Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

support

cashless

Apple Pay

banking

digital bank

convenient

RYT Bank

Ryt Bank customers can now make contactless payments using their Apple devices, following the launch of Apple Pay support for the bank&rsquo;s Ryt Card on 6 October 2026. The update allows customers to add their card to Apple Wallet and pay in stores, online and through supported apps without needing to take out their physical card.
With this addition, Ryt Bank becomes the first digital bank in Malaysia to support both Apple Pay and Google Pay. The bank introduced Google Pay support in January 2026, giving Android users access to mobile payments before extending the service to Apple users.
The latest update offers customers more flexibility in how they pay for everyday purchases, from buying groceries and grabbing coffee to shopping online. It also introduces another convenient way to make payments while benefiting from the security features built into Apple Pay.
How Apple Pay Makes Everyday Payments More Convenient
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a06634d7f0de0d8f8ba130a5be85cd48b0017e061d6bbdda0e8e0a4cec6d2fdf" />
Apple Pay allows customers to use compatible devices, including iPhones and Apple Watches, to make contactless payments at participating merchants. Instead of carrying a physical card, users can simply authenticate their payment on their device and hold it near a compatible payment terminal.
The service also works for online purchases and in-app transactions at supported merchants, allowing users to complete payments without repeatedly entering their card details.
For customers who frequently use contactless payments, adding a card to Apple Wallet can make everyday transactions quicker and more convenient. It is particularly useful when heading out without a wallet, as payments can be made directly through a compatible Apple device.
Customers who use Android devices can continue to access Google Pay with their Ryt Card, meaning Ryt Bank now supports both major mobile wallet platforms.
Apple Pay Security Features Protect Your Card Details
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/724ed1fa5a195167b50cac4b7b977fbefb8d824b9a7a4435187ed13a5a0f9b5b" />
Beyond convenience, Apple Pay includes security measures designed to protect users&rsquo; payment information.
Each transaction must be authenticated through Face ID, Touch ID or the device&rsquo;s passcode, helping ensure that payments are authorised by the device&rsquo;s owner.
Apple Pay also uses a device-specific account number and a unique security code for each transaction, rather than sharing the actual card number with merchants. Apple states that card numbers are not stored on its servers, adding another layer of protection when customers make payments.
If an iPhone is lost or misplaced, users can also use Apple&rsquo;s Find My service to mark the device as lost and suspend Apple Pay on it.
However, users should still protect their devices with a secure passcode and keep their banking applications updated.
How To Add Your Ryt Card To Apple Pay
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8f90cd0d321e69e0ce6a2eb0c2d2ed8edda25d579cd43fa930c406b9029d639d" />
Ryt Bank customers can add their Ryt Card to Apple Wallet through the bank&rsquo;s app or directly through the Wallet app on a compatible Apple device.
Option 1: Through the Ryt Bank app
<ol>
<li>Open the Ryt Bank app and navigate to the Cards tab.</li>
<li>Select the option to Add to Apple Wallet.</li>
<li>Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.</li>
</ol>
Option 2: Through Apple Wallet
<ol>
<li>Open the Wallet app on your compatible Apple device.</li>
<li>Tap the + button to add a card.</li>
<li>Follow the instructions to add and verify your Ryt Card.</li>
</ol>
Once the setup is complete, you can use Apple Pay wherever the service is accepted. Depending on your device and setup, you may also be able to add the card to other compatible Apple devices.
What Is Ryt Bank?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7838122416fdb9288b2869284ae7342adcbab30c4e9ed6c8699fea2c795f1bbc" />
Ryt Bank is a licensed digital bank in Malaysia that provides banking services through a digital platform, allowing customers to manage their finances without relying on a traditional network of physical bank branches.
It is operated by YTL Digital Bank Berhad, a joint venture between YTL Digital Capital Sdn Bhd and Sea Limited, the parent company of Shopee and Garena. The bank offers digital banking services through its mobile app, including access to its Ryt Card.
As a digital bank, Ryt Bank focuses on providing customers with accessible banking services and digital tools for everyday financial management. Its support for Google Pay and Apple Pay expands the ways customers can use their Ryt Card for cashless transactions.
Which Other Banks Support Apple Pay In Malaysia?
Ryt Bank joins several established financial institutions that already support Apple Pay in Malaysia. These include AmBank, CIMB, Hong Leong Bank, HSBC, Maybank, RHB and Standard Chartered.
Wise Payments Malaysia is also listed by Apple as a participating card issuer, although availability can vary depending on the issuer and card type.
With Apple Pay now available for the Ryt Card, Ryt Bank customers have another option for making secure, convenient payments using their preferred devices. The move also strengthens the bank&rsquo;s digital payment offerings, allowing both iPhone and Android users to enjoy mobile wallet convenience.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Your Ryt Card just got more convenient, with seamless cashless payments.

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Ryt Bank Adds Apple Pay Support, Becoming Malaysia’s First Digital Bank To Offer Apple Pay And Google Pay

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The government has announced a 50% toll discount for motorists travelling on 6 and 7 November 2026 in conjunction with Deepavali, giving Malaysians an opportunity to save on their journeys during the festive period.
The discount will be available from 12.00am on Friday, 6 November, until 11.59pm on Saturday, 7 November. Deepavali falls on Sunday, 8 November, and the initiative is intended to ease travel expenses for people returning to their hometowns or visiting family and friends.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the government expects to spend approximately RM20.11 million to compensate participating highway concessionaires for the reduced toll collection. The amount will be borne by the government, subject to verification of traffic data after the implementation.
Which Vehicles Are Eligible For The 50% Toll Discount?
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The 50% toll discount applies to Class 1 private vehicles at all toll plazas nationwide. Class 2 vehicles travelling across the Penang Bridge are also eligible for the reduced rate.
However, motorists should take note that the discount does not cover two toll plazas located at Malaysia&rsquo;s southern border crossings. These are the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) Toll Plaza on the North-South Expressway (PLUS) and the Tanjung Kupang Toll Plaza on the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link (LINKEDUA).
Drivers using either of these two toll plazas will continue to pay the usual toll charges. The discount is also limited to the stated two-day period, so motorists travelling outside the eligible hours should expect normal rates.
The Works Ministry, through the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM), will coordinate the implementation with the highway concessionaires involved to ensure eligible road users receive the discount.
Government Allocates RM20.11 Million For Festive Toll Relie 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f278e5257afd7b795690cc703e80ad559f0fa9ccbdd3f67a08d9c16d97d1937f" />
Nanta said the initiative reflects the government&rsquo;s commitment to easing the cost of living and supporting Malaysians during major festive periods, regardless of race, religion or belief.
He added that the discount is particularly intended to help members of the Hindu community travelling home or making visits to relatives to celebrate Deepavali. The government hopes the savings will allow families to spend more time together while reducing some of the expenses associated with festive travel.
The two-day discount comes as authorities prepare for heavier traffic on major highways. The Malaysian Highway Authority is expecting around 3.28 million vehicles to use the main highways during the Deepavali holiday period, according to figures cited in local reports.
Motorists are therefore encouraged to plan their journeys early and avoid peak travel periods where possible. Drivers should also ensure that their Touch &lsquo;n Go cards and eWallets have sufficient balance before setting off, particularly as the discount does not mean toll payments are waived entirely.
Free Penang Ferry Rides On Deepavali
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ba4f6657365b83b8157f29859172ea408030bbd089188022a16ec3849e369866" />
In a separate festive initiative, Malaysians travelling in Penang can also look forward to free ferry rides on Sunday, 8 November, in conjunction with Deepavali.
The Penang Port Commission (PPC) and Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) will offer complimentary ferry services to Malaysian passengers travelling from Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal in Butterworth to Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal in George Town, and vice versa.
PPC chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said the free service will operate according to the latest ferry schedule. Passengers are advised to check the commission&rsquo;s and operator&rsquo;s official websites and social media channels for updated service information before travelling.
The initiative is intended to make travel more convenient during the festive period and help ease congestion in Penang. It also gives residents and visitors another way to move between the mainland and the island without paying the usual passenger fare.
Motorists Urged To Plan Ahead And Drive Safely
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1cc4d4f72f9dce99b13d389d2a986f813cc3662dd623ad430a0cdc5057af6371" />
With more people expected to travel over the Deepavali weekend, Nanta reminded motorists to prioritise road safety throughout their journeys.
Drivers should observe posted speed limits, maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead and take sufficient breaks to avoid fatigue, especially when travelling long distances. They are also encouraged to check the latest traffic updates and highway incident reports through the Malaysian Highway Authority&rsquo;s official channels before and during their trips.
The Works Ministry has extended its Deepavali greetings to the Hindu community, expressing hope that the Festival of Lights will bring joy, prosperity and harmony while strengthening unity among Malaysians.
For those taking advantage of the toll discount, the reminder is simple: plan your journey, check your payment balance and drive carefully. The savings may make the trip more affordable, but arriving safely remains the most important part of the festive journey.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Cheaper tolls and free Penang ferry rides. A little Deepavali travel treat!

df8dc4104e5ece27c063b05871dd4a885f2207114925aa213d67c781ca9d9536

Deepavali 2026: Malaysians Enjoy 50% Toll Discount On 6 And 7 November

Binance is in discussions with Malaysian regulators about securing a licence to operate in the country, potentially paving the way for the cryptocurrency exchange to return more than five years after it was ordered to stop its local operations.
A spokesperson for Binance confirmed that the company has been engaging the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) over the past 10 months to explore a licensed route for offering its products and services to Malaysians.
Speaking to Bloomberg, the spokesperson said the discussions were focused on the viability and structure of a licensed business model. However, Binance has not disclosed which specific licence it is seeking, and there has been no announcement that regulatory approval has been granted.
The talks mark a possible step towards re-establishing the exchange&rsquo;s presence in Malaysia, where access to its website and mobile applications remains blocked.
Binance&rsquo;s regulatory history in Malaysia
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/43543d1d937790f2cc741552bc86c524ea505b984ca80220646c2aa51e4e09b3" />
Binance&rsquo;s previous operations in Malaysia were halted in July 2021, when the SC ordered the exchange to cease operating after finding that it was running a digital asset exchange without the required authorisation.
The regulator also directed Binance to stop all media and marketing activities in the country and restricted Malaysian investors from accessing its Telegram group. The action formed part of efforts to ensure that digital asset trading platforms operating locally comply with Malaysia&rsquo;s regulatory framework.
Although the SC removed Binance from its Investor Alert List in 2024, the exchange was added back to the list on 8 October 2026, without a public explanation for the decision, according to the reports.
The Ministry of Finance also confirmed in July that Binance remained unlicensed in Malaysia and that its website and applications were still blocked. The latest discussions therefore do not mean the exchange is currently authorised to provide services to Malaysian users.
For a formal return, Binance would need to satisfy the relevant regulatory requirements and obtain the necessary approvals. Malaysia&rsquo;s digital asset market already includes locally registered operators, with Luno among the established platforms serving consumers.
P2P trading platform draws scrutiny over ringgit transactions
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d29ea830276c7e6ec9e4dc584b347e94ef2395ba3f6941760a03fde4a3a79836" />
Alongside its licensing discussions, Binance has faced questions about transactions on its peer-to-peer (P2P) marketplace and whether foreign-currency listings could be used to facilitate trades involving the ringgit.
In September, former finance minister and DAP chairman Lim Guan Eng wrote to the SC asking it to investigate whether Binance&rsquo;s P2P platform was enabling ringgit transactions through advertisements listed under other currency denominations. His office released the letter on 31 October, citing the exchange&rsquo;s recently reported security incident.
Binance said it had voluntarily disabled a specific Papua New Guinea kina marketplace after identifying that it was unofficially pegged to the ringgit. The company described the move as part of its engagement with the SC.
It also addressed a separate complaint involving an advertisement placed by a non-Malaysian user on its Romanian leu marketplace. Binance characterised this as an isolated case and maintained that no other products on its platform were pegged to the ringgit or offered as substitutes for the Malaysian currency.
The exchange acknowledged that no platform could completely prevent individuals from attempting to bypass marketplace rules. However, it rejected the suggestion that the incidents demonstrated a sustained effort to circumvent Malaysian law, saying it took the concerns seriously.
US$6.3 billion security incident adds to scrutiny
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4f494f3208ae77f90448731b9e0aedb29bf8a515e3273a2973b3b7c2ee4af2ae" />
The renewed regulatory discussions come as Binance faces international scrutiny following a major security breach reported in late October. The incident involved digital assets valued at approximately US$6.3 billion (around RM25.6 billion), making it one of the largest reported security incidents in the cryptocurrency sector.
Binance said it had found no evidence that users&rsquo; wallet private keys had been leaked and maintained that customer funds remained safe. The exchange pledged to cover losses through its Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) and corporate reserves. Reports also said that around US$3 billion (approximately RM12.2 billion) in affected assets had been frozen through cooperation with blockchain partners.
The incident has raised further questions about the security measures and safeguards used by major cryptocurrency platforms, particularly as regulators assess the risks associated with digital asset trading and custody.
No confirmation of Binance&rsquo;s return yet
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ae673066e003c2ce688a89bed6a17e2aa6fc3fdefe21c92e604e9ad010b7cbce" />
Binance has reiterated that it remains committed to working with Malaysian regulators to offer its services in line with local requirements. However, the outcome of its discussions with the SC and BNM remains uncertain.
Until the necessary approvals are secured and any official announcement is made, Malaysian users should not interpret the talks as confirmation that Binance can legally resume local operations.
The exchange&rsquo;s potential return will depend on whether it can meet Malaysia&rsquo;s regulatory expectations, address concerns surrounding its P2P marketplace and demonstrate that it has appropriate safeguards for protecting users and their assets.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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A familiar name in crypto, but can it win back trust and confidence?

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Binance In Talks With Malaysian Regulators To Secure Licence After Five-Year Absence

Malaysians travelling to mainland China, Hong Kong, South Korea, the Philippines and Laos can now make QR payments at participating merchants using supported Malaysian mobile banking apps. The new service, launched by Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet) through Ant International&rsquo;s Alipay+ platform, means travellers can pay directly through their existing banking app without downloading another application or signing up for an Alipay+ account.
At launch, the service is available through Maybank, CIMB and Hong Leong Bank, while Bank Islam is expected to join soon. PayNet says the service will be expanded progressively to more overseas destinations and may also be adopted by other participating banks and e-wallet providers.
How to Make Overseas DuitNow QR Payments
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/30170fa6e415fd999a95e15491af4230ba9c3ccc927be721add18b9ef64031b6" />
The payment process is intended to be as straightforward as using DuitNow QR at home. At a participating business displaying the Alipay+ logo, customers open the QR payment function in their Malaysian banking app and scan the merchant&rsquo;s QR code. They can then review the transaction details and confirm the payment within the same app.
Travellers do not need to download a separate app or create an Alipay+ account. However, the service currently works by customers scanning the merchant&rsquo;s QR code; it does not support the reverse arrangement in which a merchant scans a QR code displayed on the customer&rsquo;s phone. Users should check that their bank supports the feature and look for the Alipay+ logo before attempting to pay.
PayNet Extends Its Partnership with Alipay+
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9de99645e04606afb9b28a599a7a1d7aa6b40ba995b7ded0d878e955315234cd" />
The launch builds on an existing partnership between PayNet and Ant International. Since November 2023, travellers using supported Alipay+ partner wallets have been able to pay at DuitNow QR merchants in Malaysia. That arrangement has helped local businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises, accept payments from international visitors using participating overseas wallets.
The new outbound service extends the connection in the other direction, enabling customers of participating Malaysian banks to pay at Alipay+-supported merchants abroad. Rather than requiring travellers to learn a new payment system or register for another digital wallet, the feature uses the banking apps they already have.
PayNet chief executive officer Praveen Rajan said cross-border payments should feel as familiar as paying at home. He added that collaboration between financial institutions and international payment partners can extend Malaysia&rsquo;s national payment infrastructure beyond its borders, make spending across borders easier and strengthen the country&rsquo;s economic links with the region.
The initiative also aligns with Bank Negara Malaysia&rsquo;s broader vision for cross-border payments that are faster, more efficient and inclusive.
Cross-Border QR Payments Continue to Grow
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2a9c025e437b8b59c5c1d4c273be1ee3f5c1d15506c38c1f81a8cd26421b9a70" />
The expansion comes amid a sharp rise in cross-border payment activity. PayNet recorded nearly 30 million cross-border transactions in 2025, approximately 150% more than in 2024. Transactions linked to mainland China accounted for much of that growth, according to the company.
Alipay+ connects more than two billion user accounts through over 50 international payment partners, with more than 150 million merchants across over 210 markets, according to Ant International. The network gives connected payment services a wider reach, although the new DuitNow QR feature is only available at participating merchants in the five destinations announced at launch.
DuitNow QR is already interoperable with payment schemes in Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and Cambodia, allowing participating users to make cross-border payments in those markets. The latest Alipay+ launch is a separate expansion that brings outbound access through supported Malaysian banking apps to the five newly announced destinations.
PayNet will continue working with financial institutions and regional partners to bring the service to more apps and markets. Other PayNet-participating banks and e-wallet providers can also adopt the outbound QR capability, potentially allowing more Malaysians to make overseas payments through services they already use.
For travellers, the main benefit is convenience: in supported destinations, eligible users can pay by scanning a participating merchant&rsquo;s QR code through their Malaysian banking app. Before travelling, customers should confirm availability with their bank and remember that acceptance depends on the merchant displaying the Alipay+ logo.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Cashless travel just got easier for Malaysians.

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Malaysians Can Now Use DuitNow QR To Pay In Five Overseas Destinations

Malaysia has recorded its highest-ever score in the Economic Freedom of the World index since it was introduced in 1970, although the country has slipped two places in the global rankings as other economies made faster progress.
According to the Center for Market Education (CME), Malaysia scored 7.57 out of 10 in the Economic Freedom of the World: 2026 Annual Report, improving slightly from 7.55 previously. Despite the record score, Malaysia fell from 33rd to 35th place among 165 countries and jurisdictions assessed.
In a statement issued on Monday, 19 October, the think tank said Malaysia's economic freedom had improved considerably since the beginning of the century. However, it warned that the latest ranking should not be a reason for complacency, particularly as other countries continue to implement reforms at a faster pace.
Malaysia Remains ASEAN's Second-Freest Economy
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8afca5035a0d0b9972cef6b39abed3b1b25a2242bcf4ad10b2ed6e72a6f3234c" />
Despite its decline in the global rankings, Malaysia remains the second-freest economy in ASEAN, trailing only Singapore, which secured third place worldwide with a score of 8.43.
Malaysia continues to rank ahead of several regional economies, including Thailand in 57th place, Brunei and the Philippines in joint 61st place, and Indonesia in 72nd place.
Globally, Hong Kong topped the index with a score of 8.53, followed by Switzerland, Singapore, New Zealand and the United States.
Malaysia's score is also above the regional average of 6.99, indicating that the country's overall economic freedom remains relatively strong compared with its regional counterparts.
Nevertheless, the two-place drop highlights the difference between improving a country's own performance and keeping pace with other economies. Although Malaysia achieved a higher score, other countries made sufficient progress to overtake it in the rankings.
Malaysia's Economic Freedom Has Recovered Since the Asian Financial Crisis
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f5efc3d20acd87b90e8ec65ca8a5facac8f825db5aaf4bd93400351a81f384e5" />
The CME noted that Malaysia has made considerable progress since the economic difficulties experienced during the Asian financial crisis.
According to the report, Malaysia scored 6.99 and ranked 36th in 1995 before its score fell to 6.12 in 2002 following the financial crisis, capital controls and policy disruptions.
The country's position deteriorated further, reaching 97th place in 2009. However, Malaysia has gradually improved its standing since then, reflecting its longer-term progress in economic freedom.
The latest score of 7.57 marks its strongest performance since the index was established, suggesting that Malaysia has made significant gains over the decades despite facing economic and policy challenges along the way.
The improvement also reinforces Malaysia's position as one of Southeast Asia's more economically open economies, although the latest ranking suggests there is still room for further reform.
Government Ownership Remains a Key Concern
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f4d57510cb73caddb9a44fc4b7cd4032798a83df8448a27e7035f76a4597605b" />
CME chief executive officer Dr Carmelo Ferlito said Malaysia's monetary stability and relatively flexible labour market remained important strengths supporting its economic performance.
However, he warned that the government's extensive involvement in commercial activities continued to present a challenge.
According to Ferlito, government-linked companies (GLCs) and state-owned banks account for a substantial state presence in the economy, which he described as among the heaviest in the world.
He also raised concerns about public administration, stating that it had become less impartial since 2019.
While the country's record score is encouraging, Ferlito stressed that Malaysia should not become complacent as other economies continue to advance their economic reforms.
His comments highlight the ongoing debate over the role of government in the economy, particularly the balance between state participation, private-sector competition and market efficiency.
What Malaysia Needs to Do to Reach the Global Top 20
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d231982ee21843486056da568c1d7911fcbe2fe9c0aefaf186ab4678a4075298" />
Ferlito said Malaysia would need to pursue further structural reforms if it hopes to break into the world's top 20 economies in the economic freedom rankings.
Among the measures he identified were reducing state ownership in the economy, ensuring that the civil service operates according to clear rules and remains impartial, simplifying the country's tariff structure, and opening markets to greater competition.
Reducing barriers to competition could help create more opportunities for private businesses, while clearer and more impartial public administration could support a more predictable business environment.
Simplifying tariffs could also make trade arrangements easier to navigate, potentially improving market access for businesses and investors.
However, the proposed changes would require sustained policy efforts rather than relying solely on incremental improvements in the country's overall score.
Record Score Shows Progress, But More Reforms Are Needed
Malaysia's latest economic freedom score represents a milestone, reflecting its recovery from the setbacks experienced in the aftermath of the Asian financial crisis and its subsequent improvement over the years.
Nevertheless, its fall to 35th place globally serves as a reminder that maintaining competitiveness requires continued progress as other countries strengthen their own economic policies.
With Malaysia still ranked second in ASEAN, the country has a relatively strong regional position. The challenge now is to translate that standing into further improvements in economic openness, market competition and public administration.
As highlighted by CME, reaching the global top 20 will require Malaysia to address the role of state-owned entities, strengthen impartial governance and create greater opportunities for competition.
Whether Malaysia can climb higher in future editions of the index will depend not only on maintaining economic stability, but also on how effectively it implements the reforms needed to keep pace with the rest of the world.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Malaysia hits a record economic freedom score, but slower progress sees it slip two places in the global rankings.

8aff757719fee624bd62c48b431ee701ba53f0cc9c3586a534cdcfc762f84e6c

Malaysia Achieves Highest Economic Freedom Score Since 1970, But Slips To 35th Globally

Malaysians can now access a new savings and protection plan directly through ShopeePay following an expanded partnership between ShopeePay Malaysia and Zurich Life Insurance Malaysia Berhad (ZLIMB).
The new Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan combines savings with life and disability protection, giving users a way to build their financial future while receiving additional coverage. The two-year plan currently starts from a single premium of RM500, with the minimum entry amount set to be lowered to RM100 in the near future.
The partnership was officially launched in Kuala Lumpur on 7 October 2026 under the theme &ldquo;Everyday Protection, Made For All&rdquo;, marking the first time ShopeePay's digital distribution partnership with Zurich has extended to its life insurance business.
What Does The Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan Offer?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/02d8fdee262be6b2445a734c559a9c007eed48e7b28876a54e5e86c1b9cf1734" />
The Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan is a two-year, single-premium endowment plan designed to combine savings growth with life protection.
One of its key features is guaranteed cash payouts every six months, allowing policyholders to receive regular payments throughout the two-year period. The plan also provides life and disability protection equivalent to 105% of the premium paid, with the benefit payable to the policyholder or beneficiaries according to the terms of the policy.
At the end of the two-year maturity period, policyholders receive 100% principal protection, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.
There are also flexible early cash-out options for those who may need access to their money before the plan reaches maturity. However, the amount received through an early cash-out may differ from the maturity benefit, so customers should review the relevant terms before purchasing.
How To Purchase The Plan On ShopeePay
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8d9b3b8f382f3a162388fedb4e0ec88f82a040875e60c04fc2328acdf87b31af" />
The Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan is available directly through the ShopeePay app, allowing users to access the product digitally without having to visit an insurance branch.
To find the plan, users can open the ShopeePay app and select &ldquo;Insurance&rdquo; from the homepage, followed by &ldquo;Endowment&rdquo;.
The launch expands ShopeePay's existing relationship with Zurich. The platform already works with Zurich General Insurance Malaysia Berhad and Zurich General Takaful Malaysia Berhad, but this is the first time its digital distribution partnership has extended to Zurich's life insurance arm.
It also builds on the earlier availability of Zurich Critical Illness insurance through the platform.
Entry Premium To Be Lowered To RM100
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/41239d4b6ec3e4396504fea8aac52d5404aaf336d4b389c532e5e6030b04823c" />
The plan currently requires a minimum premium of RM500, but Zurich and ShopeePay are planning to reduce this to RM100.
While the lower entry point has not yet been implemented, it could make the product more accessible to Malaysians who want to start building financial protection with a smaller initial commitment.
Both companies said the broader goal is to make insurance and financial protection more accessible through digital platforms that consumers already use in their everyday lives.
Junior Cho, Country CEO of Zurich Malaysia, highlighted that Malaysia's protection gap is closely linked to accessibility, saying insurers need to reach consumers where they already are rather than expecting them to seek out traditional channels.
Family Takaful Plans Coming Next Year
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ce24b27f03d837ea0488d1e9954160c6552ede6a05201dc8e2d393731223dbe1" />
The partnership is also expected to expand into family takaful in 2027.
ShopeePay and Zurich Takaful Malaysia Berhad plan to introduce family takaful products through the platform, giving users access to Syariah-compliant protection alongside conventional insurance options.
Family takaful provides life and financial protection based on Syariah principles, offering Malaysians another option when planning for their long-term financial needs.
Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan At A Glance
For those considering the new product, here are the key details:
<ul>
<li>Minimum premium: RM500</li>
<li>Planned future minimum: RM100</li>
<li>Plan duration: Two years</li>
<li>Payment structure: Single premium</li>
<li>Guaranteed cash payouts: Every six months</li>
<li>Life and disability protection: 105% of premium paid</li>
<li>Principal protection at maturity: 100%</li>
<li>Early cash-out: Available, subject to the plan's terms</li>
<li>Available on: ShopeePay app</li>
<li>Access: Insurance &rarr; Endowment</li>
<li>PIDM protection: Benefits are protected by PIDM, subject to applicable limits</li>
</ul>
With the new Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan, ShopeePay is expanding beyond everyday payments and general insurance into life insurance, giving Malaysians another digital option to combine savings and financial protection.
The planned RM100 entry point and upcoming family takaful offerings could further widen access to financial protection, although customers should always review the product's terms, benefits and conditions before committing.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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No insurance yet? This could be a simple way to start building financial protection.

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