beyond that is not considered healthy.

“So, traders are encouraged not to start selling too early, and visitors should come around 3 or 4pm instead of 2pm,” he said.

He also commended the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) for their role in maintaining food hygiene and safety, noting that the council had conducted food preparation courses and safety briefings for traders.

“Before approving hawkers, we ensure they have attended the food handling course and received the necessary typhoid vaccination.

“The Health Department will also conduct random checks to ensure compliance,” he said.

Yap revealed that the Kota Sentosa Ramadan bazaar is one of the first few bazaars launched by MPP this year, with a total of six venues across the council’s jurisdiction.

He also emphasised the event’s significance as an attraction for both locals and tourists.

“This bazaar is an annual event, and I’m glad that MPP chose this location as one of the first to be launched. Ramadan bazaars bring people together, and here in Kota Sentosa, visitors can enjoy a variety of food.”

He also highlighted the role of Ramadan bazaars in fostering unity among Sarawakians, in that they gather people from all races.

“The Premier of Sarawak always emphasises unity, and small initiatives like this contribute to that vision.

“Through events like the Ramadan bazaar, we can strengthen our sense of community and work towards the goals of the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030—a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Sarawak,” he said.

This year’s Kota Sentosa Ramadan bazaar features 66 stalls offering a wide range of delicacies.

Yap also acknowledged CCK for their corporate social responsibility efforts, as the company has been sponsoring aprons and caps for the traders since the first edition of the bazaar.

With Yap during his walkabout at the bazaar yesterday was MPP chairman Tan Kai.