State Housing, Local Government, and Health Committee chairman Major (Rtd) Mansor Zakaria announced that the Kedah government is encouraging private entities, whether local or foreign, to consider establishing a private hospital in Langkawi. This initiative was in response to a suggestion made by Amar Pared Mahamud (PN-Kuah) during the State Legislative Assembly meeting on Tuesday.
Amar Pared recommended that the state government either invest in a specialist hospital through its subsidiaries or attract foreign investors to set up a medical facility that meets international standards in Langkawi. The goal is to provide top-notch healthcare services to foreign tourists visiting the renowned island.
Langkawi recently ranked as the ninth-best island in the world by Travel Plus Leisure Readers Magazine 2023. As such, Amar Pared emphasized the importance of having world-class specialist hospital amenities in the area.
On a separate matter, Mansor mentioned that the Kedah government has no plans to issue new licenses for massage parlors in Langkawi. This decision aims to curb immoral activities that may be prevalent in such establishments on the tourist-popular island.
Existing massage parlors will still be able to operate as long as they adhere to the regulations set by the local authority (PBT). Mansor highlighted that the state government’s stance is rooted in the belief that prevention is more effective than addressing the consequences of immoral behavior.
These announcements were made during the debate session at the state assembly sitting held at Wisma Darul Aman on Thursday. The proactive measures taken by the Kedah government reflect their commitment to maintaining the integrity and reputation of Langkawi as a prime tourist destination.
