Where the grass often seems greener on the other side, it’s easy to overlook the advantages we have until life forces us to confront them.
This reality became painfully clear for a Malaysian cancer patient who, after working in Singapore, was brought face-to-face with the harsh financial burdens of healthcare abroad.
M’sian cancer patient cries after learning MRI scan is free
The story begins with a man who, like many Malaysians, moved to Singapore in search of better job opportunities. Singapore, with its towering skyscrapers and booming economy, promised a better life.
But when the man was diagnosed with cancer, the reality of living in a country with one of the highest costs of healthcare began to unravel.
A Malaysian oncologist, who later shared the man’s story on X, painted a somber picture of his journey.
“I met a Malaysian cancer patient who worked in Singapore and had to pay out of pocket for treatment. When his money ran out, he had no choice but to quit his job and return home,” the doctor recounted.
The man’s situation took a heart-wrenching turn when he returned to Malaysia and was informed he needed an MRI scan.
The MRI scan costs nothing
In Singapore, such a procedure could cost a small fortune, so naturally, he braced himself for another financial hit. But what he heard next was unexpected.
“He asked me how much the scan would cost,” the doctor continued. “When I told him it was free, he cried.”
This simple yet profound moment highlighted the stark differences between healthcare systems and the financial implications they carry.
For many Malaysians, healthcare is something that is often criticised for inefficiencies, yet it remains accessible and largely affordable—something that isn’t a given in many parts of the world.
‘That’s something we should never take for granted‘
The doctor’s story sparked a broader conversation among Malaysians online, with many sharing their own reflections on the healthcare system.
One netizen expressed it succinctly:
“Thankful to be a Malaysian. I’ve been to other countries where healthcare is just not affordable or non-existent.
Another highlighted the balance between criticism and gratitude:
“Our healthcare system is far from perfect and can be annoyingly inefficient at times, but it’s mostly free. That’s something we should never take for granted.”
The contrast with Singapore, where medical costs can reach staggering heights, offers a sobering perspective. One commenter shared:
“Cancer treatments in Singapore are about $200,000/year on average. Even something as basic as a CT scan or MRI can cost up to $2,000.”
For those who have lived abroad, the realisation is often stark:
“In Singapore, you can die, but you can’t get sick because it’s very expensive. When I say ‘I can’t afford to get sick,’ I truly mean it.”
