From the Dutch perspective, the Malaysian Life Sciences & Health sector could be considered a hidden gem in Southeast Asia. Malaysia is a fast developing upper-middle-income country with a strong commitment to universal healthcare coverage since the 1950s. Malaysia is recognised globally as a well-performing health system with proper health infrastructure coverage and a well-trained workforce. However, the expenditure on health is on the rise due to increasing demand for quality healthcare and a growing burden of chronic lifestyle- and age-related diseases.
The Government of Malaysia has pledged significant investments to increase insurance coverage and quality. Vulnerable groups and those living in more remote areas of Malaysia are prioritised. Prominent private health providers seek to maintain Malaysia’s position as the main hub for medical tourism in the region. In order to develop its health system in a sustainable manner, Malaysia, which is highly dependent on imported products and knowledge, looks to grow mutually beneficial international partnerships. These partnerships should provide solutions to Malaysia’s health challenges whilst simultaneously benefitting the development of Malaysia’s domestic industries.
This report was commissioned by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl) and is produced by the Task Force Health Care (TFHC) in cooperation with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. This report aims to align the respective Life Sciences & Health sectors of the Netherlands and Malaysia in an effort to increase mutual understanding and inspire collaboration between these countries. The report provides useful insights into the Malaysian health system and sector and identifies potential areas of opportunity.