Penang and AirAsia Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Medical Tourism Ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026
The Penang Centre of Medical Tourism (PMED) has received a significant boost with the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with AirAsia, marking a key milestone in efforts to further enhance Penang’s standing as a premier medical tourism destination.
The MoC signing ceremony took place at the St. Giles Wembley Hotel, highlighting the launch of the AirAsia Boarding Pass Privileges (BPP): Medical Offers for International Travelers campaign, which runs from 1 September 2025 to 31 December 2026.
Under this initiative, international travelers flying to Penang with AirAsia will enjoy:
- 15% discounts on premium or top-tier health screening packages,
- Voucher validity of up to one month from the date of travel, and
- Exclusive access to leading healthcare providers in Penang.
The collaboration is also aligned with national efforts to support Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026.
Penang was represented at the ceremony by YB Wong Hon Wai, State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, while AirAsia Berhad was represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Dato Captain Fareh Mazputra. The MoC was officially signed by Ooi Chok Yan, Chief Executive Officer of Penang Global Tourism.
In his address, YB Wong expressed enthusiasm about the timely partnership, noting its strategic importance in positioning Penang as a core component of Malaysia’s global medical tourism vision.
“These landmark campaigns will establish Malaysia as a global destination for travel, wellness, and medical excellence – and Penang proudly stands at the forefront of this movement,” said Wong.
He described the collaboration between PMED and AirAsia as a forward-thinking initiative aimed at attracting more international patients, especially from ASEAN, China, India, and the Middle East.
“Medical tourism is no longer a niche market – it is a booming global industry. Penang is already a trusted name, known for its internationally trained healthcare professionals, multilingual services, and a high standard of patient care,” he added.
He also highlighted Penang’s appeal beyond healthcare, with its rich heritage, scenic beauty, and globally renowned street food offering a holistic healing environment.
“Penang isn’t just a place to receive treatment – it’s a destination for healing and renewal,” said Wong.
PMED currently comprises 18 member institutions, including the latest addition, Columbia Asia Hospital Batu Kawan, which opened in July 2025. Other members include: Bagan Specialist Centre, Genesis IVF, KPJ Penang Specialist Hospital, Loh Guan Lye Specialist Centre, Oasis Eye Specialists, Optimax Eye Specialist Hospital, Penang Adventist Hospital, Penang Retirement Resort, Sunway Medical Centre Penang, Therapedic Medical Centre, Thomson Fertility Centre, Vista Eye Specialist, Georgetown, Wellings Pharmacy
The event was also attended by key dignitaries and stakeholders, including: Mdm Ding Qiao, Vice-Consul General of China, Ibu Yomi A. Lestari, Economic Consul of the Consulate General of Indonesia in Penang, Dr. Annuar Bin Mohamed, Director, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) Penang, Puan Zuraidah Abu Bakar, Deputy Director, Tourism Malaysia Northern Region, Dr. Mary Ann Harris, Executive Director, PMED, Kenneth Tan, Government Relations Manager, AirAsia Berhad and representatives from member medical institutions
This partnership underscores Penang’s continued commitment to growing its medical tourism industry and welcoming the world to experience its unique combination of world-class healthcare and cultural richness.
