KUALA LUMPUR – Nearly 12,000 Cambodian patients travelled to Malaysia for medical treatment in 2025, generating RM30 million in healthcare travel revenue, according to the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC).

MHTC said the figures reflect growing confidence among Cambodian patients in Malaysia's healthcare system and reinforce the country's position as a leading healthcare travel destination in the region.

“While Cambodia remains an emerging market compared to Malaysia's more established healthcare travel sources, its steady growth demonstrates increasing awareness and trust among Cambodian patients who are actively seeking quality healthcare beyond their borders,” it said in a statement, as reported by New Straits Times.

The council said Cambodia's healthcare landscape has evolved significantly over the past decade, with greater healthcare awareness and increasing demand for specialised treatments encouraging more patients to seek medical care overseas.

It said the trend presents significant opportunities for Malaysia, supported by a network of 91 member hospitals comprising internationally accredited medical institutions, multidisciplinary Centres of Excellence and experienced specialists.

Malaysia continues to attract international patients seeking treatment in areas including oncology, cardiology, orthopaedics, fertility and reproductive medicine, gastroenterology, health screening and preventive care, MHTC said.

The council added that Malaysia's healthcare ecosystem is further strengthened by its “Healing Meets Hospitality” proposition, which focuses on patient-centred care, empathy and personalised support throughout the treatment journey.

As part of its regional expansion strategy, MHTC recently organised the inaugural Malaysia Healthcare Expo (MHX) in Phnom Penh, making Cambodia the first market outside Indonesia to host the consumer-focused exhibition.

The event brought Malaysian healthcare providers and specialists together with Cambodian communities, allowing prospective patients to explore treatment options and receive professional medical advice before travelling to Malaysia.

“The decision to invest in Cambodia reflects a broader strategy to strengthen Malaysia's presence in emerging healthcare travel markets across the region.

“As awareness of Malaysia's healthcare capabilities continues to grow, Cambodia is expected to play an increasingly important role in supporting the industry's long-term growth,” it said.

MHTC added that healthcare travel also benefits the wider economy, with international patients contributing to sectors including aviation, hospitality, transportation, retail and tourism.