17/09/2026

LYFE THURSDAY | SEPT 17, 2026

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o When picking out your dream car, several factors need to be carefully considered Choosing right rides

B UYING a car is one of the biggest financial commitments many Malaysians will make. Whether it is your first vehicle, a family upgrade or simply a more practical choice for your current lifestyle, the decision goes beyond choosing a model you like. It is about finding a vehicle that matches your needs, budget and everyday journey. With so many options available, knowing where to start can make the process feel less tedious and overwhelming. From understanding your priorities to comparing available choices, Malaysians can take a more considered approach when searching for their next car. 1. Look beyond the monthly instalment A car’s price tag is only one part of ownership. Before committing, buyers should consider the full cost of owning a vehicle, including insurance, maintenance, fuel and unexpected expenses. Understanding your realistic budget can help narrow down choices and prevent stretching your finances too far. Sometimes, the best choice is not the newest model, but one that provides the right balance between affordability, reliability and practicality. IN light of a recent fire in the Klang Valley involving an electric vehicle (EV) home charger that reportedly resulted in extensive property damage, the General Insurance Association of Malaysia (PIAM) has provided clarification regarding insurance coverage for EV owners and property owners. PIAM CEO Chua Kim Soon addressed key concerns surrounding EV charging risks, policy coverage limits and compliance requirements under standard Malaysian motor and property (home/fire) insurance policies. Core guidance, policy clarifications 0 Standard fire & owner coverage Standard houseowner and fire insurance policies in Malaysia cover specified perils, including fire damage, regardless of the ignition source, subject to the policy terms, conditions and exclusions, and provided there is no fraud, deliberate act or other applicable breach of policy conditions. 0 EV chargers as property fixtures Permanently installed (hard-wired) EV chargers may be categorised under the “buildings” section of a home policy as fixtures and fittings. Unattached or portable charging cables typically fall under specialised EV motor insurance policies or add-on packages offered by insurers.

2. Choose based on your lifestyle, not just trends A vehicle should fit the way you live. A first-time buyer may prioritise efficiency and affordability, while a growing family may need more space and comfort. Those with frequent long-distance commutes may have different priorities compared to someone who mainly drives around the city. Before searching, think about how you will use the car most often and what features genuinely matter to you. 3. Compare before you commit With so many vehicles available today, buyers have more opportunities to research and compare before making a decision.Looking at different models, checking market prices and understanding a vehicle’s condition can help buyers identify better value options. Online marketplaces have also made it easier to browse a wider selection, with some platforms offering access to over 80,000 cars across different price points, making it easier for Malaysians to compare vehicles that suit their needs and budget. 4. Do not overlook the importance of vehicle checks For those considering a used car, confidence in the vehicle’s condition is often one of the biggest considerations. Checking details such as mileage,

Always make sure you know what you are looking for and why.

vehicle condition and ownership history can help buyers make a more informed choice. Some platforms also offer a free vehicle inspections worth a lot, giving eligible buyers added assurance as they explore their options.

5. Make the most of available benefits Timing can also play a role when making a big purchase. From promotional offers to added services, buyers can explore opportunities that provide more value during their search. This article is contributed by Mudah.my. Understanding insurance coverage: Tips for EV owners, property holders Buying a car is a decision that has to be made carefully. – PICS FROM 123RF

Insurance policy holders should be aware of any existing gaps. – PICS FROM 123RF

Having insurance will make the risk of a car fire less painful.

0 Duty of disclosure All homeowners are strongly advised to notify their respective insurers upon installing a permanent EV charger at home. Additionally, declaring electrical upgrades completely ensures the property’s sum insured reflects the true, current rebuilding costs and helps provide clarity on the policy’s coverage during the claims process. Key insurance for EV owners 0 Maintain adequate sum insured To avoid underinsurance, property owners should verify that their policy

0 Significance of professional installation Insurers require homeowners to take reasonable precautions and maintain electrical safety standards. It should be noted that when they go about assessing claims, insurers will almost always evaluate official investigation reports. These includes reports and evaulations from the fire department to rule out deliberate acts such as arson, fraud or non-compliance with all statutory regulations (eg. illegal, unauthorised or uncertified electrical modifications/installations).

public liability limits. While standard houseowner policies generally provide a limit of RM50,000, policyholders can purchase optional extensions to increase this liability limit. 0 Review dual policies EV owners should do their due diligence and regularly review their motor and home insurance policies to understand what is covered and address potential gaps in coverage, ensuring comprehensive protection for the vehicle, charging equipment, and residential structure.

sum insured reflects updated rebuilding costs, accounting for home modifications and modern fixtures. Homeowners can estimate rebuilding costs using PIAM’s complimentary Building Cost Calculator for guidance. This can be found on PIAM’s website and is free of charge to use. 0 Evaluate third-party liability Given the constant potential for fire or electrical incidents to spread to adjacent properties, particularly in terrace homes or highrise residences; homeowners should evaluate their