With two Master's degrees in Risk Management & Insurance Finance from the Wisconsin School of Business, and in Accounting & Financial Economics from the University of Essex, Puneet is a highly experienced finance industry professional with over two decades of leadership experience across diverse functions within the insurance sector.

CEO Insights Asia recently got a chance to interact with Puneet, wherein he shared his insights on the current insurance sector in Malaysia, recent tech trends, advancements, and many other interesting facets. Below are a few key extracts from the exclusive interview –

What are your thoughts on the current general insurance in Malaysia?
Driven by the digital transformation wave, the Malaysian insurance sector has been undergoing a significant digital transformation in recent times. Focusing majorly on enhancing the customer experience, insurance companies are increasingly leveraging data analytics and AI to offer more personalized products, enhance risk assessment capabilities, and streamline claims processing. Additionally, we’re witnessing an ongoing evolution in regulatory standards, including the expected release of Bank Negara Malaysia’s upcoming Digital Insurers and Takaful Operators (DITO) framework, which will foster an even greater transparency between consumers and insurers while bolstering consumer protection and fair competition. This regulatory shift, along with liberalization of the Malaysian insurance market, has created a more competitive environment, encouraging insurance companies to continually innovate and improve their offerings and customer service to strengthen their market share. In light of this, we are dedicated to offering personalized products and services that respond to the unique needs of each customer, embodying our commitment to flexibility and choice.

Could you suggest a few strategies for insurance companies to successfully traverse through the constantly evolving business landscape?
To successfully navigate through the rapidly evolving dynamics of the Malaysian insurance industry, companies must adopt a multifaceted approach and balance the speed of evolution while maintaining customer-centric solutions at the core of their operations. The industry’s shift towards digital channels and AI-driven solutions is central to meeting today’s consumer expectations, enhancing customer service, and improving operational efficiency. This digital transformation extends beyond mere technological adoption, aiming to enrich the customer experience and streamline processes comprehensively. However, product innovation and diversification are equally critical, especially in developing new insurance products that address emerging risks and the changing lifestyles of consumers. Also, in areas such as data protection and financial reporting, it is essential to ensure operations within a protective framework for both the insurance companies and their customers.

Furthermore, proactive engagement with regulatory bodies is essential to foster an understanding of technological benefits and advocate for supportive

policies. This collaborative approach should be complemented by robust internal compliance frameworks that ensure innovations align with regulatory expectations from the outset. By embedding a culture of ethical innovation, we can ensure that our advancements in technology not only drive business growth but also uphold the highest standards of integrity and consumer protection.

How should the industry foster innovation in insurance products tailored to the unique needs of consumers?
To successfully innovate and cater to the customers’ ever-evolving requirements, it is paramount for insurance companies to have a clear understanding of their customers’ unique needs, preferences, and cultural nuances. To do so, companies can leverage advanced data analytics to uncover insights into consumer behavior and preferences. Furthermore, engaging directly with consumers to gather feedback and insights can inform the development of tailored products. Also, encouraging a collaborative ecosystem involving all stakeholders of the industry can spur innovation, providing companies with the agility to experiment with new ideas and technologies. By focusing on these areas, we can develop personalized insurance products that not only meet the specific needs of consumers but also exceed their expectations.

Encouraging a collaborative ecosystem involving all industry stakeholders can spur innovation, providing companies with the agility to experiment with new ideas and technologies.

Throw some light on a few key technologies that the insurance sector is currently leveraging to enhance its customer experience.
The increased competition within the industry in recent times has forced insurance companies to innovate rapidly by implementing cutting-edge technologies and developing customer-centric solutions. One of the most impactful innovations has been the Video Appraisal technology, a pioneering initiative introduced by Liberty Insurance during the December 2021 floods that devastated the country to enable the expedition of claims processes within just 2-3 working days, from up to seven days previously. This technology ensures faster and more efficient service delivery to policyholders by reducing turnaround times, streamlining operations, and setting a new standard in the industry for customer satisfaction. The industry’s focus on leveraging data analytics and technological advancements further underscores the move towards more informed and strategic decision-making. This approach enhances both risk assessment and customer engagement, ensuring that services are tailored to meet the evolving needs of consumers.

What does the future hold for the Malaysian insurance industry?
The path forward for Malaysian insurance companies involves a blend of digital transformation, innovative product development, strategic partnerships, and regulatory adaptability. Embracing technological innovation requires a fundamental shift in mindset towards agility, customer-centricity, and openness to change, coupled with a focus on talent development and fostering a culture that encourages innovation and experimentation. By remaining attuned to customer needs and leveraging technology innovatively, we can navigate and evolve effectively in this dynamic industry environment.