KOTA KINABALU: World Spa Organisation ambassador Dorothea Justin urged for balanced regulation and respect in the spa industry, highlighting its significant role in supporting the economy and promoting well-being.
She said that the entire industry remains unfairly judged due to the actions of a few irresponsible operators who misuse their licences and foster negative perceptions.
“These isolated cases do not justify unprofessional and excessive enforcement actions,” Justin said, referring to the recent raid on a massage parlour in Subang Jaya.
Justin, the former president of the Malaysian Association of Wellness and Spa (MAWSPA), noted that the industry is designed to promote health and well-being for many people.
“While I fully support regulations to maintain industry standards and ensure compliance, sudden raids and unprofessional conduct, such as the alleged recording of a private massage session without consent, are unacceptable and erode public trust in regulatory systems.”
Drawing from her experience at MAWSPA, she pointed out disparities in enforcement practices.
“I have seen establishments with therapists in provocative attire operating openly without action, while compliant and legitimate businesses are subjected to sudden raids. This inconsistency raises serious concerns about fairness, transparency, and potential corruption.”
Justin called on authorities to ensure enforcement procedures are conducted respectfully and professionally, especially in sensitive environments like spas.
She also urged officials to investigate complaints carefully, particularly when they may stem from rivalry or personal interests, to prevent abuse of authority.
“To maintain fairness and integrity, enforcement should be consistent and impartial across all establishments.
“Proper training and oversight for enforcement officers are essential so they can uphold ethical standards and respect privacy, avoiding incidents like the one involving rapper Zamaera,” she said.
She added that the industry deserves a regulatory environment that is transparent, fair, and free from harassment.
“Let this incident be a wake-up call to address systemic issues that damage the reputation of both the spa and wellness industry and enforcement agencies,” Justin said.
In the incident, Malaysian rapper Zamaera, whose real name is Sharifah Zamaera Syed Zalfien Al Eldros, claimed she was secretly filmed during a massage session last week.
Subang Jaya police chief Asst Comm Wan Azlan Wan Mamat clarified that no enforcement officers were found to have recorded inappropriate footage during the raid.
