MELAKA: Focus on upskilling general practitioners (GPs) is steadily reshaping the historic city's medical tourism landscape, says Dr Kaviyarasan Sailin.
The President of the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia said the shift is reflected through a series of upskilling programmes jointly organised with Medic Asia Sdn Bhd.
"This strategic collaboration combines academic credibility with hands-on clinical training, positioning Melaka as a destination where doctors come to gain practical and practice-changing skills," he said in an interview here on Monday (Apr 20).
Dr Kaviyarasan said the historic city is now gaining recognition as a regional centre for continuous medical education, building on its reputation as a leading tourism destination.
He said GPs from across Malaysia, along with participants from Indonesia and India, are attending courses covering musculoskeletal care, procedural techniques and other essential primary care competencies.
"Close to 1,000 GPs have participated in these programmes over the years, reflecting strong demand for practical and skills-based learning.
"These courses emphasise hands-on training, particularly in managing musculoskeletal conditions, which are highly prevalent in primary care settings," he said.
Dr Kaviyarasan noted that the rising burden of musculoskeletal disorders, driven by an ageing population, has prompted more GPs to seek training that equips them with the skills and confidence to manage such cases within their own clinics.
He said the programmes are also contributing to the state economy by bringing in healthcare professionals who support the local hospitality and tourism sectors.
"This positions Melaka not only as a city of historical significance, but also as a forward-looking hub where tourism and healthcare education intersect," he added.
