Johor Bahru Mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad attends a council meeting on July 30, 20225. — Datuk Bandar Johor Bahru/Facebook pic
By Malay Mail
Friday, 08 Aug 2025 9:51 AM MYT
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 8 — The Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) has reclassified all car wash centres in its jurisdiction as “high-risk businesses,” putting them under increased monitoring and heavier regulation.
JB Mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad said the stricter rules were introduced after complaints about poor practices and alleged discrimination against local customers.
He also warned that centres found favouring foreign clients over locals risk losing their licences, The Star reported.
Previously, a viral post alleged that a centre refused serve to Malaysians in order to cater to Singaporeans, though MBJB has yet to receive an official complaint.
The mayor suggested that such cases may be linked to centres prioritising full-service packages during peak times.
He said the new rules aim to ensure operators uphold cleanliness, environmental responsibility, and fair service practices.
New applicants must prove their premises have proper drainage and do not harm roads or waterways.
Centres employing foreigners must maintain complete records of their staff and submit to checks by MBJB and Immigration.
The city has already shut down 86 car wash businesses in 18 months for operating without approval.