KUCHING – Sarawak is positioning itself as a future hub for medical tourism, with leaders confident that the state has the right combination of resources, infrastructure, and stability to attract international patients.
Speaking at the opening of the International Medical Tourism Conference (IMTC) 2025, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, who also serves as Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, said Sarawak offers quality healthcare comparable to global standards.
He noted that the entry of more private hospitals and the development of modern health facilities will elevate the state’s medical tourism sector.
Combined with Sarawak’s political and economic stability, these factors are expected to encourage greater investment and partnerships with international companies.
“We in Sarawak are quite consistent with our stable government and most importantly, many people are not aware that we have a stable economy where Sarawak is the best example of a region with a stable economy in Malaysia,” he said. “In addition, we are always open to working with all parties. That is why we have all the ‘ingredients’ that make Sarawak suitable for medical tourism.”
Dr Sim emphasised that while advanced medical equipment can be purchased, the true strength of Sarawak lies in its human resources.
He praised the dedication of local doctors, nurses, and paramedics, describing their enthusiasm as “extraordinary” and a key factor in building trust with patients. “In terms of medical tourism, the key is human resources, namely doctors, nurses and paramedics because equipment is not a problem. In fact, the equipment that is available today in Europe or the United States, tomorrow can be sent here. But human resources are not something that is easy to find,” he explained.
The IMTC 2025, held for the first time in Sarawak, serves as a platform to showcase the state’s readiness to compete in the global medical tourism market.
The conference brings together healthcare professionals, investors, and policymakers to discuss strategies for expanding the sector.
Sarawak’s push into medical tourism aligns with its broader development goals under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030), which emphasises diversification of the economy and the creation of new growth sectors.
With strong healthcare infrastructure, committed professionals, and a stable environment, the state aims to position itself as a trusted destination for international patients seeking affordable yet high-quality medical care.
