KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) has rebutted recent allegations of a lack of direction within the organisation, dismissing claims of turmoil following a series of resignations since the appointment of a new chief executive officer in October.
In response to a news article claiming it was in a “serious” condition with massive resignations and a “lack of direction,” MHTC emphasised its commitment to operational excellence, citing significant progress in fortifying the agency’s foundation.
The statement highlighted ongoing collaboration with government agencies and stakeholders to ensure the success of the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 programme.
“MHTC is evolving to meet the needs of healthcare travellers globally. We have already set out the strategies for the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 programme and are already working with the various government agencies and stakeholders to ensure the success of the programme.”
“As we transition, we are committed to identifying additional opportunities to drive improved returns for our partners and stakeholders and making healthcare travel a key export for the country.”
As a government agency under the Health Ministry, MHTC, established in 2009, plays a pivotal role in promoting Malaysia as a global healthcare destination. The council coordinates with over 90 private healthcare facilities to enhance the country’s healthcare travel industry.
According to Twenytwo13 yesterday, the recent wave of resignations, numbering 22 since the appointment of the new CEO, has raised concerns about the potential impact on the Malaysia Year of Health 2026 programme.
Some former employees cited a perceived lack of direction and a toxic working environment as reasons for their departure.
One former employee claimed that the changes in top leadership led to confusion.
“The boat started to sink after the second week of October. We were told not to execute things that we had planned to do.
“At the same time, it was not clearly spelled out what we needed to do,” the former employee said.
Another expressed concern that MHTC’s decisions might hinder plans to promote health tourism in key markets such as Indonesia and Bangladesh.
The former staff member cited the cancellation of health expositions in Indonesia and a directive to focus on potential clients “at Low Yat Plaza,” raising doubts about the agency’s strategic direction.
Several former senior staff members raised issues of discontent, with allegations of junior staff being assigned to investigate their colleagues’ projects.
Additionally, a memo in January warned against gossiping or spreading rumours, threatening disciplinary action for disobedience. – March 2, 2024