More Wealthy Malaysians Join B40

 

Escalating healthcare costs in the private sector are driving more affluent Malaysians, including Tan Sris and VIPs, to seek treatment at Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL). Its director told Berita Harian that many of HKL’s wealthy patients were referred from private medical centres, often after their insurance coverage ran out or when treatment costs became too high. This shift has been evident over the past decade, reflecting both financial pressures and confidence in HKL’s specialists and facilities. Trend shows that affluent patients also trust HKL’s quality of care and medical expertise. 

HKL currently houses 417 medical specialists, supported by nearly 900 medical officers and more than 3,800 nurses, treating up to two million patients annually. The public hospital is also equipped with advanced technology, including robotic-assisted surgery in its Urology Department, one of only two such facilities in Malaysia.

 

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org

HKL prioritises low-income groups, but it cannot turn away wealthier patients and has first-, second- and third-class wards to accommodate different needs. The M40 and T20 patients often sought oncology and radiology services at HKL, which are both highly specialised and costly in private hospitals. If we look at other countries, none offer healthcare services at RM1. 

Despite longer waiting times compared to private facilities, patients leave HKL with quality treatment, affordable medication and access to expertise that matches or surpasses the private sector. 

If we have the facilities, the people and leadership, we could do wonders in the public sector, especially in healthcare. This is the same in education or sports. Let the best people rise and we will have quality in our output or outcome! 

Reference:

Insurance runs out, costs too high: More wealthy Malaysians join B40 at Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Malay Mail, 7 September 2025