Exploring Malaysia: Beyond the skyscrapers, a rising destination for healthcare and education

MANILA, Philippines — Malaysia, with its rich culture and iconic architectural marvels like the Petronas Towers and Merdeka 118, has long been a tourist favorite. Yet, beyond these towering landmarks lies a Malaysia that offers much more than meets the eye.

Amidst the bustling urban landscape, the Southeast Asian country has been emerging as a hotspot for healthcare services and educational opportunities, drawing visitors from around the world. 

With its close proximity to the Philippines, just a four-hour flight from Manila, Malaysia becomes an even more attractive and convenient option for Filipinos in search of top-notch healthcare and educational opportunities abroad.

In a recent trip hosted by Tourism Malaysia, Philstar.com had the opportunity to visit and witness Malaysia’s high-caliber hospitals and educational institutions, gaining firsthand insight into the country's growing appeal in these sectors.

Travelers from abroad come to Malaysia for medical treatments for good reason. Its globally recognized medical tourism industry is renowned for its world-class facilities, internationally trained health professionals and cost-effective healthcare services.

The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), an agency under the country’s health ministry that aims to boost medical tourism, has noted a recovery to pre-pandemic level with 850,000 healthcare travelers recorded in 2022. 

MHTC currently has 97 Member Facilities accredited by international bodies, committed to delivering high-quality healthcare services, especially in the areas of cardiology, fertility, cancer care, premium wellness screenings and dental treatments. 

But as one may ask, how do I get to enjoy Malaysia if all that I get to experience are hospitals? 

This is where Malaysia's holistic approach to medical tourism truly shines. With a commitment to delivering peace of mind and a seamless end-to-end experience, the country ensures that medical tourists have ample opportunities to explore the country’s wonders and urban landscapes. 

Upon arrival at the airport, a dedicated immigration lane for medical tourists streamlines the entry process, ensuring a hassle-free arrival.

At Kuala Lumpur