SANDAKAN: Awareness of food quality and hygiene needs to be emphasised, particularly among prospective Ramadan bazaar traders.
A total of 100 women traders and hawkers attended a two-day Food Handler Training Course organised by FB Training Academy on Feb 7 and 8, 2026, in Sungai Manila.
The course was held in collaboration with Sawit Kinabalu and the Sandakan Senilis Association and was officiated by Sungai Manila Assemblyman’s wife, Merdiline Albaris.
Speaking at the opening, Merdiline said the appeal of a dish is not judged by taste alone but also depends on the quality of the food prepared.
“Food quality is an important element that should be prioritised because it affects consumer confidence and the value of a dish.
“Food quality does not only depend on the cleanliness of the premises or stall but also involves the selection of raw ingredients used in food preparation,” she said.
She said even if a food premises or stall looks clean and attractive, its value is higher when the food served is of good quality and meets established standards.
She hoped that participants would use the knowledge and skills gained to produce food that is of high quality and safe for consumers.
