Global investment firm Affinity Equity Partners has successfully completed the sale of Island Hospital, a premier healthcare provider in Malaysia, to IHH Healthcare, a leading international healthcare group headquartered in Kuala Lumpur. This significant transaction, advised by global law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, underscores Affinity Equity Partners’ strategic investment approach and its ability to cultivate high-value assets in the healthcare sector.
Island Hospital, renowned for its exceptional patient care and market leadership in attracting medical tourists—drawing in one out of every three foreign patients seeking treatment in Malaysia—was valued at an impressive enterprise value of approximately RM4.2 billion, or US$966 million. This sale marks one of Malaysia’s largest deals in 2024 and stands out as the largest control deal involving a single hospital in Asia, highlighting the robust demand for quality healthcare assets in the region and Affinity Equity Partners’ adept navigation of the investment landscape.
The Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer team, providing expert legal counsel to Affinity Equity Partners, was spearheaded by partner Simon Weller, senior associate Kathleen Chua, and associate Shavonne Oh. Specialized financial guidance was delivered by partner Dan French, while tax expertise was provided by partner Peter Clements and associate Mitchell Fraser. Their collective efforts ensured a smooth and efficient transaction process for Affinity Equity Partners.
This landmark deal not only signifies a major achievement for Affinity Equity Partners but also reflects the continued growth and attractiveness of the Asian healthcare market. The sale of Island Hospital to IHH Healthcare is poised to further enhance healthcare services in Malaysia and solidify IHH Healthcare’s position as a key player in the global healthcare industry.
