Summary
- Penang welcomed about 285,400 medical tourists in the first half of 2026.
- Medical tourism generated RM601.8 million during the six-month period.
- Penang is looking beyond Indonesia to potential markets including the Middle East and Australia.
GEORGE TOWN, September 30 — Penang welcomed about 285,400 medical tourists in the first half of 2026, generating RM601.8 million in healthcare revenue, state tourism executive councillor Wong Hon Wai said.
Citing Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council data, Wong said Penang accounted for more than one-third of Malaysia’s medical tourism industry.
The figures cover hospitals and exclude other healthcare providers such as dental clinics, laboratories and diagnostic centres.
Indonesia remains Penang’s largest source market, supported by direct flights to several cities and a new Batam-Penang service starting Oct 18.
Wong said Penang is also exploring the Middle East and Australia as potential growth markets.
