TO enhance payment solutions and offer value-added services for medical tourists and international students in Penang, UnionPay International has inked a strategic partnership with the Penang Centre for Medical Tourism (P.MED) and StudyPenang.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said this collaboration is set to solidify Penang’s position as a premier global destination for medical tourism and international education.
“The statistics from the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council highlighted the impressive growth of the country’s medical tourism industry.
“In the first half of 2024, Malaysia’s medical tourism revenue reached RM1.15 billion, with Penang capturing 45% of the market share, underscoring its dominance in the sector.
“In 2023, hospitals affiliated with the Penang Medical Tourism Center welcomed 406,469 international patients, generating RM831.94 million in revenue.
“In comparison, 2022 recorded 194,327 international medical tourists and RM378.4 million in revenue. These figures represent a remarkable increase of 109.2% and 119.9% in revenue respectively.
“These figures highlight Penang’s growing prominence as a medical tourism hub and reflect Malaysia’s rising stature as a key destination for high-quality healthcare services in the region,” Wong said during the MoU signing ceremony held at St Giles The Wembley Hotel yesterday.
The MoU signing ceremony featured Jiangtao Jian representing UnionPay, and Dr Mary Ann, the executive director of both P.MED and StudyPenang, formalising the agreement. The MoU was witnessed by Wong.
Wong shared that Penang stands out as a top destination for medical tourism due to five key benefits, namely affordable and high-quality healthcare, convenient location, multilingual staff, supportive medical tourism centres and longer visas for patients.
“The signing of the cooperation agreement officially establishes a strategic partnership between the Penang Education Tourism Center, comprising 24 members and two affiliates, and UnionPay International.
“This collaboration is set to bring a host of benefits to international students, enhancing Penang’s education tourism ecosystem by improving access, convenience, and opportunities within the sector,” Wong added.
UnionPay International South East Asia regional head Jiangtao Jian highlighted the organisation’s focus on delivering secure, efficient, and personalised payment solutions.
“Penang would serve as the first stop in its (UnionPay) expansion plans, with the potential to extend these initiatives to other states across Malaysia.
“This move underscores UnionPay’s commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s position as a hub for medical and educational excellence on a national scale.
“The initiative is expected to boost Penang’s economy by attracting more international visitors and fostering long-term partnerships,” he added.
The event concluded with UnionPay International presenting certificates of appreciation to representatives from StudyPenang and P.MED in recognition of their vital roles in supporting Penang’s healthcare and education sectors.
They include Northern Heart Hospital, Gleneagles Hospital, Optimax Eye Specialist Centre, Sunway Medical Centre Penang, Therapedic Medical Centre, Georgetown Specialist Hospital, Adventist Hospital and IPK College.
Story and pix by Lim Min Jun