One in four Malaysians put marriage, children on hold over finances

In Malaysia, one in four people aged between 25 and 44 have delayed or abandoned plans to get married, hold a wedding, or have their first child due to financial difficulties over the past five years. According to the 2026 RinggitPlus Malaysian Financial Literacy Survey (RMFLS), 24.3% of respondents in this age group faced such situations, with the figure rising to 28.9% among those aged 25 to 34.

In contrast, only 19.1% of respondents aged 35 to 44 reported similar circumstances. Financial pressures are significantly impacting major life decisions, especially those related to marriage and family planning.

The survey revealed that personal income groups also play a role in these decisions. Twenty-five point eight percent of respondents earning between RM2,000 and RM4,999 monthly mentioned financial constraints influenced their choices, followed by 23.1% of those earning RM5,000 and above. Furthermore, 22.8% of those earning less than RM2,000 a month faced similar challenges.

Separately, 63% of respondents provided financial support to their parents or parents-in-law, with 32% doing so monthly and 30.9% occasionally. However, among respondents earning less than RM2,000 a month, 51.4% provided financial assistance to their parents or parents-in-law, including 18.5% who did so monthly.

RinggitPlus CEO Yuen Tuck Siew commented on the survey's findings, emphasizing the strong connection between financial well-being, family responsibilities, and future planning among Malaysians. He pointed out the growing savings gap between those earning less than RM2,000 a month and other income groups, calling for increased attention to this issue.

Siew stressed the importance of practical and accessible financial education, enabling Malaysians to apply their knowledge to everyday decisions and better prepare for the future. The online survey, which involved 3,005 Malaysians aged 18 and above, was conducted from September 28 to October 11.