KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 -- Malaysians may soon be able to pull their savings from Account 2 of Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) to pay for monthly health insurance premiums, Putrajaya has suggested.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad was quoted saying yesterday such a plan could benefit 16 million contributors by enabling them to access treatment at private hospitals through their EPF funds.

"This is the best way. Eventually, our people will have coverage like in Singapore. But we can't force it," he was quoted saying by New Straits Times.

He noted the scheme would be optional and require only a small deduction from contributors' accounts.

"A small percentage can be used for insurance payment. They won't even feel it, as it doesn...