Beauty industry guidelines review completed, will be presented in cabinet

New Straits Times

a day ago

KUANTAN: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has reviewed the beauty industry guidelines, drafted about 12 years ago, to better reflect current industry needs.
Its deputy minister Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh said the revised guidelines have been completed and will be presented to the cabinet for approval.
"The last time the guidelines were issued was in 2013. Since then, the beauty industry has grown rapidly and new regulations are needed to keep pace with global developments...I can only say that the papers on the improved guidelines are ready.
"The enhancements aim not only to ensure the guidelines remain relevant, but also to create opportunities for beauty industry operators and entrepreneurs to grow in a more professional, ethical and consumer-friendly environment," she told reporters after opening a beauty parlour at Jalan Tun Ismail here today.
She said the revisions were made following engagement sessions with the Health Ministry, Labour Department and key industry stakeholders.
"Under the Medical Device Act, certain equipment can only be operated by medical professionals. The new guidelines will clearly define which devices require medical supervision and which can be handled by trained non-medical personnel.
"While industry input is vital, consumer protection is equally important. We must maintain a balance and cannot make decisions based solely on one perspective," she said.
When asked about the key focus of the new guidelines, Fuziah said it revolved around who was permitted to handle equipment such as lasers and ultrasound machines in beauty premises.
"The ministry will propose to the cabinet that operators using such machines undergo proper training and receive accreditation. This aligns with best practices in countries like the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States.....while medical qualifications may not be mandatory, sufficient technical training will be required.
"The updated guidelines will support both new operators and existing operators looking to expand in the beauty industry.
"The guidelines will also help identify the types of equipment permitted in the sector and determine who is qualified to operate them...there will be no further disputes," she said.
Fuziah said that since these guidelines may be used for the next 10 years, it is crucial that they are comprehensive and free of loopholes.
She also welcomed the government's decision not to include beauty services covering services such as manicures, facials, pedicures, and haircuts under the expanded Sales and Service Tax (SST) as of July 1, calling it a positive move for the industry.
"This SST exemption will foster the sector's growth and protect small businesses. The beauty industry contributes RM13.5 billion to Malaysia's gross domestic product and is projected to grow at an annual rate of five to six per cent," she said.