MELAKA, Jan 1 (Bernama) — Melaka has been identified as one of the destinations to drive the health tourism segment, particularly among Indonesian tourists, in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), according to Tourism Malaysia.
Its Administrative Division director Amirul Ariffin Md Nasir said expertise and competitive costs are among the unique selling propositions that make Melaka a preferred choice for Indonesian health tourists seeking screening, examination and treatment services, while generating positive returns for the country’s tourism industry.
He said Melaka is also popular for its diverse tourism offerings, including food, shopping, arts, culture and heritage, as well as easy accessibility and short travel time, such as via the sea route through the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex at the Melaka-Dumai International Ferry Terminal.
“Accordingly, Tourism Malaysia continues to work closely with the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) to drive the health tourism industry under the Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital Programme, particularly for the Indonesian market.
“This effort is in line with the MADANI Government’s initiative, which has allocated RM20 million under Budget 2026 with the aim of attracting health tourists and generating revenue of up to RM3 billion,” he told reporters after a special tourist reception programme in conjunction with VM2026 at the Melaka-Dumai International Ferry Terminal ICQS here today.
Some 160 tourists from Dumai, Indonesia, were given a warm welcome when they arrived by ferry at the ICQS complex at about 12.15 pm.
Amirul Ariffin said Tourism Malaysia continues to support state governments’ efforts to strengthen their tourism industries, including Melaka, Johor and Negeri Sembilan, which are also implementing their respective visit state year programmes.
He said over 300 events will be organised nationwide in conjunction with VM2026 across various tourism segments to attract domestic and international tourists.
“Tourism Malaysia supports the efforts of the three states through campaigns and promotions to help attract tourists, but the organisation of programmes depends on the initiatives of the respective states,” he said.
Meanwhile, an Indonesian tourist from Dumai, Dwi Ambar Setyaningsih, 36, said Melaka and Malaysia were her family’s choice not only to celebrate the New Year but also for the appeal and uniqueness of the wide variety of food and tourist destinations.
“When in Melaka, my family and I seek out local food and snacks such as chocolate and gula Melaka, and visit Jonker Walk and the Stadthuys… when in Kuala Lumpur, we look for nasi kandar and nasi lemak.
“I have visited Malaysia three times… this time I am here with five family members to visit Melaka and Kuala Lumpur for three days,” said the housewife.
Another tourist from Dumai, Wesly Siagian, 40, said his family chose Malaysia for its peaceful atmosphere, attractive destinations, and the friendliness of its people.
“This is our third visit to Malaysia. This time, we will be here for four days and will visit Genting Highlands, Bukit Bintang, the Petronas Twin Towers and Jonker Walk,” he said, adding that he is travelling with his wife and two children.
— BERNAMA