M'sia restaurant staff allegedly washes leftover food to resell the next day

A restaurant in Malaysia has come under fire after its employees were allegedly caught washing leftover food to be cooked and resold to customers the next day.

New Straits Times reported that the incident, which reportedly took place around midnight in Seremban on Feb. 3, 2026, has since made its rounds on social media.

The witness was at the front parking area of Palm Mall at the time when he noticed what was going on at the rear of the eatery.

Wash leftover food

The leftover food included tofu, chicken and lamb, Malay Mail reported, adding that a restaurant worker allegedly washed the food before separating them into trays.

When confronted by a social media user who recorded the incident, the worker reportedly said the food was to be recooked the next day, The Star reported.

The worker's colleagues also reportedly gave excuses, but eventually admitted to their actions, but claimed this would not compromise food safety.

However, the social media user who recorded this said their actions were unacceptable, The Star reported, adding that such unethical, unsafe and disgusting actions endangered public health.

Investigation

In light of this incident, the Negeri Sembilan State Health Department's (JKNNS) health director Zuraida Mohamed said the department is investigating the allegations.

Her department was informed of the incident on the morning of Feb. 3, Bernama reported, adding that health enforcement officers have since gone to the premises for an inspection.

She told Bernama that the department takes this matter seriously as it involves public safety and health.

New Straits Times reported her saying: "If the claims made on social media are found to be true, firm action will be taken."

"We also advise the public to use the correct channels to lodge formal complaints."

Top photos via Sinar Harian