KUALA LUMPUR — The operating licence fee for gymnasiums in Kuala Lumpur has been reduced by 80% effective January 2026, in a move aimed at encouraging healthier urban lifestyles and addressing rising non-communicable diseases in the capital.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), Hannah Yeoh, announced that the new rate has been set at RM10 per square metre, down from RM50 previously, following a series of engagement sessions with industry stakeholders, including the Malaysian Gymnasium Operators Association (PPGM).
The reduction comes amid growing concerns over obesity and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and hypertension, particularly in urban centres where inactive lifestyles and time constraints limit consistent physical activity.
According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, 32.6% of Malaysians aged 18 and above are overweight, equivalent to approximately 6.86 million people nationwide.
The survey found that the three highest overweight rates were recorded in the Federal Territories, with Kuala Lumpur topping the list at 40.6%, followed by Putrajaya at 35.5% and Labuan at 34.8%.
“This position indicates that the public health burden is more concentrated in metropolitan and Federal administrative areas, thus requiring more responsive and targeted policy approaches at the city level,” Yeoh said.
She added that the fee reduction reflects the Madani government’s commitment to building a more active and inclusive urban ecosystem that supports overall well-being.
In line with the revised licence rate, Yeoh urged gym operators to channel the financial savings back to the community through high-impact initiatives.
Among the proposed measures are offering membership discounts for exercise sessions between 6am and 8am, as well as 5pm and 7pm, to encourage physical activity outside peak hours while helping to ease urban traffic congestion.
Operators are also encouraged to introduce special rates or discounts for senior citizens to promote active and healthy ageing.
“This measure reflects the Madani government’s commitment to strengthening a more active, inclusive urban ecosystem that supports the overall well-being of the people,” she said.
The initiative is expected to benefit both gym operators and city residents, as Kuala Lumpur grapples with rising obesity rates and mounting healthcare pressures linked to lifestyle-related diseases. – March 3, 2026