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The new cardiac catheterisation facility enables faster, minimally invasive treatment and improved access to specialist care, closer to home.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil has officially launched its new Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory (Cath Lab), marking a significant step forward in expanding access to advanced heart and vascular care. The launch was officiated by Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil Chief Executive Officer Dr Sharonpal Singh together with Consultant Cardiologist Dr Prem Nathan Arumuganathan along with Medical Consultants and Heads of Departments, underscoring the hospital's continued investment in specialist capabilities since opening in 2023.
Heart disease remains one of Malaysia's most serious health concerns. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia's Causes of Death 2024 report, released in 2025, ischaemic heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death nationwide, underscoring the importance of early detection and faster access to treatment.
"The launch of our Cath Lab marks an important step in strengthening our cardiac capabilities and ensuring patients have faster access to life-saving treatment. As we celebrate 30 years of care, we will continue investing in advanced technology and specialist expertise so families can receive high-quality heart care closer to home," said Dr. Sharonpal Singh, CEO of Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil.
Faster, Less Invasive Heart Treatment
The new Cath Lab allows doctors to diagnose and treat heart and blood vessel conditions through minimally invasive procedures performed via small access points rather than open surgery. This approach helps many patients avoid major operations and typically results in less discomfort, shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery.
The facility also enables faster intervention during emergencies such as heart attacks, when every minute matters. In addition to cardiology procedures, the lab supports selected interventional radiology treatments, expanding modern, image-guided options for patients who may benefit from less invasive care.
Advocating Heart Health Beyond Treatment
Beyond procedures, the hospital aims to play a broader role in promoting heart health through preventive care, regular screenings and early intervention to encourage patients to take proactive steps towards protecting their cardiovascular wellbeing.
Since opening in 2023, Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil has grown into a multi-disciplinary hospital serving Bukit Jalil, Seri Kembangan, Serdang, OUG, Old Klang Road, Kuchai Lama, Taman Desa, Sri Petaling and Sungai Besi, while also welcoming patients from across Malaysia. The hospital provides a comprehensive range of services including anaesthesiology, dermatology, ear, nose and throat, general and colorectal surgery, internal medicine, orthopaedics and advanced trauma, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, gynae-oncology, ophthalmology, neurology, neurosurgery, urology, plastic surgery, sports medicine, psychiatry, and radiology, supported by physiotherapy, health screening, endoscopy, diagnostic and imaging services, laboratory and pharmacy facilities, alongside advanced technology such as the Cath Lab.
Columbia Asia hospitals are designed to provide patients with a comfortable and welcoming environment, supported by experienced doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals dedicated to personalised, patient-centred care.
30 Years of Care. A Lifetime of Trust. Right Here for You
The launch of the new Cath Lab coincides with Columbia Asia's 30th Anniversary, celebrating three decades of making quality private healthcare more accessible to communities across the region. It reflects the group's continued commitment to investing in modern technology and specialist services that enhance patient outcomes and experience.
Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil is located at No. 9, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 7, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur.
For enquiries:
KKLIU: 0828/EXP 31.12.2028
The new cardiac catheterisation facility enables faster, minimally invasive treatment and improved access to specialist care, closer to home.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil has officially launched its new Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory (Cath Lab), marking a significant step forward in expanding access to advanced heart and vascular care. The launch was officiated by Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil Chief Executive Officer Dr Sharonpal Singh together with Consultant Cardiologist Dr Prem Nathan Arumuganathan along with Medical Consultants and Heads of Departments, underscoring the hospital's continued investment in specialist capabilities since opening in 2023.
Heart disease remains one of Malaysia's most serious health concerns. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia's Causes of Death 2024 report, released in 2025, ischaemic heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death nationwide, underscoring the importance of early detection and faster access to treatment.
"The launch of our Cath Lab marks an important step in strengthening our cardiac capabilities and ensuring patients have faster access to life-saving treatment. As we celebrate 30 years of care, we will continue investing in advanced technology and specialist expertise so families can receive high-quality heart care closer to home," said Dr. Sharonpal Singh, CEO of Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil.
Faster, Less Invasive Heart Treatment
The new Cath Lab allows doctors to diagnose and treat heart and blood vessel conditions through minimally invasive procedures performed via small access points rather than open surgery. This approach helps many patients avoid major operations and typically results in less discomfort, shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery.
The facility also enables faster intervention during emergencies such as heart attacks, when every minute matters. In addition to cardiology procedures, the lab supports selected interventional radiology treatments, expanding modern, image-guided options for patients who may benefit from less invasive care.
Advocating Heart Health Beyond Treatment
Beyond procedures, the hospital aims to play a broader role in promoting heart health through preventive care, regular screenings and early intervention to encourage patients to take proactive steps towards protecting their cardiovascular wellbeing.
Since opening in 2023, Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil has grown into a multi-disciplinary hospital serving Bukit Jalil, Seri Kembangan, Serdang, OUG, Old Klang Road, Kuchai Lama, Taman Desa, Sri Petaling and Sungai Besi, while also welcoming patients from across Malaysia. The hospital provides a comprehensive range of services including anaesthesiology, dermatology, ear, nose and throat, general and colorectal surgery, internal medicine, orthopaedics and advanced trauma, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, gynae-oncology, ophthalmology, neurology, neurosurgery, urology, plastic surgery, sports medicine, psychiatry, and radiology, supported by physiotherapy, health screening, endoscopy, diagnostic and imaging services, laboratory and pharmacy facilities, alongside advanced technology such as the Cath Lab.
Columbia Asia hospitals are designed to provide patients with a comfortable and welcoming environment, supported by experienced doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals dedicated to personalised, patient-centred care.
30 Years of Care. A Lifetime of Trust. Right Here for You
The launch of the new Cath Lab coincides with Columbia Asia's 30th Anniversary, celebrating three decades of making quality private healthcare more accessible to communities across the region. It reflects the group's continued commitment to investing in modern technology and specialist services that enhance patient outcomes and experience.
Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil is located at No. 9, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 7, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur.
For enquiries:
KKLIU: 0828/EXP 31.12.2028
** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
COLUMBIA ASIA HOSPITAL BUKIT JALIL LAUNCHES NEW CATH LAB TO STRENGTHEN HEART CARE SERVICES
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―Searches for weekend trips more than double compared to early April baseline, with strong concentration around Golden Week weekends ―
TOKYO, May 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Agoda Company Pte. Ltd. (Headquarters: Singapore; CEO: Omri Morgenshtern), operator of the digital travel platform Agoda, revealed anincrease in domestic weekend travel interest among Japanese travelers ahead of Golden Week, based on an analysis of accommodation search data for weekend stays in April and May. The data compares search activity for each weekend against a baseline from April 3–4, showing an uplift in travel interest - particularly during weekends leading up to and during the Golden Week holiday period.
- Weekend Travel Interest on the Rise Leading Into Golden Week
The weekends with the highest increase in searches (vs. April 3–4 baseline) were:
- April 17–18: +101%
- May 1–2: +65%
- April 24–25: +27%
Notably, searches for April 17–18 more than doubled compared to the first weekend in April, signaling an early and strong start to Golden Week travel planning. Searches are also heavily concentrated across both the lead-up and peak holiday weekends, reflecting heightened anticipation for the extended holiday period.
- Urban Destinations Lead Travel Preferences
The top 10 most searched domestic destinations are:
Tokyo
Osaka
Fukuoka
Sapporo
Yokohama
Okinawa Main Island
Nagoya
Kyoto
Sendai
Kobe
These destinations continue to attract travelers due to their accessibility and ability to offer diverse experiences - such as dining, sightseeing, and shopping - within a short timeframe, making them ideal for weekend and holiday getaways.
The data also reflects the growing trend toward "short trips", where travelers opt for shorter, more frequent journeys. During extended holidays like Golden Week, this behavior is becoming more pronounced, with travelers planning multiple shorter trips rather than a single long vacation.
Tadashi Ikai, Senior Country Director, Agoda International Japan, shared, "Domestic travel interest in Japan is steadily increasing as Golden Week approaches. This year, we are seeing strong search activity not only during the holiday period itself, but also across the surrounding weekends, suggesting that travelers are spreading their trips across multiple occasions. As the 'short trip' trend continues to grow, travel is becoming more flexible and part of everyday life. With April marking the start of a new season for many, we are also seeing increased interest in short getaways to refresh and reset. At Agoda, we remain committed to supporting travelers with a wide range of accommodation options and great value deals to meet evolving travel needs."
With over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda enables travelers to plan and combine every part of their journey in one place. Running from 7 May to 21 May, Agoda's 21st Birthday Sale will offer up to 60% off on hotel bookings, with a special flash sale of up to 70% on 19 May and exclusive deals on flights and activities. Agoda VIP members will receive early access to deals from 3 May to 6 May. Discover more on Agoda's mobile app or at Agoda.com.
-ENDS-
About the Data
The findings are based on Agoda's analysis of accommodation searches made by Japanese travelers for weekend stays in April and May 2026, compared against search activity from April 3–4, 2026.
About Agoda
Agoda, a digital travel platform, helps anyone see the world for less with its great value deals on a global network of over 6 million hotels and holiday properties, plus flights, activities, and more. Agoda.com and the Agoda mobile app are available in 39 languages and supported by 24/7 customer support.
Headquartered in Singapore, Agoda is part of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG), employs over 7,500 people globally, and is dedicated to leveraging best-in-class technology to make travel easy and affordable.
―Searches for weekend trips more than double compared to early April baseline, with strong concentration around Golden Week weekends ―
TOKYO, May 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Agoda Company Pte. Ltd. (Headquarters: Singapore; CEO: Omri Morgenshtern), operator of the digital travel platform Agoda, revealed anincrease in domestic weekend travel interest among Japanese travelers ahead of Golden Week, based on an analysis of accommodation search data for weekend stays in April and May. The data compares search activity for each weekend against a baseline from April 3–4, showing an uplift in travel interest - particularly during weekends leading up to and during the Golden Week holiday period.
- Weekend Travel Interest on the Rise Leading Into Golden Week
The weekends with the highest increase in searches (vs. April 3–4 baseline) were:
- April 17–18: +101%
- May 1–2: +65%
- April 24–25: +27%
Notably, searches for April 17–18 more than doubled compared to the first weekend in April, signaling an early and strong start to Golden Week travel planning. Searches are also heavily concentrated across both the lead-up and peak holiday weekends, reflecting heightened anticipation for the extended holiday period.
- Urban Destinations Lead Travel Preferences
The top 10 most searched domestic destinations are:
Tokyo
Osaka
Fukuoka
Sapporo
Yokohama
Okinawa Main Island
Nagoya
Kyoto
Sendai
Kobe
These destinations continue to attract travelers due to their accessibility and ability to offer diverse experiences - such as dining, sightseeing, and shopping - within a short timeframe, making them ideal for weekend and holiday getaways.
The data also reflects the growing trend toward "short trips", where travelers opt for shorter, more frequent journeys. During extended holidays like Golden Week, this behavior is becoming more pronounced, with travelers planning multiple shorter trips rather than a single long vacation.
Tadashi Ikai, Senior Country Director, Agoda International Japan, shared, "Domestic travel interest in Japan is steadily increasing as Golden Week approaches. This year, we are seeing strong search activity not only during the holiday period itself, but also across the surrounding weekends, suggesting that travelers are spreading their trips across multiple occasions. As the 'short trip' trend continues to grow, travel is becoming more flexible and part of everyday life. With April marking the start of a new season for many, we are also seeing increased interest in short getaways to refresh and reset. At Agoda, we remain committed to supporting travelers with a wide range of accommodation options and great value deals to meet evolving travel needs."
With over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda enables travelers to plan and combine every part of their journey in one place. Running from 7 May to 21 May, Agoda's 21st Birthday Sale will offer up to 60% off on hotel bookings, with a special flash sale of up to 70% on 19 May and exclusive deals on flights and activities. Agoda VIP members will receive early access to deals from 3 May to 6 May. Discover more on Agoda's mobile app or at Agoda.com.
-ENDS-
About the Data
The findings are based on Agoda's analysis of accommodation searches made by Japanese travelers for weekend stays in April and May 2026, compared against search activity from April 3–4, 2026.
About Agoda
Agoda, a digital travel platform, helps anyone see the world for less with its great value deals on a global network of over 6 million hotels and holiday properties, plus flights, activities, and more. Agoda.com and the Agoda mobile app are available in 39 languages and supported by 24/7 customer support.
Headquartered in Singapore, Agoda is part of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG), employs over 7,500 people globally, and is dedicated to leveraging best-in-class technology to make travel easy and affordable.
** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
Agoda Reports Rise in Domestic Weekend Travel Demand Ahead of Golden Week
