Critical illness coverage: What is it and why you might need it We take a closer look at how a critical illness coverage can protect your family's financial health at a time of need

 Non-communicable diseases account for nearly half of deaths in Brunei, with cancer, stroke and heart diseases at the helm, statistics from Ministry of Health show. 

Last November, Takaful Brunei Keluarga Sdn Bhd (TBK) introduced Critical Illness Takaful, aiming to safeguard you and your family from the heavy burden of treatment, or sudden loss of income in the event of being diagnosed with one. 

What constitutes critical illnesses?

Generally, critical illnesses are life-threatening diagnoses that may interfere with one’s ability to continue living normally, or may even lead to death. 

Under the Critical Illness Takaful, TBK will cover up to 31 diseases including Brunei’s number one killer, cancer. 

Stroke — which is the fourth cause of death in Brunei and the leading cause of disability — is also covered under the TBK protection plan, as well as kidney failure and Parkinson’s disease.

View this post on Instagram

TBK Critical Illness Takaful & Aman Takaful provides a wide range of benefits & coverages, ideal for all your Takaful protection needs. Always remember to Plan, Prepare & Protect. #takafulbrunei #tbk #takafulbruneikeluarga #togetherweprotect #brunei #bruneidarussalam #tbkifp

A post shared by Takaful Brunei Darussalam (@takafulbrunei) on Nov 28, 2018 at 10:13pm PST

What are the benefits of Critical Illness Takaful?

The cost of treatment and rehabilitation for critical illness victims can vary and reach amounts that may cause a disruption to a household’s income. Hence, financial planning and protection is paramount to safeguard one’s financial health for the sake of one’s family and loved ones.

Coverage for any of the 31 critical illnesses identified by TBK can begin as young as the age of six months up to 70 years and will cover a sum of up to $500,000.

The sum covered is paid directly to you, so that you could spend however you wish — such as to retrofit your home, alleviate debt, or travel.

Takaful contributions are based on your age, gender and smoking status. The younger you are when apply, the lower your takaful contribution will be.

For example, a child as young child can be covered up to the age of 70 for only under $30 a month. Or an adult in their 30s can be covered until the same age for under $50 monthly.

 A unique feature of the Critical Illness and Aman Takaful is the affordable monthly payment option, which is also available via standing instruction.

What are the key differences between Family Takaful plan, Medical Takaful and Critical Illness Takaful?

These different certificates are tailored to specific situations.

A Medical Takaful certificate protects you in the event of a medical emergency which requires hospitalisation, by covering for the cost of treatment.

Meanwhile, the Family Takaful plan is aimed at financially safeguarding your family in the event of your untimely death. It can help them maintain their lifestyle and achieve their life goals even when you are not around. 

The TBK Critical Illness Takaful certificate, on the other hand, provides financial aid in the form of a lump sum payout, in the event you are diagnosed with one.

To find out more about Critical Illness Takaful  ,visit the website,  or contact the TBK Call Centre at 223 1100. Operating hours are: 8am – 7pm from Monday to Thursday; 8am – 11am and 2.30pm – 7pm on Friday; and 8am – 5pm on Saturdays.