SEPANG, February 23– It is essential for all parties, including parents and guardians, to work together in reporting any sales of gummy candies shaped like eyes outside school premises.

The Deputy Minister of Housing and Local Government, Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu, explained that while enforcement against vendors outside schools is the responsibility of Local Authorities (PBT), parents can collaborate closely with his ministry to curb the sale of these candies.

He emphasized the need for cooperation at the Cabinet committee level and acknowledged concerns about malnutrition, which includes assessing the types of food sold near schools.

He asserted that if certain items are deemed inappropriate, they should be treated as such and requires collective action from everyone involved, especially parents.

Parents are encouraged to report any unsuitable items they observe rather than waiting for specific authorities to take action.

He pointed out that while these candies may seem alarming, they are often popular among children.

Thus, it is important to educate children about avoiding such products.

This statement came after a tragic incident where a child died from choking on one of those candies.

The child, who had been in critical condition, passed away in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Penang Hospital.