KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has stepped up efforts to improve financial awareness and resilience with the launch of the National Financial Literacy Strategy 2.0 (NS2.0).
Perbadanan Insurans Deposit Malaysia (PIDM) executive vice president Wan Ahmad Ikram Wan Ahmad Lotfi said the 2026–2030 strategy, launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, builds on the foundation of the first plan introduced in 2019 and reflects the need for Malaysians to adapt to a fast-changing financial landscape.
Developed by the Financial Education Network (FEN), he explained that the NS2.0 adopts a whole-of-nation approach involving ministries, government agencies, financial institutions, NGOs, educational bodies and the public.
It, he added, focuses on five key areas: financial and retirement planning, responsible debt management, protection against unexpected risks, safe use of digital financial services and prudent investing.
“Financial literacy is now a basic necessity. With the growing complexity of financial products, digital platforms and risks, Malaysians need to be equipped to make informed decisions and safeguard their future,” he said.
He said findings from Bank Negara Malaysia’s Financial Capability and Inclusion Survey show why the initiative is urgent.
According to him, about 31 per cent of Malaysians lack enough money to meet basic needs, while 61 per cent have no emergency savings of RM1,000.
He stated that the data also shows that 26 per cent are burdened with excessive debt and 40 per cent of senior citizens depend on family support after retirement.
“These figures highlight the importance of early planning and continuous financial education at every stage of life,” he said.
As one of FEN’s founding members, Wan Ahmad Ikram said that PIDM fully supports the implementation of NS2.0.
“PIDM plays a key role in maintaining national financial stability and protecting consumers by automatically safeguarding depositors and insurance and takaful policyholders.
“We also have the power to resolve troubled financial institutions without using public funds,” he said.
Moreover, in conjunction with NS2.0 and Financial Literacy Month 2025, he shared that PIDM is expanding its outreach through campaigns such as Sedia Payung Kewangan and FinFit Challenge 2025 across campuses and social media.
The corporation, he said, is also working with teachers, journalists and business communities to extend the reach of financial education.
“These initiatives can only succeed if individuals take responsibility for their own financial wellbeing.
“The success of NS2.0 depends on active participation and effective implementation. PIDM remains committed to building a more financially literate, resilient and secure future for all Malaysians,” he said.
