March-April. 2026 | The HEALTH

LOCAL NEWS

ON THE LOOKOUT: Sunway Healthcare Holdings Berhad makes it debut on Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad ' s Main Market, making it the second-biggest initial public offering( IPO) in ASEAN ' s healthcare industry to date and Malaysia ' s largest IPO in over ten years.

According to Sunway Healthcare Holdings Bhd, the evolving situation could draw a potential influx of patients from the region seeking treatment in Southeast Asia, positioning Malaysia as a key alternative destination.

Speaking after the company ' s market debut, Sunway Healthcare President Lau Beng Long noted that uncertainty in the Middle East may temporarily redirect patients who would typically travel to established hubs such as Dubai. He explained that some individuals could opt for healthcare services in Asia while awaiting stability in their home countries.

Despite global uncertainties, the group remains confident in its outlook for medical tourism. Chief Financial Officer Chelsea Cheng noted that the company ' s international patient base remains anchored in regional markets, including Indonesia, Cambodia, China, and India.

This diversified base provides resilience, particularly as the organisation ' s healthcare sector is less reliant on European medical tourists.

" At this point, I believe we are pretty much shielded, and we are optimistic with our medical tourism projection for the year as we aren ' t entirely dependent on European tourists for our healthcare sector," Cheng stated.

Lau added that the currency movements have also played a role in shaping medical tourism trends. A relatively strong ringgit against the Singapore dollar, alongside a weaker Indonesian rupiah, has contributed to a steady flow of Indonesian patients seeking more cost-effective treatment options in Malaysia.

These economic factors have solidified the country ' s competitive- ness within the regional healthcare landscape.

The company ' s positive outlook follows its strong entry into the Main Market, where it opened at a 17 per cent premium of RM1.70 above its initial public offering price of RM1.45 and raised more than RM3 billion. The funds will support expansion plans, including increasing hospital capacity through additional patient beds and strengthening its presence across Southeast Asia.

Sunway Bhd Chairman and Founder, Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah, emphasised that Malaysia ' s broader macroeconomic position provides stability amid global uncertainty. As a net exporter of oil and gas, the country is relatively insulated from certain external shocks, making it an attractive destination not only for investors but also for international patients.

At the same time, he cautioned that the global situation remains uncertain and urged continued vigilance as conditions may change. This balanced perspective reflects the broader industry sentiment that, while opportunities are emerging, careful planning and adaptability remain important.

" As a group, we are constantly alert and on watch for problems, and to handle obstacles as they come," Cheah stated. As geopolitical developments continue to influence travel and healthcare decisions, Malaysia ' s ability to offer quality and stability could strengthen its role in the global medical tourism market.

A moment that once captured the nation ' s attention has now become a stepping stone toward a much larger goal. Veveonah Mosibin, the student who went viral during the pandemic for climbing a tree to sit for her online exams, has since completed her first degree and is now pursuing a career in medicine.

The 24-year-old from Pitas recently graduated from Universiti Malaysia Sabah( UMS) with a Bachelor ' s Degree in Marine Science.

However, her academic journey did not stop there as she is pursuing her second year of the MBBS programme at Management and Science University( MSU) in Shah Alam.

Veveonah first gained widespread attention in 2020 when she documented her experience of climbing a tree to secure stable internet access for an online exam. Her video, titled " 24 Hours On Tree Challenge," resonated deeply with many Malaysians, particularly those in rural areas who faced similar connectivity challenges during the height of remote learning.

What began as a necessity quickly turned into a powerful symbol of resilience and determination. For many, her story highlighted not only the digital divide but also the lengths students were willing to go to pursue their education.

During the pandemic, Veveonah faced difficulties continuing her marine science studies, as the programme required hands-on fieldwork that was not easily replicated online. This limitation prompted her to reconsider her academic path. In 2021, she decided to shift to medicine, driven by a desire to contribute more directly to her community. Her transition reflects a broader sense of purpose shaped by her experiences. The challenges she encountered during her studies appeared to solidify her commitment to pursuing a field where she could make a tangible impact on people ' s lives.

Despite her progress, Veveonah has clarified that she has not yet completed her medical degree. She remains in the early stages of her journey, currently navigating the demands of her second year.

She has also expressed appreciation for the continued encouragement she receives from the public, acknowledging that the support has been a source of motivation. As she moves forward, her story stands as a reminder that perseverance, even in the face of limitations, can lead to new and unexpected paths.- The HEALTH

JOURNEY BEYOND LIMITS: From climbing trees for exams to pursuing a medical degree, Veveonah Mosibin proves determination can rewrite even the toughest beginnings.