By V. Sivaji
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Malaysian Association of Wellness & Spa and the World Wellness Beauty (Japan) will see their collaboration in Malaysia.
The Nippon-Malaysia Wellness & Tourism Summit 2019 held at the Rainbow Paradise Beach Resort, Tanjung Bungah, Penang, saw some 250 delegates, speakers and participants in attendance recently.
Present was Malaysian Association of Wellness & Spa president Datin Dorothea Justin Moduying, Dr Philma Navarro (executive director) and Kouichi Shirai from World Wellness Beauty, Japan.
Also present was the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) Penang director Jonathan Freddy Bagang and representatives from the Malaysian Association of Hotels (Penang) Pierre Boudville and Raj Kumar.
“The formalisation of this MOU will help promote and upgrade the wellness & spa industry in our country as the sector is also part of the tourism attraction.
“It is more vital so as to prepare for the with Visit Malaysia Year 2020 as it is just around the corner,” said Jonathan.
Meanwhile, Dorothea said that the gesture augured well for the industry to promote and educate participants and delegates.
“Wellness also includes food and therapists can utilise their skills for medical purposes and well-being of individuals,” added Dorothea.
Shirai added that there will be cross training for manpower and shiatsu massage therapies which is well known around the world.
“This will help Asia to take the lead in the wellness and spa industry which is currently led by European countries,” he added.
The summit also saw speakers sharing their knowledge, demonstrations and skills with the participants.