Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

99Speedmart

salary

clarification

wages

staff benefit

company structure

Just a few days ago, Lee Thiam Wah, founder of 99 Speedmart, saw his fortune grow by an additional RM2 billion after successfully listing 99 Speedmart Retail Holdings Bhd at RM1.65 per share, solidifying his position as one of Malaysia&rsquo;s billionaires.
However, the success of the chain has sparked online discussions, with one netizen highlighting concerns over employees being underpaid despite working long hours. Reactions were mixed, with some defending the company, claiming that employee wages reflect the nature of their work, though offering limited career growth. Others, however, pointed out that the pay doesn't justify the long hours, with allegations that staff are not compensated for overtime or provided additional benefits.
99 Speedmart Defends &amp; Explains Company Compensation Structure
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8ccefef4b9b7810f0d0a9ebcf1510f8ee1220fdf674c8efb7be15a47c6d56976" width="582" height="582" />
In a statement reported by NST, 99 Speedmart's Chief Operating Officer, Yong Eng Kwang, acknowledged that the minimarket sector operates under unique challenges and conditions.
He emphasized that the company fully complies with the Employment (Amendment) Act 2022, noting that as Malaysia&rsquo;s largest minimarket chain, 99 Speedmart ensures its wages meet legal standards. Yong also pointed out that wage comparisons with other industries should account for these differences.
Assuring compliance, he stated that 99 Speedmart adheres to the national minimum wage of RM1,500 per month, with the company actually paying above this amount. His remarks were in response to the viral controversy surrounding wage fairness and employee satisfaction, which gained attention after the founder&rsquo;s rise to billionaire status. The controversy included claims that a branch manager's average salary is RM2,387 per month.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/3783/netizens-debate-99-speedmart-branch-manager-wages-being-low-despite-their-boss-being-one-of-malaysias-billionaires">Netizens Debate 99 Speedmart Branch Manager Wages Being Low Despite Their Boss Being One Of Malaysia&rsquo;s Billionaires</a>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ebade072bb0397227f9664f8f1f79934a5ffdb93fe0ab2e9f1530e58a6710fdb" alt="" width="852" height="296" />
Yong clarified that, beyond the basic salary, 99 Speedmart provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. This includes annual salary increases, year-end bonuses, access to panel clinics with reimbursable medical visits, career development and training opportunities, a free SIM card with 40GB of data and unlimited calls, as well as complimentary food vouchers.
Regarding working hours, he explained that stores operate from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and dismissed claims about the absence of overtime pay, affirming that staff are compensated according to agreements made between the employees and the company.
These are the overtime rates of employees:
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Normal Day (1.5x of their rate)</li>
<li>Rest Day (2x of their rate)</li>
<li>General Leave (3x of their rate)</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Yong explained that all employees are entitled to annual leave based on their years of service, as well as maternity, paternity, and Haj leaves, in accordance with legal guidelines. Additionally, they receive the standard EPF and SOCSO benefits. New mothers are granted the statutory 98 days of maternity leave, while fathers receive between 1 and 7 days of paternity leave, depending on their length of employment.
Addressing the online post about wages, Yong clarified that the quoted figures were from 2020 and do not reflect the current pay structure. He emphasized that long-serving branch managers now earn over RM4,000 per month, demonstrating the company&rsquo;s commitment to fair compensation for its employees' dedication and hard work.
&ldquo;We also understand the financial pressures many people are under these days, which is why we work tirelessly to keep our prices low, ensuring that essential goods remain affordable for everyone,&rdquo; Yong concluded.
Netizens Shared Their Thoughts On The Previous Post
In response to our previous post, many netizens shared their opinions on the pay situation in the comments section. While we agree that it's not fair to directly compare corporate salaries to those in the minimarket sector, the discussion has been eye-opening. Some netizens also raised an interesting point about implementing a balanced hiring ratio, suggesting that we should consider a better balance between hiring Malaysians and foreign workers, as seen in countries like Singapore.
Here's some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/faf4da4f7c934ad5e5c5d95a8e20b83ba5432bc7fd4f1d8b618c4574db494070" />
In light of everything, one common hope among Malaysians is for a lower cost of living. It&rsquo;s not that most of us are asking for high salaries; we&rsquo;re simply seeking fair compensation that reflects the current economic reality.
That being said, we do appreciate 99 Speedmart's efforts to keep prices affordable, ensuring that essential goods remain accessible to all Malaysians. We hope people will continue supporting the minimart, and it's important to remember that earning an honest living is always better than not earning anything at all.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a> and <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a> for more updates. 
&nbsp;

The viral post quoted salaries from 2020 and does not reflect the updated pay structure and additional benefits currently provided.

a3b638bf4dabb2bc56e2475fab85619e6644fa597e582f6eca9cbe7814026dfb

99 Speedmart COO Addresses Viral Salary Controversy; Confirms Some Managers Now Earn Over RM4K

9621255847abc97937372c8dc13279f044806beb1dd21709fd1553c490afe2dd

BIllie Eilish UMMY

68a82e6c9f051320f59a2422cff4e97a9ca5d2176dd28f2a5dcebda8b97b2171

Coke Fifa

38941b1bac42da64a02a23ecc8eb6222efa97c70765b23b6219aa575309b69db

UMMY Sienna Spiro

83825a877c75953ebff3be1a2ab43cd2012f89a4df7cbd22db7ff7c05598b510

Pizza hut Meltz 2026

Online banking scams have become an increasing concern in Malaysia over the past few years, with many victims losing large sums of money through unauthorised transfers and mule accounts.
In a significant ruling that could have wider implications for banking security and scam-related cases, the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court has found Maybank liable for negligence after a customer lost RM166,000 through suspicious online transactions.
The court ordered the bank to compensate the victim after concluding that the unusual activity on the customer&rsquo;s account should have raised red flags and prompted further investigation.
Court Finds Bank Negligent
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5201e089f5d9b3bcf3a57b6cce759eb8f35f4918e1b5a55582cbe88ef23da712" />
Judge Maimoonah Aid ruled in favour of customer Chan Yan Li, allowing her civil claim against the bank and ordering Maybank to pay RM166,000 in damages.
The bank was also instructed to pay an additional RM15,000 in legal costs. The case stemmed from a series of unauthorised online banking transactions that took place between June and July 2021.
According to court documents, money was first transferred from Chan&rsquo;s housing loan account into her savings account before being moved in stages to several third-party accounts belonging to unknown individuals.
Chan only discovered the transactions nearly two weeks later, on 15 July 2021, after checking her Maybank2u account. She later lodged a police report over the incident.
Victim Denied Authorising Transfers
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/eb9078dfd422c21c141d2c56d0e00a8eaf215d12fad9a104ce7235b05807f738" />
During proceedings, Chan maintained that she never approved the transfers and insisted she did not receive any Transaction Authorisation Code (TAC) messages or app notifications linked to the suspicious transactions.
However, Maybank denied wrongdoing and argued that all transactions were conducted using the correct username and password associated with Chan&rsquo;s account.
The bank also claimed that TAC messages and transaction alerts had been successfully sent to her registered mobile number, while maintaining there were no issues with the Maybank2u system.
In its defence, the bank further suggested that Chan&rsquo;s banking information may have been exposed due to negligence on her part.
Suspicious Activity Raised Red Flags
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/adb6e09b338c274a93688a64ade2e7fbe17765cd76dcc6adafe6efaf14d77eec" />
Despite the bank&rsquo;s arguments, the court found several inconsistencies during the trial. Judge Maimoonah pointed to contradictions between TAC records submitted by the bank and phone records provided by telecommunications company Digi.
The court also found that some transactions did not trigger SMS alerts, while several transfers were carried out during unusual hours, including around 5am.
In her judgment, the judge noted that Chan was not an active online banking user and only used the Maybank2u platform for basic transactions such as credit card payments and occasional money transfers to family members.
The sudden surge in account activity over a short period of time was deemed highly unusual and should have prompted the bank to conduct further checks or investigations.
&ldquo;The bank should remain vigilant,&rdquo; the judge stated in her grounds of judgment.
She added that banks today possess advanced technology capable of detecting and preventing suspicious or fraudulent transactions.
The court further heard that several mule account holders connected to the transfers had already pleaded guilty in separate criminal cases involving concealment of stolen property and possession of stolen items.
Wider Questions About Banking Security
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7b4d8ca23dfffd7fc006f6a472109355bd6e510b6d546201465229424af9df2c" />
The case has once again sparked discussions about banking accountability and the level of protection available to scam victims in Malaysia.
As online scams continue to rise nationwide, many Malaysians have questioned whether financial institutions are doing enough to detect unusual transaction patterns and protect customers from fraud.
The ruling may also encourage closer scrutiny of how banks monitor suspicious account activity, particularly involving large transfers, irregular login behaviour, and transactions conducted during odd hours.
For consumers, the case serves as another reminder to remain cautious with online banking security, regularly monitor account activity, and report suspicious transactions immediately.
At the same time, the court&rsquo;s decision reinforces the view that banks also carry a responsibility to identify obvious warning signs and act when unusual activity appears on customer accounts.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

The court ruled that the suspicious transaction pattern should have triggered stronger checks by the bank.

ce6c3490d9610e0bf9e86999d5960a6c649c2130c0870eb2f5a3c0b7b8b374f1

Court Orders Maybank To Refund RM166,000 To Scam Victim Over Negligence

Users of Touch 'n Go eWallet will soon need to adjust how they manage their balances, as TNG Digital has confirmed that Auto Reload and Quick Payment features for debit cards will be discontinued from 13 May 2026.
The move follows a system-wide review of transaction performance and reliability, after both features had already been placed under maintenance since mid-April. What initially appeared to be a temporary disruption has now been finalised as a permanent change.
According to the company, the decision was made to ensure a more stable and dependable payment experience, particularly after users reported issues such as failed reloads and interruptions during transactions.
Why the Features Are Being Removed
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/59d24462ab47b72e4f32149074dff56be3f370521ebe596459927b4b11b2aa7d" />
TNG Digital explained that the review highlighted reliability concerns tied specifically to debit card usage for automated functions. In some cases, users experienced unsuccessful reload attempts, which could lead to inconvenience &mdash; especially in situations like toll payments where Auto Reload was expected to trigger instantly.
By discontinuing these features for debit cards, the platform aims to reduce such failures and improve overall system consistency.
However, it is important to note that this change only affects debit cards. Users who rely on credit cards will still be able to use both Auto Reload and Quick Payment without interruption.
What It Means for Users
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ddce7e55e6e3cddcfbf2a662c6f4e3202a7323dbbd75447d64b07af6c40f8a46" />
For those who previously depended on debit card Auto Reload, this update will require a shift in habits. Moving forward, users will need to:
<ul>
<li>Manually reload their eWallet balance, or</li>
<li>Switch to alternative payment methods such as credit cards or DuitNow Transfer</li>
</ul>
Quick Payment &mdash; a feature that automatically tops up just enough balance to complete a transaction &mdash; will also no longer function with debit cards. This may be particularly inconvenient for users who prefer seamless, automatic payments without relying on credit facilities.
Alternative Ways to Reload 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9b70fdbabb1df68237eecc0b167dd9931aa1443a1f3cb842ee36b79797c51f0a" />
Despite the removal of these automated features, debit cards are not being phased out entirely. Users can still perform manual reloads using debit cards, alongside several other available methods:
<ul>
<li>DuitNow Transfer</li>
<li>Credit cards</li>
<li>Reload PINs</li>
</ul>
These options ensure that users can continue topping up their eWallet without major disruption, although the process will no longer be fully automated for debit card users.
Fees to Consider for Credit Card Users
For those considering switching to credit cards to retain Auto Reload functionality, there are additional costs to keep in mind.
A 1% convenience fee applies to reloads made using Malaysian-issued credit cards. For example, topping up RM100 would result in a charge of RM101. Meanwhile, cards issued by foreign banks incur a higher fee of up to 2.6%.
On the other hand, reload methods such as DuitNow Transfer, Reload PINs, and Malaysian-issued debit or prepaid cards (for manual reloads) remain free of charge, making them more cost-effective alternatives.
PayDirect Expansion and Other Features
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b6e6f3fb368acb04e751d7d22b4eff75ad2011947609957a04ed6ec621444c21" />
Amid these changes, Touch 'n Go eWallet continues to expand other features to improve user experience. Notably, the PayDirect system is now fully supported across the West Coast Expressway, allowing toll charges to be deducted directly from users&rsquo; eWallet balances.
For added convenience, the platform also offers an SOS Balance feature, enabling drivers to pass through toll plazas even with insufficient funds, provided the outstanding amount is settled within 24 hours.
A Shift Towards Stability Over Convenience
Ultimately, the decision signals a shift in priority for Touch 'n Go eWallet &mdash; placing greater emphasis on transaction stability and reliability, even if it comes at the cost of convenience for some users.
As the 13 May deadline approaches, users are encouraged to review their payment settings and explore alternative methods to ensure a smooth transition.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

Users will need to switch to manual reloads or alternative methods as part of a system reliability update.

3911320ebe296e1e1dccb2d5f8471fa91529c085273cc067c83e9b572a5372aa

Touch ’n Go eWallet Discontinues Debit Auto Reload And Quick Payment Features

Amid ongoing volatility in global energy markets, largely driven by geopolitical tensions in West Asia, Malaysia is taking a strategic step towards strengthening its energy resilience. At the centre of this shift is the introduction of B100 biodiesel, a fuel derived entirely from palm oil with no fossil fuel blending.
Spearheaded by the Federal Land Development Authority, or FELDA, this initiative represents one of the first large-scale efforts globally to commercialise a fully fossil-free biodiesel. Unlike existing blends such as B10 or B20, which still rely partly on conventional diesel, B100 is produced using 100 per cent palm oil-based feedstock.
The initiative is currently at the policy stage, with initial implementation expected to begin within the FELDA ecosystem before any broader nationwide rollout.
Competitive Pricing and Economic Potential
&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/f19e6f770afea2042bb8e2bb5564cfffcc8ee4d52d870f556138764a3949f576" />
One of the strongest arguments in favour of B100 lies in its cost competitiveness. Based on current crude palm oil prices, the fuel is estimated to cost around RM4.40 to RM4.50 per litre at the production level.
This positions it significantly below current industrial diesel prices, which have risen sharply in recent weeks, with some figures exceeding RM6.00 per litre in Peninsular Malaysia. If B100 can consistently remain below RM5.00 per litre, it could serve as a viable alternative that reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels.
Beyond cost savings, the widespread adoption of B100 could help stabilise domestic fuel prices and ease the government&rsquo;s subsidy burden, which has surged dramatically in recent years. It also offers clear economic benefits to Malaysia&rsquo;s palm oil sector, increasing demand and supporting smallholders across the industry.
Proven Through Extensive Pilot Testing
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/30ef5ccc0fc394236b5825b7e5cb4074c208f565292039378871fc3e442452c7" />
FELDA&rsquo;s confidence in B100 is backed by a series of successful trials conducted over the past two years.
In 2024, a four-month pilot test using tanker trucks demonstrated that the fuel could be used reliably without major technical issues. This was followed by a more extensive trial beginning in 2025, involving passenger vehicles over a 15-month period. These vehicles collectively travelled more than 50,000 kilometres, with no significant performance concerns reported.
The trials confirmed that B100 can function effectively in diesel engines, although certain vehicles may require modifications or specific handling due to the fuel&rsquo;s properties, such as sensitivity to low temperatures and higher solvent characteristics.
Environmental Benefits and Sustainability Goals
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/62a3d13a24fdddb541385a78e7af11888804311760ae24dab603d93c9fc625e0" />
As a renewable energy source, B100 offers clear environmental advantages over conventional diesel. It produces significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with Malaysia&rsquo;s commitments under the Paris Agreement to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Biodiesel itself can be produced from a variety of organic sources, including vegetable oils, used cooking oil, and animal fats. In the case of B100, palm oil serves as the primary feedstock, making it a domestically sourced and renewable alternative.
This shift not only reduces dependence on fossil fuel imports but also strengthens Malaysia&rsquo;s position as a global leader in sustainable palm oil innovation.
Challenges: Supply, Capacity and Policy
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b5e886faf47a1bb7718abee24bac692e800650399c99e1f6382f4aeb73e82858" />
Despite its promise, the large-scale rollout of B100 is not without challenges. The most immediate concern is the availability of sufficient crude palm oil supply to support nationwide adoption. While Malaysia produces around 20 million tonnes of crude palm oil annually, limitations in processing capacity and existing demand patterns remain key constraints.
To address this, FELDA and FGV Holdings are exploring ways to expand biodiesel processing facilities and increase production capacity. Discussions are ongoing to determine the most effective approach, whether through private sector participation, government support, or a hybrid model.
Equally important is the need for a clear and comprehensive government policy framework. Without it, industry players may struggle to scale production or invest in the necessary infrastructure.
There have also been calls to gradually increase biodiesel blending rates at petrol stations, moving from B10 to higher levels such as B20 or even B30, as a transitional step towards wider adoption.
A Strategic Step Towards Energy Security
At its core, the B100 initiative is about more than just fuel innovation. It represents a broader effort to future-proof Malaysia&rsquo;s energy landscape against global disruptions.
By leveraging its existing strengths in palm oil production, the country has the opportunity to reduce its reliance on imported fuels, stabilise domestic prices, and build a more resilient energy ecosystem.
While further policy clarity and infrastructure development are needed, B100 biodiesel signals a significant shift in Malaysia&rsquo;s approach to energy &mdash; one that prioritises sustainability, self-sufficiency, and long-term stability.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

Malaysia explores B100 palm oil biodiesel as a cleaner, cheaper alternative to diesel amid global fuel uncertainty.

d75c529cf2d68072fe9c5617064624504f32468ac67aaaf613002206286ce51d

FELDA’s B100 Biodiesel: Malaysia’s Bold Push Towards A Fossil-Free Fuel Future

The National Registration Department has issued a clear and firm reminder to Malaysians: using someone else&rsquo;s MyKad &mdash; even that of a spouse or close family member &mdash; to purchase subsidised RON95 fuel is illegal.
According to JPN director-general Badrul Hisham Alias, the MyKad is a strictly personal identification document that must only be used by its rightful owner. This applies across all situations, including seemingly harmless or everyday scenarios involving family members.
The prohibition is backed by Regulation 25 of the National Registration Regulations 1990, which states that using or possessing another person&rsquo;s identity card is a criminal offence that may lead to legal action. Authorities stress that the rule is not new, but recent cases have highlighted the need for greater public awareness and compliance.
The Key Rule: Physical Presence Is Mandatory
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/75c1ea9561d5baca0c47109234abb4d1cdda18121f947cfbec43143184c30eea" />
At the heart of the issue is a simple but crucial requirement &mdash; the MyKad owner must be physically present during any transaction.
&ldquo;All counter transactions, including the purchase of fuel, must be conducted personally by the actual MyKad owner,&rdquo; Badrul Hisham reiterated.
This means that even if it involves close family members, sending someone else to refuel using your MyKad is not permitted. The determining factor is not the relationship between individuals, but whether the person using the card is the same individual named and pictured on it.
In other words, if the MyKad is being used at the petrol station, the owner must be the one standing there and carrying out the transaction. Any deviation from this &mdash; regardless of intention &mdash; constitutes an offence under the law.
Sharing Cars Is Allowed &mdash; But With Clear Limits
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f49ee12966911f8f165104e083084eb4508152acd5033c1b148f6684959cf67d" />
While the rule on MyKad usage is strict, the government has clarified that families can still share vehicles under the BUDI95 subsidy programme.
Each eligible individual has their own subsidy quota, which is tied to their personal MyKad rather than the vehicle itself. This allows multiple family members &mdash; such as spouses, parents, children, or siblings &mdash; to refuel the same car using their respective allocations.
However, this flexibility comes with a non-negotiable condition: each person must be physically present and use their own MyKad when purchasing fuel.
For example, a husband and wife may both fill up the same car on different occasions, but the wife cannot hand her MyKad to her husband to refuel on her behalf. Similarly, a parent cannot send their child to the petrol station using the parent&rsquo;s MyKad, even if the car is shared within the household.
The distinction is straightforward &mdash; sharing a car is allowed, but sharing a MyKad is not.
Lending Your MyKad Could Lead to Legal Consequences
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/27046b323438b559c32cf3149de1371fa07801fa10c71e5582170105822acea3" />
JPN has also warned that legal repercussions may not only apply to the individual misusing the MyKad, but also to the rightful owner who allows it to happen.
Even if a card is lent out with good intentions, the registered owner could still face consequences if it is used improperly. Authorities emphasise that this rule is designed to safeguard the integrity of identification systems while preventing fraud and abuse of government subsidies.
In addition to potential legal penalties, misuse of a MyKad also raises concerns about identity theft and unauthorised transactions, further underscoring the importance of keeping the document secure at all times.
Kelantan Case Sparks Nationwide Attention
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d0ba7700938743ef5e0e8c8be7b010ea03eb4a26588c11662a2dd0fa7885f4ac" />
The renewed focus on this issue follows a recent case in Kelantan, where a man was arrested after allegedly using four different MyKads to purchase more than 100 litres of subsidised RON95 petrol at a station in Tumpat.
The incident has drawn widespread attention and prompted authorities to step up monitoring efforts nationwide. Investigations are currently ongoing to identify similar cases involving the misuse of identity cards for fuel purchases.
JPN clarified that its recent statement was issued in the context of this investigation and is not intended to restrict access to subsidies. Instead, it aims to reinforce compliance with existing laws and ensure that the system operates fairly for all eligible individuals.
A Simple Rule to Follow
Ultimately, the guideline is clear and applies to all Malaysians without exception. You are allowed to share a vehicle with family members, and each person can use their own MyKad to benefit from the subsidy. However, the MyKad itself cannot be shared, borrowed, or used by anyone else under any circumstances.
As enforcement efforts continue, the public is urged to follow this rule carefully to avoid legal trouble and to help maintain the integrity of the subsidy system.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

63ca2f6c729b11e6947d8fdf50fe5208ffea441a725aa08254b7936051965146

JPN: Using Family Members’ MyKad For RON95 Is Illegal — With Limited Exceptions

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) is planning a major overhaul of the country&rsquo;s medical insurance landscape, with a new Basic Medical and Health Insurance and Takaful (MHIT) plan aimed at making coverage more accessible, transparent, and reliable.
For many Malaysians, one of the biggest concerns when it comes to medical insurance is whether claims will actually be approved when needed. This proposed reform seeks to address that uncertainty by introducing stronger safeguards for policyholders, particularly those with pre-existing conditions.
The move comes at a time when medical costs are rising sharply and affordability is becoming an increasing concern, especially for older individuals and those without comprehensive coverage.
The &ldquo;No Look-Back&rdquo; Clause: What It Means
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6b0ab3916e9f7c4d1206177ebf3084c4f1151bafc394721b6c2ad84afafb6a43" />
At the centre of the proposed reforms is a &ldquo;no look-back&rdquo; mechanism, currently being studied by BNM.
Under this clause, once a policyholder maintains continuous insurance coverage for a specified period, insurers and takaful operators would no longer be allowed to reject claims based on pre-existing conditions. This includes cases where a condition may not have been disclosed earlier.
According to BNM Governor Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour, the aim is to provide long-term assurance.
&ldquo;For policyholders, this provides certainty and confidence that their protection will be there when they need it,&rdquo; he said.
If implemented, this would mark a significant shift from current practices, where claims are sometimes denied on technical grounds, particularly those linked to past medical history.
Why Pre-Existing Conditions Are Usually Excluded
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7f7671af73140114a947ce5079218ce9a4f197cc5518af49bf0fcb819bf3ba19" />
Traditionally, insurance providers operate on a risk-pooling model, where premiums collected from many policyholders are used to cover medical costs for those who require treatment.
To maintain affordability, insurers often exclude or limit coverage for pre-existing conditions. This helps prevent individuals from purchasing insurance only after becoming ill, which could drive up claims and ultimately make premiums too expensive for everyone.
However, this system has also led to frustration and mistrust, especially when claims are rejected due to conditions that may be unrelated or previously undiagnosed.
The proposed MHIT plan attempts to strike a balance &mdash; expanding access to those with stable and well-managed conditions, while ensuring the system remains financially sustainable.
What the Basic MHIT Plan Will Offer
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8e502b602967ef4eb07933570a7ab9af4d6d391c5b87ec8578911433f4ecf31e" />Image via MYC (Gemini)
The Basic MHIT plan is designed as a standardised, no-frills insurance product that all participating insurers and takaful operators must offer.
Key features include:
<ul>
<li>Guaranteed renewal up to the age of 85</li>
<li>Standardised benefits, pricing, and coverage across providers</li>
<li>Annual coverage limits of RM100,000, increasing to RM150,000 for those above 60</li>
<li>Two tiers: a Standard Plan and a more affordable Standard Plus option with higher deductibles</li>
</ul>
Importantly, premium structures will not be set freely by insurers. Instead, they will be regulated by BNM, taking into account actual claims data and reasonable profit margins.
This means insurers cannot arbitrarily introduce extra charges or features that drive up costs, offering greater protection to consumers.
Tackling Rising Costs and Access Issues
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/29ec08b24127ad12d5acb6638c2c8d3dceeb16f14fcf9fbc3eee50d528a1b9c6" />
The reform comes amid growing pressure on Malaysia&rsquo;s healthcare system.
Currently, only around 22% of Malaysians have medical insurance, while a significant portion of healthcare spending is paid out of pocket. At the same time, medical inflation continues to climb, pushing premiums higher each year.
BNM has also acknowledged concerns within the industry about claim practices sometimes described as &ldquo;deny, delay, revoke&rdquo;, where approvals are withheld, delayed, or withdrawn.
By introducing stricter standards and a more transparent framework, the Basic MHIT plan aims to rebuild trust while ensuring more Malaysians can access private healthcare when needed.
A Gradual and Controlled Premium System
Another key concern addressed by the plan is the issue of sudden premium hikes.
Under the new framework, premium adjustments will be implemented gradually rather than through sharp increases. These changes will also be subject to regulatory review to ensure they remain fair and evidence-based.
This is particularly important for older policyholders, who are often at risk of being priced out of coverage due to rising costs.
BNM has emphasised that the goal is to ensure Malaysians can maintain insurance protection well into old age without facing financial strain.
Timeline: When Will It Happen?
The Basic MHIT plan is expected to be piloted in the second half of 2026, with a full rollout targeted for 2027.
The pilot phase will focus on testing the readiness of the entire ecosystem, including insurers, takaful operators, and private hospitals. It will also help identify any technical or operational challenges before full implementation.
Adjustments may be made based on feedback and performance during this phase to ensure a smoother nationwide rollout.
What This Means for Malaysians
While the plan is still being finalised, it represents one of the most significant changes to Malaysia&rsquo;s medical insurance system in recent years.
For policyholders, especially those with pre-existing conditions, the proposed &ldquo;no look-back&rdquo; clause could offer greater peace of mind and financial security.
At the same time, the success of the plan will depend on how well it balances accessibility with affordability, as well as cooperation across the healthcare and insurance sectors.
For now, Malaysians are advised to stay informed and follow official updates as BNM continues refining the framework &mdash; a reform that could reshape how medical protection works for years to come.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

A proposed rule could stop claim rejections over pre-existing conditions while improving coverage certainty.

99 Speedmart COO Addresses Viral Salary Controversy; Confirms Some Managers Now Earn Over RM4K

The viral post quoted salaries from 2020 and does not reflect the updated pay structure and additional benefits currently provided.

Latest News

Former NCT Star Mark Launches Independent Label Upper Room Following SM Entertainment Exit

BTS Ticket Frenzy Sweeps Malaysia As Millions Join Online Queues For Kuala Lumpur Concerts

High Court Orders Cambridge PhD Dropout And Three Guarantors To Repay RM857,000 MARA Loan

Malaysia Officially Introduces 10-Year Passport Validity With New RM350 Fee Structure

Pokémon Announces Massive Asia-Wide 30th Anniversary Celebration, With Malaysia Among Key Host Cities

Related Articles

Court Orders Maybank To Refund RM166,000 To Scam Victim Over Negligence

Touch ’n Go eWallet Discontinues Debit Auto Reload And Quick Payment Features

FELDA’s B100 Biodiesel: Malaysia’s Bold Push Towards A Fossil-Free Fuel Future

JPN: Using Family Members’ MyKad For RON95 Is Illegal — With Limited Exceptions

BNM’s New Insurance Plan Could Stop Claims From Being Rejected Over Pre-Existing Conditions

Related Articles

Court Orders Maybank To Refund RM166,000 To Scam Victim Over Negligence

Touch ’n Go eWallet Discontinues Debit Auto Reload And Quick Payment Features

FELDA’s B100 Biodiesel: Malaysia’s Bold Push Towards A Fossil-Free Fuel Future

JPN: Using Family Members’ MyKad For RON95 Is Illegal — With Limited Exceptions

BNM’s New Insurance Plan Could Stop Claims From Being Rejected Over Pre-Existing Conditions