Malaysia
Singapore
Thailand
It’s a sad day for coffeeshop goers as SFA announces the suspension of four establishments’ licences in Pioneer, Balestier, Toa Payoh and Geylang. These coffeeshops have accumulated 12 demerits in 12 months, leading to fines and a 1-day suspension on 18 Jul.
Shi Kou Seafood in Balestier has been fined S$1,300 for an inability to keep toilets “clean and in good repair”. This persisted over 3 different checks from SFA, and 4 demerits were given each time.
According to the SFA, “12 or more demerit points during a 12-month period may have their licence suspended for a period of either one day, two days or three days”.
Located in Toa Payoh, Po Si Tan Eating House has also received an S$1,100 fine for a failure to maintain the cleanliness and working conditions of sanitary fittings and toilets. The former was found to be below standard twice during the 12-month period.
Sungei Kadut Eating House has been fined S$900 for not having its sanitary fittings and toilets in good condition, as well as allowing an unlicensed hawker to sell food in their establishment.
The SFA reminds establishments to engage “only registered food handlers” and ensure “upkeep and maintenance of licensed premises”.
The final coffeeshop to receive a suspension was 68 Choices, The Food Shop at Geylang Bahru. For the failure to maintain a good working condition for their sanitary fittings and toilets, they have been fined S$1100 on top of the suspension.
The dilapidated state of coffeeshop toilets is a common joke among Singaporeans, but the presence of unhygienic restrooms shouldn’t be normalised. Of course, I have nothing against visiting these coffeeshops after they’ve rectified the issues they’ve come under fire for.
As someone who dines out often, I’d prefer having peace of mind when I eat, knowing that everything bought is prepared in a safe and conducive environment. Wouldn’t it be great if we could be greeted by a clean, properly furnished washroom after every meal?
