Spa-ctular loss: Wellness outlets vanish along with RM700,000 customer funds

New Straits Times

13-05-2025

JOHOR BARU: Some 130 police reports have been lodged in Johor against a wellness company accused of defrauding customers across the country, with total reported losses nearing RM700,000.
The company allegedly offered attractive treatment packages that could be redeemed at any of its outlets nationwide.
Victims claimed they paid in advance based on the number of sessions chosen.
However, the customers only realised they had been duped when they could no longer contact the company to set appointments.
It was later discovered that the business had quietly shut down all its outlets without notice.
Johor police chief, Commissioner Datuk M. Kumar confirmed Johor police received 130 reports since early May, involving losses totalling RM698,155.67.
"The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating," he said today.
The offence carries a jail term of one to 10 years, caning, and a fine, upon conviction.
Investigations are ongoing.
Yesterday, MCA Youth Complaints and Public Service bureau head, Heng Zhi Li, held a press conference at its headquarters here.
He said 54 victims came forward seeking help for the party with their predicament.
They alleged each paid between RM2,400 and RM10,000 for treatment packages with the spa, after they were lured by social media advertisements.
However, when they attempted to book appointments, they were told that were no slots available.
Heng believes total victims could number in the thousands, as the spa had dozens of outlets in Johor, Melaka, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Penang.
Earlier this month, the owner posted a video citing staff shortages and cash flow problems.
He added 28 outlets have since shut down, and calls to the owner went unanswered.
Some victims have lodged complaints with the Consumer Claims Tribunal. A hotline [phone]) has been set up for others to come forward.