Two restaurants in the Portuguese Settlement at Ujong Pasir, Melaka, have been ordered to close for 14 days by the Health Department after they were found to have cockroach infestations and rat droppings on their premises. The closure notice was issued by the state health, human resources and unity committee chairman Ngwe Hee Sem.
The Portuguese Settlement: A Culinary Hub
The Portuguese Settlement is an area of Ujong Pasir that serves as a home for the Kristang people, who are of mixed Portuguese and Malay heritage. The settlement has gained popularity as a culinary hub, where visitors can enjoy seafood and traditional dishes of the community, such as Debal Curry (or Devil’s Curry).
The settlement also hosts a yearly June festival that celebrates the culture and heritage of the Kristang people. The festival features folk songs, dances, costumes, and the blessing of the fishermen’s boats.
The Health Inspection and Enforcement
According to Ngwe Hee Sem, the Health Department conducted a health inspection at the Portuguese Settlement on Wednesday and found that two restaurants were violating the hygiene standards. He said that the restaurants had cockroach infestations and rat droppings on their premises, which posed a health risk to the customers.
He said that the Health Department issued a closure notice to the restaurants and instructed them to carry out clean-up works for 14 days. He also warned other restaurants in the area to comply with the hygiene regulations or face legal action.
