Malaysia AI Assisted Healthcare Technology

U.S. companies specializing in artificial intelligence (AI) for healthcare have a significant opportunity to enter and grow in the Malaysian market. With Malaysia’s healthcare services market projected to surpass $48 billion by 2028, the country’s rising burden of chronic illnesses is accelerating demand for AI-powered solutions to provide more precise and accurate diagnostics to address the country’s escalating incidence of chronic illnesses. While the Malaysian healthcare sector is receptive to adopting AI technology, progress is still in the early stages. That situation provides opportunities for U.S. exporters offering solutions to enhance screening and diagnostics, optimize patient management, and reduce treatment costs.

In support of government goals, the Malaysian Health Technology Assessment Section (MaHTAS), under the Ministry of Health (MOH), leads efforts to assess AI tools’ safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness. A 2022 MaHTAS health technology assessment revealed that AI integration in X-ray analysis dramatically improved radiology trainees’ detection. Preliminary findings from AI-assisted radiology studies show that AI-assisted early detection reduces long-term patient treatment costs. 

Malaysia’s Health Minister Dzulkefly bin Ahmad has emphasized the Ministry’s broader vision for using AI technology to improve early detection of cancer, tuberculosis, and other diseases.  Malaysia’s experience using AI-enhanced CT image analysis during the COVID-19 pandemic increased the credibility of the technology. To fully realize AI’s potential, the MOH supports pilot projects and research initiatives through the U.S. National Institutes of Health.
U.S. exporters offering AI-enhanced radiology and imaging solutions will attract interest from Malaysian healthcare decision-makers, as these technologies align with national efforts to enhance patient experience and outcomes. AI-based medical imaging for assessing X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs is another promising area. Additionally, AI-assisted technologies that analyze blood test results or enable early detection of illnesses such as diabetes and cancer offer substantial potential. Furthermore, the Malaysian government has demonstrated interest in AI-enhanced solutions for clinical decision support and hospital workflow optimization.

For U.S. companies interested in exploring AI healthcare opportunities in Malaysia, please contact Commercial Specialist Bethany Tien at office.kualalumpur@trade.gov.