Penang Implements Ban on Foreign Workers in Kitchens, Eyes Future Expansion

Penang Implements Ban on Foreign Workers in Kitchens, Eyes Future Expansion

In a move to regulate labor practices in the food industry, Penang Island City Hall has enforced a policy prohibiting foreign workers from cooking in certain establishments. The ban currently applies only to hawkers within the jurisdiction of the city council but may be expanded through future legislation to private restaurants, hotels, and cafes.

According to Penang Mayor Rajendaran, the policy is being implemented cautiously, with a focus on gathering public feedback and committee discussions. This approach aims to ensure that the regulation does not become overly bureaucratic or cause significant disruption to businesses. For now, the city council has not introduced specific bylaws but has incorporated the restrictions into the renewal conditions of hawker licenses.

Under the new rules, foreign workers in city council-managed hawker centers are limited to auxiliary roles such as cleaning and are barred from cooking. Violations of this policy will result in enforcement actions, including penalties for non-compliant hawkers.

Mayor Rajendaran acknowledged that larger establishments like restaurants and hotels have a genuine need for skilled chefs, particularly in specialized cuisines such as Western or international dishes. He emphasized the importance of considering industry operational realities when formulating policies, especially given the current labor shortages in the food sector.

To address these challenges, Penang City Hall is encouraging local residents to participate in culinary training programs. 'Local individuals can also excel in preparing delicious Italian pasta or authentic English fish and chips through proper training,' Rajendaran remarked, highlighting the potential for Malaysians to develop expertise in diverse culinary traditions.