Penang expands healthcare economy beyond its medical tourism

THE NEWS: Malaysia’s medical tourism revenue jumped 23.2% year‑on‑year to RM3.35 billion in 2025, while international patient arrivals rose 15.6% to 1.85 million, according to the August 2026 industry report.

DETAILS:

Penang’s 16 private hospitals treated 527,176 foreign patients in 2025, a 25.9% increase over the previous year.

Malaysia’s medical tourism revenue reached RM3.35 billion in 2025, up from RM2.72 billion in 2024.

International patient arrivals grew to 1.85 million in 2025 from 1.6 million in 2024.

Penang outperformed other Malaysian states, accounting for the largest share of foreign medical patients in 2025.

FAQ

What was Malaysia’s medical tourism revenue in 2025 and how did it change from 2024?
In 2025 the sector generated RM3.35 billion, up from RM2.72 billion in 2024, representing a 23.2% year‑on‑year increase, according to the August 2026 industry report.

How many international patients visited Malaysia in 2025 and what was the percentage increase?
The country welcomed 1.85 million international patients in 2025, up from 1.6 million in 2024, a rise of 15.6% year‑on‑year, as reported in the August 2026 medical tourism review.

How many foreign patients were treated in Penang’s private hospitals in 2025 and what was the growth rate?
Penang’s 16 private hospitals treated 527,176 foreign patients in 2025, which was 25.9% more than in 2024, making the state the top performer among Malaysian regions for medical tourism that year.

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