Zurich Takaful Malaysia Berhad (ZTMB) has introduced MediAfya+, a new takaful medical plan aimed at offering more comprehensive healthcare coverage for Malaysians.
The plan includes an annual coverage limit of up to RM1 million and is designed to be paired with Takaful Term 80, which provides extended coverage through age 80.
ZTMB launched MediAfya+ at its “Power Up Hidupmu dengan MediAfya+” event on Nov. 2, held at Marina Putrajaya.
The event featured various health-related activities, such as cardio boxing, interactive health booths, and prize draws, with visitors able to win RM100 Touch ‘n Go eWallet credits.
MediAfya+ is targeted at individuals seeking both emergency medical care and long-term healthcare options, with Takaful Term 80 offering policyholders ongoing support up to the age of 80. This approach aims to combine substantial coverage with affordability for Malaysians facing a shifting healthcare landscape.
ZTMB chief executive officer Fatihah Mustafa (pictured third from right) said the company was committed to providing versatile coverage that goes beyond medical bills.
“Healthcare protection is not just about covering medical bills. It’s about giving people the confidence to live life fully, knowing they are prepared for the unexpected,” she said, adding that MediAfya+ reflects Zurich Malaysia’s focus on solutions designed to fit customer needs.
MediAfya offers comprehensive protection that includes pre- and post-hospitalisation, out-patient services, and international emergency assistance, covering needs ranging from medical to travel support.
Coverage extends up to RM1 million annually with no lifetime limit, aimed at providing financial security in the long run.
The plan provides access to expedited hospital admission at partner facilities to reduce delays in receiving care.
Plan options with deductibles of RM500 or RM5,000 allow policyholders to tailor coverage based on budget.
Waivers are available for emergency treatments at government healthcare facilities, reducing immediate costs for policyholders.
In conjunction with this launch, ZTMB has also introduced the “Cashback Syok” Year-End Campaign.
The campaign, which runs through Dec. 30, 2024, offers customers cashback of up to two months for MediAfya+ with Takaful Term 80, depending on their contribution option, as an added incentive for new policyholders.
In a related effort to support Malaysia’s healthcare infrastructure, the Ministry of Health is exploring the possibility of a National Health Fund that would consolidate diverse funding sources, including taxes and non-tax revenues like those from sugary drinks.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad presented this concept during a Dewan Rakyat session, noting that the fund could address Malaysia’s growing healthcare financing needs.
Dzulkefly also addressed the current financial burden of healthcare on Malaysians, with out-of-pocket spending currently at 37% – one of the highest among Malaysia’s economic peers. To alleviate this, the ministry plans to increase spending efficiency and expects to announce detailed healthcare financing reforms soon.
Addressing concerns around medical inflation, Dzulkefly encouraged private healthcare providers to adopt value-based healthcare models, shifting away from fee-for-service approaches to contain costs while maintaining quality standards.
