Forum: Revamps of hawker centres needed to improve hygiene
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I am always thankful for revamps of hawker centres (Costly renovations not the only way to attract crowds, Dec 10).
Most revamps will include renovating toilets, improving ventilation, upgrading the tray return stations and having better facilities to wash large amounts of crockery and utensils.
They can also include features to keep birds away from the food.
All these measures improve the hygiene of hawker centres.
With the high-density use of hawker centres, there is a higher risk of viruses being spread between people and from birds.
While patrons can eat at hawker centres and leave quickly, we should spare a thought for the hawkers and cleaners who have to spend many hours there.
Even if we order takeaway meals, food cooked in a dirty environment can still pose health risks.
While revamping a hawker centre is not required to attract crowds, any health incidents will turn people away and adversely impact the hawkers and patrons.
Tan Li Fong
