A Laud to Malaysia’s Health Tourism

Tourism has evolved beyond the common understanding of being limited to vacation activities only. Niche tourism areas such as property tourism, sports tourism, business tourism and voluntourism are among  the segments that have been growing in popularity and traction. Malaysia, in particular, is fast becoming a notable country in the global health and medical tourism sector.

In September 2020, Malaysia  won the ‘Health and Medical Tourism: Destination of the Year’ title for the fourth time at the International Medical Travel Journal’s (IMTJ) Medical Travel Awards 2020. Celebrating outstanding achievements in the medical travel, medical tourism and health tourism industry worldwide, this reputable accolade attests to Malaysia’s reputation as a top international medical tourism destination.

Several private Malaysian healthcare institutions also secured wins at the prestigious  event. These include Sunway Fertility Centre (International Fertility Clinic of the Year); Prince Court Medical Centre (International Hospital of the Year); Sunway Eye Centre (International Eye Clinic of the Year); and Thompson Hospital Kota Damansara (Best Quality Initiative).

Health tourism in Malaysia can be broadly categorised into two main areas: medical tourism and wellness programmes. Visitors coming into the country for this purpose can seek medical treatments in any internationally recognised hospitals and stay on during their recuperation period. Alternatively, visitors can consider a vacation by exploring the various forms of wellness programmes in Malaysia such as rehabilitation, physiotherapy, spas, reflexology and massages. 

In both instances, health visitors from all over the world are welcome to experience Malaysia’s world-class healthcare. With the state-of-the-art medical centres. These establishments offer a remarkable array of sophisticated diagnosis, therapeutic and in-patient facilities as well as highly-trained medical professionals to ensure the highest level of professionalism, safety and care to patients. This coupled with competitively affordable healthcare services costs, reflects Malaysia as an undeniably popular destination among health tourists.

Going forward, Malaysia is positioning itself as a regional  hub for excellent healthcare. Given the dynamic nature of the tourism industry, it is crucial that the industry players are attuned to gaps and opportunities present in the market to form their niche and seize ever arising opportunities. The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) works closely with public and private stakeholders to scout and facilitate investors, including those seeking to invest in healthcare and medical centres in Malaysia.

For more information, visit www.mida.gov.my.