Foot massage centres to get ratings.

Date: 13 January 2013

Foot massage centres to get ratings.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Tourism Ministry is to rate foot massage centres beginning this year in an effort to promote them as a tourism product among tourists. Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said foot reflexology centres would be called foot massage centres and given a silver, gold or platinum rating based on the conditions set.

“This is a new policy to enhance tourism,” she said yesterday after the launch of the Anggun Fusion Cafe, the first programme for the ministry this year. Dr Ng said the ratings offered would not be compulsory. “When they (foot massage centre operators) come to us, we can promote their centres through the ministry,” she said, adding that ratings would be made according to space and type of services provided. Dr Ng said information would also be posted on the ministry's website for feedback.

She said the ministry had also managed to get the cooperation of the Immigration Department to recommend foreign workers to the industry. “If you want to get foreign workers, that is fine; but you must ensure the centres are properly run.” However, a human resource plan will also be imposed to ensure more locals get trained and work in the tourism industry. Ratings for spas began last year.

Dr Ng said tourists spent RM17bil on food and drinks last year and hoped the figure would continue to increase. She also called for suggestions for three iconic food to be adopted this year. Last year, yong tau foo, rojak and mee rebus were chosen as the iconic Malaysian dishes.

On whether Malaysia should stake a claim on yee sang, which is said to have originated from Negri Sembilan, Dr Ng said such effort would not make any difference. “But how nice the flavour is and whether it's value for money will make the difference.”

By LOH FOON FONG foonfong@thestar.com.my

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