Actuarial side they get very, very good increments for each paper completed. The more advanced the higher the increment. I believe it can be as much as RM8k for a full qualified actuary in terms of increments. Add to that regular promotions (3 in 8 years) and the figure is pretty achievable. The studying however is not easy, nor are the stress levels. Basically you get paid extra for more papers completed.

I think can start taking SOA preliminary exam first to get the actuarial knowledge.
But personally think no worth to switch after working in another industry, the opportunity cost too high and fresh grad supply is oversaturated...you could have spent the time doing other productive works instead of studying for exam which does not guarantee a job.