Melaka Straits Medical Centre Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Oriental Holdings Berhad, formalised a joint venture with Ideal Hasrat Bumiraya Sdn Bhd, part of Ideal Property Group on 28 May 2026, for the proposed development of a tertiary medical centre, named Ideal Oriental Medical Centre, to be undertaken by Star Hill City (M) Sdn Bhd.

The collaboration signals a bold step towards redefining healthcare delivery in Northern Malaysia through a future-ready medical ecosystem that integrates advanced tertiary care, innovative technology, and seamless urban connectivity.

Planned on a 1.9-acre site within the fast-growing Queens Waterfront masterplan, the proposed multidisciplinary medical centre – is the second hospital by Oriental Holdings Berhad – is envisioned to serve both local and international patients, with a strong focus on high-demand subspecialty and tertiary healthcare services. The proposed development is expected for completion by end of 2030.

The proposed medical centre aims to cater to the healthcare needs of residents in Gelugor, Bayan Baru, Bayan Lepas and surrounding communities, alongside Penang’s growing population of professionals, engineers, and industrial workforce concentrated within the Bayan Lepas manufacturing corridor. The development is also strategically positioned to support Penang’s thriving medical tourism sector, particularly international patients seeking advanced healthcare services in the region.

Designed as a digitally driven medical centre, the proposed facility is expected to incorporate advanced medical technologies, robotic-assisted systems, digital infrastructure, and patient-centric innovations to enhance both clinical excellence and patient experience.

Beyond healthcare delivery, the proposed development is also anticipated to contribute positively to Penang’s economy through the creation of high-skilled employment opportunities across healthcare, nursing, allied health, hospitality, digital health, and support services.

With aspirations to attract the foreign-trained Malaysian healthcare talents to return and serve in their homeland, the hospital is expected to generate approximately 1,000 employment opportunities upon full operation, further strengthening Penang’s position as one of Malaysia’s leading destinations for healthcare and medical tourism.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dato’ Sri Loh Kian Chong, Executive Chairman of Oriental Holdings Berhad, said the healthcare segment has a long-term vision to improve access to advanced healthcare while supporting the evolution of integrated urban living.

“This collaboration represents more than a hospital development — it reflects our commitment towards building a future-ready healthcare destination that integrates medical excellence, innovation, accessibility, and community wellbeing,” he said.

“As a stakeholder in Ideal Oriental Medical Centre, this partnership represents a landmark moment for the company”, said Puan Sri Datuk Joanne Phor, the Director of Ideal Hasrat Bumiraya Sdn Bhd, who also serves as Executive Director of Ideal Capital Berhad.

The establishment of Ideal Oriental Medical Centre within Queens Waterfront – Ideal Property Group’s flagship integrated waterfront development in Penang, is elevating Queens Waterfront beyond a premier waterfront township into a truly holistic destination that brings together quality living, wellness, business, and connectivity. Driven by a shared leadership vision, this strategic step into the medical industry marks an exciting new chapter for Ideal Property Group, tapping into a sector that continues to demonstrate strong demand both domestically and regionally.

The proposed medical centre development is expected to reinforce Penang’s position as one of Malaysia’s leading healthcare hubs while supporting the state’s long-term aspirations in healthcare excellence, medical tourism, and sustainable urban growth.

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