A view of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline in Malaysia, May 30, 2023. Photo by Reuters
Malaysia’s medical tourism industry is expected to sustain strong growth, supported by targeted initiatives and strategic partnerships, said BMI, a Fitch Solutions company.
In a note, BMI said the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), an agency under the Health Ministry, has launched the “Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026” campaign to promote its healthcare capabilities and offer medical tourists a holistic experience that combines treatment, wellness, and tourism.
Malaysia has been the most visited country in Southeast Asia this year, with 24.5 million arrivals recorded in the first seven months, an increase of 16.8% year-on-year.
The country has entered global healthcare partnerships, including Malaysia Healthcare Week in Kuwait, held in September 2025.
During that event, Malaysia showcased its quality healthcare services and cultural hospitality to attract Kuwaiti patients and strengthen its international reputation as a preferred medical tourism destination, BMI said.
It also noted that the expansion of medical tourism in Malaysia, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, the Philippines, and India will create opportunities for public-private partnerships, medical device manufacturers, and investments in healthcare infrastructure.
