Updated
Signs a premises meets licence conditions
Conditions vary between councils, but licensing documents from Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) and Sabak Bernam District Council (MDSB) list requirements such as:
- The licence is on display where it's easy to see.
- The entrance isn't locked during business hours, and at least a quarter of the door is clear glass.
- Treatment areas aren't fully enclosed. Beds are separated by curtains, not lockable rooms.
- Bright lighting and adequate ventilation.
- Staff wear uniforms.
- Services match the licence category. For example, a premises licensed for reflexology shouldn't offer other treatments.
Sources: MBPJ licence conditions and MDSB licence conditions, accessed 15 October 2026.
Traditional medicine practitioner registration
If you're seeking therapeutic treatment, such as traditional Malay urut as medicine, traditional Chinese medicine or chiropractic, practitioners in areas recognised under the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Act 2016 must be registered. You can ask to see their practising certificate. Reflexology isn't a recognised area, so reflexology staff usually aren't registered under the Act. See the guide to massage law for details.
MOTAC grading
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) runs voluntary spa grading. A graded spa must hold a council business licence and meet other requirements, and grading lasts up to three years. A premises without a grade isn't necessarily non-compliant. (MOTAC Spa Grading Guidelines)
Warning signs
- Locked rooms, blacked-out windows or a door locked from inside.
- No licence on display, or staff refuse to show it.
- Bookings only through WhatsApp with photo catalogues of staff.
- Vague prices, or "extras" offered after treatment starts.
- Staff who seem unable to move freely, frightened, or not holding their own documents.
Before treatment starts
- Ask for the full price, the length and what's included.
- Mention health conditions, pregnancy or injuries.
- Say how much pressure you want. You can stop the treatment at any time.
If something worries you
Report unlicensed premises to your local council's licensing department. If you suspect trafficking or someone is in danger, call the police on 999 (or 112 from a mobile).
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