ADAMS 2023: Malaysia aims to lead in aesthetic tourism

In a bid to establish Malaysia as a leading hub for medical aesthetic tourism, KO Academy, a training facility under DR. KO Skin Specialist, proudly hosted the second edition of the Asia Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine Summit (ADAMS) at the Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The prestigious event brought together prominent industry players, including the Malaysia Tourism Agency Association (MATA), the Malaysia Society Of Aesthetic Medicine (MSAM), the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

The two-day summit, which took place from September 23 to 24, 2023, at Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, witnessed the participation of over 600 local and international medical experts and industry professionals. ADAMS 2023 showcased more than 50 exhibition booths featuring leading medical brands, reaffirming its status as the premier regional event in the fields of dermatology and aesthetic medicine.

The event was officially inaugurated by Tourism Malaysia’s Director General, Dato’ Dr. Ammar Abd. Ghapar. In his opening speech, Dr. Ammar emphasized Malaysia’s remarkable progress in the healthcare travel industry, revealing that the country welcomed over 800,000 healthcare travelers in 2022, generating an impressive RM1.3 billion in revenue. This success underscores Malaysia’s positive recovery in the post-pandemic era.

Dr. Ammar stated, “Hence, let us leverage this opportunity to take our medical community to the next level, and ADAMS, now in its second edition, has become an excellent avenue for dermatologists, plastic surgeons, aesthetic doctors, and other specialists to network, exchange knowledge, and discuss the latest trends and technologies.”

Making Malaysia the Regional Destination for Medical Aesthetic Tourism

A highlight of ADAMS 2023 was the forum titled “Making Malaysia the Regional Destination for Medical Aesthetic Tourism.” The panel featured experts and public figures, including Dato’ Dr. Ko Chung Beng, Founder & CEO of KO Academy, Dr. Edmond Lau, President of ADAMS 2023, Dato’ Dr. Khalid Mohd Harun, President of MATA, Dr. Masilamoney Asirvatham, President of MSAM, Ms. Tutie Ismail, Vice President of Communications at MHTC, Dr. Lim Ing Kien (Dr. Ingky), Founder of Medii Skin Studio, Skynfyx, and TikTok Content Creator, and Miss Serene Claire, Miss Universe Malaysia 2020 Runner Up, Actress & Influencer.

The forum deliberated on strategies to enhance Malaysia’s global reputation in aesthetic treatments, including marketing efforts to spotlight Malaysia’s expertise, affordability, and cultural attractions. The experts also discussed forging partnerships with international healthcare organizations, universities, and medical associations, along with providing financial incentives and grants to stimulate investment in the medical tourism sector.

Dato’ Dr. Ko Chung Beng highlighted Malaysia’s cost-effective services in his speech, saying, “Compared to countries with higher costs of living and greater overheads, Malaysia can offer the same level of expertise and technology but at a fraction of the price. Patients worldwide are discovering that they don’t need to compromise on quality to achieve their aesthetic goals—Malaysia offers world-class care at a price that makes achieving those goals both feasible and financially sensible.”

Propelling Malaysia forward in Aesthetic Medicine

Dr. Edmond Lau, President of ADAMS 2023, expressed his hope that the event would serve as a source of inspiration and motivation, propelling the industry to new heights. He emphasized that ADAMS 2023 was not a regular medical conference but a platform with the common goal of making Malaysia the region’s destination for medical aesthetic tourism.

In a philanthropic gesture, ADAMS 2023 donated RM12,000 to the Malaysian Skin Foundation (MSF) and facilitated multiple symposiums by doctors and specialists, on-ground engagement initiatives, and networking sessions. These activities provided attendees with an ideal environment to establish direct interactions, build relationships, and explore potential collaborations. ADAMS looks forward to continuing its contributions to the field of dermatology and aesthetic medicine, offering attendees an even more comprehensive and impactful experience in the years to come.