A rising anti-India sentiment among Bangladeshis has prompted a significant shift in medical tourism flows, redirecting patients from India to Malaysia, reports Travel And Tour World.
This change has boosted Malaysia's medical tourism sector, leveraging its reputation for affordable and high-quality healthcare services.
Evolving trends
For years, India dominated as a preferred destination for Bangladeshi medical tourists due to its proximity, cost-effective treatments and advanced medical technologies.
However, growing political tensions and anti-India sentiments have caused a decline in the number of Bangladeshi patients travelling there. On Monday, members of the Hindu Sangharsh Samiti stormed the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in India’s Agartala, prompting Dhaka to summon the Indian high commissioner stationed there the next day. The mission also announced a suspension of consular services.
Reports indicate a noticeable drop in Bangladeshi medical tourists to India, along with a concurrent increase in their preference for Malaysia.
This trend demonstrates how geopolitical factors influence even personal healthcare decisions.
Why Malaysia is gaining ground
Malaysia’s healthcare system is recognized globally for its excellence, with accredited hospitals, multilingual medical staff and advanced treatment options.
Competitive pricing and patient-friendly packages have made it an appealing alternative to India.
To cater to Bangladeshi patients, Malaysian providers offer halal-friendly services, culturally sensitive care and personalized attention.
Streamlined visa procedures, improved travel connectivity and government initiatives promoting Malaysia as a healthcare hub further enhance its attractiveness.
The influx of Bangladeshi medical tourists has helped Malaysia’s economy, according to Travel And Tour World.
Beyond the healthcare sector, industries such as hospitality, transportation and retail have also benefitted.
Malaysia’s focus on halal tourism has played a critical role in aligning its offerings with the preferences of Bangladeshi travellers, creating a win-win scenario.
Meanwhile, the shift poses challenges for India’s medical tourism sector.
For Malaysia, the growing demand from international patients necessitates scaling up healthcare infrastructure and workforce capacity to maintain service quality.
