Best Travel Insurance for Malaysia (2024 Comparison)

Heading across the border for a quick Malaysia getaway soon? Apply for one of these travel insurance plans to stay protected no matter where you are in Malaysia!

If you live in Singapore, you're probably no stranger to the enticing long weekend getaway to our friendly neighbouring country, Malaysia. Whether it's just across the causeway to Johor Bahru, or further up north to the bustling capital of Kuala Lumpur, having a reliable travel insurance plan is essential. Protect yourself on your trip by comparing travel insurance and choosing one of these best plans for your trip from Singapore to Malaysia.

Travel insurance is crucial for any trip to Malaysia to ensure peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen events. Common risks while travelling to international countries include medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Moreover, medical costs abroad can be significant, and having coverage can prevent these expenses from becoming a burden. 

Additionally, travel insurance can assist in case of flight delays or cancellations, ensuring that your plans are minimally disrupted. By securing a comprehensive travel insurance plan in Singapore, you can enjoy your Malaysian adventure with confidence, knowing you are protected against potential mishaps.

Why Should You Get Travel Insurance When Travelling to Malaysia?

Scrimping on your limited AL? Driving into Malaysia for a day trip or a short vacation has essentially become one of the best activities for many Singaporeans. This has prompted some to question if it is best to get travel insurance if you’re heading to Malaysia.

Well friends, the answer is always “yes”, just on the off chance that something bad happens and you find yourself in need of emergency assistance or medical attention while in a foreign land. 

Here are some other reasons why you should get travel insurance when travelling to Malaysia:

1. Secure Your Short Trips

One might think that short trips bear less risk, but unexpected events such as lost luggage, accidents, or sudden illnesses, don't discriminate based on the duration of your stay. Short trips to Malaysia can be just as unpredictable as longer journeys. Travel insurance provides a safety net, ensuring that even a quick hop across the causeway is protected against unforeseen mishaps. This coverage best protects peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your trip, irrespective of its length.

2. Tailored Protection for Every Adventure

Every trip comes with its own set of activities and potential risks, especially in a diverse destination like Malaysia. Whether you’re exploring bustling city streets or engaging in the best outdoor adventures, the right travel insurance plan offers protection tailored to your itinerary. It safeguards you against specific concerns, from adventure sports mishaps to unexpected medical issues, ensuring that your travel insurance meets your exact needs. Opting for coverage that suits your trip type and activities means you’re not just covered; you’re wisely protected.

3. Peace of Mind for Frequent Travellers

For those who frequently cross borders, an annual travel insurance policy is not just convenient; it's a smart financial decision. With the potential for multiple trips to Malaysia and beyond, annual coverage ensures you're always prepared, without the need to purchase a new policy for each trip. This continuous coverage offers peace of mind on every journey, providing value that far exceeds its cost over time. Whether you’re travelling for business, leisure, or a bit of both, an annual policy ensures you're ready for whatever comes your way, all year round.

Comparing the Best Travel Insurance Plans for Tourists in Malaysia

Here Are The Best Travel Insurance Plans In Malaysia

Starr TraveLead Travel Insurance (Comprehensive) – Bronze 

Despite its cheap price, StarrLead Travel Insurance (Comprehensive) – Bronze can offer a lot for your Malaysia trip. 

• Total Medical Coverage: You’ll get up to S$200,000 in overseas medical coverage. Emergency evacuation and/or repatriation coverage is unlimited.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: There is an overseas hospital cash benefit of S$200 per day (capped at S$5,000) and a hospitalisation guarantee of up to S$7,000.
• Outpatient Coverage: There are follow-up medical treatment benefits of up to S$15,000, and allowances for alternative treatments such as Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Physiotherapy and Chiropractic.
• Trip Cancellation:  You will get up to S$5,000 coverage for trip cancellation and up to S$5,000 in trip curtailment benefits.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Trip disruption benefits and personal luggage coverage are also generous (for the premium), with up to S$2,000 coverage for travel document loss and alternative accommodations (S$400 per day). As for personal belongings, you’ll be covered for up to S$3,000 – with a S$1,400 sub-limit for laptops, and an S$1,000 sub-limit for cameras. 
• COVID-19 Coverage: Coverage for COVID-19 is S$20,000.

FWD Travel Insurance – Premium

FWD Travel Insurance is slightly costlier than Starr TraveLead and offers a similar scope and level of coverage for travellers to Malaysia. 

• Total Medical Coverage: You’ll get up to S$200,000 in overseas medical coverage. There is unlimited coverage for emergency evacuation and repatriation. This plan also includes personal accident cover, as you will receive S$200,000 in benefits in case of accidental death or total and permanent disability. Those without a life policy or standalone personal accident plan should consider getting this plan.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: This plan includes an overseas hospitalisation cash benefit of S$200/day, up to S$5,000.
• Trip Cancellation: The trip cancellation coverage is up to S$7,500
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: You will get up to S$3,000 cover for personal luggage (with an S$1,000 sub-limit for laptop/tablet, and an S$300 sub-limit for mobile phone). 
• COVID-19 Coverage: There’s no COVID-19 coverage provided by default, and you’ll need to purchase that as an add-on.

TIQ Travel Insurance – Entry

Tiq Travel Insurance – Entry offers a similar level of coverage as its contemporaries.

• Total Medical Coverage: The plan includes up to S$200,000 in overseas medical benefits and up to S$1,000,000 for emergency evacuation and repatriation.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: You get an overseas hospitalisation cash benefit of S$200/day, up to S$5,000 and a hospital allowance in Singapore of S$50/day, up to S$500.
• Trip Cancellation: This plan provides up to S$5,000 for trip cancellation and S$3,000 for travel curtailment.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: For personal luggage, you’ll be covered for up to S$2,000 (with a S$1,000 sub-limit for the laptop, and an S$250 sub-limit for all other items). Travel documents cover is low though, at just S$150. 
• COVID-19 Coverage: You need to purchase a COVID-19 cover as a separate add-on.

MSIG TravelEasy – Standard

Another good insurance option for travel to Malaysia is MSIG TravelEasy – Standard, which provides the highest level of coverage out of all these plans. 

• Total Medical Coverage: You get S$250,000 in overseas medical coverage for your Malaysia trip. In addition, there’s also a further S$25,000 sum assured for follow-up medical expenses in Singapore, making it one of the best travel insurance plans in terms of medical coverage. You’ll get S$1,000,000 cover for emergency evacuation and repatriation, as well as S$150,000 in personal accident benefits.
• Outpatient Coverage: This plan provides S$5,000 for emergency dental benefits.
• Trip Cancellation: As for trip inconvenience, you can receive up to S$5,000 for travel cancellation and travel curtailment, while any disruptions to your travel plan entitle you to up to S$1,000 in compensation.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: For personal items and documents, you’ll also receive up to S$3,000 cover for luggage (with a S$1,000 sub-limit for laptop and tablet, and S$500 sub-limit for all other items), and up to S$2,000 for loss of travel documents.
• COVID-19 Coverage: You get S$75,000 for COVID-19

Singlife Travel Insurance — Travel Prestige

Singlife is a great all-rounded plan that offers high coverage for medical expenses.

• Total Medical Coverage: You get unlimited coverage up to S$400,000 for overseas medical coverage and emergency medical evacuation. In addition, there’s also a further S$80,000 coverage for follow-up medical expenses in Singapore, making it one of the best travel insurance plans for the highest medical coverage. You’ll get S$500,000 in personal accident benefits.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Receive S$200 for every 24 hours, up to S$50,000 coverage.
• Flight Delay Coverage: Get coverage of S$100 for every 6-hour delay, up to S$2,000.
• Trip Cancellation: As for trip cancellation, you can receive up to S$20,000 coverage, while you are entitled to up to S$3,000 for any trip postponements. Additionally, receive up to S$7,500 for trip cancellation for any reason! This insurance plan gives you the ultimate flexibility when it comes to changing travel plans.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: For personal items and documents, you’ll also receive up to S$8,000 cover for luggage (with a S$700 sub-limit for any article), up to S$3,000 for loss of money and up to S$5,000 for loss of travel documents.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Enjoy up to S$200,000 for medical expenses incurred due to COVID-19.

AIG Travel Guard Direct — Supreme

• Total Medical Coverage: Enjoy up to S$2,500,000 coverage for overseas medical coverage, up to unlimited coverage for emergency evacuation and S$50,000 coverage for follow-up medical expenses in Singapore. Additionally, this travel insurance policy will reimburse up to S$300,000 for accidental death or permanent disability.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Receive S$200 for every 24 hours, up to a maximum of $50,000 
• Flight Delay Coverage: Get coverage of S$100 for every 6-hour delay, up to S$3,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Receive up to S$15,000 coverage, while you are entitled to up to S$2,000 for any trip alterations before you depart. 
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: For personal items and documents, you’ll receive up to S$10,000 cover for luggage (with a S$500 sub-limit for any article), up to S$1,000 for loss of the laptop and up to S$1,000 for loss of jewellery.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Enjoy up to S$250,000 for medical expenses incurred due to COVID-19.

Allianz Travel Insurance — Platinum

• Total Medical Coverage: Enjoy up to S$1,000,000 coverage for overseas emergency medical coverage and up to S$2,500 for medical expenses incurred in Singapore after you return home. Additionally, this travel insurance policy will reimburse up to S$100,000 for accidental death or permanent disability.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Receive S$100 for every 24 hours, up to a maximum of $2,000 
• Flight Delay Coverage: Get coverage of up to S$1,600, with a daily cap of S$400.
• Trip Cancellation: Receive up to S$10,000 coverage, while you are entitled to up to S$2,000 for any trip alterations before you depart.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: For personal items and documents, you’ll receive up to S$5,000 cover for luggage (with a S$500 sub-limit for any article), and a maximum benefit of S$1,500 for all high-value items combined.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Enjoy up to S$250,000 for medical expenses incurred due to COVID-19.

Seedly Travel Insurance — Travel Secure

• Total Medical Coverage: Enjoy up to S$500,000 coverage for overseas medical coverage and up to S$400,000 for medical expenses incurred in Singapore after you return home. Plus, this travel insurance policy will reimburse up to S$300,000 for accidental death or permanent disability.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Receive S$200 for every 24 hours, up to a maximum of $20,000 
• Flight Delay Coverage: Get coverage of S$100 for every 6 hours, be it in Singapore or overseas, up to S$2,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Receive up to S$10,000 coverage, while you are entitled to up to S$10,000 for any trip curtailments.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: For personal items and documents, you’ll receive up to S$10,000 cover for luggage (with a S$500 sub-limit for any article), and a maximum benefit of S$800 for all valuables.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Included in the limit for overseas medical expenses.

Comparing Malaysia Travel Insurance Coverage

The coverage amounts for each travel insurance provider listed above are an overview of their offerings. Each provider offers various plans that you can choose from based on your preferences and needs.

How Do I Make a Travel Insurance Claim for My Malaysia Trip?

Making a travel insurance claim may look complex, but by following these steps, you can complete the process smoothly and ensure you receive the best compensation you're entitled to for any mishaps during your trip to Malaysia.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents

Begin by collecting all documents that support your travel insurance claim, categorised into reports and statements, receipts, and photographs:

• For stolen items: Obtain a police report within 24 hours of the incident and secure a copy for your insurer.
• For lost or damaged luggage: File a report with the airline and keep a copy for your claim.
• For flight delays and cancellations: Acquire an airline statement, which can often be found online.
• For unusable prepaid accommodations or tickets due to closures: Get reports from hotels or tour operators.
• For trip cancellations or delays due to illness: Submit a medical certificate or doctor's report.

Also, include receipts for claimed personal items. If originals are missing, bank or credit card statements may suffice. Remember, compensation might be adjusted for wear and tear. Add photographs to visually support your claim, such as damages or evidence of theft.

Step 2: Submit Your Claims

With your documents prepared, submit your travel insurance claim through one of the following methods:

• Online: Via your insurer’s website.

• Email: Send the required documents to the provided email address.

• Post: Download, fill out, and mail a hard copy of the claim form.

After submission, follow up with your insurer to confirm receipt, as claims must typically be filed within a specific timeframe, usually within 30 days of the event.

Step 3: Wait for the Outcome

Once submitted, your travel insurance company will process your claim and notify you of the outcome. If accepted, you'll receive a payout, which may be adjusted based on their assessment. Should you find the compensation insufficient, you have the right to appeal. If your claim is rejected, the insurer will provide reasons. If it’s something fixable, like missing documents, address the issue and resubmit your claim.

Region-Specific Travel Insurance Advice

Klang Valley Region

Having the right travel insurance is crucial for business travellers heading to the Klang Valley region, which includes the bustling areas of Kuala Lumpur and its suburbs. Business trips can be disrupted by unexpected events such as flight delays, lost luggage, or urgent medical needs. Opt for travel insurance plans that offer comprehensive coverage for trip cancellations, interruptions, and medical emergencies. Additionally, ensure your policy covers business equipment and documents, as these are often essential for work-related travel.

Peninsular Malaysia

Peninsular Malaysia is a haven for adventure and leisure travellers, offering activities such as hiking in the Taman Negara, river rafting, and exploring the scenic Cameron Highlands. For such trips, it’s vital to have travel insurance that covers adventure activities. Look for policies that include medical evacuation, coverage for injuries sustained during adventurous pursuits, and trip interruption insurance. This way, you can fully enjoy the thrills of your outdoor adventures with peace of mind.

Kuala Lumpur

When travelling to Kuala Lumpur for personal reasons, it's important to secure a travel insurance plan that emphasises personal and medical coverage. The city's vibrant culture and numerous attractions can be best enjoyed when you are confident that you are protected against unforeseen medical emergencies, theft, or loss of personal belongings. Ensure your insurance includes robust medical coverage, access to quality healthcare facilities, and protection for your items to guarantee a smooth and enjoyable visit to Malaysia’s capital.

How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance Policy For Your Malaysia Trip?

1. Evaluate the Coverage Level

Adequate travel insurance coverage ensures that you are protected against a wide range of unforeseen circumstances that could affect your trip to Malaysia. While pricing is still a significant factor, you should always compare the benefits and reimbursement limits for claims thoroughly to find the best deal. This includes looking into coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, flight delays, and baggage theft or damage. 

2. Ensure Coverage for Pre-existing Medical Conditions

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, finding a travel insurance policy that covers claims related to these conditions is vital. Unexpected severe illnesses or injuries can be particularly troubling if they exacerbate an existing condition, no less if you’re hit with a medical emergency while overseas. Some insurers offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, including pregnancy, and injuries or illnesses sustained during the trip, to give you peace of mind should anything unexpected happen. You should also ensure the plan you choose provides comprehensive coverage to cover in-patient hospitalisation expenses overseas, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation, where applicable.

3. Analyse and Compare Policy Premiums

The cost of travel insurance in Malaysia varies depending on your destination and the length of your stay. Companies typically offer several tiers of plans at different price points, reflecting varying levels of comprehensiveness and reimbursement limits. It's essential to compare these travel insurance plans, considering how insurers might differentiate premiums based on regional distinctions, to find the one that offers the best value for your Malaysia trip.

4. Include Specialised Activity Coverage

For those planning adventurous activities in Malaysia, such as water or extreme sports, ensuring your policy covers these specific activities is crucial. For example, if scuba diving in Johor Bahru is on your itinerary, choose a policy which best covers such sports. Tailoring your travel insurance to include special activities coverage ensures that your adventurous pursuits are safeguarded.

5. Consider Coverage for Trip Interruptions and Belongings

While Malaysia is a popular tourist destination for Singaporeans, we may underestimate the risk of floods, landslides, and other such occurrences due to Singapore’s unique lack of such natural disasters. To ensure you’re covered even in such emergencies, it’s best to choose a travel insurance policy that covers trip cancellations or postponements, flight delays, and damage or loss of belongings due to such events. Having comprehensive coverage for personal belongings also ensures that you're protected against potential losses in case of snatch thefts or other crimes, which are common risks for any popular travel destination.

Travel Safety Tips For Malaysia

Travelling to Malaysia can be an exciting experience, but it's important to stay safe while exploring this vibrant country. Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind besides getting travel insurance:

• Stay aware of your surroundings: Whether you’re in bustling cities like Kuala Lumpur or quieter regions, always be vigilant. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items in public.
• Health precautions: Ensure you are up to date with routine vaccinations and consider additional ones, such as hepatitis A and B. Drink bottled water and be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues.
• Secure your accommodation: Choose reputable hotels or accommodations and use the safe provided for your valuables. Always lock your doors and windows when you leave your room.
• Transportation safety: Use registered taxis or ride-hailing services like Grab. If renting a vehicle, be aware of local traffic laws and conditions.
• Emergency contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency services and the nearest embassy or consulate.

Get Your Travel Insurance Before Your Next Malaysia Trip!

Before setting off on your next adventure to Malaysia, securing travel insurance is a step you shouldn't overlook. With unforeseen events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage posing potential hurdles, having the right insurance policy ensures you're well-prepared for any situation. 

SingSaver simplifies the process of finding the perfect travel insurance plan for Malaysia, tailored to your trip's specific needs. By comparing a wide range of options, SingSaver helps you secure comprehensive coverage at competitive and cheapest rates, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.

Don't let unexpected events spoil your Malaysia experience; choose SingSaver to find the best travel insurance policy and travel with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Travel Insurance Policy for Malaysia Trips

Q: Do I still need COVID-19 coverage if I travel to Malaysia?

Yes, when buying insurance, COVID-19 coverage is essential for travel to Malaysia. It offers flexibility to cancel or modify your trip, including if a travel companion contracts COVID-19. Moreover, it covers overseas medical expenses, providing the best financial protection against unpredictable health-related costs during your journey.

Q: Does the cost of the premium change across various Malaysian states (e.g. Penang vs Johor)?

The cost of travel insurance premiums may not specifically change across different Malaysian states like Penang, Johor or JB. It generally depends on the broader destination category (e.g., ASEAN, Asia) and factors like the length of stay and plan comprehensiveness. While some insurers may differentiate premiums based on regional categorisations, others apply uniform rates within the same geographic areas, affecting the overall pricing structures of the travel insurance plan.

Q: Do I need travel insurance for Malaysia?

Though travel insurance is not mandatory when travelling to Malaysia, it is important for everyone. It covers unexpected medical expenses and protects against trip cancellations, delays, lost luggage, and theft. Considering Malaysia's diverse activities and possible unforeseen events, having travel insurance ensures a safer and more secure travel experience. Additionally, there are cheap plans available as well, making it easier to find coverage that fits your budget without compromising on essential protections.

Q: Will there be a penalty if I were to cancel my policy?

Typically, there is no penalty if you cancel your travel insurance policy for your Malaysia trip due to a disruption. However, the refund you receive, if any, varies by the type of policy you've chosen. Single-trip plans are non-refundable since they're effective immediately after purchase, making cancellations non-beneficial. For annual plans, a partial refund might be available depending on how much time is left on the policy, though terms differ among insurers. To stay on the safer side, take note of all the important things about travel insurance, and do a careful comparison of the plans before committing.

Q: What do these travel insurance policies not cover?

Travel insurance policies generally exclude pre-existing medical conditions (unless otherwise specified), extreme sports without extra coverage, intentional self-harm, travel for medical treatment, and losses from war or nuclear risks. It is important to thoroughly check the policy details to understand what your travel insurance covers and how much. At SingSaver, each plan for a Malaysia trip offers different coverage levels. You can do the comparison and select a policy that best fits your trip's nature and the activities you are planning to do in Malaysia.

Q: Should I get single or annual travel insurance for my trips to Malaysia?

The type of travel insurance you should buy, i.e. single or annual, depends on the frequency of your trips to Malaysia. If you're a frequent traveller, opting for annual travel insurance in Singapore for trips to Malaysia offers better value and convenience. Such plans often come with worldwide coverage, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind across all your journeys. A comparison of both insurance plans can help you find the one that best suits your travel frequency and coverage needs.

Q: Can I buy travel insurance after I’ve entered Malaysia?

It's not advisable to buy travel insurance after entering Malaysia. You should immediately purchase travel insurance after booking your flights, ensuring the best and most comprehensive coverage, including for trip cancellations. Once you depart from Singapore, it's too late to get travel insurance and you risk losing pre-trip benefits.

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