In response to the rising tide of financial anxiety and insecurity in Malaysia, RinggitPlus, in partnership with CIMB Foundation, hosted the “Good Habits, Good Future” financial literacy workshop. The session featured practical advice and actionable insights designed to empower Malaysians with the tools they need to improve their financial wellbeing and build a more secure future. 

This milestone also marked a key moment for CIMB’s JagaDuit initiative, a platform that helps Malaysians develop smart money habits and manage their finances at every stage of life.

Expert Insights And Practical Guidance

Setting the tone for the workshop, Ng Tsu Mae, Director of Group Corporate Responsibility at CIMB Foundation, reminded everyone that financial literacy is about more than just knowledge, it’s about putting that knowledge into practice. “Financial literacy is not just about what to do with your money and getting information, but also about using that information and taking action,” she said. 

She highlighted the importance of platforms like JagaDuit, which go beyond passive learning by enabling participants to engage with experts, share real-life experiences, and receive tailored guidance. Through this interactive approach, Malaysians are encouraged to take concrete steps such as tracking their expenses, setting achievable financial goals, and building resilience in the face of financial uncertainty. The aim is not just to learn about money, but to live smarter with it.

Junainah Ahmad Esa, Head of AKPK Johor Bahru, encouraged Malaysians to take charge of their financial well-being. She emphasised AKPK’s holistic role in fostering financial resilience, urging individuals to stay vigilant against scams, seek credible advice early, and take proactive steps to strengthen their finances. She outlined AKPK’s four-pillar approach that includes Salvage for addressing urgent financial issues, Build for improving income management, Grow for future investments, and Protect for safeguarding assets.

Highlighting the urgency of such efforts, Yuen Tuck Siew, CEO of RinggitPlus, shared striking findings from the 2024 RinggitPlus Financial Literacy Survey (RMFLS). He revealed that 55% of Malaysians felt anxious, frustrated, or embarrassed about their finances, with nearly half of those earning over RM10,000 still living paycheck to paycheck. These numbers underscore the widespread nature of financial stress across income levels.

He emphasised that the collaboration between RinggitPlus, CIMB, and AKPK is critical in addressing these challenges.

What’s Next For Attendees 

To keep the momentum going, attendees were invited to explore CIMB’s JagaDuit platform, an essential resource packed with tools and guides for managing money at every stage of life. AKPK’s expertise remains available to those facing financial difficulties, offering structured support and guidance. 

With the RMFLS 2025 report expected soon, Malaysians can expect fresh insights into how fuel subsidy changes, US tariffs, and rising Buy Now, Pay Later trends are shaping everyday financial decisions.

Building a Better Financial Future Together

The “Good Habits, Good Future” event highlighted an essential truth: financial security is not built overnight but through consistent, positive habits supported by trusted partners. 

Through the collaboration between CIMB Foundation, AKPK, and RinggitPlus, more Malaysians are gaining the knowledge, confidence, and resources they need to take meaningful steps toward a stronger financial future.

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