Mobile service provider CelcomDigi is working with KPJ Healthcare to transform healthcare tourism in Malaysia using 5G-powered AI and telemedicine.

CelcomDigi, through its innovation centre, has entered a partnership with KPJ to advance cross-border access to healthcare through telemedicine. The collaboration will leverage telemedicine to access specialised treatments, offer cost-effective care across borders, and ensure high-quality medical services are accessible to patients worldwide.

The aim is to position Malaysia as a preferred hub for healthcare tourism.

Telemedicine can improves access to care by connecting patients with international specialists, allowing particularly those in remote or underserved regions to receive quality medical consultations. It offers cost-effectiveness by reducing travel and accommodation, making specialised healthcare more affordable for patients. Patients also gain faster access to quality consultations and second opinions from Malaysian specialists, which includes seamless continuity of care post-treatment and follow-ups, helping patients manage their recovery more effectively.

The partnership seeks to reduce geographical and financial barriers that often prevent patients from seeking necessary medical care. By doing so, it hopes to position Malaysia as a leader in health tourism and digital healthcare innovation, attracting local and international patients seeking high-quality and cost-efficient healthcare.

The MoU signing was represented by Shahril Mizani Ariffin, chief digital officer of KPJ Healthcare Berhad, and Kugan Thirunavakarasu, chief innovation officer of CelcomDigi (corporate.celcomdigi.com).

“This partnership with KPJ represents a significant step forward in reshaping healthcare delivery, within Malaysia and across borders,” said Thirunavakarasu. “By adopting the advancements of telemedicine, we are overcoming traditional barriers to healthcare access, ensuring that patients can receive tailored healthcare services, wherever they are. We are empowering both patients and providers to enhance efficiency, improve outcomes and redefine the patient’s experience.”

Chin Keat Chyuan, managing director of KPJ Healthcare (kpjhealth.com.my), added: “Patient-centricity, a core principle of our care for life purpose, drives us to explore innovations that enhance patient outcomes and experiences, which we aim to achieve through this collaboration. KPJ is also dedicated to integrating advanced technologies like AI and telemedicine to revolutionise healthcare delivery. AI enhances efficiency and accuracy by enabling predictive diagnostics, personalised treatment plans and proactive disease management, while telemedicine expands access to specialised care and ensures continuous remote support. These advancements will contribute to a robust healthcare ecosystem that we are building to redefine patient-centred care and fosters a healthier, more connected future for all.”