Travelling has become a popular part of each Malaysian’s life, with the total number of Malaysians travelling outbound forecasted to increase by 5.6% each year. As we start to plan our dream vacation, many of us fail to consider what happens when disasters strike. What should you do when you injure a leg during a beach holiday, or get caught in a snow storm?

Scientists suggest that natural disasters are increasing in severity due to climate change, and frequent travel exposes Malaysians to more risks that we might not be aware of. In the last 20 years, 4.4 billion people have been impacted by natural disasters, with 56% of deaths resulting from earthquakes and tsunamis. The recent news of earthquakes, hurricanes and hospitalisations only paint a worrying picture of how unprepared Malaysians might be while travelling abroad.

With the holiday season around the corner, here are some things to consider before you head on the trip of your dreams.

Before the trip

The Ministry of Health recommends that you get the right vaccinations when travelling to lower your likelihood of falling ill. Travelling exposes you to new climates, and the sanitation levels or introduction of unfamiliar food items might increase your risk of infection.

Many international travellers may not be aware that their life/medical insurance coverage might not extend to accident or illnesses that occur overseas. In addition, the amount that is payable may be limited to the cost payable for a similar treatment in Malaysia when the actual cost can be much higher overseas.

Whether you are an experienced globe trotter or a first-time traveller, it is important to purchase travel insurance to have yourself covered in the event you run into the unexpected while abroad. You need to read through your travel policy and ensure that you understand the extent of coverage and procedures for submitting claims. You should also have your travel assistance number with you at all times, and make sure that you know the emergency number of your travel insurer and the Malaysian embassy.

The bottom line is to be prepared. If you are going to a country where you do not speak the local language, look up a few key phrases in advance so you can seek for help if necessary.

Medical Emergency

To ensure that your travel policy covers healthcare in a foreign country, always check with your insurance company on the extent of coverage and the procedure for submitting international claims. Policies should have a high medical limit as the cost of medical expenses overseas can be very expensive. It should also have cashless hospital admission that covers both illness and accidental bodily injury.

“Malaysians need to understand that travel insurance covers many services, including the recommendation of medical facilities, and repatriation and evacuation arrangements. We know that it is important to travellers to have the best protection possible. Here at AIG, we have a team of trained and experienced medical personnel based in Kuala Lumpur that is available by phone 24/7 to assist you in any emergency medical situation. We also have native speakers on hand who will be able to communicate with the local hospitals to ensure you are taken care of and given most suited treatment,” said Antony Lee, CEO of AIG Malaysia.

Medical Evacuations

Getting the right medical assistance can be challenging, especially if you are at a remote area.

Antony explained, “If a hospital or treatment centre that the customer is admitted does not have the necessary medical equipment or capacity to treat the injured person, AIG can help to transport the patient to another hospital or treatment centre that would have the right facilities or equipment.”

In the event that a customer requires medical assistance on their journey home, the insurer will also step in for emergency medical repatriations back to the insured patient’s home country. Some situations require a medical escort such as a doctor, nurse or paramedic, to assist with medical needs like monitoring oxygen levels or administering medication.

Natural Disasters

If you encounter a natural disaster during your travels, be sure to immediately update the Malaysian embassy in the country you are travelling in, insurer, and friends and family on your whereabouts and safety. Stay alert to local news developments through television, radio or social media to get the most up-to-date information on evacuations, road closures and safe zones.

Most importantly, remain calm and listen and follow the instructions of the local authorities. Leave the destination as soon as you are able to, to get away from danger. This would also help to leave more time and resources for organisations to help the locals in dire need.

Visit the official portal of the Ministry of Health Malaysia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the latest travel advisories about destinations.