Allianz General Insurance Company Berhad (Allianz General) has been providing its Allianz Goods Carrying Vehicle Comprehensive policyholders with a valuable add-on coverage known as Allianz Truck Warrior since its launch in February. This dedicated roadside assistance service has already attracted over 4,000 policyholders who opted for the add-on to enhance their protection.
With Allianz Truck Warrior, policyholders can access roadside assistance up to three times a year, including towing of their Goods Carrying Vehicles up to 100km roundtrip using a dedicated fleet of tow trucks. The service also covers on-site repair for breakdowns and offers a flood relief allowance of up to RM5,000 per flood event in case of vehicle damage caused by floods.
To enjoy these benefits, customers simply need to purchase Allianz’s motor insurance policy and add on RM120 for the Allianz Truck Warrior coverage. The goal is to provide comprehensive protection and peace of mind to businesses and ensure a hassle-free experience during vehicle breakdowns.
Sazali Abdul Rahman, Deputy Chief Sales Officer of Allianz General, emphasized the convenience and efficiency of the Allianz Truck Warrior service. Whether through the bike brigade for minor issues or towing for more serious breakdowns, customers can rely on a trusted and reliable partner.
Despite the average cost of towing a lorry being around RM800, Allianz offers this stress-free benefit at a fraction of the cost, making it an attractive choice for policyholders. To be eligible for Allianz Truck Warrior, the Goods Carrying Vehicle must have an A and C permit with Comprehensive Cover, weigh up to 7.5 tons Gross Vehicle Weight (BDM), and be aged 20 years or less.
The success of Allianz Truck Warrior reflects its end-to-end coverage and customer satisfaction. Allianz General continues to expand its Allianz Road Rangers fleet, with Allianz Truck Warrior being the latest addition, demonstrating their commitment to assisting policyholders of motorcycles, cars, and now goods carrying vehicles, regardless of their size.
The Malaysian Insurance and Takaful Brokers Association (MITBA), the national body of Insurance and Takaful brokers, takes great pride in announcing a series of remarkable achievements as it concludes a transformative period from 2022 to 2023. Throughout this time, MITBA has successfully spearheaded a range of impactful programs, fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence within the Insurance and Takaful broking sector, cementing its position as a formidable catalyst for change.
An exceptional highlight on MITBA’s journey was the annual CEO Conference held in Cape Town, South Africa this year. This prestigious event brought together top industry leaders from across Malaysia, providing a powerful platform for discussions on transformation and sustainable growth. The conference ignited enlightening conversations about emerging trends, risk management strategies, and strategic partnerships, setting new benchmarks for leadership and innovation within the Insurance and Takaful broking landscape. The CEO Conference served as a pivotal opportunity for MITBA to showcase the vital role of brokers and raise awareness among industry stakeholders.
Another significant milestone was the successful inaugural Leaders’ Summit held in Melaka in February 2023, organized by MITBA. This groundbreaking event united local experts in the Insurance and Takaful broking sector, sparking discussions on cutting-edge technologies, emerging trends, and the future of the industry. The Leaders’ Summit exemplified MITBA’s unwavering commitment to driving excellence and fostering collaboration, playing a crucial role in shaping a prosperous future for its members and elevating the understanding of brokers’ pivotal role within the industry.
Participants striking a pose at the 1st MITBA Leaders’ Summit 2023 in Melaka
Over this transformative period, MITBA further demonstrated its dedication to empowering its members through a series of thought-provoking talks and seminars. The “Frontiers of Manufacturer’s Liability” and “Planning for General Insurance” series, comprising multiple parts, addressed critical topics such as market analysis, product development, risk management, and emerging trends. Esteemed industry experts shared invaluable insights, equipping attendees with the necessary knowledge and strategies to navigate the complex landscape of general insurance successfully. These programs serve as a testament to MITBA’s ongoing efforts to provide its members with the tools and expertise required to excel as brokers.
Beyond its transformative initiatives, MITBA remains committed to corporate social responsibility. The association recently joined forces with PJ Caring Home for a meaningful CSR event, where MITBA members dedicated their time to engage with the residents, providing them with a heartwarming lunch and making a generous monetary donation. This act of compassion highlights MITBA’s commitment to making a positive impact on the community while exemplifying the values of care and support deeply ingrained within the association.
Vicky Rajaratnam, the esteemed Chairman of MITBA, expressed profound pride in the association’s milestone achievements during this transformative period. He emphasized that these remarkable accomplishments were made possible through the collective efforts of MITBA’s Management Committee and respected members, who consistently demonstrated their unwavering dedication to collaboration, innovation, and embracing change. Vicky further emphasized his long-standing desire to raise exposure and enhance public understanding of the vital role played by brokers within the Insurance and Takaful broking industry. With a clear vision of a future where Insurance and Takaful broking protect and empower individuals, businesses, and communities, MITBA continues to drive transformative change and excellence within the sector.
As MITBA celebrates these milestone achievements, the association remains steadfast in its commitment to inspire visionary leadership, foster collaboration, and shape the future of the insurance and broking industry. MITBA’s accomplishments from 2022 to 2023 serve as a testament to its dedication and ability to set new standards of excellence, firmly establishing itself as a driving force in the industry.
The Malaysian Direct Distribution Association (MDDA) marked its 30th anniversary recently with a gala dinner held at EQ Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. Datuk Azman Mohd Yusof, Secretary General from the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) kicked off the event with opening remarks and the gala dinner was attended by leading industry players and delegates from Direct Distribution Associations regionally.
In his opening speech, Datuk Azman Mohd Yusof congratulated MDDA on their milestone and lauded the association for its various achievements throughout the years.
“MDDA holds a crucial position in Malaysia’s direct selling industry, playing a vital role in its growth and development,” said Datuk Azman.
He added that through extensive training programs and knowledge-sharing platforms, MDDA has empowered individuals and businesses, fostered innovation and improved the skills of many direct selling industry players.
MDDA’S commitment to professionalism, adherence to high standards, and efforts in promoting ethical practices and transparency has elevated the industry’s reputation. Even amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the direct selling industry in Malaysia has shown resilience, he said.
According to Dato Sri Dr. Barani Karunakaran, President of MDDA, the association has embarked on a determined course to become the top direct selling association in the country, setting its sights on solidifying Malaysia’s position on the global stage of the direct selling industry.
He said that MDDA’s ambitious plan aligns with the surge of revenue from the direct selling industry in Malaysia valued at RM25 billion in 2020 to RM27 billion in 2021, signalling a strategic shift toward this growing business model globally. The initiative is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, increase the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), promote entrepreneurial growth, and create significant regional job opportunities.
Since its establishment in 1993, MDDA has grown to include 105 member companies, fostering a close relationship with KPDN in addressing industry challenges. The association has been actively amending the Direct Sales and Anti-Pyramid Scheme Act 1993 and resolving unauthorised selling and price markdowns on third-party platforms. MDDA is also continuously working together with KPDN enforcement team on eradicating issues in the Direct Selling Industry like the get-rich-quick schemes, money games and pyramid schemes by educating the public through its series of MDDA Straight Talk in Malay, English and Mandarin. Panels including industry leaders, KPDN officials and Royal Malaysia Police (RMP).
The event also saw the signing of the Regional Association Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MDDA, AP2LI Indonesia, and FDSA India. The MoU signifies a collaborative effort to strengthen the direct selling industry across the region. Dato Sri Dr. Barani Karunakaran, MDDA President, Mr. Andrew Susanto (AP2LI), and Mr. A P Reddy (FDSA) represented their respective organisations during the signing ceremony. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) will assist all MDDA members in expanding their markets globally and promoting Malaysian products in the global market.
In addition, MDDA presented the MDDA Intrapreneur Program, endorsed by the Direct Selling Unit of KPDN. The program aims to enhance professionalism in the direct selling sector and is claimable under the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF). Certificates were handed over to 20 recipients, acknowledging their participation in the program.
The gala dinner included the presentation of various awards, honouring companies that have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and social responsibility. Among the winners were Meganet4U Sdn Bhd, ShoppyMore Global Sdn Bhd, GMJ Konsortium Sdn Bhd, VKids Trend Sdn Bhd, Destina 1 International Sdn Bhd, M-Plan Sdn Bhd, Melilea (M) Sdn Bhd, Asia MLM Solutions Sdn Bhd, Bio-Science Marketing Sdn Bhd, Jeunesse Global Sdn Bhd, Netturul Resources Sdn Bhd, Era Edar Marketing Sdn Bhd and RCC Worldwide (M) Sdn. Bhd.
The MDDA 30th Anniversary Gala Dinner provided an ideal platform to honour achievements, strengthen industry alliances, and set the stage for a promising future in the direct selling sector. As MDDA continues to champion professionalism and excellence, the industry can anticipate even greater advancements in the years ahead.
DNA Mapping, also known as DNA sequencing or genetic profiling, can provide actionable insights and help individuals identify genetic predispositions to certain diseases and health risks and to take proactive steps towards prevention. With that, Dyna Medical has introduced DynaDNA, Malaysia’s microarray technology DNA test kits, and Dyna App, a free-to-use digital gateway to improving users’ health and knowledge.
The DynaDNA test kit is a DNA test kit that is fully made in Malaysia. With just a simple saliva sample, over 500 genetic tests can be accurately conductes producing results for over 150 traits across 10 separate profiles, including those for heart and vascular health, genetic health conditions and disorders, brain conditions, and allergies and food sensitivity.
Mr. Martin Low Wink Keng, managing director of Dyna Medical, emphasised that by making DNA test kits more accessible, individuals will be empowered to make informed decisions about their own health and wellbeing. He gave the example of those who are concerned by the possibility of genetic diseases, such as thalassemia. A DNA test can make them aware of their risk of inheriting those diseases and allow them to make any necessary preparations or lifestyle changes.
He also spoke on the benefits of DynaApp, an integrated wellness platform that puts the power of personalised healthcare in the individual’s hands.
The free-to-use digital platform lets users view their DNA test kit results instantly, and at their convenience, allow users to book a consultation with qualified DynaDNA-partnered health professionals to explore their test results or to plan the next step of their health journey. Users can also purchase health and wellness products through the app’s built-in e-commerce feature.
Future developments for the app include access to a range of wellness services, including spa treatments and facials, as well as travel packages to notable wellness retreats. By making these products and services readily available to users, DynaApp is committed to understanding and addressing their unique needs and concerns and aims to help them achieve a healthy and holistic lifestyle.
Digital content creator and mother of three Iman Azman shared about her experience using the DynaDNA test kit at the launch. Also present was Dr. Hans Jeffry, a Dyna Medical medical product specialist, where he explained how DNA genetic profiling is able to provide actionable insights for one to take preventive measures for his or her own health and wellbeing.
It is Dyna Medical’s commitment to addressing the unique needs and concerns of the wellness community that has led the company to partner with KL Wellness City to host the launch of DynaDNA and Dyna App. As Southeast Asia’s first 360-degree wellness hub, KL Wellness City is a fully integrated township built around the concepts of medical care, healthcare, wellness and fitness, and shares in the principles of prioritising personal health knowledge.
Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara (THKD), the flagship hospital of TMC Life Sciences Berhad has become the first hospital in Southeast Asia to administer Spinraza, a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatment for Spinal Muscular Atrophy. The recipient of the treatment is a 5-year-old Sarawakian child, who has been diagnosed with SMA since birth.
This first initiative is part of THKD’s collaborative CSR program with ‘One Hope Charity & Welfare’ to provide treatment for a period of two years. The procedure was performed by consultant paediatric anaesthesiologist Dr Foo Sze Yuen in the presence of consultant paediatrician & paediatric neurologist Dr Sangita Dharshini Terumalay.
Dr Sivakumaran Jayaram, chief operating officer (Clinical) of THKD (fourth from left); Dr Foo Sze Yuen, consultant pediatric anaesthesiologist (fifth from left)
THKD CEO Nadiah Wan has said that THKD is proud to be at the forefront of this advancement in paediatric care. As TMC Life Sciences Berhad is a leading women and children’s healthcare group, THKD is dedicated to achieving new milestones in paediatric and women’s health, as demonstrated in their commitment as a participating hospital in the MySpin Patient Assistance Programme for SMA patients.
“The administration of intrathecal Spinraza is a testament to our pursuit of excellence, in line with our focus on women and children services as we move into more paediatric sub-specialties. With Spinraza, we can significantly improve the quality of life for children battling SMA. Its introduction into our treatment protocols empowers us to deliver even more targeted and effective care, elevating the standard of paediatric medicine and instilling hope in families facing this challenging genetic disorder. It is also a manifestation of our vision of helping people lead healthier lives by making healthcare accessible, accountable and sustainable.”
Dr Sangita said the administering of Spinraza in the hospital ushers in a new era of hope and enhanced care for children. “My primary objective as a paediatrician is to ensure the well-being and recovery of every child entrusted to our care. This certainly represents a milestone in paediatric medicine, offering an effective treatment that will positively impact the lives of affected children.”
Spinraza received US FDA approval in 2016 after a series of trials that showed meaningful benefits in seven clinical trials involving infants and children with SMA, thus becoming the first approved therapy for paediatric and adult patients with SMA. It is administered via injection into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord by a physician with SMA experience. Spinraza works as a disease modifying treatment that targets the underlying cause of muscle weakness in SMA – the Survival Motor Neuron (SMN) protein (Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke).
SMA is an inherited neurological genetic disorder that affects the central nervous system causing the nerve cells in the spinal cord and brainstem not to work properly. It impacts individuals across a range of ages, from infants and children to teens and adults, and with varying levels of severity. It is estimated that one in every 10,000 births worldwide is diagnosed with SMA, an inherited disease, and around one in every 40-50 people globally are carriers of the mutated gene (Source: Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Mutations, Testing, and Clinical Relevance).
Authority Institute’s co-founder and chief marketing strategist Maverick Foo was recently awarded Vistage Malaysia’s Speaker of the Year 2022 —empowering him to join a pantheon of exceptional speakers to have made an impact on Malaysian businesses.
At the recent Vistage CEO Summit 2023 held at the One World Hotel in Petaling Jaya, Foo was recognised as a thought leader, like past awardees, who shared vital insights about topics they have cultivated a passion for and developed considerable expertise about.
Maverick Foo, Speaker of the Year 2022.
“I am proud to have received this accolade on behalf of Authority Institute. It gives our institution a new boost and the confidence that we’re on the right track,” Foo said. He explained that his firm focuses on providing marketing and business growth consulting to small and medium enterprises.
In his journey to this achievement, Foo worked on focusing to help Vistage Malaysia’s members understand the significance of developing a comprehensive strategy to capture the attention and interest of target customers in their businesses.
“It’s what we call a Customer Attraction Game Plan and this was the winning ticket to being awarded Speaker of the Year, alongside being judged on my performance, community involvement and lifetime achievements,” he added.
Speakers of the Year awardees are invited to speak at Vistage meetings for at least two consecutive years and are scheduled to give a minimum of 30 presentations to Vintage groups. The audience rate speakers after each presentation. Typically, speakers must aim for an average score of at least 8.5 out of 10 in content and delivery, to be considered for the title.
Foo presented at 37 sessions to a total of 32 groups and earned an average score of 8.8 for content and 8.9 for delivery. He was also subjected to vetting by a panel of Vistage staff members who judged his demonstration of Vistage’s core values of trust, caring, challenge, and growth.
“Vistage Malaysia uses the Speaker of the Year Award to recognise individuals who bring significant value to our members. Awardees consistently deliver high-quality, relevant, actionable content, and they represent a model for all Vistage speakers,” the organisation notes.
Authority Institute is the embodiment of consultants and trainers backed by a 40-year cumulative industry experience thus guaranteeing the best possible outcome and most relevant knowledge transfer to its clientele.
“Our uniqueness is emphasised by our capability to complement the training and consulting with signature solution frameworks and software tools. I can say, globally, that no other training and consulting company will deliver training that leaves practical frameworks that can be embedded into an organisation’s business.
“This is followed by post-training coaching programmes that provide practical means to apply all you’ve learned to your everyday business activities,” he said, adding that Authority Institute’s approach to strategic marketing is characterised by focusing on market orientation, customer needs, and value articulation.
This includes identifying new opportunities and ways to refine existing offerings; identifying ways to serve customers better while targeting new segments; assessing current market fundamentals, and identifying opportunities within and externally.
“We also look to identify competitive weaknesses to exploit and look to help you gain lasting competitive advantage in your market. Authority Institute also determines ways for businesses to improve operationally, and assess potential new opportunities to boost sales and profits.
“Authority Institute is always open to collaborating with firms and working towards achieving success across the board,” Foo said.
