Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital Programme

Island Hospital’s Journey as the Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital

In 2021, a bold national vision was set in motion. The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), under the Ministry of Health and with the support of the Government of Malaysia, launched the Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital (FMTH) Programme—an initiative designed to identify hospitals capable of leading Malaysia’s medical tourism growth and representing the nation’s healthcare excellence on the global stage.

More than a recognition programme, FMTH represents a multi-year national transformation journey from 2021 to 2025. Its mission is clear: to elevate Malaysia’s healthcare competitiveness through world-class clinical quality, patient safety, innovation, service excellence and strong international branding.

A Highly Competitive National Journey

The FMTH journey was rigorous and uncompromising. A total of 17 hospitals, members of MHTC Hospitals from across Malaysia entered the programme, embarking on a demanding three (3)-year evaluation process conducted by renowned independent global experts, including IQVIA and Joint Commission International (JCI).

Each participating hospital was assessed extensively across multiple dimensions—clinical outcomes, patient safety, patient experience, digital innovation, governance and operational excellence. By the end of 2022, only four (4) hospitals advanced as finalists, with Island Hospital proudly among the few selected.

From there, the challenge intensified. Finalist hospitals underwent bi-annual performance reviews, strategic mentorship, customised capability-building programmes, joint international marketing initiatives with government partners, and continuous independent evaluations. Stringent key performance indicators (KPIs) were closely monitored through monthly audits, ensuring sustained progress, accountability and excellence at every stage.

Island Hospital: Rising to the Challenge

Throughout this demanding journey, Island Hospital distinguished itself through unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, capability-building and infrastructure enhancement. Every milestone was driven by a clear purpose—to deliver patient-centred care that meets global standards while reflecting Malaysia’s signature warmth and hospitality.

This dedication positioned Island Hospital not just as a finalist, but as a national ambassador—one that embodies Malaysia as a trusted destination where medical excellence, compassionate care and authentic hospitality converge.

Empowered by Strategic Support

The FMTH journey was further strengthened by comprehensive support from MHTC. Island Hospital benefited from structured training programmes and knowledge-sharing sessions led by industry experts, covering patient care excellence, service culture, international marketing, digitalisation, data-driven strategies and healthcare tourism development. These initiatives sharpened the hospital’s global readiness and reinforced its competitive edge.

A Defining Moment: The Winning Announcement

The journey reached its pinnacle on 9 December 2025, at a prestigious awards ceremony officiated by YB Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly bin Ahmad, Minister of Health Malaysia, who served as Guest of Honour and presented the awards. The event was also graced by Yang Berusaha En. Suriaghandi Suppiah, Chief Executive Officer of MHTC, and YBhg. Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza, Brand Ambassador for Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026.

On this landmark occasion, Island Hospital was officially named Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital 2025—a powerful recognition of its excellence in medical outcomes, service quality and international brand strength.

In addition to the flagship title, Island Hospital received two (2) national accolades, further affirming its leadership in healthcare innovation and growth:

Digital Innovation in Patient Service Delivery
Excellence in Healthcare Tourism Revenue Growth

These awards reflect Island Hospital’s ability to combine clinical excellence with digital transformation and sustainable growth—setting new benchmarks for Malaysia’s healthcare tourism sector.

“We are humbled by this recognition of Island Hospital’s role in showcasing Malaysia Healthcare,” said Ms. Lim Kooi Ling, Chief Executive Officer of Island Hospital. “Since 2022, we have welcomed and treated approximately 700,000 international patients from more than 80 countries, including patients from over 100 cities in Indonesia. The strong return of international patients following the pandemic reflects the continued trust placed in our teams, our partners and the Malaysian healthcare system.”

She added, “As part of IHH Healthcare Malaysia, one of the country’s leading private healthcare providers, we draw upon shared expertise, advanced digital capabilities and strong clinical collaboration. Our focus remains clear—to provide safe, reliable and value-driven care, while ensuring a seamless and reassuring journey for patients and their families. As a Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital, we will continue to work hand-in-hand with the Government and MHTC to strengthen Penang’s and Malaysia’s position as a preferred global healthcare destination.”