M’sians are planning their inheritance, but fear the money won’t last

A growing number of Malaysians are formalising their inheritance plans, with 37% fully documenting and communicating their legacy intentions in 2026, up from 15% the previous year. This places Malaysia at the top among six Asian markets surveyed, while the percentage of those without any legacy plan fell from 23% to 10%. Despite this increased organisation, many Malaysians remain anxious about whether their wealth will endure for future generations.

Among those intending to leave financial assets or wealth in Malaysia, 80% worry that it may not survive beyond the next generation, compared to 70% across the region. Market volatility, beneficiaries' readiness to manage inherited wealth, and family conflict topped the list of concerns. Legal, regulatory, or tax changes were also cited by 37% of respondents.

The survey, conducted in August, surveyed 3,073 people across Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam, with a Malaysian sample of 506 respondents. However, greater organisation has not erased the concerns. While communication is more prevalent, with 66% of Malaysians reporting older generations had communicated some aspects of their plans, only 32% said the intentions were fully explained.

Formal family meetings were the most common setting for these conversations, while 40% had informal discussions. The use of financial advisers also increased from 16% in 2025 to 31% in the current year.

Despite the increased focus on legacy planning, Malaysians remain conflicted about the long-term impact of their intentions. Millennials, in particular, worry that their legacy may not last, but they are also the most optimistic about its positive effect for generations to come. Education tops the list of legacy priorities for Malaysians, followed by wealth and family traditions.

The survey suggests that while writing a will is a crucial step, families may need to consider additional factors such as beneficiary understanding, preparedness, and the ultimate purpose of the inherited wealth.