George Town, Penang – 27 September 2024: Penang continues to solidify its position as Malaysia’s top medical tourism destination, accounting for 45% of the nation’s total medical tourism revenue in the first half of 2024. This achievement was highlighted during the joint meeting of the Penang Centre of Medical Tourism (PMED) and StudyPENANG, held at JEN Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La today.
According to YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE), Malaysia’s medical tourism industry generated RM1.15 billion in the first half of the year, with Penang playing a pivotal role in this success. The state’s contribution was significant, driven by its competitive pricing, high-quality services, and strategic location.
“Penang’s medical tourism is a key economic driver, not only contributing to medical fees but also boosting related sectors such as tourism, transportation, accommodation, and dining,” Wong said. He noted that the sector’s target revenue of RM2.5 billion for 2024 could result in an impressive RM9.6 billion in economic spillover for these industries.
Penang’s medical tourism success is attributed to five key factors: high-quality healthcare at affordable prices, proximity to major markets like Indonesia and China, strong language proficiency, support from PMED, and extended visa periods for medical tourists. Indonesia remains the largest source market, contributing 65.8% of Malaysia’s medical tourism revenue, with frequent direct flights enhancing Penang’s accessibility.
Furthermore, Penang’s growing educational tourism sector is drawing increasing attention. Recent data shows that international student numbers in Malaysia’s private education sector rose by 6% between 2021 and 2024. Penang, with its rich cultural heritage and robust educational institutions, is emerging as a prime destination for expatriate families seeking quality education.
As Penang continues to diversify and expand both its medical and educational tourism sectors, Wong emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts across government, healthcare, and educational institutions to ensure sustainable growth and international appeal.
