ALOR STAR: The Kedah state government remains receptive to evaluating new applications for spa, wellness, and beauty centres in the state, provided they adhere to regulations and terms set by local government authorities.
State Housing, Local Government, and Health Committee chairman Major (R) Mansor Zakaria said the state government will not approve new licences for massage parlours to combat immoral activities in Kedah.
"We will not approve new applications (for massage parlours). Existing massage parlours will be allowed to continue operating as long as they comply with regulations.
"We will only consider new applications for beauty, wellness, and health centres that comply with regulations stipulated by local governments," he said in response to a question from Ahmad Pared Mahamud (Perikatan Nasional-Kuah) during the state assembly sitting.
Pared sought clarification on the state government's policy regarding the operation of spa, beauty, and wellness centres in Langkawi to meet the demand from foreign visitors.
Mansor (PN-Kuala Ketil) also said the focus in Langkawi is on promoting its natural attractions, heritage, culture, food, and people, rather than spa and wellness centres.
He emphasised the importance of prevention, stating: "If we give too much space for people to do as they wish, we will face problems."
Regarding the operation of spa and wellness centres in Langkawi to cater to foreign visitors, Mansor said: "Under the (local governments) by-laws, beauty and health centres are still permitted.
"Those wishing to open such centres and willing to comply with regulations and terms set by the local government are welcome to submit applications."
In June 2023, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor announced that the state administration would not renew licences for massage parlour premises caught engaging in immoral activities, following reports of some massage parlours breaching licence regulations by using reflexology centres as fronts.
Kedah oppisition, however, urged the state government to reconsider the new licensing restrictions for massage parlours in Kedah.
Teh Swee Leong (PH-Kota Darulaman) claimed the cessation of new license issuance to such premises would have negatively impacted the state government's 'Mai Singgah Alor Setar 2024' programme.
Mansor also said the Kedah government welcomes investors to set up an international standard specialist hospital in Langkawi.
