The Summit seeks to catalyse meaningful dialogue around sustainable healthcare solutions as Malaysia faces continuous medical cost inflation – estimated at approximately 15% in 2024 and projected to rise to 16% by 2026, significantly outpacing general inflation and exceeding global and Asia-Pacific averages of around 10–11%. This upward trajectory is driven by multiple structural factors, including rising workforce and operational cost, increased utilisation of private healthcare services, an ageing population coupled with a growing chronic disease burden, and the adoption of advanced medical technologies and treatment.
Between 2021 and 2023, cumulative medical claims inflation reportedly reached approximately 56%, placing considerable financial pressure on insurers and takaful operators and raising broader concerns about long-term viability of Malaysia’s healthcare financing ecosystem.
Impact on Insurance Premium
As a result, insurers were compelled to reprice their medical and health insurance/takaful (MHIT) plans. In 2024, many policyholders experienced steep premium hikes ranging from 20% to 40% or more, reflecting efforts to keep pace with escalating claims trends. This triggered public concern over affordability and long-term sustainability of MHIT plans.
Interim Measures and RESET Initiative
In response, Bank Negara Malaysia introduced interim measures to cushion the immediate impact. Beyond interim controls, the government also launched the RESET initiative – a broader structural reform involving the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, insurers, providers and other key stakeholders.
RESET focuses on improving price transparency, redesigning insurance products, strengthening digital health systems, promoting cost-effective care models, and reforming provider payment mechanisms.
In essence, rising premiums are a symptom of deeper healthcare cost pressures. The RESET initiative aims to move Malaysia from reactive premium adjustments toward long-term healthcare financing sustainability, ensuring continued access to quality care without compromising affordability.
Driving Collaborative Innovation for Sustainable Impact
While regulatory reforms are essential, meaningful progress requires collaboration across the entire healthcare ecosystem. This is where IMPACT Summit 2026 takes the lead.
📅 Date: 6 April 2026, Monday
⏰ Time: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
📍 Venue: Connexion Conference & Event Centre @ Nexus Bangsar South
🤝 Theme: Advancing Health Together — Driving Collaborative Innovation for Sustainable Impact
❗ Early Bird Registration: RM 1,750 per participant (HRDC Claimable)
✅ MMA Accreditation: 8 CPD points for doctors practising in Malaysia
🔗 Secure your seat today: https://lnkd.in/gdnTuuUd
IMPACT Summit 2026 will serve as a strategic platform bringing together healthcare leaders (payors and providers), alongside innovators, practitioners, policymakers, human resource professionals, and corporate decision-makers.
The Summit is designed to foster collaboration, exchange insights, and showcase solutions that deliver measurable, real-world impact. It supports Malaysia’s continued leadership in shaping a future-ready healthcare ecosystem through meaningful partnerships and actionable innovation.
Source: Press Release – IMPACT Summit 2026