PENANG: Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) was among nine Local Authorities (PBT) throughout Malaysia that achieved a 5-Star Rating in the Technical Audit Star Rating (PBAT) 2026.

The achievement qualifies MPKS to receive the Outstanding PBT Recognition for the 2026 PBT Technical Audit, thus proving the council's level of excellence in the management and delivery of environmental health services.

The PBAT rating assesses the level of management and implementation of environmental health services in the local authority, covering aspects of administration and management, compliance with financial procedures, movable asset management, vector and pest disease control and chemical management.

It also covers the control of slaughterhouses and markets, stray animals as well as food control and safety programmes, which are directly related to the well-being and safety of the community.

MPKS Chairman Abang Ismawi Abang Ali said that the achievement was the result of teamwork and the determination of all MPKS personnel in ensuring that the management and delivery of environmental health services were always at its best.

"This PBAT 5 Star rating is the result of team work and the determination of all MPKS personnel in ensuring the management and delivery of environmental health services is always at its best," he said.

He said this in a media statement in regards to receiving the Outstanding PBT Recognition for the 2026 PBT Technical Audit.

According to him, the recognition is expected to act as a catalyst for all MPKS personnel to continue to strengthen the culture of excellent work, improve the quality of service delivery and implement continuous improvements for the well-being, comfort and safety of the community.

The recognition was presented by the Deputy Minister of Housing and Local Government Datuk Aiman ​​Athirah Sabu in conjunction with the PBT Convention organised by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) at Bertam Resort, Penang on 12 and 13 September 2026. -UKASnews