IPOH, Dec. 8 -- The Perak government aims to attract more medical tourists from Singapore, capitalising on increased connectivity, following Batik Air's launch of a new daily direct Ipoh-Singapore route.

Perak State Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said Ipoh's affordability and growing number of private specialist centres makes the state an appealing alternative for Singaporeans seeking comprehensive health screenings at significantly lower costs.

"People often say it's cheaper to spend a weekend in Ipoh than to stay in Singapore - I don't know if it's a myth or a fact, but that's what many tell me.

"Singaporeans can fly in, stay in our city, enjoy our hotels and food, and at the sam...