More than 100 residents and participants gathered at Tanjong Pagar Plaza on April 18 for a listening session organized by the PAP Women’s Wing. The dialogue focused on strategies to maintain wholesome neighbourhoods, specifically addressing the rise of massage parlours offering vice activities in residential areas.
Addressing the Rise of Vice in Heartlands
The session was prompted by reports indicating an increase in beauty and massage businesses within heartland areas. Panelists included PAP Women’s Wing chairwoman Sim Ann, central district adviser Elysa Chen, and Bernadette Giam, head of the group’s safety and respect arm.
Tanjong Pagar GRC MP Foo Cexiang and Jalan Besar GRC MP Shawn Loh also participated in the discussions. The dialogue highlighted a growing concern among residents regarding the nature of these establishments.
Ms. Chen, an MP for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, shared a case from January where a resident reported that her husband contracted a sexually transmitted infection. The infection occurred after visiting a massage parlour that had positioned itself as a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) shop.
Policy Gaps and Enforcement Challenges
A significant point of contention is the use of “open-concept” labels by some massage businesses. Ms. Sim, Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs, noted that such establishments are exempt from licensing but are sometimes found providing other services.
To combat this, MPs are exploring strengthened enforcement, including the increased use of CCTV footage. The Singapore Police Force and HDB confirmed in February that the Massage Establishments Act is currently under review.
The Push for Urban Renewal
At Tanjong Pagar Plaza, at least 10 massage and spa businesses were shut down in January following police enforcement. This crackdown aligns with MP Foo Cexiang’s push for a refresh of the ageing shopping centre in September 2025.
Mr. Foo emphasized that regular enforcement must be paired with the promotion of diverse store options. He noted that if vibrant businesses do not replace those removed, the area could become an “empty shell,” potentially attracting new vice operators.
Potential Next Steps
Moving forward, industry consultations are likely to start very soon to inform policy reviews. These discussions may lead to policy tweaks and advancements that could be raised in Parliament to increase resident confidence.
the government may focus on encouraging residents to patronise new, legitimate stalls to ensure the long-term sustainability of refreshed neighbourhood hubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the April 18 listening session?
The session was held to discuss ways to achieve wholesome neighbourhoods, following reports of a rise in beauty and massage businesses in heartland areas and concerns over vice activities.
What is the issue with “open-concept” massage establishments?
Some businesses claim to be open-concept to be exempt from licensing, but residents have pointed out that some of these establishments later provide unauthorized services.
How many businesses were affected by the crackdown at Tanjong Pagar Plaza?
In January, at least 10 massage and spa businesses at Tanjong Pagar Plaza were found to have shut down amid police enforcement and a crackdown on vice activities.
How can communities best balance the need for diverse businesses with the requirement to preserve residential neighbourhoods family-friendly?
