Man fined $1,000 for operating illegal temporary food fair at Wisma Geylang Serai

A man was fined $1,000 for illegally operating a temporary fair in Geylang.

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said on Sep 9, 2022, its officers found Saifullizan Bin Shaik Osman had been illegally operating a temporary fair, Geylang Serai Food Festival, at Wisma Geylang Serai.

During the inspection, 30 food stalls were found to be operating without valid licences.

The fair started on Sep 7, 2022 without a valid temporary fair permit.

Under the Environmental Public Health Act, operators of temporary fairs must get a permit from SFA for the duration of the fair.

"This allows SFA to ensure that fair operators have complied with measures to ensure food safety," the agency said.

"Applications should be submitted at least two weeks before the fair's commencement date.

"Food and beverage stalls at temporary fairs are also required to be licensed by SFA, with food handlers who have passed the mandatory Food Safety Course Level One."

SFA said it will take enforcement action against temporary fair operators who do not adhere to regulations.

First-time offenders will face a fine of up to $10,000.

Repeat offenders will be fined up to $20,000, and/or given up to three months' jail.