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Businesses in Kuala Lumpur ordered to close over hygiene issues may be considered for reopening as early as 24 hours after completing thorough cleaning
However, the 24-hour period does not mean a premise can automatically reopen once it has been cleaned.
Under a new policy introduced by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), the city council must first inspect the premise and confirm that all required food hygiene and safety conditions have been met before reopening is allowed.
The final decision remains subject to inspection and confirmation by DBKL.
This means operators will still need to address the hygiene problems that resulted in the enforcement action before their premises can reopen.
The new measure was announced by Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh on 11 August following engagement sessions with food premise operators and business associations.
The change follows engagement with food operators
The issue of reopening premises was among matters discussed during an earlier engagement session between authorities and the Malaysia Muslim Restaurant Operators Association (PRESMA).
A subsequent engagement session was held with representatives of the Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Chinese Coffee Shop and Tea Shop Owners' Association, involving Yeoh and DBKL Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud.
The sessions were held to identify issues faced by food premise operators and areas where DBKL's service delivery processes could be improved.
DBKL said the new approach is intended to reduce unnecessary processes while maintaining food safety and hygiene standards.
DBKL says the rules will be applied consistently
The city hall said the improvements will apply to traders who meet the stipulated requirements, regardless of their background or type of premises.
It also said clearer and more standardised procedures would give traders greater certainty while allowing enforcement officers to carry out their duties with less room for differing interpretations.
DBKL said it would continue to ensure that procedural relaxations do not compromise safety, hygiene, accessibility, or the public interest as it works towards making Kuala Lumpur a more business-friendly city.
