LETTER | If there is one positive outcome from the Covid-19 pandemic in this country, it must be a better awareness of cleanliness and hygiene among food handlers, restaurants, consumers, transporters, and people involved in waste disposal.

I think we must capture this momentum and make Malaysia a truly clean and pristine nation. Instead of reverting to our old habits, we should forge new ones.

In the past, we used to organise cleanliness campaigns to create awareness among the people but their success was just in the short-term. With greater awareness among Malaysians now, I think there will never be a more opportune time to do more on hygiene.

First, I think we have too many pests running around. It is not uncommon to see rats, cockroaches, and lizards near eateries and at drains and backyards of coffee shops and restaurants.

I think it is time to get rid of all this before they pose another health hazard to all of us. Right now, I think enforcement by health and local authorities on cleanliness are piecemeal and ad hoc. They only take action when there are complaints or problems. Rightly, concerted efforts on compliance must be enforced at all times.

Second, there are too many stray dogs and cats running around too. If we want to keep pets, we must take good care of them. If we are not serious, it is better not to keep pets. It is common to see dogs loitering near eateries or cats circling around our legs while we eat at a shop. All this is unsightly and should be handled by the shop owners and authorities.

Third, we need to further improve how we dispose of domestic waste. Disposal bags must be securely put in covered disposal cans to prevent leakages and access to pests.

I am sure many of us have come across garbage collection trucks, while passing through the neighbourhood, leaking out a liquid that emits a horrible, overpowering odour. I believe all this is unnecessary and can be prevented if proper regulations and enforcement are adhered to.

Fourth, food handlers, chefs, and waitstaff must all observe a higher standard of personal hygiene. Sometimes it could be due to ignorance but usually, I think it is due to their lackadaisical attitude toward others. In this regard, concerted education, regulation, and enforcement are necessary to induce a change of habits among them.

What I have stated is common sense. But common sense needs action to attain results.