Aiyo-yo, in an unfortunate turn of events over the weekend, nearly 140 kindergarten teachers taking a two-day course at a Cheras training center came down with food poisoning after ingesting what was believed to be a dodgy ayam masak lemak (a coconut chicken dish with lots of turmeric and spices).
Health Ministry Director-General Dr. Noor Hisham Abdullah confirmed the incident occurred, and added that the local Cheras Health Office (PKC) investigated the matter, finding the apparent common denominator among the 137 who fell ill to be the chicken dish, which they all consumed on Saturday night.
“Clinical samples from the cases and food samples had been taken and sent to the laboratory for analyses. PKC is still investigating further to identify the actual cause of the incidents of food poisoning,’’ he said in a statement.
He added that the kitchen at the training center that prepared the dish has since been closed pending further action and a thorough cleaning. It is expected to be reopened, with management making changes to their food preparation procedures.
“The management of the cafeteria has also been asked to keep ‘holding samples’ each time a course is conducted at the center,’’ Dr. Noor added.
All 137 teachers woke up Sunday morning with food poisoning-related symptoms, and were treated at the nearby Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz Hospital (HCTM) for stomachaches, diarrhea, and vomiting. All are expected to make a full recovery.
So there you have it! Australia’s on fire, (another) war’s brewing in the Middle East, and even a bunch of kindergarten teachers in KL are chained to the porcelain throne thanks to some iffy poultry. Cheers, 2020! You’re already shaping up to be pretty sh***y.
