KUCHING: The growing number of international patients seeking medical treatment in Sarawak highlights the state’s potential as a leading healthcare hub.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that medical tourism, particularly from Indonesia, is on the rise, contributing to the state’s tourism revenue. In 2024, Sarawak recorded 4.8 million tourist arrivals, generating RM12 billion in revenue.
“According to Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, medical tourism—people coming to our state for treatment—is increasing, especially from Indonesia.
“That’s why in 2024, we received 4.8 million tourists visiting Sarawak, a record high, generating RM12 billion in tourism revenue. In 2025, we are targeting 5 million tourists.
“I think we can achieve this because we now have AirBorneo. If many Indonesians come here for treatment, we should fly to Jakarta. Bring more people—from Jakarta and other countries—because our private hospital sector is expanding,” he said.
He said this in his winding up speech during the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) 16th Triennial General Meeting (TGM) at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here on Sunday.
He added that to support this growth, Sarawak is witnessing an expansion in private healthcare facilities.
“A new private hospital with 300 beds, is being built in Batu Lintang, at the old Batu Lintang quarters. Another private hospital is being built in Tabuan Jaya, and another one in Petra Jaya.
“What does this signify? It shows that people see Sarawak’s potential as a healthcare hub.
“It’s not that Sarawakians are sick. No. Others are coming here for treatment. And our medical costs are lower than in Singapore,” he added.
Abang Johari, who is also the PBB president, also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to elderly care, ensuring that senior citizens receive free annual health check-ups at government clinics.
He emphasised that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), particularly PBB will continue to prioritise healthcare for the ageing population.
“That is why, we have allocated funds to ensure that the elderly regularly visit the clinic—at least once a year for health check-ups—and all of this is covered by the government,” said Abang Johari.
