All public restrooms in Penang to be clean, attractive and aromatic from next year

PENANG is looking to make it mandatory from next year for all public restrooms to achieve a five-star cleanliness rating before business operators can renew their licence with the respective local authorities.

The restrooms must be clean, attractive and aromatic, said state local government committee chairperson Jason H'ng Mooi Lye.

The rating would be given the acronym name of BMW, H'ng said after visiting the refurbished public lavatory at Gurney Drive here.

"From next year, if the business wants their operating licence renewed, they must comply with our BMW directive for the restrooms inside their building, premises or facilities," said H'ng.

The condition also applies to those hosting outdoor lavatories.

Both local authorities - the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and the Seberang Prai City Council (MBSP) are tasked with this initiative to improve the cleanliness of toilets.

 “This is part of the state’s commitment to provide locals and foreign tourists with clean toilets and a community-friendly environment," said H'ng.

“We will give them (the businesses or premises owners) sufficient time to improve their restrooms. When such facilities are cleaned, Penang will become mor attractive as a tourist destination,” he said.

The notice to all ratepayers, regarding the usage of these guidelines will be issued this month, with enforcement beginning next year.

 Asked about the level of cleanliness of such facilities, H’ng replied that most of them fall between Grade 3 and 4 out of 5 stars. 

A similar guideline would be enforced in places of worship, tourist spots, restaurants, hotels, and shopping malls.

H’ng also said that a state-level competition for the best lavatory in Penang would take place from March 1 to Sept 30 next year.

It is done to further improve the importance of hygiene and cleanliness. - The Vibes, November 20, 2024