Zurich Malaysia steps up sustainability efforts; introduces Global Green Fund

The introduction of the Zurich Global Green Fund makes Zurich the first insurer in Malaysia to launch a climate neutral investment as an option in its investment-linked fund portfolio for unit-linked life insurance that have both protection and investment components.

The fund is aligned with the Zurich philosophy on sustainable investments and focuses on low carbon companies and leaders in clean technology to achieve a 1.5°C future. The Zurich Global Green Fund invests in companies driving change in the field of clean technologies around the world.

Zurich Malaysia goes even further by offsetting the remaining carbon emissions to provide a true carbon neutral investment strategy. In supporting this, Zurich partners carbon offsetting projects that comply with internationally recognised standards.

Carbon emissions of the fund’s investments are tracked and the carbon footprint is offset through Verified Emission Reduction Certificates (VERs) from Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve Project - the world’s largest privately funded orangutan sanctuary. The VERs are then cancelled to avoid reuse, and all necessary information to verify the carbon offsetting calculations and proof of VER cancellation will be published in the fund’s annual report for transparency.

Zurich Life Insurance Chief Executive Officer Khoo Ai Lin said, “As a responsible insurer, doing well and doing good is not only possible, but necessary. Doing well enables us to generate superior returns for our customers while by doing good, we have a positive impact on society. As part of the larger Zurich ecosystem, we tap into the international knowledge skills and capabilities to make a difference. Zurich Malaysia wants to give Malaysians the opportunity to invest in a fund that advances sustainability. We believe we can create a brighter future via the positive impact of our role as an insurer, investor and employer in society for all Malaysians.”

The Zurich Global Green Fund will be made available for Zurich Malaysia’s investment-linked plans (ILP) under the ValueLife series, including the newly-launched Zurich ValueLife Pluz. Zurich ValueLife Pluz is designed for debt cancellation planning to help young Malaysian adults meet their life goals with its ability to grow its fund value via multiple investment funds, including the new Zurich Global Green Fund.

This latest ILP provides simultaneous protection and investment value proposition, while offering the flexibility to withdraw from their Investment Account Value in the event of an emergency with no penalty.

The flexible plan has a premium payment term as short as just five years for its 30-year coverage. The short commitment period and No-Lapse Guarantee* allows Malaysians to embrace living for an optimistic future. With EPF contributors under age 35, who make up 48.7% of total contributors, having a shortfall of up to RM23,747 in savings compared to the basic recommended savings, Zurich ValueLife Pluz can help young Malaysians plan for financial protection and investment at the same time.

*subject to terms and conditions