GEORGETOWN, Dec 5 — The state government aims to expand its medical tourism promotion to Timor-Leste next year to attract more visitors seeking treatment and healthcare services in the state.
State executive councillor for local government and tourism Dato’ Ng Suee Lim said the opportunity could be best leveraged alongside Dili’s recent Asean membership.
He said that Selangor is home to 42 private hospitals equipped with advanced technology and staffed by certified experts across various medical fields, which are expected to attract international patients.
“We cannot fall behind Melaka and Penang in medical tourism, which is why we also aim to focus on the Timor Leste market,” he said during the Media Cruise Trip 2025 programme in Penang today.
Also in attendance were Tourism Selangor chief executive officer Chua Yee Ling and Hwajing Travel and Tours managing director Kenny Cheong Ken Lee.
Meanwhile, Ng said the state government is also prioritising arts and cultural tourism to draw more tourists to the state next year, aligning with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026).
Collaboration with the state executive councillor for housing and culture Datuk Borhan Aman Shah and the Selangor Malay Custom and Heritage Corporation (Padat) will help promote the state’s unique cultural attractions to visitors.
“Many people have visited Selangor’s tourist spots, but aside from Mah Meri, there is no cultural village, which is not enough. We need a village with performances that showcase all areas.
“We aim to work with relevant parties so that both domestic and international tourists can enjoy Selangor’s culture,” he said.
