KUCHING: The Ministry of Health (MoH) is employing various strategies and interventions to ensure food products meet safety standards.
On Wednesday a recognition ceremony was held to honour food-based industry players here for their commitment to implement the Food Safety Assurance Programme (PJKM) at their premises.
The MoH offers various recognitions and certifications, including BeSS certification, MeSTI certification, Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP).
“The BeSS (Bersih, Selamat, Sihat) recognition is awarded to food premises that meet hygiene and cleanliness standards set by the Ministry,” said Deputy Director-General of Health (Food Safety and Quality), Norrani Eksan.
“This serves as an appreciation for business owners who prioritise food safety and maintain a clean environment for customers.”
Speaking at the Sarawak Food-Based Industry Recognition programme at Centre Court, Aeon Mall she said the certification allows consumers to identify safe and hygienic food establishments through the displayed BeSS logo at recognised premises.
According to Norrani, the Food Hygiene Regulations 2009 require all food manufacturing premises to implement the Food Safety Assurance Programme (PJKM).
“This programme is a structured and documented system designed to ensure that specific food products do not pose harm to consumers when consumed,” she stated.
“Among the recognised PJKM programmes for food manufacturing premises are Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP), and ISO 22000,” she said.
She said that the MeSTI certification was introduced by the Ministry to assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in meeting the minimum hygiene requirements stipulated in the Food Hygiene Regulations 2009.
“The MeSTI certification scheme was rebranded from the 1Malaysia Food Safety Scheme (SK1M) and aims to guide food manufacturers in developing and implementing PJKM before being awarded certification,”she said.
At the event, 14 food premises from the Kuching division were awarded the BeSS recognition, while six food manufacturing companies received the MeSTI certification.
Also present at the event were State Health Director
Dr. Veronica Lugah.
