Malaysia Courts Central Asian Medical Tourists Through Healthcare Collaboration

Malaysia welcomed healthcare professionals from Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to strengthen medical tourism ties, showcase its healthcare excellence, encourage referrals, and expand long-term partnerships across Central Asia.

Malaysia Expands Medical Partnerships

Malaysia is stepping up efforts to strengthen its position as a leading medical tourism destination by hosting its first Medical Tourism Familiarisation Trip for senior healthcare professionals from Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.

Organised by the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) together with Tourism Malaysia, the programme aims to deepen professional collaboration and expand patient referral opportunities across Central Asia.

Held from Aug 3 to 10, the initiative brings together 16 healthcare professionals, including physicians, professors and senior medical specialists, for an in-depth study visit of Malaysia’s healthcare ecosystem.

Participants are given first-hand exposure to the country’s internationally recognised healthcare services and integrated approach to healthcare travel.

During the week-long visit, the delegation tours four leading private hospitals: Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Prince Court Medical Centre and Sunway Medical Centre.

The programme includes discussions with hospital management, doctors and specialists on clinical excellence, healthcare quality standards, international patient management and best practices in treating overseas patients.

The initiative follows rising demand for Malaysian healthcare services in Central Asia. In 2025, healthcare travel revenue from Kazakhstan grew 29.4 per cent to about USD520,000, while revenue from Uzbekistan increased 30.8 per cent to around USD400,000. The growth reflects increasing confidence in Malaysia’s internationally accredited healthcare system.

Malaysia currently welcomes approximately 1.84 million international patients annually, generating more than USD770 million in healthcare travel revenue. Its network of over 90 partner hospitals provides specialised treatments in cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, fertility care and dentistry.

MHTC Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Suriaghandi Suppiah said building trust with healthcare professionals is essential because they influence patients’ decisions on where to seek treatment.

He added that allowing medical experts to experience Malaysia’s healthcare system firsthand helps foster lasting partnerships while reinforcing the country’s “Healing Meets Hospitality” value proposition.

Beyond hospital visits, delegates are also introduced to Malaysia’s cultural attractions in Kuala Lumpur, Melaka and Putrajaya, highlighting the country’s blend of quality healthcare, hospitality and tourism.

Source: Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC)

#businessnews