Revenue from medical tourism Malaysia 2014-2023

The revenue generated from medical tourism in Malaysia reached an estimate of 1.7 billion Malaysian ringgit as of 2023. This was a significant increase of nearly threefold compared to the revenue in 2021. The medical tourism industry in Malaysia suffered during the two-year travel restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in a vast decrease in revenue. 

Leading medical destination in Southeast Asia

Malaysia is well known as a leading medical destination in Southeast Asia. In 2023, there were more than one million people who traveled to Malaysia for medical purposes. According to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), 60 percent of medical tourists come from the neighboring country, Indonesia. Penang is a popular medical destination city, especially for Indonesians, due to its proximity to Sumatra, one of the largest islands in Indonesia. In 2022, the Peninsular state generated more than 285 million Malaysian ringgit in revenue from medical tourism.

Quality private medical care

Medical travelers would usually go to private hospitals for their medical treatments. The Malaysian private healthcare system is well-developed and works to complement the public healthcare system. Many renowned Malaysian private hospitals that are popular among international visitors offer world-class medical care with the latest technology. In 2022, there were 207 private hospitals in Malaysia, representing a larger number compared to public hospitals.