Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) now allows motorists who are not at fault to make claims through their own insurer while retaining their No-Claim Discount (NCD), The Star reported.

The Own Damage Knock-for-Knock (OD-KFK) facility is limited to comprehensive policies.

It lets drivers repair their vehicles through their own insurer instead of waiting for the third party’s insurer to respond.

A police report and supporting documents must be provided before the claim is processed.

The option is not available in every case. Accidents involving taxis, buses or hire vehicles, as well as those resulting in injuries, still require claims to be made against the at-fault driver’s insurer.

BNM expects the new framework to shorten waiting times significantly.

Own-damage claims may be settled about 20 working days sooner, while third-party property damage cases could be resolved up to 80 working days faster.

Insurers have also introduced Digital Roadside Assistance in their apps and websites.

The service allows policyholders to request authorised towing, find nearby workshops, and upload claim documents online, reducing dependence on unauthorised operators.

For disputes that remain unresolved, motorists can turn to the Financial Markets Ombudsman Service (FMOS), the body that took over from the Ombudsman for Financial Services in January 2025.

BNM said the reforms are intended to streamline claims, provide faster outcomes, and reinforce public trust in the motor insurance system.

Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Malaysia, based on image by Aleksandr Finch via Freepik