Medical Tourism, I believe is a concept that's still foreign to me and lots of Malaysian out there. I have to admit that the first thing that crossed my mind when I heard of it was actually plastic surgery! We read stories of people going abroad for their 'nip & tuck' procedures almost everyday, but do you know that medical tourism is so much more than that? The possibility is endless and realizing that, Malaysian Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) organized their 2nd Malaysian International Healthcare Travel Expo (MIHTE 2013) at Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre on 20-22nd October 2013.
MHTC, an initiative by Ministry of Health Malaysia is the primary government agency to develop and promote the healthcare travel industry in Malaysia besides positioning Malaysia as the travel healthcare destination of choice in the region. MHTC is not only the promotional arm of the government, it's also responsible to assist healthcare travelers and provides a medium for their members in the healthcare travel industry in Malaysia to flourish.
Dr Mary Wong Lai Lin, the CEO of MHTC in her opening speech welcome delegates from all over the world who participate in the MIHTE 2013 and introduce them to some of Malaysian local attraction besides the affordability of our medical treatments and procedures compared to USA, UK and Singapore. The huge potential that we have is definitely an additional edge that placed us among the Top 10 Healthcare Travel Destination in the World.
Soon after, Mr Peter Greenberg - Travel Editor of CBS News in his key note address focus on the health industry scenes in USA which embracing the idea of seeking their medical needs while traveling to other country to nurse themselves back to health. The rise of popularity of medical tourism also contributed by major organization policy which always look for more economical alternative for their staff. For
example, a Total Knee Replacement Procedure in Malaysia cost
approximately USD12,000 while in USA the average cost is about USD58,000.
Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tan Sri Dato' Haji Muhyiddin Haji Mohd Yassin who lauch the MIHTE 2013 event that day also emphasized on the government effort to encourage the rapid growth of the industry by providing proactive and business friendly policies besides promoting conducive environment for healthcare services development. Malaysia will also continue to strengthen the medical standard and quality healthcare to target foreign investors to our country in the healthcare manufacturing and services sectors.
Following the success of last year expo, MIHTE 2013 attract exhibitors from Malaysian top medical centre, hospitals, 5 stars hotels, resorts, luxurious spa, alternative treatment, travel agencies, health sanctuary and so much more. With the huge turns out, MIHTE generates business inquiries and prospects for several industries such as healthcare facilities, travel & tours, accommodation, insurance & finance, wellness, seniors living and also multinational corporation.
Tung Shin Hospital
Thai Odyssey
Golden Horses Health Sanctuary
Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
JW Marriott
MIHTE 2013 proved to be a great platform for the local businesses to spread their wings to a larger market and widen their customer base. Interested to participate in next year event? Visit MIHTE official website here or MHTC page here for more information. Until next time, stay healthy ladies, adieu~
p.s : photo credits to MHTC FB page & Plusizekitten
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