KUALA LUMPUR: The Life Insurance Association of Malaysia (LIAM) has appointed Zurich Life Insurance Malaysia Bhd chief executive officer (CEO), Pauline Teoh, as its new president.
The association has also re-elected Manulife Insurance Bhd CEO Vibha Coburn as vice-president at its 52nd Annual General Meeting.
A seasoned insurance leader with over 25 years of experience across the Asia Pacific region, Pauline Teoh plays a key role in driving Zurich Life Insurance Malaysia’s growth, strategic diversification, operational simplification, and innovation.
"Vibha Coburn brings over 30 years of experience in banking, insurance, and management consulting across Asia, Europe, and Australia, with expertise in strategy, business management, digital transformation, sales, marketing, and wealth management,” LIAM said in a statement today.
Meanwhile, LIAM CEO Mark O’Dell said that LIAM’s priorities in 2026 include continued collaboration with key stakeholders and enhancing public education, particularly on the importance of life insurance protection for all Malaysians.
"This will be achieved by strengthening public awareness and improving financial literacy through targeted education and outreach initiatives.
"We actively engage the public through multiple platforms to enhance understanding of life insurance and support the financial well-being of Malaysians,” said O’Dell.
He also emphasised that LIAM remains fully committed to supporting the effective implementation of initiatives under the RESET agenda by the Joint Ministerial Committee, particularly the implementation of basic Medical and Health Insurance/Takaful plan.
"This includes ensuring the delivery of affordable, transparent, and sustainable healthcare protection.
"By balancing access with affordability, strengthening transparency in product design and cost structures, and leveraging the industry’s long-standing experience, insurers are well positioned to support meaningful healthcare reform and maintain public trust in medical and health insurance,” he added. - Bernama
