Malaysia Airlines has signed a new agreement that will see it promote Malaysia’s medical tourism sector.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) will see the two parties conduct joint marketing activities to position Malaysia as an international medical tourism destination.

The national carrier also becomes the “preferred healthcare tourism airline” for the MHTC, which will see it sponsor tickets for medical fam trips to Malaysia and offer discounted rates for medical tourists visiting the country.

The MOU was signed by Paul Simmons, Malaysia Airlines’ chief commercial officer, and Sherene Azli, CEO of MHTC, in a ceremony witnessed by Malaysia’s Minister of Health, Dr. S Subramaniam.

“As the country’s national airline, we are fully supportive of the country as the leading destination for medical tourism,” said Simmons.

“Guests who choose Malaysia for health tourism will have the opportunity to benefit from the internationally accredited medical facilities as well as the beauty and tranquility of Malaysia to recuperate in.

“Our comprehensive network within the country is the perfect complement to this, as the best way to fly to, from and around Malaysia.”

Ms Azli added that the MTHC is aiming to position Malaysia as a “premier healthcare destination regionally and globally”. “With the strong backing of our government, the assurance of quality health care and the accolades received, it certainly reinforces the fact that Malaysia has all the makings to be the world’s leading healthcare provider, and that is what we will continue to strive towards.”The MHTC is an agency that operates under the Malaysian Ministry of Health.

Malaysia sharpens its focus on medical tourism

Rising demand for private health care will continue to drive expansion in Malaysia’s medical tourism industry this year, although increasing competition and global economic challenges risk inhibiting growth.

As an established medical tourism destination, Malaysia is well placed to make the shift from core health services to the promising wellness segment, according to a report released in late January by consultancy Frost & Sullivan.

However, the industry will need to invest more heavily in key areas, such as human resources, if it is to achieve sustainable growth and compete against new players in the market.

Source: Malaysia Airlines to drive inbound medical tourism | Travel Daily Asia