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Borneo Post
FAM 2010
AMSPA BOARD
APRIL 2011 - 2013
President:
Rahatul Baney
Vice President:
Datin Ramona Suleiman
Joanne Bruce
Secretary General:
Ryca Ang
Treasurer:
Megan Tan
Board Members:
Christie Lee, Camilla Loh,
Sharon Foo, Angela Khoo,
Norliza Othman & Jennifer Lee.
With a new board, a new
Frontier is about to take place
in the spa industry of Malaysia.
"A Warm Welcome. The Association of Malaysian Spas, better known as AMSPA
is a national spa association formed as a cohesive body to nurture, develop, and move the Malaysian spa industry forward, by ensuring that standards and professionalism are unheld to all times by its members. AMSPA is the first and the longest established spa association in Malaysia, and is recognised "Voice of Wellness" for the Malaysian Spa industry. Today AMSPA is a member of Malaysian National Spa Council, as well as the Steering Committee of the Tourism NKEA. AMSPA also work hand in hand with the Ministry of Tourism on its Spa Rating and is a member of the spa rating team. The working relationships established by AMSPA with various Ministries and Government Agencies enable it to provide an effective platform for its members to voice opinions, format strategies and discuss challenges in a cohesive and effective environment.
AMSPA aims to provide opportunities and avenues for training and education on spa management and wellness therapy, while constantly working with members of the spa fraternity here and globally to provide important networking for our members. Our aim is to raise the standards and image of the Malaysian spa industries as well as to educate the public on the value and benefits if a true spa experience."
PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS
On behalf of the Board of Association of Malaysian Spas, I wish to welcome all of you to our website.
I am honoured to be elected as the second President of AMSPA after having served as its founding Secretary General for the last 8 years. I have grown with AMSPA all these years and AMSPA has become such a big part of my life. I hope to build on the strong foundations that have been laid and lead AMSPA to even greater heights with the support of a great team of AMSPA Board Members and Members. Towards the accomplishment of this, a number of short and long term programmes have been designed and earnestly being implemented.
AMSPA has come a long way. From a little known association, we are now a force leading and guiding the industry in areas of spa quality and standards, human resource development, whilst working hand in hand with various Government Ministries and Agencies to improve the Malaysian Spa Industry. AMSPA has built a strong network with the spa fraternity in the region which recognises AMSPA as the industry reference point in Malaysia. AMSPA is proud to have contributed to spa rating by the Ministry of Tourism, to be elected as a member of the newly formed National Spa Council, and to be appointed onto the Steering Committee, Tourism NKEA. All the above are keeping us more motivated than ever.
This website, therefore intends to serve as a medium through which we can share ideas that will expedite the attainment of our foretasted objectives. We thereby welcome constructive comments and suggestions that are in consonance with our clearly defined objectives, mission, vision and our philosophical underpinning.
Once again we thank all of you in anticipation of your inputs, guidance and support.
Kindest regards,
AMSPA PRESIDENT
'Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot; but make it hot by striking'. by William B. Sprague
AMSPA BOARD MEMBERS
Vice President
President
Secretary General
Treasurer
COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Christie Lee, Camilla Loh, Sharon Foo, Angela Khoo, Norliza Othman & Jennifer Lee
OUTGOING PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS
Datin Ramona Suleiman, Founding President of AMSPA,
passes on the baton to Rahatul Baney the newly elected
President, after 8 years at the helm of AMSPA.
I have served as Founding President of AMSPA for a total of 8 years now and there is no one I am more happy to pass the baton to than Baney. She has been the Founding Secretary General of AMSPA for as long as I have been its Founding President. We have gone through thick and thin in AMSPA together. I know "my baby' is in good hands.
In the 8 years, AMSPA have taken a little known and often misunderstood industry and nurtured it. Today, it is a part of the Tourism NKEA. A National Spa Council is about to be announced, Centers of Excellence for the industry are in the near horizon, and a Spa Rating System has been put in place for the industry. AMSPA has under its belt a Euro Grant that paid for CIBTEC training for its members, production of an AMSPA Directory of Malaysian Spas & Wellenss, and "Voices of Wellness', a DVD on the Malaysian Spa industry.
I feel fulfilled as Founding President having worked for, and to have reached, these milestones. I would like to thank my fellow Board Members and Members who have given me their full support. I would also like to thank officers of the various Ministries and Government Departments I have had the honour to work with during my tenure as AMSPA President. I hope you will continue your support for AMSPA and for Baney.
My thanks and appreciation to members of the spa and wellness faternity here in Malaysia, and in the region, who have shared so much with me through all the years.
Thank you.
BENEFITS
THE BENEFITS OF BECOMING AN AMSPA MEMBER:
- Join the ranks of an elite group of quality Spas who are AMSPA Members.
- To receive support for Spa License applications.
- Spa Rating by the Ministry of Tourism
- To receive support on the certification for Spa Therapists when the TCM Act comes into effect.
- Valuable networking amongst spa and spa related business professionals.
- Free half page listing in the 2012 AMSPA Directory.
- To receive information on domestic and international spa events, as well as the opportunity to
participate at events organized by government.
- Connect with, and access to, information of international spa players through Asia Pacific Spa
Wellness Council (APSWC), representing 18 countries.
- Membership Sticker.
- Ordinary Membership comes with a complimentary Standard Spa Operational Manual (SOP).
- Special prices to industry events offered to national spa associations.
- Best way to keep abreast on updates and information on government policies regulating the industry.
Refer to AMSPA activities.
- Benefit from training sessions, workshops and talks on the industry
- Representation at the various government authorities on matters of importance to the industry.
- Job bank.
- Education opportunities.
- Exchange of information pertinent to the industry.
MEMBERSHIP CRITERION
Ordinary Membership (with voting rights)
Open to companies registered in Malaysia which are operating Spa Businesses in Malaysia and conform to the Accreditation Criteria, the set standards and practices required of Members in the Association.
All Ordinary Members must fall into one or more of the four following categories of Spa Business:
Definition of Spa Business
- Refer to a legitimate spa operation devoted to enhancing the five senses encouraging overall well being
through treatments, which include the use of water, renewing mind, body and spirit. The spa treatment
menu shall incorporate the use of water as an element of therapy treatments. The operation shall be
true to the origin of spa which is 'salus per aqua' or healing by water.
DAY SPA (non hotel /resort):
- A legitimate Spa Business that provides professionally administered Spa Treatments and Services.
- Guests visit on daily basis only
- No Overnight Accommodation on Site.
HOTEL /RESORT / CRUISE SHIP SPA:
- A legitimate Spa Business located within a Hotel /Resort /Cruise Ship Facility that provides
professionally administered Spa Treatments and Services.
- Offers On-Site Overnight Accommodation and Facilities.
- Guests may visit for one day or stay overnight.
DESTINATION SPA:
- A legitimate Spa Business offering a comprehensive Spa Program that provides professionally
administered Spa Treatments and Services.
- Guest are offered a multi-day comprehensive experience dedicated 100% to Spa /Wellness programs
including fitness, diet and well being regiments under the guidance of qualified staff.
MEDI SPA:
- A legitimate Spa Business that provides professionally administered Spa Treatments and Services as
well as integration treatments which are carried out by medically trained professionals who are fully
trained within the guidelines of the Ministry of Health.
- May or may not offer overnight accommodation.
Extraordinary Membership (with voting rights)
- Open to companies which are not Spa Operators but who provide professional services and / or products
that significantly support the spa industry.
Associate Membership (with no voting rights)
- Companies not registered in Malaysia which are Spa Operators operating Spa Businesses outside of
Malaysia which conform to the Accreditation Criteria, set standards and practices required of Members in
the Association.
- Companies whether in Malaysia or overseas which provide products and /or services to Spa Operators,
and which in the opinion of Board conform to standards and practices required of Members in the Association.
Associate Members (Continued)
- Beauty salons, slimming centres, hairdressing salons, manicure and pedicure centres, foot reflexology
centres, fitness centres, other holistic or health practitioners and any establishment promoting beauty,
health and wellness and which in the opinion of the Board conforms to standards and practices required
of Members in the Association.
Definition of Spa Operator
- Refers to a company or individual operating and/or owning one or more Spa facilities as defined under
Spa Business.
Affiliate Membership (with no voting rights)
- Individuals with qualification in beauty and /or health recognized by the Board and who provide services
at spa establishments recognized and acceptable to the Board.
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TERMS AND RENEWAL
AMSPA MEMBERSHIP FEES FOR NEW MEMBERS
CATAGORY
ENTRANCE FEE (ONE TIME)
(Includes first year subscription fee)
ORDINARY /
EXTRAORDINARY
RM1,000
RM350
ASSOCIATE
RM600
RM250
AFFILIATE
RM50
RM100
STAFF OF
MEMBERS
* Note: In order to encourage more members from Spa industry to participate, currently the subscription fees are
waived for 2010 & 2011.
AMSPA MEMBER ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS FEES:
N/A
RM200
PER OUTLET
*PLUS REIMBURSABLE
EXPENSES
RM150
INDIVIDUAL
CORPORATE - 1ST OUTLET
CORPORATE - 2ND &
SUBSEQUENT OUTLETS
ACCREDITATION
ASSESSMENT FEES
(ONE TIME)
* Subject to change without notice.
Once admitted as a member, AMSPA membership is subject to renewal on an annual basis, by paying the Annual Subscription Fee, due on 1st January of every year. Subscription is based on a calendar year basis,
i.e from January to December. Cheques to be issued in the name of Association of Malaysian Spas, sent to:
Association of Malaysia Spa c/o
Lot 4, Level 4, Energy Day Spa, Great Eastern Mall, 303, Jalan Ampang. 50450, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
TEL: 603 4256 8833 extension 208 FAX: 603 4256 8830 EMAIL: baney_energymindbodyspirit.com
TO JOIN
DOWNLOAD THE FORMS:
FORWARD THE FORMS TO:
AMSPA - ASSOCIATION OF MALAYSIAN SPAS
C/O ENERGY DAY SPA
Lot 4, Level 4, Great Eastern Mall, 303 Jalan Ampang,
50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Or email to info_amspa.org.my
Application%20assoc-afflt.pdf
memberform.pdf
AMSPA DIRECTORY
The Association of Malaysian Spas (AMSPA) are proud to have launched their inaugural issue of the AMSPA Spa Directory 2010-2011. It was unveiled at the World Travel Market exhibition London 9-12 November, 2009 by the Honourable Minister of Tourism Malaysia, YB Dato' Sri Ng Yen Yen with the presence of previous AMSPA President Datin Ramona Suleiman and several AMSPA member spa representatives.
The AMSPA Directory is a guide to Malaysia's Best Spas and Wellness, showcasing AMSPA members' spas, resorts, wellness centres and premier hospitals, with the aim to promote mind, body and spirit. AMSPA's effort in partnership with Tourism Malaysia brings the very best of Malaysian spas and wellness to the world. The AMSPA Directory has been distributed globally by Tourism Malaysia.
AMSPA are pleased to annouce a new edition of
The AMSPA Directory will be launched in early 2012. Enquire now for inclusion in this premier guide.
AMSPA 'VOICES OF WELLNESS' DVD
The 'Voices of Wellness' DVD was produced by AMSPA to promote the Malaysian spa and wellness industry. AMSPA appointed LTS 5 Star to produce the DVD with the main objective to show a positive image of the spa industry and the esteemed quality of AMSPA Member Spas. It is felt that the DVD would be an important branding tool for the association in road shows and trade shows and to assist in recruitment exercises as well as to garner better support from various policy makers.
Many have never been to a spa but have preconceived ideas about them due to negative reports in the press on dubious and illegal operators. This negative press coverage does little to help our cause and those of our members. AMSPA hopes the 'Voices of Wellness' DVD will counter these negative conclusions drawn by the public at large about spas and portray the quality of AMSPA Member Spas. This DVD will be a positive endorsement of all AMSPA Member Spas.
TRAINING MANUAL FOR SPA THERAPISTS
The Training Manual for Spa Therapists was developed with funding assistance provided by the European Union AsiaInvest Programme to enhance the capacity of spa operators and therapists. It was created by an editorial board comprising members of the Spa Association of Philippines, Thai Spa Association, Association of Malaysian Spas and the Bali Spa and Wellness Association.
The comprehensive Training Manual for Spa Therapists comprising 148 pages of valuable professional training information is now available to spa owners and operators around the world. This valuable training tool is designed to enhance in-house spa training programs as well as provide useful reference material for therapists. It is a recommended reference for all spa related training institutions.
The Training Manual is divided into three main sections:
• The Professional Spa Therapist 8 Modules
• Anatomy & Physiology complete with training charts –13 Modules
• Swedish Massage –2 Modules
Each module includes a quiz to test participant knowledge and a final exam.
Priced at only RM150 for members and RM285 for non members plus postage charges.
Spa Training Manual Intro 2011.pdf
SPA OPERATIONS MANUAL
The Spa Operations Manual was developed with funding assistance provided by the European Union AsiaInvest Programme to enhance the capacity of spa operators and owners. It was created by an editorial board comprising members of the Spa Association of Philippines, Thai Spa Association, Association of Malaysian Spas and the Bali Spa and Wellness Association.
The Spa Operations Manual (SOP) provides valuable information and tools to the spa owner and operator and acts as a comprehensive guide for the development of an in-house spa operating manual. The information is designed to act as a framework to create an SOP to meet each organizations specific needs and situations. It is also a recommended reference for all spa related training institutions.
The SOP is divided into two main sections:
• General Operating Policies –5 Modules
• Standard Procedures In Operating A Spa –13 Modules
• Sample Forms
Priced at only RM150 for members and RM285 for non members.
SOP Intro 2011.pdf
STAR RATING
SPA RATING CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM & CERTIFICATE PRESENTATION CEREMONY
Everyone knows about Star Ratings for Hotels, but not for Spas! Malaysia is one of the first Countries in the world to create a recognized Star Rating classification for local Spas within the Country. From now on, spa guests will be able to visit a Spa and know what kind of service and facilities to expect from the number of stars given.
The Malaysian Ministry of Tourism (MoTour) together with the knowledgeable Spa Associations have come together to compile guidelines and requirements for the rating of the Spas. They then inspect each and every one of the Spas to be rated before the Panel comes up with the deserving Star Rating.
There are a number of factors which denote to the number of stars given to a spa, such as:
• Relevant Licenses and Documents
• Facilities & Equipment
• Products & Treatments Offered
• Standard Operating Procedures
• Staff qualifications & Staff Facilities
• Aesthetic Design & Features
Just like Hotels, the Star Rating is from 1 Star to 5 Stars, with 5 being the highest and most Luxurious. This Star rating will be useful for Locals and Tourists alike as they will have peace of mind knowing what to expect from a particular Spa based on their Star Rating.
The First Official Spa Rating Certificate presentation Ceremony took place on August 16th 2011 in Putrajaya, officiated by YB Dato' Sri Ng Yen Yen. The Tourism Minister gave an inspiring speech about her belief in the Malaysian Spa Industry as well as her support for it. For Spa Operators it felt like one of the biggest achievements the Industry has had thus far, with Dato' Sri recognising the importance of Spas.
100 Spas received their Certificates from Dato' Sri Ng Yen Yen and she uttered encouraging words to each and every Spa to keep up their hardwork. It was truly an amazing day for Malaysian Spas.
ASIA INVEST PROGRAM
AMSPA participated in a two year world first initiative grant to promote and support business
co-operation between the European Union and Asia in the Spa Industry. The project including partnering the Spa Associations of Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia in conjunction with the Confederation of International Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (CIBTAC). The aim of the program was to enhance the capacity of spa operators from each of the Spa Associations in providing spa services that conform to European standards of spa operations and safety.
For AMSPA Malaysia, the Asia Invest Program was co-ordinated by Joanne Bruce Vice President of AMSPA and EU Grant Co-ordinatator for the two year program.
Spa therapists were carefully interviewed and selected for their motivation and potential from each of the participating countries. Each underwent a rigorous CIBTAC training course in Anatomy & Physiology and Swedish Massge as well as an Association conducted Cascade Train the Trainers Program (CTTT) to enhance participants training and leadership skills. Upon successful completion of the CTTT program participants returned to their respective spas and provided in-house training to 20 spa therapists in their own spas following a comprehensive curriculum developed by the four Associations.
The training curriculum is contained in a Cascade Training Manual with specially developed Anatomy & Physiology training charts. The Associations also developed a Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Guide to enhance in-house spa management. These valuable publications are now available to member Spas worldwide for use as reference materials to add value to their own in-house training programs. Refer to AMSPA publications for further information.
DIALOGUE SESSION
DIALOGUE SESSION, MaTIC, Kuala Lumpur AUGUST 2011
The biggest complaint that AMSPA receives from its members is that the rules keep on changing yet the Spa Operators do not know who to talk to about their problems regarding these constant changes. So
with this in mind, AMSPA created a 'first of its kind dialogue session' on the 9th August 2011. AMSPA brought together Spa Operators and relevant Authorities enabling AMSPA members to get a clear picture of Government rules & regulations. It was inspiring to see members ask so many questions and receive clear directions on what to do!
Each speaker gave a briefing followed by a very informative Q & A session. The topics and speakers in
the Dialogue session were:
Cik Noriah Patah from Ministry of Tourism - she briefed on the benefits for Spa & Foot Reflexology Rating, One Stop Center for foreign work permit applications and Tourism Award, Spa Category.
Puan Rahilah Fahimah from Ministry of Home Affairs briefed members on the Amnesty programme, skilled workforce and foreign work permit application process and approval of foreigh permit quota.
Dr Shamsaini Shamsuddin, Senior Director from Ministry of Health, presented information on the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Act, certificate for new and Existing Local Therapists and Foreign Spa Therapists.
Representative from The Ministry of Housing and Local Government En Suhaimi Salleh, Head of Assistant Director also briefed members about the new National Spa License which will be implemented in future.
The event was well received by the attendees. It was great to have representatives from the Authorities
in one place for an open discussion. AMSPA members who attended the event voiced a 'Well Done" vote of thanks to AMSPA board members for organising such a useful and beneficial event.
JOBFAIR
PUTRAJAYA YOUTH JOBFAIR 2011
AMSPA collaborated with the Youth Jobfair in Putrajaya. The event was attended by young and senior visitors alike. Here AMSPA proudly created interest in the Youth by informing them about the wonderful benefits & opportunities of being in The Spa Industry which is often unknown to many.
Whilst AMSPA created interest in their Industry, the Member's Therapists treated the public to quick respites with back & shoulder massages. Donations collected were given to The Terminally Ill Children Association in KL General Hospital.
All in all, the event was a great success educating Malaysias Youth about rewarding careers in The Spa Industry.
Putrajaya Youth Jobfair 2011
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BORNEO POST
Our energetic AMSPA members in Sabah activitely promote the Spa Industry.
Borneo Post New Activities:
MEGA FAMILIARISATION PROGRAMME MALAYSIA YEAR END SALE 2010
23 NOVEMBER 2010
ISTANA HOTEL, KUALA LUMPUR.
A program by Tourism Malaysia in conjunction with Malaysia Year End Sale 2010 promotion.
A total of 70 foreign agents and 50 media attented the promotion event.
The MYES 2010 is launched by YB Minister of Tourism Malaysia at the newly opened
Fahrenheit 88 shopping mall.
Mr Zulkifly Md Said
(Director, Industry
development Division,
Tourism Malaysia)
FOR ENQUIRIES:
PLEASE CONTACT MS. NIK, AMSPA MANAGER
Tel: +603 4253 3478 Fax: +603 4256 8830
Email: info_amspa.org.my Web: www.amspa.org.my
Copyright Amspa Association Malaysian Spas - 2011, All Right Reserved
