PUTRAJAYA: Waste and food scraps disposed in trash cans that are not tightly closed is the main cause of rat infestation at markets, food courts and recreation areas, said Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government deputy minister, Datuk Halimah Mohd Sadique.

She said waste dumping in the streets, near eateries, recreation areas and failure of food traders to ensure cleanliness and hygiene at their stalls also attract the rodent.

“Leftover food must be discarded in tightly closed bins and not left exposed. Improper handling of food waste is among the main causes of rat infestation.

“Garbage and food waste should be placed into bins and the lid closed properly and not outside the bin,” she told Bernama when met at her office recently.

Halimah said food waste placed in plastic bags, but not placed in a properly covered bin also attracted the rodent.

Last month media reports labeled five markets in the capital as being infested with rats and feared to be exposed to the potentially deadly leptospirosis or rat urine disease.

Halimah said periodic inspections by the local authorities at the affected places could help contain the rat population.

“More innovative and effective methods to catch rats other than using baits and traps must be thought of to eradicate this pest,” she added. –BERNAMA

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