The healthcare sector in Malaysia is projected to continue recovering in the medium term, benefiting from easing restrictions and drawing lessons from challenges faced over the last two years due to Covid-19 pandemic. UNICEF’s recommendations for enhancing primary healthcare and preparing for future pandemics involve creating a robust virus outbreak surveillance system, fostering public confidence in national health services, and strengthening vaccine logistics and supply. These strategies could lead to significant improvements.

A cornerstone of Malaysia’s healthcare achievements is the public-private partnership (PPP) model, which has facilitated successes across the industry’s various sectors. This collaborative approach has played a pivotal role in shaping the positive trajectory of the sector.

The Malaysian healthcare landscape comprises urban-focused private providers and a pivotal public sector catering to many healthcare needs. PPPs have effectively addressed challenges, such as pandemic-related overcrowding issues and vaccine distribution. With reopening of borders, private hospitals are reinvigorating medical tourism. Anticipated by Straits Research, the global medical tourism market is set to grow by a substantial CAGR of 30% from 2022 to 2030, driven by higher patient demand for affordable healthcare choices with improved quality of services.

The nation’s appeal stems from reliable, safe, and affordable care. Encouraging investments in healthcare services for seniors, traditional and complementary medicine, and digital healthcare is a priority, aligning with efforts to enhance efficiency and improve patient experiences. Strengthening private healthcare institutions complements public healthcare, exemplified during the pandemic, and collaboration was key to a successful COVID-19 vaccination campaign.