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Understanding Life Insurance: Guide to The Basics of Life Insurance

In this article, we explain term life insurance and its importance, life insurance with critical illness riders and how to choose a suitable plan. Whether you're looking for the best life insurance policy or simply want to learn more about life insurance, this guide is a great place to find affordable life insurance in Malaysia.

What is life insurance?

Life insurance is a contract between a life insurance company and a policy owner. A life insurance policy guarantees the insurer pays a sum of money to one or more named beneficiaries upon the death of the insured in exchange for premiums paid by the policyholder during their lifetime.

How life insurance works?

Policyowner pays premium
The policyowner (customer) will make periodic premium payments to the insurance company for their insurance policy based on their plan coverage
Premiums pooled within the Insurance Fund
The insurance company pools premiums from customers into the Insurance Fund, and uses the Fund to pay for claims.
Insurance company pays benefits to policyowners
In the event of a mishap, the insurance company pays out benefit to the customer according to policy contract.

Why is life insurance important?

Life insurance ensures financial continuity by providing financial support for your family after your death. It is a crucial investment as it helps your loved ones if something unfortunate should happen to you. The following are some benefits of life insurance:

  • Alleviating the financial burden on your family

  • Providing financial security and stability

  • Assisting with daily expenses

  • Covering college and university fees for your children

  • Paying off your house mortgage

  • Covering funeral expenses

  • Safeguarding your business, if you own one

  • Supporting your spouse and family

  • Enabling you to leave an inheritance

Type of life insurance plans

 

 

 

Conventional plan

Investment-linked plan

Term

Endowment/Whole Life

Endowment/Whole Life

 

Needs

Insurance protection for a limited period only and benefit is paid out upon death or Total and Permanent Disability (TPD), whichever is earlier

Combination of protection and savings whereby benefit is paid at the end of a specific period, or upon death or TPD, whichever is earlier

Combination of protection and investment whereby premium is used to buy insurance protection and units in Investment Linked Funds managed by insurance company. The value of your policy will depend on the performance of the Investment Linked Funds

 

 

 

Fund type

 

Non Participating Life Insurance Fund - Investment risk is borne by insurance company

 

Participating Life Fund - Investment risk is borne by insurance company & Policyowner, through the sharing in profit in the form of non-guaranteed bonuses to the policy; or

Non Participating Life Insurance Fund - Investment risk is borne by insurance company

 

 

Pre-fixed or customer-chosen Investment Linked Funds - Investment risk is borne by Policyowner

 

 

Supplementary cover
  • Commonly known as riders, these are optional benefits to consider for additional protection

    • Accidental

    • Critical Illness

    • Medical & Health

    • Payor/Waiver Benefits

  • Subject to availability and eligibility of the offered plan

  • Additional premiums will be required

 

 

Premium & Coverage

*Buying a life insurance policy is a long term commitment. You should satisfy yourself that this policy will best serve your needs and that the premium payable under the policy is an amount that you can afford.  

                                          

  • Premium can be guaranteed and non-guaranteed.

  • Coverage continues as long as premiums are made

  • If there is any outstanding premium and provided the policy has sufficient cash value, the insurance company will use the cash value to pay for the premiums and interest in default to ensure coverage continues. However, once the cash value is exhausted, the policy will lapse 

 

 

  • Non-guaranteed premium

  • Premium is allocated to buy units for coverage, while charges are paid by redemption of units

  • Unallocated premium is used to fund commission and insurance company expenses

  • Coverage is subject to sufficiency of units for payment of insurance and other charges

  • Potential upside from underlying Investment Linked Funds

  • Flexibility for Policyowner in fund selection/switching/top-up (i.e. for voluntary savings/investment)/withdrawal

 

 

 

 

The benefit will be paid in the event of the insured person's death or TPD (where applicable) during the term of the policy

 

  • The benefit will be paid to the insured person when policy matures at the end of the term, or upon death or TPD (where applicable), whichever is earlier

  • Potential upside for Participating type of policy

 

 


For more information on choosing the right insurance plan, please visit www.prudential.com.my or contact our Prudential Wealth Planner/Bank Representative.

Learn more about life insurance in Malaysia in your preferred language:

EN 

BM 

 

How do I choose the best life insurance policy in Malaysia?

There are many life insurance products in the market. To make the right choice for life insurance coverage, evaluating your policy objectives and determining the appropriate policy that meets your requirements is important.

The following are some other factors to consider when choosing a life insurance policy:

Your financial goals

Whether you want to provide income replacement if something should happen to you, cover mortgage expenses, or leave a legacy, your financial goals will shape the type and amount of coverage needed. Thus, it’s essential to assess your coverage based on financial objectives as well as your current financial situation.

Your budget

Your budget is pivotal in determining the type and amount of life insurance policy you can afford. Evaluate your monthly or annual budget to ensure premium payments fit comfortably within your financial constraints. Consistency in premium payments is vital for the continuity of coverage.

Type and duration of coverage

Understanding the different types of coverage available is essential. Term life insurance covers the policyholder for a specific term. It is a cost-effective option for those seeking temporary protection.

On the other hand, whole life insurance provides lifelong coverage, often with a cash value component. This is a comprehensive option for long-term needs.

Flexibility and customisation

Some policies allow for adjustments in coverage amounts or the ability to convert term policies to permanent ones. This flexibility means you’ll be able to adapt your life insurance coverage to your financial situation or life circumstances.

Underwriting and health considerations

Understanding the underwriting process and how it impacts premiums and coverage is another important factor when choosing a life insurance policy.

Additionally, you may be required to have a medical examination. Be honest and transparent about your health history to ensure accurate underwriting and to avoid potential issues with future claims.

Professional advice

Choosing the right insurance policy can be complex, so professional guidance can be a big help. Don’t hesitate to consult a qualified insurance agent or financial advisor to navigate the available options. Professional advice can help align your coverage with your unique needs and, thus, ensure a tailored and effective life insurance plan.

For more information on choosing the right insurance plan, please visit www.prudential.com.my or contact our Prudential Wealth Planner/Bank Representative.

Learn more about life insurance in Malaysia in your preferred language:

ENG

BM

FAQ

What is life insurance with an investment?

Life insurance with investment is a policy that combines life insurance coverage with an investment component. The policyholder pays premiums, which are invested in stocks, bonds, or other investment vehicles, and grows over time.

Does life insurance cover critical illness?

A critical illness rider can usually be added on to your life insurance policy. In fact, it’s a good idea to do so as this rider will cover critical illnesses, such as cancer, heart attack, and stroke. If the policyholder is diagnosed with a covered illness, they receive a lump-sum payment.

Does EPF provide life insurance?

Malaysia’s Employee Provident Fund (EPF) does not provide life insurance coverage directly. However, EPF members can use funds in account 2 to purchase a life insurance policy from an insurance provider. Secure the future of your loved your loved ones with PRUGuard Life, Prudential’s life insurance in partnership with EPF.

How much life insurance coverage do I need?

The amount of coverage needed depends on factors such as your current financial obligations, income replacement needs, and long-term goals. Speaking to one of our team at Prudential can help determine an appropriate coverage amount tailored to individual circumstances.

What is a death benefit in a life insurance policy?

The death benefit refers to the amount paid to beneficiaries upon the policyholder’s death. It provides financial support and can be used to cover expenses such as funeral costs, outstanding debts, and ongoing living expenses for the beneficiaries.

How are life insurance premiums determined?

Premiums are calculated based on factors such as age, health, coverage amount, and the type of policy. Typically, healthy individuals and those purchasing coverage at a younger age may enjoy lower premiums.

Do I need a medical examination to get life insurance?

This depends. A medical examination may be required during the underwriting process. Your health history may influence the premiums and coverage offered.

Can I adjust my life insurance coverage as my needs change?

Some life insurance policies offer this flexibility, allowing you to adjust coverage amounts or convert term policies to permanent ones. It’s important to review your policy periodically to ensure it continues to align with your evolving needs.

What is cash value in a life insurance policy?

Cash value refers to a feature often found in investment-linked policies. It represents the policy's savings or investment component, allowing the policyholder to accumulate funds over time.

Can I buy life insurance for someone else?

Yes, you can usually purchase life insurance for another person, such as a spouse, child, or dependent.

What happens if I stop paying my life insurance premiums?

Your life insurance policy may lapse if you stop paying premiums. This means it loses its active status. Some policies have a grace period, but it’s crucial to understand the consequences, which may include the loss of coverage and potential financial implications.

Can I have multiple life insurance policies?

Yes, it is possible to have multiple life insurance policies. In fact, this can be beneficial if your coverage needs change over time. Ensure that your policies' total coverage aligns with your financial goals and obligations.

What is underwriting, and how does it affect my life insurance application?

Underwriting refers to a process by which an insurance company evaluates your risk and determines the terms of your coverage. Health, lifestyle, age, and occupation are some factors that influence the premiums and coverage offered.

Can I change the beneficiaries on my life insurance policy?

Yes, most life insurance policies allow the change of beneficiaries. It is important to review and update your beneficiaries after significant life events, such as marriage or the birth of children, to ensure that your wishes are reflected in the policy.

What is a life insurance rider?

Life insurance riders are optional add-ons to a life insurance policy. They work to provide additional benefits, protection, or customization. For instance, a waiver of premiums rider waives premiums in certain circumstances, or an accidental death rider, which provides an additional benefit if death occurs due to an accident.

Can I get life insurance if I have pre-existing health conditions?

Yes, it is possible to obtain life insurance with pre-existing health conditions. However, your health may influence the type of coverage and premiums, and thus, certain conditions might lead to higher premiums.

What happens if I outlive my term life insurance policy?

If you outlive a term life insurance policy, there is no payout at the end of the term. However, there may be the option to renew the policy, convert it to a permanent one, or explore new coverage based on your current needs.

What is the difference between individual and group life insurance?

Individual life insurance is purchased independently and, thus, can be tailored to individual needs. Group life insurance is mostly offered by employers and provides coverage to a group of people, often with limited customisation options.

Can I purchase life insurance for my child?

Yes. Life insurance for your child can provide financial protection and may also accumulate cash value over time. Securing coverage at a young age can potentially lock in lower premiums.

What happens if I miss a premium payment?

There is often a grace period during which you can make the payment without the policy lapsing. However, you must also understand the terms of the grace period and the potential consequences of missed or late payments.

Can I have life insurance if I am a smoker?

Yes, you can. However, smoking may result in higher premiums due to the increased health risks it presents. Providing accurate information about smoking and other lifestyle habits during the application process is essential for accurate underwriting.

Does life insurance cover death from all causes?

Life insurance generally covers death from most causes, including illness, accidents, and natural causes. However, there may be policy exclusions, such as suicide. Hence, it’s important to read and understand your policy coverage.

How often should I review my life insurance policy?

We recommend reviewing life insurance policies annually or when a significant life event occurs, such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or changes in financial status. Reviewing your policy regularly ensures that your coverage aligns with your current needs and goals.