10 reasons to make Malaysia your preferred healthcare destination

Whether you're looking for a small cosmetic procedure and a big holiday or major surgery along with a short getaway, there are countless reasons that make Malaysia the ideal destination for your healthcare needs. Here are 10 reasons why.

1. Affordable procedures

Malaysia's favourable exchange rate and the cost of healthcare services is at an extensively lower cost than that of other countries. If you're coming from a Western country such as the United States or Britain, medical procedures in Malaysia will generally cost a fraction of the price as compared to prices back home.

2. Modern facilities

Extensive investments have been made to ensure that all medical centres are equipped with modern facilities, internationally accredited hospitals of Malaysia are capable of handling the latest techniques and procedures. These state-of-the-art facilities focus on what matters: more effective, efficient and pleasant solutions for patients.

3. Professionals with internationally recognised credentials

Doctors in Malaysia are highly experienced. Having been involved in numerous groundbreaking procedures and revolutionary researches which have garnered several international recognitions, Malaysia boasts a high number of specialists with decades of experiences in their relevant fields.

4. Short waiting time

With all medical centres equipped with modern facilities, medical centres in Malaysia are able to provide shorter waiting time. Patients may be hospitalised upon arrival, and examinations and work-up tests are usually addressed promptly.

Organised and efficient patient registration systems eliminate or reduce patient queues to ensure treatment and medication is quickly dispensed so patients can choose to either return home or recuperate amidst some of Malaysia's lush rainforests and pristine beaches.

5. Social & political stability

Since its independence, Malaysia has boasts one of South-East-Asia's most vibrant economies, the fruit of decades of industrial growth and political stability. Its multi-ethnic society encompasses Malays, Chinese and Indians who co-exist in harmony. Malaysians are peace-loving and friendly people. Visitors can be ensured of respect and greeted with sincere smiles throughout his or her stay.

6. Ease of entry

The Malaysian government has made it easier for visitors seeking health treatments to enter the country. With the relevant letter from the medical centre at which you will be receiving your medical treatment, you may enjoy up to six months of visa extension.

7. Low cost of living

Prices in Malaysia are reasonable and affordable, be it accommodation, food or even shopping.

8. Accommodation

From comfortable and affordable hotels to five-star accommodations, Malaysia provides you with a choice to budget or splurge. Hotels start from as low as USD43 to USD143.20 per night depending on its star rating. Alternatively, if your family is accompanying you for treatment, there is also an option to rent a serviced apartment. Prices range around USD115 to USD172 depending on the size of the apartment. Service apartments in Malaysia operate similar services to a hotel.

9. Excellent infrastructure

Public and private transportation is readily available throughout Malaysia. Monorails, taxis, trains and buses are available at regular intervals, while cars can be easily rented for those who desire extra control over their travelling. Besides coaches and trains, low cost flights are also available to hundreds of locations outside of Kuala Lumpur. In essence, all cities in Malaysia are very well connected.

10. Lots to see and do

The multi-cultural society that makes up Malaysia has contributed to the culinary legacy of Malaysian food. Tourists can look forward to affordable Malay, Chinese, Indian and Portuguese dishes that offer an exotic experience unique to the country.

Malaysia offers a variety of choice dining experiences that cater to specific needs. There are also many restaurants that serve choices of international cuisines such as Italian, Middle Eastern, and American.

Geographically, with Malaysia surrounded by the South China Sea, visitors here will find a weather pattern that is best described as tropical. During most times, Malaysia's climate boasts year-round temperatures of around 30 degrees. You will find much cooler temperatures in the more mountainous regions. The beautiful weather, incredible mountains and seaside views all combine to make Malaysia a favourite health tourism destination.