Malaysians plan their legacy, but fear wealth won't last: Sun Life survey
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has made significant strides in legacy planning, according to a survey by Sun Life Asia.
Malaysia has seen notable progress in legacy planning, according to a survey conducted by Sun Life Asia. The percentage of people who have fully documented and communicated their plans surged to 37% in 2026, up from 15% the previous year. This progress places Malaysia ahead of five other Asian markets, as reported by the survey carried out by Sun Life Asia. Conversely, the proportion of Malaysians without any legacy plan dropped to 10% from 23%.
Despite this increased preparation, concerns about preserving wealth remain high. Around 80% of Malaysians who plan to pass on financial assets are worried their wealth may not endure beyond the next generation, compared to 70% across the region. Only 23% feel fully prepared for their legacy. Ho Teck Seng, the president and country head of Sun Life Malaysia, emphasized that documenting intentions is just one aspect of the process.
Families must also ensure that beneficiaries understand their wishes and are ready to fulfill future responsibilities.
The survey, titled "Passing the Torch: When Legacy Means More Than Money," included 3,073 respondents from six Asian markets, with 506 participants from Malaysia. Market volatility emerged as the top concern for wealth preservation in Malaysia at 54%, followed by beneficiary preparedness at 49% and family conflict at 47%. Legal, regulatory, or tax changes were cited by 37% of respondents.
Millennials were found to be the most anxious, with 90% worried their wealth would not last beyond the next generation. However, 69% still believe their wealth will benefit future generations.
Education topped the list of legacy priorities among Malaysians at 51%, followed by wealth at 49% and family traditions at 44%. A majority of 83% intend to leave financial assets, which could be used for long-term investment, family support, and education. While family discussions have increased, only 32% report that older generations have fully communicated their legacy plans. Additionally, the use of financial advisers has grown, with 45% having sought professional advice.
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