Restaurant Closed After Viral Video Shows Staff ‘Washing Leftovers for Reuse’ (Video)

Malaysian health officials have shut down a restaurant after a disturbing video went viral online, allegedly showing workers washing leftover food to be reused and resold.

The clip, which began circulating on social media Tuesday, appears to show restaurant staff rinsing previously cooked dishes — including chicken, mutton, and tofu — before placing them back into serving trays. The eatery, located inside Palm Mall in Seremban city, is known for serving nasi kandar, a popular Malaysian dish.

According to local reports, the person who filmed the video said they were visiting the mall around midnight when they noticed unusual activity behind the restaurant. They claimed to see a worker washing leftover food and separating it into trays, calling the practice “completely unacceptable” and a serious public health risk.

The individual said they confronted staff members, and one worker allegedly admitted the food would be reheated but insisted it was “not dangerous.”

Once the video gained traction online, the Negeri Sembilan state health department confirmed it had opened an investigation. Health department director Dr. Zuraida Mohamed said officers were immediately dispatched to the location and warned that firm action would be taken if the allegations proved true. She also urged the public to use official complaint channels when reporting food safety concerns.

Authorities later issued a closure order for the restaurant under Malaysia’s Food Act 1983, forcing it to shut its doors for 14 days. The law allows health officials to immediately close food premises believed to pose a health risk or violate hygiene standards.

Officials said the temporary shutdown is intended to protect consumers while giving the restaurant time to correct any violations. In a follow-up statement, the health department said inspectors would revisit the location after three days to assess whether corrective steps had been taken.

“Neglect of hygiene and food safety aspects can lead to incidents of food poisoning,” the department warned, advising consumers to carefully look, smell, and taste food to help prevent illness.