Kuala lumpur: The International Healthcare Week (IHW) 2025 reflects Malaysia’s commitment to driving innovation, accelerating growth, and forging global partnerships that will define the next chapter of the country’s healthcare industry. Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz stated that IHW 2025 serves as a strategic platform, bringing together global thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, and investors to shape the future of the region’s healthcare.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the global medical devices market is projected to grow by 63 percent from RM2.53 trillion in 2024 to RM4.13 trillion by 2032. Tengku Zafrul emphasized the resilience and transformative nature of the global healthcare sector, highlighting immense opportunities in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and digital health solutions. He noted Malaysia’s strong industrial reform agenda, robust industrial ecosystem, progressive policies, investor-friendly environment, and skilled workforce as key factors positioning the country to capture this growth.
From pharmaceuticals and medical devices to healthcare services and medical tourism, Tengku Zafrul identified the sector as a catalyst for high-value job creation, innovation, and exports. He reported that the medical devices and pharmaceutical industries garnered RM2.13 billion in combined investments in 2024, creating over 2,700 high-value jobs across manufacturing, research and development, and regulatory services. Furthermore, eight of the world’s top 30 medical device companies have established operations in Malaysia, with pharmaceutical exports increasing by 7.8 percent from January to May 2025.
Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican highlighted Malaysia’s evolution from producing basic medical supplies to manufacturing sophisticated healthcare technologies, such as advanced stents, precision pacemakers, orthopaedic implants, and cutting-edge diagnostic equipment. He noted that Malaysia was recognized as a top destination for healthcare travellers in 2024, reflecting the country’s success in providing quality, affordable care.
The trade in medical devices experienced a remarkable 27.7 percent year-on-year growth in 2024, achieving an RM46.5 billion trade value, with a 31.6 percent increase in exports from the previous year, reaching RM37 billion. The United States was the top export destination, followed by Belgium, Germany, and the ASEAN region. The trade value has tripled since 2014, when it stood at RM13.49 billion.
Informa Markets in Asia president and chief executive officer Margaret Ma Connolly recognized Malaysia as a premier healthcare hub in Southeast Asia, with a robust healthcare market and a thriving medical tourism industry. She noted that hosting this landmark event in Malaysia offers unparalleled opportunities for knowledge exchange, networking, and partnerships that will drive innovation.
The four-day IHW 2025, starting today, features over 900 local, regional, and international exhibitors showcasing more than 15,000 products and services, providing a comprehensive view of the latest healthcare technologies and solutions. The event expects to welcome approximately 21,000 professionals from over 50 countries, offering opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange, and business partnerships. Additionally, more than 125 dedicated conferences will address specific industry needs and developments, offering targeted learning experiences.