KOTA KINABALU 10 November 2026
Sabah should strengthen collaboration between the healthcare and tourism industries to develop its potential as a regional health tourism destination.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Dr Andi Md Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal said health tourism offered an opportunity for Sabah to diversify its tourism products beyond its established leisure attractions.
Sabah was well known for its islands, mountains, biodiversity and hospitality, but should continue exploring new opportunities to attract visitors, he said at the launch of the KPJ Sabah Specialist Hospital Health Tourism Experience.
“Health tourism allows Sabah to attract visitors seeking quality healthcare while enjoying our hospitality, natural surroundings and comfortable recovery environment,” he said.
Andi said Sabah had strong potential to attract medical travellers, particularly from neighbouring countries such as Brunei and Indonesia.
Its strategic location, accessibility and cultural connections could provide advantages in developing the sector, he added.
However, he said successful health tourism required more than promotion, as it also depended on quality healthcare, professional services, patient confidence and a seamless experience throughout the medical journey.
He commended KPJ Sabah for its initiative to facilitate international patients through initial enquiries, appointment arrangements and treatment follow-ups.
He said healthcare tourism required cooperation among healthcare providers, tourism agencies, hotels, airlines, transport operators, travel companies and government agencies.
Medical travellers were often accompanied by family members who would also need accommodation, transportation and other tourism services, creating business opportunities for local tourism operators and communities, he said.
He encouraged stronger partnerships between the two industries to develop suitable packages and promotional initiatives.
“Our goal should not simply be to attract medical travellers, but to develop a sustainable healthcare tourism ecosystem that benefits Sabah’s economy, strengthens our healthcare industry and creates opportunities for our communities,” he said.
Andi, who is a medical doctor by profession, said he was proud of KPJ Sabah’s initiative and hoped it would lead to greater collaboration between the hospital, the ministry and industry players.
The health tourism experience includes a dedicated international patient lounge and a new high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) service.
Also present was KPJ Health Bhd chief operating officer Dato’ Mohamad Farid Salim.
