PETALING JAYA: The Malaysia Will & Trust Association (MWTA) recently hosted a groundbreaking forum titled ‘Shaping The Future of Estate Planning In Malaysia’ on December 13, at Sheraton Petaling Jaya, brought together distinguished guests, panel speakers and industry leaders for an insightful exploration of crucial aspects in estate planning.
The panel discussion underscored the importance of collaborative efforts, regulatory frameworks, innovative strategies and the integration of sustainable practices to shape the future of estate planning in Malaysia. The dynamic exchange of ideas between the panelists showcased a shared commitment to addressing current challenges and preparing for a future where estate planning is both accessible and aligned with evolving societal needs.
In his opening address, Malaysia Will and Trust Association (MWTA) president Datuk Chua Meng Min expressed gratitude to all participants, emphasising the forum’s significance as a bold initiative, possibly the first of its kind in Malaysia. With ZICO Trust (M) Bhd chairman Tan Sri Dr Nik Norzrul Thani acting as the moderator, the esteemed panel addressed the pressing need for effective estate planning in a society where wealth continues to grow.
Despite a decade-long effort to promote wills and trusts, Chua highlighted the disheartening fact that less than 20% of Malaysia’s adult population possesses a will. The forum explored innovative solutions, including the rise of online will-writing platforms and the diversification of trust options, discussing challenges and making estate planning more accessible to the public.
An intriguing discussion emerged on the trend of family trusts in Singapore, presenting an opportunity for Malaysia to attract high net worth individuals. The call for the regulation of advisors in the will and trust industry echoed the precedent set by the life insurance industry in 1986, aiming to prevent misconduct and safeguard the public’s interest.
MWTA also unveiled its commitment to elevate industry standards through the introduction of “The Most Outstanding Holistic Wealth Advisors” award in 2024, supported by Sin Chew Daily as the official media partner. This initiative sets a high bar for professionalism, contributing to the association’s mission to enhance public awareness about the importance of estate planning.
Collaborative Efforts and Knowledge Dissemination:
In partnership with Tunku Abdul Rahman University’s centre for corporate and community development, MWTA has taken a significant step towards knowledge dissemination. The association successfully launched the only Certificate of Competency in Estate Planning online course in Malaysia, solidifying the association’s commitment to equipping professionals with the necessary expertise in estate planning.
Panel Discussion Highlights:
The heart of the forum lay in the insightful and thought-provoking panel discussion, where industry leaders shared their expertise on the future landscape of estate planning in Malaysia.
Addressing Industry Challenges:
The panel acknowledged the persistent challenge of low will adoption in Malaysia, with less than 20% of the adult population having a will. Amanah Raya Bhd group chief business officer Jack Yap Ngee Heong shared importance of collaboration between organisations, conducting workshops, seminars and public campaigns to raise awareness.
Government and Stakeholder Collaboration:
Yap highlighted the pivotal role played by organisations in shaping the future of estate planning. Through partnering with government agencies, financial institutions and stakeholders, Amanah Raya focuses on establishing guidelines and regulations to enhance the industry’s potential and practices.
Innovations and Strategies for the Future:
ZICO Holdings Inc executive director Chew Seng Kok provided insights into innovative strategies that can shape the future of estate planning, that includes critical steps such as embracing digital solutions, investing in online will-writing platforms and secure document management systems.
Sustainable Practices and environmental, social and governance (ESG) Integration:
Think Plus Consulting Sdn Bhd group CEO Dr Norsaidatul Akmar Mazelan brought a unique perspective to the discussion by exploring the integration of ESG principles and practices into estate planning by educating clients about sustainable investment options, aligning values with wealth transfer plans, and adopting sustainable practices within service providers’ operations emerged as key strategies.
Established in 2021, MWTA is committed to enhancing public awareness about the importance of estate planning in Malaysia. Through initiatives, forums, and educational programs, MWTA strives to ensure a peaceful and meaningful distribution of assets, advocating for the regulation of advisors in the will and trust industry.
For more information, visit https://mwta.org.my/