KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 8): The lower house of Parliament on Thursday passed the Food (Amendment) Bill 2026, paving the way for tighter food safety controls to better protect public health.
The bill, tabled by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad, was passed by a majority voice vote after its third reading.
The amendments introduce heavy punishment of up to 10 years' imprisonment and RM500,000 fine on those who prepares or sells harmful food-contact materials.
It will also allow the government to shut down harmful food-producing premises for up to 40 days, as well as publish information on food products whose manufacturers cannot be traced without requiring a court order.
Enforcement would be done in phases, beginning with education and compliance, Dzulkefly said during the Parliament session.
“The ministry will determine the effective dates based on careful consideration to ensure a smooth transition without placing an undue burden on the industry,” he said.
Other clauses to support enforcement were introduced, including powers of authorised officers, access to digital data for investigation, and oversight of food-contact materials labelling.
During the debate, several MPs raised concerns over regulations governing food sales through e-commerce platforms, as well as the punitive measures proposed under the bill.
Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng raised concerns over the lack of fast-track avenue for appeal against the 40-day closure provision.
“Hazardous premises must be closed immediately. However, for small businesses, rent and wages continue to accrue while the premises are closed. Provide an expedited appeal process and prompt reinspection so that premises confirmed to be safe can reopen quickly,” he said.
In response, Dzulkefly said closure orders would be based on laboratory analysis and were necessary to allow authorised officers to obtain samples in order to conduct a thorough investigation.
He said the premises may be allowed to reopen once the prohibited substances have been removed.
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