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CVSKL has recently achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully performing its inaugural MitraClip™ procedure, solidifying its position as one of Malaysia’s pioneering private hospitals to offer this cutting-edge treatment for mitral valve regurgitation.

Dr. Al Fazir, a distinguished consultant cardiologist at CVSKL, underscores the significance of the MitraClip™ procedure, emphasizing its potential to address mitral valve regurgitation without the necessity of open-heart surgery. This innovative approach provides a pivotal opportunity to mitigate valve malfunction.

The heart, a remarkable one-way pump comprising four chambers and four valves, relies on the coordinated movement of these flaps (leaflets or cusps) to ensure a unidirectional blood flow. When the mitral valve’s performance falters due to incomplete sealing or structural alterations, blood leakage—termed mitral valve regurgitation—occurs. This condition, if left untreated, can lead to severe complications such as heart failure and irregular heart rhythms.

What sets the MitraClip™ procedure apart is its non-invasive nature, eliminating the need for traditional mitral valve surgery. This makes it particularly appealing for older individuals, high-risk patients, and those contending with underlying health issues.

Under the leadership of consultant cardiologist Dr. Al Fazir Omar, supported by esteemed cardiologists Dr. Choo Gim Hooi and Datuk Dr. David Chew Soon Ping, the CVSKL team orchestrated the procedure with remarkable success, culminating after approximately four hours. Dr. Al Fazir shares his enthusiasm, noting the procedure’s potential for swifter recovery, exemplified by a two-day post-procedure discharge. “The MitraClip procedure is a game-changer for mitral valve regurgitation treatment,” he adds.

Dr. Choo further underscores the importance of collaborative teamwork in this achievement, acknowledging the synergy between the adept cardiologists and the dedicated surgical team. Dr. David extends his appreciation to the radiographers and nurses in the cathlab, acknowledging their integral role in the success of advanced interventions like MitraClip™.

This landmark achievement amplifies CVSKL’s stature in treating mitral valve regurgitation, reinforcing their Structural Heart Program. The inclusion of MitraClip™ in their repertoire aligns with their aspiration to position CVSKL as a Center of Excellence for comprehensive cardiovascular care.

For further inquiries, interested individuals can reach out during office hours via phone or WhatsApp at +603 2276 7002 or through email at info@cvskl.com.

Synergy’s Green Initiative Program is making significant strides as it expands its reach to foster Selangor’s journey towards becoming a low-carbon, smart city. This forward-looking program is aligned with the Selangor State Government’s ambitious goal of transforming into a low-carbon emission Smart City by 2025. The core objective of this initiative is to achieve energy savings that are equivalent to preventing over 3,700,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. This remarkable feat can be likened to the impact of planting more than 100,000,000 trees over a decade, benefitting 6,000 Joint Management Bodies (JMB) and Management Corporations (MC) of Strata Properties across Selangor.

With a steadfast commitment, the program sets its sights on significant accomplishments. A notable milestone for 2023 entails the implementation of LED lighting, aiming for a remarkable 10% conversion within Selangor’s townships. The urgency of addressing the pressing issue of global warming is evident, as our planet grapples with escalating environmental concerns that threaten its very existence. By harnessing innovative technologies, fostering collaborations with like-minded partners, and empowering communities, Synergy envisions aiding Selangor in realizing its carbon-neutral aspiration by 2050. In doing so, they strive to create a sustainable planet that can be cherished by future generations.

The significance of this program is underscored by its endorsement from key figures such as Roadziah binti Ismail, EXCO Perumahan, Kesejahteraan Bandar & Pembangunan Usahawan Negeri, and the Lembaga Perumahan & Hartanah Selangor (LPHS). This partnership exemplifies Synergy’s unwavering dedication to this transformative cause. By closely aligning with its partners, including JL Facilities Management Sdn Bhd (JLFM), Joint Management Committees (JMB), and MC of Strata Properties within Selangor, Synergy seeks to forge a united front in realizing these green goals.

During the event, YB. Roadziah voiced the Selangor state’s wholehearted commitment to the Green Initiative Program. She emphasized that the decision to appoint Synergy was rooted in rigorous evaluation, affirming the program’s significance. She also expressed gratitude for selecting Selangor as the launchpad for this impactful RM400 million endeavour, which is set to benefit 6000 JMB/MC entities within the state.

An embodiment of this program’s objectives can be observed in Geo Bukit Rimau, situated in Shah Alam and managed by JLFM. With the endorsement of the local town council, Majlis Bandaraya Shah Alam (MBSA), Geo Bukit Rimau proudly stands as one of the initial proponents of this program. Recognized as one of Synergy’s “Green Pioneers,” this property demonstrates the potential for meaningful change within the community.

Jeffry Low, Managing Director of JLFM, underlines the profound transformation of their role. Having managed various properties over three decades, they have evolved from property managers to advocates of green initiatives, driven by the collective desire for the best outcomes for properties and the environment.

To facilitate a seamless transition for interested participants, Majlis Mesyuarat Kerajaan Negeri (MMKN) Selangor has offered a special endorsement. This initiative offers comprehensive energy-saving solutions, encompassing products, services, savings protocols, and financial benefits. Notably, participants can join with zero upfront costs. Eva Yim, Executive Director of Synergy ESCO, highlights the groundbreaking nature of their offerings, exemplified by the exceptional 210 lumens per watt at a mere 5 watts, designed to last an impressive 150,000 hours or 34 years. This paradigm shift is especially significant as it extends to the residential segment, pivotal in driving societal change.

This policy’s endorsement by MMKN fortifies Synergy’s commitment to providing sustainable plans for future JMB and MC participants. This is particularly vital for those grappling with soaring operational costs and seeking avenues for cost reduction while simultaneously minimizing their carbon footprint.

With a compelling tagline, “Go Green Now, No Plan B!” Synergy aims to instigate immediate action. This call to action encourages individuals to become catalysts for healing, cherishing, and protecting our singular planet.

The recent launch of “Ekonomi MADANI” by Prime Minister and Finance Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim on July 27, 2023, spurred the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) to convene its annual industry dialogue, focusing on pivotal areas for capital market advancement and growth.

The Annual SC Industry Dialogue 2023 (SCID 2023) brought together 60 influential figures from the capital market sector, including industry leaders and senior representatives. The discussions encompassed a wide spectrum of subjects falling under three major categories: investment opportunities, funding inclusivity, and market reforms within the capital market.

Key topics of deliberation included fortifying promotional efforts for the capital market, fostering a robust domestic issuer pipeline, enhancing market vitality, broadening the investor base, and harnessing the potential of sustainability and Malaysia’s leadership in the Islamic Capital Market.

Participants in the industry also conveyed their appreciation for the recent slew of capital market measures unveiled by the Prime Minister, alongside those announced in February and June of the same year. Notably, some measures have already been implemented, such as the reduction in stamp duty for share trading and secondary trading in the private market.

Anticipation was palpable within the industry for the forthcoming initiatives. Among them, the expansion of the definition of sophisticated investors was highlighted. The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) foresees this initiative taking effect before the close of 2023.

A focal point of the SCID 2023 discussions revolved around three significant capital market measures recently introduced by the Prime Minister:

1. Reducing Board Lot Size: Plans to lower the current board lot size for trading on Bursa Malaysia from 100 units to a more accessible level.
2. Fractional Share Trading: Enabling investors to engage in fractional share trading through stockbrokers.
3. Automatic Transfer for ACE Market Companies: Allowing qualifying companies listed on the ACE Market to transition automatically to the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia, contingent on specific criteria.

Dato’ Seri Dr. Awang Adek Hussin, the SC Chairman, underscored the importance of sustained collaboration with stakeholders. He emphasized that this collaboration will be instrumental in driving essential reforms and enhancements aimed at fortifying the vibrancy, inclusivity, and competitiveness of the Malaysian capital market.

The planned reduction of board lot size and introduction of fractional share trading on Bursa Malaysia is expected to broaden accessibility for a diverse array of investors, particularly retail and younger investors, facilitating their entry into the stock market and enabling the creation of well-balanced portfolios. This is also predicted to boost trading activity, liquidity, and engender an environment of greater dynamism in the market.

Efforts are being made to ensure that the reduction of the board lot size is carefully implemented, involving a collaborative approach with brokers to potentially revise the current minimum commission structure to accommodate the lowered board lot size.

Moreover, the SC is collaborating with securities brokers to introduce flexible fractional trading options, ultimately expanding retail investors’ engagement in the stock market. This move will be governed by a set of comprehensive principles that prioritize price transparency and equity.

Concerning the automatic transfer of ACE Market companies to the Main Market, discussions at the SCID 2023 centered on establishing meaningful criteria to ensure the sustainable performance of promoted companies and their alignment with ongoing Main Market requirements.

Dato’ Seri Dr. Awang highlighted that this transfer process is expected to offer increased visibility and access to a broader investor base for qualifying ACE Market companies. Additionally, a greater number of Main Market-listed companies with substantial market capitalization will present diversified investment prospects, particularly appealing to larger and foreign investors, thus enriching the Malaysian capital market.

To expedite these initiatives, the SC is diligently reviewing and discussing criteria and processes in collaboration with Bursa Malaysia, with forthcoming announcements projected as the framework is solidified. The objective is for the eligibility criteria for automatic transfers to be in place by the conclusion of 2023. Furthermore, the fundamental principles guiding fractional trading are anticipated to be disclosed by the close of Q3 this year.

The recent SCID 2023 event played a timely and pivotal role in facilitating the execution of these critical capital market measures. The dialogue not only offered a platform for implementation but also generated valuable insights and innovative ideas to further propel the development of the capital market.

In a dazzling display of excellence, Generali Malaysia has once again emerged victorious, claiming the prestigious International General Insurer of the Year – Malaysia award at the illustrious Insurance Asia Awards 2023. This remarkable win marks a historic milestone for Generali, solidifying its position as the first and only general insurer in Malaysia to achieve such an awe-inspiring consecutive streak.

This coveted accolade is a resounding testament to Generali’s unwavering commitment to providing innovative products and services that are deeply rooted in customer experience and cutting-edge digital technology. The recent acquisition of AXA Affin joint ventures and MPI Generali Insurans Berhad has further bolstered Generali’s standing as one of Malaysia’s largest and foremost general insurers.

The grand event took place at the iconic Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore on the 27^th of July 2023, where Insurance Asia Awards celebrated the finest insurance companies that have made an extraordinary impact on customers through exceptional products, services, and solutions. Each award recipient was meticulously chosen by a distinguished panel of industry experts, ensuring that only the best of the best were honored.

Basking in the glory of this prestigious recognition is none other than Fabrice Benard, the esteemed Chief Executive Officer of Generali Insurance Malaysia Berhad and Country Head for Generali Entities in Malaysia. With over two decades of technical and strategic expertise in the realm of General Insurance, coupled with an impressive track record of senior management positions across renowned financial institutions and big four firms in France, Italy, the Middle East, and Asia, Fabrice’s leadership has been nothing short of exceptional. To add to his accolades, he was also bestowed with the esteemed CEO of the Year award for spearheading the transformative integration project that catapulted Generali Malaysia to the position of the second-largest general insurer in the country.

Generali Malaysia has been honoured with International General Insurer of the Year – Malaysia award for the 8^th consecutive year at Insurance Asia Awards 2023. Generali is the first and only general insurer in Malaysia to have attained this consecutive win.

Fabrice expressed his elation at the achievement, stating that 2023 is a transformative year for Generali Malaysia as it furthers its ‘Lifetime Partner’ strategy through a game-changing acquisition, which has expanded their scale, expertise, and network to better serve their valued customers. The reception of these two prestigious awards validates Generali’s unwavering commitment as a trusted insurer and dedication to providing unmatched customer service.

Generali’s recipe for success lies in its unwavering focus on People – the driving force behind delivering and upholding the company’s strong sense of purpose and Lifetime Partner ambition. With a legacy spanning over 190 years, Generali remains steadfast in its mission to place customers at the core of its strategy, addressing their protection needs, and providing them with ‘Personalized Value Propositions’, ‘Phygital Advice’ and ‘Effortless and Caring Experience’.

But Generali’s commitment to the community goes beyond just its customers. Through the launch of its flagship initiative, The Human Safety Net “Project Makan Sihat,” the company has demonstrated its dedication to serving the underserved market. In collaboration with NGO partner Yayasan Generasi Gemilang, this local fundraising activity, in conjunction with the global fundraising effort organized by The Human Safety Net, raised a commendable RM273,751 to combat malnutrition among children and families in PPR Lembah Subang.

 The stellar achievements of Generali Malaysia are a true reflection of the unwavering support and trust bestowed upon them by their valued customers, business partners, agents, brokers, distributors, and colleagues. It is a testament to Generali’s unwavering dedication to being a trusted and dependable partner for all their stakeholders, and it sets the stage for even greater milestones in the future.

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.