May-June. 2025

WELLNESS

13

Malaysia ' s spa and wellness industry embraces Muslim-friendly experiences for post-wedding relaxation

For newly married Muslim couples, a Muslim-friendly wellness retreat presents the perfect post-wedding escape, one that promotes rest, reflection and connection, all within an environment that respects their values and provides the comfort they seek as they begin their new chapter together.

" The demand for wellness experiences tailored for couples, newlyweds, romantic getaways, and brides-to-be is expanding right now. Couples are looking for experiences that combine relaxation, bonding, and spiritual rejuvenation," said Norliza Othman, President of Malaysian Association of Wellness Trainers and Founder of Teratak Spa.

" Among the popular packages are, firstly, couple spa rituals such as private massages and aromatic baths in a romantic setting. Secondly, prewedding detox and beauty treatments. Thirdly, post-wedding relaxation journeys. And fourth, the traditional Malay-inspired Majlis Bersiram is presented in a modern spa environment. Customisation, privacy, and personalisation are key drivers behind the popularity of these packages."

MUSLIM-FRIENDLY COUPLE SPA EXPERIENCE

Speaking on the Muslim-friendly spa experience, Norliza mentioned that many spa and wellness centres have adapted their services to be more Muslim-friendly by ensuring privacy through exclusive couple rooms and scheduled private sessions.

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Seri Syamsidatul

“ The demand is rising among local and international Muslim couples. They are seeking ethical and faith-aligned luxury experiences.”

SPA services offer a valuable alternative for travellers considering Malaysia as a wedding or honeymoon destination.

Seri Syamsidatul, Founder of Seri Spa Premium, Mövenpick KLIA, explained that spa rituals themselves present a unique cultural experience, highlighting traditional Malay practices such as the mandi bunga( floral bath) and tangas( herbal steam bath), which are commonly incorporated into bridal spa treatments.

She noted that these treatments are not only suitable for brides but are also used for postnatal care, making them versatile and deeply rooted in local traditions.

She believes that the inclusion of spa services in wedding or honeymoon packages, whether at hotels or independent venues, provides

Norliza Othman

She added that they prioritise modesty by offering gender-specific therapies and modesty garments. The centres are committed to using halalcertified products and providing prayer facilities on site. These measures help enhance trust, comfort, and confidence among Muslim clients, while also meeting their expectations.

" The dedicated Muslim-friendly spa and wellness packages are available in Malaysia, although the market remains in a growth phase. Appealing features include halal-certified products, plant-based products, organic products and treatments, private spa spaces, prayer-friendly schedules, and cultural and spiritual elements. The demand is rising among local and international Muslim couples. They are seeking ethical and faith-aligned luxury experiences," shared Norliza.

couples with a more holistic and meaningful journey. According to her, these experiences help clients better understand the purpose behind such rituals. For example, the mandi bunga is traditionally performed to enhance a bride ' s radiance but also promotes relaxation and detoxification.

" Seri Spa Premium embraces the Muslimfriendly concept. We have dedicated male and female therapists, so treatments are conducted based on gender. Our rooms are also fully covered and secure. Even for married couples, treatments are arranged in separate rooms to ensure privacy and maintain

The room at Seri Spa Premium.

A UNIQUE SELLING POINT

Norliza emphasised that the wellness sector can play a crucial role in enhancing Malaysia ' s position as a Muslim-friendly wedding and honeymoon destination. She suggested the introduction of Muslim-friendly honeymoon wellness packages that incorporate Islamic values and Malay heritage rituals, such as the Majlis Bersiram and post-wedding recovery packages. She highlighted that these offerings could serve as a unique selling point, particularly appealing to Muslim millennials and Gen Z couples from around the world.

She highlighted that the Muslim- Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition( MFAR) by the Islamic Tourism Centre( ITC) boosts spa credibility by assuring Muslim travellers of privacy and safety. It also distinguishes certified spas from others, building confidence among Muslim travellers, travel agencies, and operators.

Istiadat Bersiram Raja Sehari at Teratak Spa.

Teratak Spa team and clients.

aurat boundaries. If both are in the same room and, for example, the therapist is male, he could still see the female guest, even if her husband is present. To avoid this, we strictly carry out treatments in separate rooms."

Seri Spa Premium offers a variety of treatment menus tailored to different needs. One of its signature packages, Heavenly Inderaloka, is specially designed for brides-to-be. It features a full range of traditional therapies including tangas, massage, tungku( Malay hot stone), ganyah( body scrub), pupur( body mask), mandi bunga( floral bath), and a facial. – RnR