Malaysia's Healthcare Industry Eyes RM5 Bln in Revenue Contribution to 2017 GDP

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 20 (Bernama) -- The healthcare industry is eyeing a revenue contribution of up to RM5 billion (about US$1.12 billion) to Malaysia's 2017 gross domestic product. This is on the back of an estimated one million healthcare travellers visiting the country this year. In 2016, the industry's contribution to the GDP exceeded RM1 billion, said the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) in a statement here Monday. It said the prime market comprises travellers from ASEAN, but Malaysia's healthcare segment has also seen steady growth with visitors from China and India. MHTC said Malaysia’s medical travel sector, already a much sought-after choice in Asia, added another feather to its cap when one of its key drivers was honored on the international stage for outstanding contributions to global healthcare. MHTC Chief Executive Officer Sherene Azli, joined the distinguished company of 50 other women from all walks of life, in beind recognised among "Outstanding Women in Healthcare" at the World Health and Wellness Congress 2017 recently. The Malaysian healthcare travel sector has seen tremendous growth in recent years. Sherene's recognition will help drive Malaysian healthcare to even greater heights. -- BERNAMA