With the growing popularity of cosmetic procedures, unscrupulous beauty establishments have exploited the trend, leading to frequent medical accidents. In response, countries are increasingly prioritizing regulation of the cosmetic surgery industry. Malaysia's Health Minister stated that the ministry is preparing a set of laws and regulations for beauticians to reform industry practices. Establishments or practitioners failing to comply may face criminal charges.
Malaysian Health Minister Dato' Sri Liow Tiong Lai said the ministry is developing guidelines for beauticians and warned them against performing cosmetic treatments involving needles, as doing so carries the risk of criminal charges.
The ministry will also collaborate with the Malaysian Companies Commission, the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism, and the police to jointly monitor unlicensed beauty salons.
"Even if they work in beauty salons or private clinics as qualified specialists, such establishments are considered illegal cosmetic surgery providers."
He emphasized that all cosmetic procedures—including laser treatments, injections, weight-loss therapies, or surgical facelifts—should only be performed by qualified professionals.
"Only specially trained individuals, such as dermatologists or plastic surgeons, possess the necessary qualifications, skills, and experience to conduct these procedures."
He emphasized that the public must be aware of fake beauty treatments, noting that there are currently nearly 3,000 licensed beauty professionals nationwide.
He clarified that these procedures can only be performed in government hospitals, licensed private hospitals, or licensed private day-care centers operated by qualified specialists recognized by the Ministry of Health.
He also cautioned citizens to be wary of overly cheap treatment packages offered by beauty centers, especially if they persistently try to persuade you to sign up for special offers.
Dato' Seri Liow Tiong Lai suggested that the Association of Cosmetic Centers should monitor its members' practices.
He added that beauty-conscious individuals questioning a doctor's credibility can verify their credentials through the Medical Registration portal on the Malaysian Medical Council's website.