Smart Money Skils & Investment in the Digital Era
The Malaysia National Strategy for Financial Literacy 2026–2030 (NS2.0) sets a new direction to help Malaysians better understand financial matters, building on the foundation of the previous strategy (2019–2023). It aims to empower Malaysians from all walks of life to navigate today’s financial environment with confidence and competence, while remaining inclusive of all segments of society and addressing emerging challenges such as digitalisation, economic changes, and evolving lifestyles and money management practices.
The strategy also ensures that fi nancial learning is accessible to all, empowering individuals to make informed, safe, and responsible financial decisions. To achieve these objectives, NS2.0 is built on five strategic priorities (SP 2026–2030). These priorities focus on enhancing financial awareness, knowledge, and financial management habits; strengthening the financial literacy ecosystem; advancing digital financial literacy; and promoting access to and responsible use of safe financial products and services.
These five strategic priorities serve as the main guide for the implementation of the Malaysia National Strategy for Financial Literacy 2026–2030 (NS2.0), from the individual level to the national level, ensuring that Malaysians are better prepared to face present and future financial challenges.
In today’s digital era, investment opportunities are more accessible than ever, but this also means that investors must be more aware of the risks involved. One of NS2.0’s five strategic priorities is to promote the safe, confident, and meaningful use of digital financial services (SP4). This focus highlights the importance of using digital investment platforms wisely, including online stock trading and unit trust investment applications, while fostering awareness of cybersecurity risks and responsible financial decision-making.
Below are some practical guidelines to help Malaysians make smarter investment decisions.
Guide to Make Smart Investment Decisions in Digital Era
Use Legitimate and Secure Platforms
Ensure that the investment platforms you use are legitimate and licensed. This helps protect your funds and reduces the risk of fraud. At the same time, be mindful of increasingly sophisticated cybersecurity threats. Criminals are now using artificial intelligence (AI) to create highly convincing phishing emails that impersonate financial advisers or institutions to obtain personal information or even to pressure individuals into making rushed financial decisions. AI is also being used in deepfake attacks, such as fake videos or audio recordings, to deceive customers into transferring money or sharing sensitive data.
Use Regular Investment Features on Digital Platforms
You don’t have to start investing with a large amount. Begin with an amount you are comfortable with while continuing to learn about the market and investment strategies. For example, you may start with lower-risk investments such as ASB, and make use of features like Auto Labur @ myASNB to help cultivate disciplined and consistent investing habits.
Monitor Investment Performance
Regularly review the performance of your investments including through convenient and secure online channels. Digital platforms make it easier to track accounts, review transactions, and ensure that personal information is kept up to date. When necessary, adjust your investment strategy to remain aligned with changing economic conditions and your financial goals.
The Malaysia National Strategy for Financial Literacy 2026–203 emphasises that financial literacy is not merely about knowledge of money, but the ability to make better, responsible choices and to use technology wisely. For your information, the Financial Education Network (FEN) will also collaborate with relevant ministries, industry associations, institutions, consumer groups, and other key stakeholders to implement, monitor, and evaluate financial education initiatives under the National Strategy. By taking prudent steps and equipping themselves with relevant information, Malaysians can build a stronger financial foundation and achieve a safer and more stable future.