PENANG continues to lead the nation’s healthcare tourism sector, attracting 412,944 foreign patients in 2024 and generating RM888.7 million in revenue. As of Aug 18 this year, the state has already welcomed 213,032 foreign patients, contributing RM461.4 million.
The figures, compiled from 17 members of the Penang Centre of Medical Tourism (PMED), underscore Penang’s strong position in the industry.
“These numbers reflect not only Penang’s strength as the northern hub of medical tourism but also the trust that patients place in our doctors, nurses, and medical teams,” Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said at the launch of Icon Sunsuria and Island Hospital’s Cancer Centre in Macalister Road, George Town, today.
“Our hospitals are equipped with the latest technology, our specialists are highly skilled, and most importantly, our healthcare teams always put patients first. Beyond serving our local community, Penang is treating patients from across the region, providing better and more advanced treatment options every year.”
On the national front, Malaysia aims to achieve RM15 billion in annual medical tourism revenue by 2030 under the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026. In 2024 alone, the country recorded 1.6 million healthcare travellers, generating RM2.72 billion — a 21 per cent increase from the previous year.
Chow also highlighted the need to address the outflow of medical talent, noting that about 400 medical officers resigned from the public sector in 2024, with 3.1 per cent moving abroad.
“While the numbers may not appear high, it is a reminder that Malaysia must continue to strengthen its healthcare system to retain talent. The good news is that Penang, with its excellent facilities and leadership in medical tourism, has the potential to attract and retain skilled professionals,” he said.
At a press conference after the launch, Chow said medical tourism remains a vital economic driver, although Penang’s percentage share of the national revenue has decreased from 60 per cent to just over 40 per cent due to the growth of facilities in other states. “However, in absolute terms, Penang’s revenue has continued to increase,” he added.
While private healthcare facilities such as the new cancer centre are on the rise, Chow reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening the public healthcare system in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
The Icon Sunsuria–Island Hospital Cancer Centre will double its capacity while introducing specialised services, including a Women’s Cancer Programme and advanced haematology services such as stem cell transplantation.
Island Hospital is also one of only four hospitals nationwide shortlisted for flagship status under the MYMT 2026 Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital programme.
“Your work not only strengthens our state’s position as a hub for medical tourism but also brings comfort and hope to families facing one of life’s toughest battles — cancer,” Chow said in congratulating Icon Sunsuria and Island Hospital.
Mark Middleton OAM, Group chief executive officer of Icon Group, said the joint venture between Icon Group, Australia’s largest provider of cancer care, and Sunsuria Healthcare, aims to bring world-class cancer treatment closer to home.
He added: “We share old-fashioned values – loyalty, respect, friendship, trust, and above all, a desire to give hope. Together, we focus on improving accessibility for local and regional communities, ensuring greater access to comprehensive cancer care. Patients seek more than medical treatment — they seek reassurance, support, and most importantly, hope. Healthcare is about relationships.”
Tan Sri Ter Leong Yap, founder and executive chairman of Sunsuria Berhad, described the launch as a momentous occasion for both Icon Sunsuria and Island Hospital, one of Malaysia’s most respected healthcare institutions.
“Our vision was never to create just another centre, but the right one — anchored in clinical excellence, advanced technology, and above all, care with heart. Cancer remains one of the greatest health challenges of our time, affecting tens of thousands of Malaysians each year,” he said.
He noted that in 2020 alone, Malaysia recorded 49,000 new cancer cases, with 60 per cent diagnosed at late stages. Yet, the country has fewer than 150 oncologists nationwide — one per 200,000 people, compared with the WHO recommendation of one per 100,000. The shortage in haematology is similarly pressing, with only 170 specialists nationwide, even as blood cancers and bone marrow conditions continue to rise.
“This is why Sunsuria Healthcare chose cancer and haematology as our first priority. This is where the need is greatest,” Ter explained.
The new centre’s care is anchored by a dedicated medical team, including Datuk Dr M. Amir Shah, medical director and senior consultant in clinical oncology; Dr Ooi Kai Yun, consultant in clinical oncology; Dr Tan Sui Keat, clinical haematologist; along with oncology nurses, pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians.
Also present at the launch were Gregory Harvey, Australian Trade and Investment Commissioner of Malaysia and Brunei; Philippa Cordi, First Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs; Serena Wee, chief executive officer of Icon ASEAN; Audrey Ooi, chief executive officer of Sunsuria Healthcare, Dr Koo Jian Wei, chief operating officer of Island Hospital; Datuk Dr M. Amir Shah, Dr Ooi kai Yun, and Dr Tan Sui Keat.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alissa Tian
Video by Siew Chia En