
Lump sum withdrawals may undermine long-term retirement security
KUALA LUMPUR: The practice of lump sum retirement withdrawals may jeopardise long-term financial security and increase the risk of retirees outliving their savings, said Employees Provident Fund (EPF) chief executive officer Ahmad Zulqarnain Onn.
He said that only a small proportion of EPF members currently meet the basic savings threshold, while over 58 per cent of working-age Malaysians are not contributing to any formal retirement scheme.
'If Malaysia is serious about preparing for a 100-year life, we must fundamentally rethink how we work, save, engage and care, across all stages of life,' he said.
Ahmad Zulqarnain added that the EPF is exploring enhanced accumulation strategies, including structured monthly withdrawal options, to help members manage longevity risks and ensure the sustainability of their retirement savings.
'We are intensifying efforts to promote retirement literacy, particularly among youth, informal workers and vulnerable groups, to build a culture of long-term saving and informed financial decision-making,' he said during his closing remarks at the International Social Wellbeing Conference 2025, themed 'Living to a Hundred: Are We Prepared?' held here today.
As Malaysians live and work longer, he said the country must eventually align the full EPF withdrawal age with the national minimum retirement age to ensure a more coherent and secure transition into later life.
'The EPF remains committed to turning this challenge into an opportunity by delivering retirement solutions that are inclusive, sustainable and future-ready,' he said.
'Our shared responsibility is to build systems that enable Malaysians to age with dignity and social connection,' he added.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Rakyat Post
5 hours ago
- Rakyat Post
MG Motor Malaysia Drives Value This Mid-Year With Irresistible Offers On MG5 And MG4
Subscribe to our FREE MG Motor Malaysia is putting the spotlight on smart car ownership this mid-year with compelling offers on two of its most talked about models, the stylish MG5 sedan and the all-electric MG4. Designed to deliver more value for every ringgit, MG's current offerings reflect its commitment to make quality, design, and driving enjoyment more accessible to Malaysians. The MG5, the largest B-segment sedan in its class is now available from RM86,900, a RM7,000 saving from its original MSRP of RM93,900. With its sleek silhouette, spacious cabin, and refined ride, the MG5 is crafted for those who seek everyday practicality without compromising on aesthetics or comfort. Meanwhile, for Malaysians considering the switch to electric, the award-winning MG4 remains a popular choice. Through the 'Drive Now, Pay Later' campaign, MG is making EV ownership more accessible than ever offering up to 12 months free instalments for the MG4 Lux and up to 8 months for the MG4 Standard. This initiative gives customers a head start on their electric journey, ensuring a smoother transition into EV ownership with added peace of mind. Terms and conditions apply. With striking design, advanced technology, and the unmistakable British driving feel, MG's latest offers make it the perfect time to step into the driver's seat. The brand remains committed to making exceptional vehicles more attainable, without compromising on safety, innovation, or the joy of driving. MG Motor Malaysia invites all Malaysians to experience the thrill of MG vehicles firsthand at any authorised showroom nationwide. This weekend, test drive the MG5 or MG4 and be among the first to experience the much-anticipated MGS5 EV SUV, now available for test drives as it debuts on Malaysian roads. For more information and to locate your nearest showroom, visit Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.


The Sun
6 hours ago
- The Sun
Lump sum withdrawals may undermine long-term retirement security
KUALA LUMPUR: The practice of lump sum retirement withdrawals may jeopardise long-term financial security and increase the risk of retirees outliving their savings, said Employees Provident Fund (EPF) chief executive officer Ahmad Zulqarnain Onn. He said that only a small proportion of EPF members currently meet the basic savings threshold, while over 58 per cent of working-age Malaysians are not contributing to any formal retirement scheme. 'If Malaysia is serious about preparing for a 100-year life, we must fundamentally rethink how we work, save, engage and care, across all stages of life,' he said. Ahmad Zulqarnain added that the EPF is exploring enhanced accumulation strategies, including structured monthly withdrawal options, to help members manage longevity risks and ensure the sustainability of their retirement savings. 'We are intensifying efforts to promote retirement literacy, particularly among youth, informal workers and vulnerable groups, to build a culture of long-term saving and informed financial decision-making,' he said during his closing remarks at the International Social Wellbeing Conference 2025, themed 'Living to a Hundred: Are We Prepared?' held here today. As Malaysians live and work longer, he said the country must eventually align the full EPF withdrawal age with the national minimum retirement age to ensure a more coherent and secure transition into later life. 'The EPF remains committed to turning this challenge into an opportunity by delivering retirement solutions that are inclusive, sustainable and future-ready,' he said. 'Our shared responsibility is to build systems that enable Malaysians to age with dignity and social connection,' he added.

Barnama
7 hours ago
- Barnama
Lump Sum Withdrawals May Undermine Long-term Retirement Security
KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 (Bernama) -- The practice of lump sum retirement withdrawals may jeopardise long-term financial security and increase the risk of retirees outliving their savings, said Employees Provident Fund (EPF) chief executive officer Ahmad Zulqarnain Onn. He said that only a small proportion of EPF members currently meet the basic savings threshold, while over 58 per cent of working-age Malaysians are not contributing to any formal retirement scheme. 'If Malaysia is serious about preparing for a 100-year life, we must fundamentally rethink how we work, save, engage and care, across all stages of life,' he said.