For generations, the Malaysian retirement dream was simple: work until 55 or 60, withdraw a lump sum from the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), and live out one’s golden years peacefully. However, this paradigm is being shattered by a silent but powerful threat: longevity risk—the risk of outliving your savings. The Perfect Storm: Rising Life Expectancy and …
If I were to ask you about your financial safety nets, what would you say? For most of us, the answer is almost automatic: “I have an emergency fund” and “I save in ASB or other ASNB fixed price funds”. And you know what? That’s fantastic. Having an emergency fund and investing in ASNB fixed price funds …
You’ve worked hard, saved diligently, and now you’re facing a financial decision that feels monumental. The money is sitting in your account, and two powerful, competing goals are vying for it. These aren’t simple math problems. They are deeply personal crossroads where logic meets emotion, and short-term desires clash with long-term dreams. The anxiety comes …
Before 2025 ends, let’s see if you can reduce your income tax for this year. This article is about YA2025 income tax for individual resident. In this article, I will only touch on certain tax reliefs. For a full list of available tax reliefs, you may refer to this page from PwC Malaysia (Link). Tax …
Ever submitted a loan application feeling confident, only to have it rejected or approved for a smaller amount than you expected? You’re not alone. Many hardworking Malaysians face this frustrating situation. The reason often boils down to a single, powerful number that banks scrutinize closely: your Debt Service Ratio (DSR). Think of your DSR as your …
Picture this: Your credit card statement arrives. You open it, and that familiar knot of anxiety tightens in your stomach. The “Minimum Payment” seems manageable, but the “Total Outstanding Balance” feels like a mountain you can’t climb. You’re not alone. With living costs on the rise, many Malaysians find themselves relying on credit cards, only …
Managing money is a challenge for many Malaysians. Despite living in a rapidly developing economy, a large portion of the population struggles with debt, low savings, and financial insecurity. But why does this happen, and what can be done to improve the situation? Let us explore the key reasons why Malaysians face financial difficulties and …
Retirement is a significant milestone, and your Employees Provident Fund (EPF) savings play a crucial role in securing your financial future. Knowing when and how to withdraw your EPF funds can help you maximise your retirement income. In this guide, we’ll cover:✅ When you can withdraw EPF for retirement✅ Types of retirement withdrawals (full, partial, or phased)✅ Key considerations before accessing your …
Surviving solely on your Employees Provident Fund (EPF) in Malaysia is possible, but it depends on several factors, including your savings, lifestyle, and retirement strategy. Let’s break it down with a case study. Case Study: Can a Malaysian Retire on EPF Alone? Assumptions: Scenario 1: Withdrawing EPF as a Lump Sum If you withdraw RM500,000 …
Saving money is a common challenge for many Malaysians. Despite good intentions, people often find themselves living paycheck-to-paycheck, struggling with debt, or unable to build a safety net for the future. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—but the good news is, with the right strategies (and a little professional guidance), you can take control …
