Premier calls for strategic tie-ups to boost dental tourism in Sarawak

Fatimah (fifth right) and others during the opening ceremony of the 14th Borneo Dental Congress and Trade Exhibition 2026 in Kuching on May 1, 2026. Photo: TVS

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 2: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg has urged private dental clinics in Sarawak to establish strategic collaborations with the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) to develop competitive dental tourism packages.

According to TVS, he said this would align with Sarawak’s readiness to emerge as a regional hub for medical tourism in conjunction with Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026.

He added that Sarawak’s strategic position is further strengthened by the launch of the State-owned airline, AirBorneo, which provides direct routes to international destinations such as Jakarta and Pontianak.

“With this connectivity, patients can access treatment while experiencing Sarawak’s unique culture, natural environment, and hospitality. The cost of dental care in Sarawak remains competitive compared to countries such as Singapore or Australia, without compromising on quality,” he said.

He said this at the opening ceremony of the 14th Borneo Dental Congress and Trade Exhibition 2026, where his speech was read by Minister for Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, here on Friday night (May 1).

He added that private dental practitioners are not only healthcare providers but also serve as ambassadors of Sarawak’s hospitality in attracting international health tourists.

He stressed that synergy between the public and private sectors forms the foundation of a sustainable healthcare ecosystem, further strengthening Sarawak’s position as a preferred destination for specialised treatments such as advanced implantology and aesthetic dentistry. — DayakDaily