Naturists looking to bare all for the first time on Asia's shores were buoyed on Wednesday after local councillors gave the thumbs up to plans to open a nude beach in a remote area of Hong Kong.

The Body Arts Association, a Hong Kong nudist group, handed a proposal on Tuesday to the local government asking for permission to hire a deserted beach in Sai Kung so they could derobe without fear of arrest.

"Several councillors think the proposal could be considered," said Sai Kung district councillor Gary Fan, adding that several local politicians supported him in believing it could boost tourism in the territory.

"There are quite a few deserted islands in the area that could be used," he said. "Economically, it should have positive impacts for local tourism."

Hoping to follow in the footsteps of famous nude beaches like Le Cap d'Agde in France, the Body Arts Association wants to build holiday homes and recreational facilities for locals and foreign tourists to enjoy outdoor activities in the nude.

Another councillor also welcomed the idea.

"As a backyard and a recreation area of Hong Kong, we welcome the idea," said Phang Shuk-yee, quoted by the South China Morning Post.

Fan said that a "minority" of elderly and conservative people in the area had fiercely opposed the idea, and added that the public would be consulted before a decision was made.

Public nudity is illegal in Hong Kong and offenders can be jailed for up to six months or fined 1,000 Hong Kong dollars (128 US dollars).

The Body Arts Association, set up in 2001, has 400 members who hold regular activities and classes, such as yoga, painting, photography, hiking, volleyball and yachting.

Although some remote beaches in Asia secretly condone nudity, it is officially outlawed by most states.