Perak health executive councillor A Sivanesan said the charge would be framed under Section 11 of the Food Act 1983.

“We can proceed with prosecuting the operator because this offence is serious and involves people’s lives.

“The action we are taking will serve as a reminder to all food operators to comply with hygiene guidelines,” he told a press conference after visiting the school today, Bernama reported.

Previously, Perak health director Dr Feisul Idzwan Mustapha said the 101 cases involved 50 female and 51 male pupils.

He added that the food poisoning was believed to have been caused by undercooked fried chicken and a spoiled chocolate-flavoured drink, both of which were prepared in the canteen.

One pupil was admitted to the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital in Ipoh but was reported to be in stable condition. Another 62 received outpatient treatment at several clinics. The rest experienced mild symptoms.

According to Sivanesan, for the time being, the school management is in charge of providing food and drinks to pupils.

“Although the canteen is closed, the school has arranged for food and drinks to be provided from a nearby school for the pupils here.

“This arrangement is only temporary, and the Perak education department will expedite the process of bringing in a new (canteen) operator to this school,” he added.