KUALA LUMPUR, 3 March 2026 — The operating licence fee for gymnasiums in Kuala Lumpur has been reduced by 80 per cent, from RM50 to RM10 per square metre effective January 2026, in a move aimed at strengthening the Healthy City agenda.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), Hannah Yeoh, said the reduction was introduced following engagement sessions with industry stakeholders, including the Malaysian Gymnasium Operators Association (PPGM).
She noted that non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes and hypertension remain a growing concern, particularly in urban areas where inactive lifestyles and time constraints limit regular physical activity.
According to the 2023 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), 32.6 per cent of Malaysians aged 18 and above are overweight — equivalent to approximately 6.86 million people. The highest prevalence was recorded in Kuala Lumpur (40.6 per cent), followed by Putrajaya (35.5 per cent) and Labuan (34.8 per cent).
“The concentration of cases in metropolitan and Federal Territories areas requires more responsive and targeted policy approaches at the city level,” she said.
In line with the fee reduction, gym operators are encouraged to offer off-peak membership discounts between 6.00–8.00am and 5.00–7.00pm, as well as special rates for senior citizens to promote active and healthy ageing.
Yeoh said the initiative reflects the MADANI Government’s commitment to building a more active and inclusive urban ecosystem that supports the overall well-being of the people.
