However, despite some sense of normalcy returning, countless families across the country continue to face economic uncertainty.

Headlines highlight that:

• Emerging Covid-19 variants still affect many daily.
• Monkeypox infections are doubling.
• Global tensions are heightened with the unresolved conflict in Ukraine.
• Shipping and supply chain issues are wreaking havoc on stock on shelves and causing the prices of everyday goods to balloon.
• Economies worldwide are facing high inflation rates and possibly a recession.

These prevailing factors are causing instability in job markets, increasing stress levels, and indirectly affecting the health and livelihoods of all citizens.

One in every four Malaysians is at risk of dying from a chronic illness including cancer, heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.

And although cancer is commonly believed to be the largest cause of death in Malaysia, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, heart disease accounted for one in every six deaths in 2020, an increase of almost 50% since 2000.

Along with the high cost of medical expenses, the burden extends further to most families during the prolonged recovery time or slow progression of many illnesses.

The inability to work due to poor health has added another layer of financial pressure that many are simply unprepared for.

The average coronary procedure can cost between RM30,000 to RM70,000. Meanwhile various forms of cancer treatments can cost anywhere from RM56,000 for lung cancer to RM395,000 for breast cancer.

Two out of three victims of stroke are left with some form of physical disability. While some can be treated with medication, others require costly surgical procedures from RM35,000 to RM75,000.

Although many of these conditions are outside of anyone’s control, there are definitive actions that can be taken to protect yourself and your family if you’re faced with any of these health challenges.

Prevention is better than cure

Whether you are single or have a family, safeguarding yourself against unexpected events that negatively impact the ability to earn a living and support your loved ones, are now more crucial than ever.

With a growing number of options in the market, takaful has become an increasingly popular choice, protecting Malaysians of all faiths and beliefs with its highly principled-driven business model.

Takaful participants faced with misfortune are assisted via donations (“tabarru’”) from monetary contributions pooled into a risk fund. Considered a form of unilateral donation, tabarru’ tolerates the element of uncertainty (“gharar”), such as unpredictable incidents and misfortunes.

Conveniently, options like Etiqa’s Family Takaful Berhad are available online offering almost instant approvals for everyone to protect themselves or their loved ones within minutes.

With the ability to choose which coverage suits your lifestyle best, an affordable solution to proactively hedge against unforeseen events is just a few clicks away.

Some plans like i-Secure and i-DoubleSecure Takaful require no medical examination. The former provides coverage for temporary and permanent disabilities, even for those up to 75 years of age, and offers lump sum payments to beneficiaries in the event of death.

Early stage, major, and advanced cancer are covered under e-CancerCare Takaful including carcinoma in situ (CIS), bladder cancer, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, prostate cancer, and thyroid cancer, offering participants peace of mind when facing battles that would otherwise drain all their energy and resources.

With advanced cash payouts of 30% of the coverage amount for early stage cancer and up to 150% lump sum cash payouts of the coverage amount for advanced cancer if no claim is made for early stage. Surprisingly, e-CancerCare Takaful coverage is available for as low as 21 cent a day.

And for those looking for the best and extensive takaful, e-Medical Pass Takaful plans start from as little as RM1.77 a day.

In line with their motto of FEBA (Fast, Easy, and Best Advice) and making things even easier, the Etiqa Smile app can be used to locate the nearest medical panel providers, submit medical claims, and even track the status of the Guarantee Letter.

Turbulent times are a reminder that everyone is statistically more likely to face challenges and it is always smarter to be prepared rather than be left with the prospect of dealing with a heavy financial burden or even complete financial ruin.

Find the right coverage for yourself by visiting Etiqa online today.