Batu Gajah food poisoning victim dies of brain injury

IPOH: One of the victims in the food poisoning case in Siputeh, Batu Gajah died at Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital (HRPB), here, last night due to brain injury caused by insufficient oxygen flow.

Perak Health director Datuk Dr Juwita Ghazali said the victim, Hawa Buyong, 46, died at about 11.25 pm at the hospital's Intensive Care Unit.

"She was admitted to the hospital on March 4 for food poisoning and was the last victim to be given hospital treatment," he told Bernama today.

The victim's sister, Anita Buyong, 48, said Hawa had been unconscious for 20 days since she was admitted at the Batu Gajah Hospital on March 4.

Hawa was then transferred to HRPB on March 5 for further treatment after doctor had pronounced that her heart has stopped beating.

A total of 102 people were given medical treatment at various hospitals for food poisoning symptoms caused by carbamate in insecticides.

Meanwhile, State Health, Public Transport, Non-Muslim Affairs, National Integration and New Villages Committee chairman, Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon conveyed his condolences to Hawa's family, saying her death was very saddening.

"We have given her the best treatment. This case must be given attention with emphasis on food quality and safety," he said.

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Dr Mah said the state government would increase checks on food hygiene in factories and food outlets, in line with the Health Programme organised by the Health Ministry to ensure the quality and safety of food.

He added that Hawa's remains would be buried at the Muslim cemetery in Siputeh.

Earlier, Dr Mah paid his respects on the victim at HRPB and gave a personal donation of RM300 to her family.