Mental health is no longer something Malaysians brush aside.
With nearly five million people in the country affected by mental health challenges, conversations around emotional well-being are finally taking centre stage.
In recent years, the government has stepped up efforts by offering counselling and therapy services at selected public clinics.
Now, in a significant move, mental health has been included in the national takaful protection scheme, mySalam, allowing eligible individuals to receive a one-time RM8,000 payout upon diagnosis.
What is mySalam?
mySalam is a government-initiated free takaful (Islamic insurance) scheme introduced in 2019.
It provides financial aid to Malaysians in the B40 income group who are diagnosed with critical illnesses. In 2025, the number of illnesses covered increased from 45 to 50, grouped into 12 categories.
There are two main benefits under mySalam:
- Hospitalisation Allowance: RM50 per day for up to 14 days per year (RM700 annually) for stays in government, military, or university hospitals.
- Critical Illness Benefit: A one-off payment of RM8,000 if diagnosed with any of the listed critical illnesses.
What’s new: Mental health now included
As of 1 January 2025, three mental health conditions have been officially added to the list of critical illnesses under mySalam.
This means individuals who are properly diagnosed with these conditions and meet the outlined criteria are eligible to apply for the RM8,000 financial support.
However, it’s important to note that not all mental disorders are covered, only specific conditions with strict medical and treatment requirements.
Mental illnesses covered under mySalam
1. Major depressive disorder (MDD)
MDD is a severe mental health condition marked by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or irritability, along with a loss of interest in daily activities and significant impairment in functioning.
To qualify for coverage, the following criteria must be met:
- Diagnosis must be made by a psychiatrist using the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) or its updated equivalents.
- The condition must meet the severity threshold as defined by DSM-5.
- The patient must have undergone electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
- Continuous use of prescribed medication for at least 180 days post-diagnosis.
Exclusions:
- Depression caused by substance or alcohol abuse.
- Adjustment disorder with depressed mood.
2. Schizophrenia
This condition is characterised by disruptions in thinking, perception, emotions, and behaviour.
Eligibility requirements include:
- Diagnosis confirmed by a psychiatrist based on DSM-5.
- Ongoing treatment using antipsychotic medication for a minimum of 180 days.
Exclusion:
- Schizophrenia caused by drug or alcohol use.
3. Bipolar disorder
Also called manic-depressive illness, bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings ranging from emotional highs (mania) to lows (depression).
To be eligible:
- Must be diagnosed by a psychiatrist according to DSM-5 standards.
- The patient must receive continuous treatment using mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, or atypical antidepressants for at least 180 days.
Exclusion:
- Cases related to substance abuse or alcohol use are not covered.
How to apply for RM8,000 critical illness benefit
If you’ve been diagnosed with one of the above conditions, here’s how to make a claim:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Download the “Critical Illness Claim Form” from the official mySalam website.
- Photocopy your IC (front and back).
- Bring the form to your treating doctor, who must complete the following:
- Patient’s full name and IC number
- Details of the diagnosed illness
- Doctor’s official stamp and signature
- Submit all documents to any mySalam counter or pop-up booth at participating government clinics or hospitals.
Important: Claims must be submitted no later than 30 June 2025.
Recap of mySalam’s key benefits
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Hospitalisation Allowance | RM50/day (max 14 days or RM700/year) for stays in eligible hospitals |
| Critical Illness Payout | One-time RM8,000 payout for any of the 50 listed illnesses (incl. mental health) |
This initiative is fully funded by the government in collaboration with Great Eastern Takaful Berhad, with no premiums required from recipients.
If you or someone you know meets the criteria, don’t wait. The RM8,000 payout could go a long way in making treatment and recovery just a little easier.
