KOTA KINABALU: The opening of the the European Wellness Premier Centre of Excellence at Alam Mesra here will see researchers sharing their expertise at the facility, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

Hajiji said that the medical wellness centre plays a role in a dynamic sector offering good returns and the satisfaction of contributing to advancements in healthcare.

"I am told this facility will offer more than conventional healthcare, combining the latest in medical science with the healing power of Sabah’s natural environment," he said at the centre's grand opening on Thursday (Aug 22)

The centre is run by stem cell scientist Prof Datuk Seri Dr Mike Chan and his Sabahan wife, co-founder Prof Datuk Seri Dr Michelle Wong.

The Chief Minister praised Prof Chan and Prof Wong for making good on their pledge to bring their multi-million ringgit business here and to turn Sabah into a world-class medical wellness tourism hub.

"We are grateful for your investment in our state and our people. Your vision and perseverance have gifted Sabah with a facility that will undoubtedly transform lives," he said.

Hajiji said that Sabah is strategically located in Southeast Asia and is the core of the Brunei Indonesia Malaysia Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) and the Asean region.

"Through this regional cooperation, we have consistently championed deeper economic integration. I envision Sabah evolving into a regional link for many investment prospects, including medical wellness tourism," he said.

Hajiji said the setting up of this centre was proof of investor confidence in Sabah being a good and conducive place to invest.

"It represents yet another significant venture and a leap forward in our commitment to prosper Sabah as outlined in our strategic development roadmap, the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya," he said.

"In an era where health and wellness have become global priorities, Sabah is positioning itself at the forefront of this revolution. It embodies our commitment to not only preserving life but enhancing its quality," added Hajiji.

The Chief Minister said it was positive that the investment into Sabah would have a ripple effect in job creation and attracting skilled professionals who will contribute significantly to the state's economy.

"As we celebrate this milestone, let us also recognise the brilliance emerging from our own soil. Sabah is not just embracing advanced healthcare, we actively contribute to it.

Our homegrown talent is making waves in stem cell research and regenerative medicine, becoming celebrated figures in the global scientific community," said Hajiji.

"Sabahans are proving to the world that our brilliance extends beyond our natural beauty to the frontiers of science. We're not just recipients of progress, we are driving it, positioning Sabah as a true powerhouse in health and innovation," he added.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/22/sabah-moves-into-next-level-of-medical-wellness-tourism-with-new-centre