Spa chain's sudden closure rubs customers the wrong way
A SPA and wellness chain in Johor has been ordered to refund customers for their unused massage packages after the business abruptly ceased operations.
Voon Poh Nee, 42, had bought a full-body massage package worth RM4,400 from the centre's Taman Nusa Bestari II branch in Johor Baru in 2023.
The logistics pharmacist at a hospital in Johor, redeemed the first 90-minute session on Sept 22, 2023.
Satisfied with the service, Voon bought another package costing RM10,600 on Jan 29, 2024.
'This brings the total to RM15,000, which was a VIP Package, and entitles me to 250 massage sessions,' she said when met outside the Johor Consumer Claims Tribunal at Menara Ansar, Johor Baru.
In all, Voon has redeemed 40 massage sessions at the Nusa Bestari branch.
However, when she tried to book a slot for May 7 this year, she was told they were fully booked. She later found out that the centre had closed down.
Tribunal president Hasila Awang ordered the respondent to refund RM12,600 to the claimant within two weeks.
Another unhappy customer was property negotiator Foo Nyok Wan, 45, who had paid RM2,400 on April 7 for a full body massage package with the centre's Mutiara Rini branch in Skudai.
'Each session costs RM60 and the package entitled me to 40 sessions, but I only managed to go for one,' she said.
Foo called the Mutiara Rini branch at the end of April to book a slot for early May, but was told they were fully booked.
'I decided to go to the Nusa Bestari outlet on May 3, and the staff there also told me the same thing.'
Foo said she was shocked to later find out that the centre and its 29 branches had actually ceased operations beginning May 1.
Hasila ordered the respondent to refund RM2,340 to the claimant within two weeks.
Those who need assistance in regard to Tribunal matters can call 07-227 1755/ 1766 or visit the Tribunal office at Level 17, Menara Ansar, Jalan Trus, Johor Baru.
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