Tourism in Malaysia

Growing demand for health tourism

HEALTH and travel are the new buzzwords in tourism today. To cater to this market is a newly-launched, firstever health portal for Malaysia which would act as a global facilitator for health tourism.

Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor said the country is aware of the growing demand for health tourism and wants to ensure that such tourists received the best healthcare treatment.

The portal, www.malaysiahealthcare.com, is a one-stop destination for all medical and tourismrelated needs, bringing together all related service providers on a single platform.

By using the portal, health tourists can plan, arrange and manage their complete treatment and holiday in Malaysia from the comfort of their homes.

They can make online bookings for all services- from home to airport to hospital to hotel to the holiday of their choice.

The portal also allows health tourists direct contact with the doctor to consult on procedures and advice on possible options of treatment.

The portal was launched by Tengku Adnan on May I in Dubai during the launch of the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 campaign in the Gulf region.

In 2004, Malaysia generated foreign exchange earnings of RM105 million from health tourists seeking medical treatment.

Tourism Malaysia forecasts revenue from health tourism to reach RM2.2 billion in 2010.

After all, we offer quality and affordable healthcare services, the expertise of highly qualified medical specialists, and the availability of modern, high-tech facilities and equipment.

Health tourists are attracted to Malaysia as its medical charges and hospitalisation charges are very competitive compared to other countries such as the US, Europe or even Singapore.