Restaurant checks stepped up

Restaurant checks stepped up

KUALA LUMPUR (AFP): Islamic officials in a Malaysian state have been told to step up checks on foodstalls and restaurants to ensure Muslims observe the fasting month of Ramadhan, a report said Saturday.

Stern action including bringing offenders to religious courts will be taken against those found eating openly in public places, the New Straits Times quoted a senior official in the Malacca State Islamic Religious Department as saying.

Rahimin Bani also called on stallholders, especially Muslims, not to sell food or drink during the day to respect Ramadhan, which began Thursday in Malaysia.

Under state legislation first offenders who break their fast are liable to a fine of up of 1,000 ringgit (US$263 dollars) or six months' jail or both. Smokers are liable to a 500 ringgit fine or three months.