THE Penang government has targeted all public eateries in the state to attain grade A by the end of this year.

State Housing, Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo said the target must be achieved by Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP).

“We have to lead by example. Currently, we have premises with grade A, B and C.

“We used to have grade D but not anymore. This is important for the state government to reassure members of the public about the cleanliness at our eateries.

“We cannot allow bad perception to tarnish the image of the state.”

Meanwhile, MBSP mayor Rozali Mohamud said at the end of last year, 38.31% of the eateries in Seberang Perai had grade A and B while the rest were grade C.

“However, the number had improved to 44.25% in January,” he said, adding common offences committed by operators included food being prepared on the floor. – Bernama, February 19, 2020.