Businesses, customers split over 'A' grade toilet ruling
SYDI ALIF04 Feb 2023 08:14pm
Image for illustrative purposes only - FILE PIX
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In acknowledging that the issue of cleanliness needed to be taken seriously, Segar Seafood Restaurant owner Abdullah Abdul Ghani, 52, suggested that there were other alternatives that could be used to meet the Ministry's objectives.
He said, "It does not need to get to a point of stopping restaurateurs from renewing their license for not fulfilling such a term. There are other methods to overcome the issue. Even though it is a commendable effort, there is a need to look for solutions that do not put pressure on any party, restaurant owners or merchants."
A regular diner Mior Afif Mior Zainal Abidin, 24, said that when it comes to dining out at a restaurant, the cleanliness of its toilet can play a crucial role in determining the overall experience of a customer.
Although often an overlooked aspect, he believed that it is an incredibly important one.
Dirty and poorly maintained toilets can leave a lasting negative impression on customers and can also pose a health risk, while a clean and well-maintained toilet can contribute to a positive dining experience and a good reputation for the restaurant, he said.
He admitted that it was a simple yet an effective way to show that the restaurant takes hygiene and customer satisfaction seriously.
"I would like to emphasise the importance of keeping the toilet clean and hygienic in restaurants. It is not only crucial for customer satisfaction, but also promoting public health. I fully support the ministry's plan to enforce they strict cleanliness for restaurant toilet," he said.
"By requiring restaurants to meet a certain standard of cleanliness, the ministry is promoting professionalism and a high standard in the industry. This will not only benefit customers, but also creates a more trustworthy industry where customers can have confidence," Mior added.
Another diner Roslina Muda, 60, described the cleanliness level of toilets at food premises in Malaysia in general was below satisfactory.
She found that fast food chains like McDonald's or KFC were better at maintaining clean toilets depending on their locations, just like gas station toilets.
Roslina insisted that the authorities needed to carry out enforcement seriously as it involved the image of the country.
"We had achieved independence a long time ago, developed world class infrastructure, but in terms of toilet cleanless, we are still a third world nation. Society's mentality and attitude in hygiene needs a positive change. If Japan and the Western countries can do it, why can't we do it in Malaysia?" the 60-year-old questioned fellow citizens.
She added that early education at home, kindergarten and school on cleanliness needs to take place like the Japanese.
