Liga Asuransi – The Indonesian insurance industry is facing various new challenges, starting from the planned increase in VAT to 12% in 2025 to the surge in medical inflation which affects the sustainability of health insurance. In the midst of this dynamic, strategic collaboration between government, business actors and regulators is becoming increasingly important to ensure stability and growth. In this article, we will discuss a number of current issues affecting the national insurance sector, including innovation, collaboration, and strategic steps taken to respond to existing challenges and opportunities. Check out the complete review below!
Strengthening MSMEs with Micro Insurance Protection: Collaboration between BRI Life and the West Java Horticulture Service
In the world of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), risk is an unavoidable part. However, insurance protection is often not a priority. Many MSME players, including farmers, still consider life insurance as a less urgent need. In fact, insurance can be a solution in times of unexpected crisis.
Responding to this challenge, BRI Life is collaborating with the West Java Food Crops and Horticulture Service to accelerate financial inclusion and literacy among the lower middle class. Concrete steps are realized by providing protection in the form of Micro Insurance Micro Welfare Credit (AMKKM) to 35,224 farmers from 24 districts in West Java Province.
Education and Protection for West Java Farmers
BRI Life Marketing Director, Sutadi, revealed that low insurance literacy in lower middle class society is still a big challenge. There are many misperceptions about the benefits of insurance, which makes people hesitant to take advantage of this service.
“BRI Life is committed to providing maximum insurance education and literacy to the public. “One way we do this is through collaboration with the Food Crops and Horticulture Service in Bandung,” explained Sutadi.
In this program, BRI Life provides AMKKM protection with a total premium of IDR 1.7 billion. The benefits provided include accident protection, health and death compensation.
Connecting the Financial Ecosystem with BRILink Agents
Apart from offering protection, this collaboration also supports the development of the BRI Group ecosystem through introduction BRILink agent. This agent is the entry point for farmers and their families to access financial inclusion, especially insurance products.
“This effort not only provides protection for farmers, but also expands their financial access. “With BRILink agents, it is hoped that farmers can more easily understand and utilize the financial services available,” added Sutadi.
Strategic Steps for the Future of MSMEs
Through this initiative, BRI Life shows its dedication in supporting MSMEs, especially farmers, to be more resilient in facing risks. With collaboration that focuses on education and protection, BRI Life also helps create an inclusive and sustainable financial ecosystem.
This collaboration is a real example of how financial literacy and inclusion can be realized through synergy between the government and the private sector. With insurance as part of the solution, the hope of seeing MSMEs grow stronger and farmers live more prosperously is closer to becoming a reality.
The Importance of Understanding Insurance Policies for Optimal Financial Protection
In every phase of life, especially after starting a family, financial needs become increasingly complex. It no longer just covers the needs for clothing, food and shelter, but also covers health funds, children’s education, paying off installments, and preparing retirement funds. In the midst of this need, insurance exists as a solution to protect families from financial risks that may occur in the future.
However, Prudential Indonesia’s Chief Customer and Marketing Officer, Karin Zulkarnaen, revealed that public awareness of the importance of insurance is still often hampered by a lack of understanding of how insurance products work. “Many people don’t really understand the contents of the insurance policy they buy, including the terms and conditions in it,” said Karin, Thursday (26/11/2024).
Steps to Choose and Understand an Insurance Policy
So that customers can make optimal use of insurance, the following important steps must be taken into account:
- Get to know the insurance product you are purchasing
Make sure the product you choose suits your needs and understand its benefits and scope. - Check Data Completeness
Ensure that personal data and health history are filled in completely and accurately. - Study the Exclusion Article
Examine the provisions that explain what is not included in police protection. - Understand the Claims Procedure
Make sure you understand the documents and steps required to file a claim. - Regularly evaluate the policy
Adjust your insurance needs to changes in your financial condition or lifestyle.
The Importance of Paying Premiums on Time
In order for the policy to remain active and the insurance benefits to be enjoyed, customers must pay premiums according to schedule without going through an intermediary. “Direct payment to the insurance company’s official account helps avoid the risk of data misuse or discrepancies,” added Karin.
Opportunity to Understand the Policy: Free Look Period
Insurance companies provide 14 days from the time the policy is received (free look period) so that customers can study the policy details properly. If you feel you do not agree with the existing provisions, the customer can cancel the policy and request a premium refund, although part of the premium value will be deducted from administration fees and medical examinations if any.
Solutions to Customer Complaints
If there is a complaint about an insurance product or service, customers are advised to contact the company’s official channel. If you haven’t found a solution, customers can submit a complaint via Dispute Resolution Institute (LAPS) which is under the supervision of OJK.
Openness and Honesty: The Key to Insurance
“Understanding the contents of an insurance policy is not only a right, but an obligation for every customer so that they can enjoy optimal protection benefits,” concluded Karin. By principle utmost good faith, customers and insurance companies can build a relationship of mutual trust, so that the benefits of insurance are truly felt as expected.
Insurance is a smart step to protect your family’s future. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and understand every detail of the product before you decide. Remember, good protection starts with deep understanding.
Jasindo Insurance Records Brilliant Performance at the End of 2024: Profit Increases 228%
PT Asuransi Jasa Indonesia (Jasindo Insurance) closing 2024 with brilliant financial performance. Until October 2024, Jasindo recorded a company profit of IDR 38.39 billion, jumped drastically to 228,47% compared to the same period last year, where the company experienced a loss of IDR 29.88 billion.
This growth cannot be separated from the increase in premium income which reached IDR 2.95 trillion, increased 26,47% compared to the previous year. Apart from that, Jasindo’s underwriting results also grew 10,98% become IDR 215.14 billion, depicting solid risk management and underwriting strategies.
Effective Strategy and Superior Governance
President Director of Jasindo Insurance, Andy Samuel, emphasized that this achievement was the result of a business strategy that focused on profitability and good governance.
“This achievement shows Asuransi Jasindo’s ability to continue to grow and adapt to market challenges, while strengthening its position as one of the main players in the general insurance industry,” said Andy in an official statement, Tuesday, November 26 2024.
One approach that is the key to success is concept Risk Management Partnership. This approach positions Jasindo as a strategic partner that helps customers identify and manage risks comprehensively.
“We not only provide risk protection, but also act as risk engineer, proactively analyze potential and identify risk gaps that may arise,” he added.
Expert Team as the Key to Success
Andy emphasized the importance of the active role of the business team, both at head office and representative offices, in the success of this strategy. With strong technical expertise, the Jasindo team is able to provide the right insurance solutions for customers.
“Their role is very important in providing value-added services, helping customers identify risk gaps, and designing effective mitigation strategies,” continued Andy.
Impressive Investment Return Growth
Apart from operational profit, Jasindo’s investment results also recorded significant growth, reaching IDR 215.20 billion until October 2024. This figure is increasing 37,12% compared to the same period last year of IDR 156.94 billion.
“This growth reflects increasingly prudent and optimal investment management amidst dynamic economic conditions,” said Andy.
BUMN support for the State
As part of the BUMN ecosystem, Jasindo is committed to supporting BUMN’s contribution to the country through increasing revenue and value-added services.
“We want to continue to be a reliable partner in providing risk protection for the community and business world. “We have also developed various service distribution channels in collaboration with strategic partners,” added Andy.
Optimism Ahead of 2025
With extraordinary achievements this year, Asuransi Jasindo is optimistic about facing the challenges in the coming year. The growth in profits, premiums, underwriting and investment is clear proof that the right business strategy can produce solid performance, while making a real contribution to the national insurance industry.
This achievement not only strengthens Jasindo Insurance’s position in the industry, but also serves as an inspiration for other insurance companies to continue to innovate and adapt amidst challenges.
Source : https://mediaasuransinews.co.id/asuransi/laba-asuransi-jasindo-naik-22847-per-oktober-2024/
OJK Prepares New Rules to Control Health Insurance Claims
The health insurance industry is facing major challenges due to the surge in medical inflation following the COVID-19 pandemic. In an effort to maintain the stability and sustainability of the insurance ecosystem, the Financial Services Authority (OJK) is now formulating OJK Circular Letter (SE). which will set limits on health insurance claims.
Chief Executive of the OJK Insurance, Guarantee and Pension Fund Supervisor, Ogi Prastomiyono, stated that this step was part of OJK’s commitment to improve insurance product regulations and business processes. “We are finalizing the health insurance product circular. We hope that this process will continue, like the previous PAYDI (Insurance Product Linked to Investment) insurance update,” said Ogi after the event. Risk & Governance Summit 2024 in Jakarta, Tuesday (26/11/2024).
Focus on Health Insurance Claim Limitations
Ogi explained that one of the important points being formulated in the OJK SE is limiting health insurance claims. This step is expected to reduce the financial pressure faced by insurance companies due to high medical inflation, which is currently increasing 18% to 20%.
However, OJK does not work alone. “We are also working together Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) to formulate these rules. “The hope is that concrete solutions will be created that improve the health ecosystem, making it more efficient and healthier, both for hospitals, pharmacies, doctors and other related parties,” explained Ogi.
Collaboration between OJK and the Ministry of Health becomes easier because of the continuity of policies under the same minister. “Just continue the communication that has been established. Hopefully the results can be felt by all parties,” he added.
Medical Inflation Triggers Claim Ratio Crisis
The data shows the real challenges facing the industry. Life insurance companies record health claim payments of IDR 11.83 trillion in semester I-2024. According to Freddy Thamrin, Chair of the Literacy & Consumer Protection Division of the Indonesian Life Insurance Association (AAJI), the ratio of health insurance claims has reached 105,7%, exceeding the accumulated premium.
“Life insurance companies currently have to ‘hit the ground running’ to cover health claim payments. “This is certainly not ideal, because business sustainability is at stake,” said Freddy.
New Hope for the Health Industry
With the SE OJK being finalized, it is hoped that the health insurance industry can find a solution that balances customer needs and company sustainability. Limiting claims is one strategy to overcome the claims ratio deficit, without sacrificing service to policyholders.
More than that, collaboration with the Ministry of Health also opens up opportunities to create a more resilient, transparent and efficient health ecosystem in the future. Hopefully this step will be the beginning of a new era in health insurance, where customers continue to get optimal protection, while the insurance industry is able to survive the challenges of an increasingly dynamic economy.
Insurance Industry Ready to Face Minimum Capital Challenges, Are Mergers and Acquisitions the Solution?
In an effort to strengthen the capital structure of insurance companies, Financial Services Authority (OJK) has set minimum equity rules through OJK Regulation (POJK) Number 23 of 2023. This rule requires insurance companies to have minimum capital IDR 250 billion in 2026.
However, the latest data as of September 2024 shows that from 145 insurance companies, as much as 44 companies has not met these requirements. The distribution of companies that have not met the requirements consists of: 23 general insurance companies, 15 life insurance companies, 3 sharia life insurance companies, 2 sharia general insurance companies, And 1 reinsurance company.
Challenges of Meeting Minimum Capital
Executive Director of the Indonesian Life Insurance Association (AAJI), Togar Pasaribu, revealed that one of the main obstacles faced by insurance companies is limited capital sources. “The characteristics of the life insurance sector which requires long-term capital returns makes investors tend to be more selective,” said Togar.
High macroeconomic pressure also makes the situation worse. Even so, AAJI encourages companies to strengthen their capital structure both through organic strategies, such as increasing premium sales, and non-organic strategies such as mergers and acquisitions.
“This consolidation is important, especially for small companies, so they can strengthen their capacity and face financial risks. “Apart from that, adopting advanced technology can also improve service quality,” added Togar.
Mergers and Acquisitions: Solutions or New Challenges?
Many parties view mergers and acquisitions as a practical solution to comply with minimum capital regulations. Senior Research Associate IFG Progress, Ibrahim Rahman, stated that organic methods by increasing premium income would be difficult to implement amidst the low level of public trust in insurance.
“Looking at the current premium growth trend, it is difficult for companies to pursue capital needs organically. “Mergers and acquisitions are a solution, although not easy,” said Ibrahim.
He emphasized that differences in asset and liability management (liability-driven investment) between companies can be a challenge in the consolidation process. “Companies must have a mature strategy to align their financial balance sheets before the merger or acquisition process runs smoothly,” he added.
Insurance Company Clustering
To make it easier to manage insurance companies in the future, OJK will also enforce clustering of insurance companies based on equity (KPPE) the latest December 31, 2028.
This clustering is divided into two groups:
- KPPE 1: Minimum equity of IDR 500 billion for general insurance, IDR 200 billion for sharia insurance, IDR 1 trillion for reinsurance, and IDR 400 billion for sharia reinsurance.
- KPPE 2: Minimum equity of IDR 1 trillion for general insurance, IDR 500 billion for sharia insurance, IDR 2 trillion for reinsurance, and IDR 1 trillion for sharia reinsurance.
According to insurance observers Irvan Rahardjo, this clustering allows companies that are unable to meet capital regulations to merge with other companies. “Consolidation through KPPE can be a way out for small companies to continue to exist in the industry,” said Irvan.
The Future of the Insurance Industry
With the minimum capital regulations and clustering, the insurance industry in Indonesia is entering a new era that demands efficiency and innovation. For companies that are ready to adapt, opportunities to strengthen competitiveness through consolidation are wide open.
However, on the other hand, this rule is also an alarm for companies that do not yet have a solid capital strategy. Will they choose to survive by increasing premium income or take mergers and acquisitions as a shortcut?
What is clear is that this new regulation will not only reshape the insurance industry landscape, but also determine the main players who will continue to exist in the future.
A 12% VAT increase in 2025 will be a new challenge for the insurance industry
The government’s decision to increase Value Added Tax (VAT) to 12% in 2025 is in the spotlight for various industrial sectors, including general insurance. The impact of this policy is expected to affect people’s purchasing power, especially on products that are closely related to motor vehicle insurance.
President Director of PT Zurich General Takaful Indonesia (Zurich Syariah), Hilman Simanjuntak, revealed that vehicle insurance has a close relationship with sales of tertiary goods such as cars.
“Every vehicle purchase is always accompanied by VAT. “It is feared that this increase will increase car prices, thereby reducing the level of vehicle purchases and insurance,” explained Hilman during a performance presentation in Jakarta (25/11).
Zurich Syariah Challenges and Strategies
Hilman said that more than 50% of Zurich’s portfolio comes from vehicle insurance. Even though the automotive market is facing pressure, Zurich remains optimistic that it can grow through new initiatives.
“Even though we are affected by the downturn in the automotive industry, we are still trying to grow through a strategy of extending existing products, upselling, cross-selling, as well as increasing customer loyalty with new programs and better service,” he said.
Zurich will also increase micro products as an alternative solution to reach more segments of society. With this approach, Zurich Indonesia is optimistic about maintaining the business growth momentum it has achieved this year 17%.
“Next year, we hope to grow even higher, not lower than this year,” added Hilman.
Observer’s View: Risk of Decreasing Purchasing Power
Meanwhile, insurance observers Dedy Kristianto assesses that a 12% VAT increase could affect insurance premium prices. It is feared that this will reduce people’s purchasing power for insurance products.
“The discourse on increasing VAT is not good news for most industries, because it means additional costs that consumers have to pay. “As a result, the purchasing power of insurance products could decrease,” said Dedy.
Furthermore, Dedy is concerned that the increase in VAT could worsen the level of insurance inclusion in Indonesia. Based on National Survey of Financial Literacy and Inclusion (SNLIK) by OJK and BPS, the financial inclusion index for 2024 was recorded only 72,02%, down significantly from 85,10% in 2022.
“The decline in the inclusion index is a signal that it is increasingly difficult for people to access financial services, including insurance,” he added.
Insurance Industry Optimism
Although these challenges are real, the insurance industry continues to seek solutions to remain relevant and grow. With product innovation, services tailored to market needs, and a focus on customers, Zurich and other industry players hope to be able to maintain business stability amidst dynamic economic conditions.
Ultimately, success in facing this challenge will depend greatly on the insurance industry’s ability to adapt and provide real added value for the Indonesian people.
Insurance Broker Targets Contribution of 40% of General Insurance Premiums in 2025
The Indonesian Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers Association (Apparindo) has an ambitious target to increase the contribution of broker distribution channels in total general insurance premium income next year. Yulius Bhayangkara, General Chairman of Apparindo, stated that currently insurance brokers have contributed to the above 35% of the total general insurance premium. However, by 2025, he hopes this contribution can be achieved 40%.
“So far, insurance brokers have become the main distribution channel, with an average premium contribution of more than 35%. We are working so that their contribution can increase to at least 40% next year,” said Yulius in an interview with Business on Friday (22/11/2024).
Three Irreplaceable Roles of Insurance Brokers
Yulius emphasized that although the insurance industry is increasingly digital, insurance broker continues to play three important roles that are difficult to replace with new technology or distribution channels.
- Business Mediation: Insurance brokers serve as intermediaries between insurance companies and clients, ensuring mutually beneficial deals.
- Consultation: Brokers provide sound advice on insurance products that suit clients’ needs, as well as helping them understand the various protection options.
- Advocacy in Claims: When an insurance claim is submitted, the broker acts as an advocate who fights for the customer’s right to have their claim processed fairly.
According to Yulius, the last two roles—consultation and advocacy—are the main factors that make the existence of insurance brokers remain relevant even though the business world is increasingly influenced by digitalization and technology. “These roles, especially in the fields of consulting and claims advocacy, will continue to provide bright prospects for insurance brokers in Indonesia,” said Yulius.
Insurance Brokers Are Still the Main Contributors to Premiums
Insurance brokers remain the dominant distribution channel in the general insurance industry. On holiday I/2024, insurance brokers recorded contributions of 34,5% of the total recorded general insurance premiums reached IDR 57.91 trillion. This figure shows a significant increase compared to the same period in vacation I/2023, which was recorded at 32,2% of the total value of general insurance premiums IDR 48.90 trillion.
With contribution figures continuing to increase, it is clear that insurance brokers play an important role in boosting premium income and expanding general insurance market penetration in Indonesia.
Bright Prospects for the Insurance Brokerage Industry
Even though the challenges of digitalization are increasing, it is believed that the insurance brokerage sector in Indonesia will continue to grow. Digital innovation And technological transformation may bring changes in the way insurance is distributed, but the broker’s strategic role in mediation, consultation and claims advocacy still provides added value that cannot simply be replaced by technology.
With a target of greater premium contribution in 2025, and the ability to adapt to market changes, Indonesian insurance brokers are expected to continue to play a vital role in strengthening the national insurance industry and driving sustainable growth.
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