Kuala lumpur: KL Wellness City (KLWC) is set to become a regional medical tourism and wellness hub, with the KL International Hospital (KLIH) now 85 per cent complete and on track for full completion in the fourth quarter this year. KLWC executive director Datuk Seri Dr Vincent Tiew announced that the hospital will feature a rooftop helipad to enhance emergency response capabilities and provide specialised medical services.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the helipad is a strategic addition that addresses a gap in Malaysia's healthcare infrastructure, enabling rapid transfers of critically ill patients and potentially supporting commercial drone operations for medical supplies, subject to regulatory approval. The hospital's location in Bukit Jalil, near Subang Airport and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), offers a logistical advantage for emergency operations.
Vincent highlighted that KLIH is expected to significantly impact the economy by attracting international patients, aligning with the government's strategy to expand the medical tourism sector. The hospital aims to have at least 50 per cent foreign patients, contributing to Malaysia's revenue and economic activity.
Beyond the hospital, Vincent emphasized KLWC's vision as an integrated medical city combining healthcare services, property development, and tourism. The development includes a 0.6-hectare Wellness Park within the 10.7-hectare area to promote a healthy lifestyle through community activities like yoga and tai chi.
KLWC has formed strategic partnerships with international institutions such as Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Australia's Newcastle University to support research and training in nursing and medical disciplines. The 'Kongsi Cahaya' initiative, marking the upcoming Chinese New Year, was launched by Tourism Malaysia director-general Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim and attended by KLWC managing director Datuk Dr Colin Lee. KLWC also contributed to several welfare homes as part of its corporate social responsibility efforts.