Pay2Value › How to save money in Malaysia

How to save money in Malaysia: 8 simple habits

You don't need a perfect budget to save. These habits work on any salary, and each one takes only a few minutes.

1

Know where your money goes

Write down everything you spend for one month, even RM 2 drinks. Most people are surprised by one category. Use our free template or an app.

2

Pay yourself first

On payday, move your savings to a separate account before you spend anything. What is left is what you can spend.

3

Use the 48-hour rule

When you want something you don't need, wait 48 hours. If you still want it after two days, buy it. Often you won't.

4

Ask: would I buy it again?

A few days after a purchase, ask yourself if you would buy it again. Your "no" answers show the kind of spending you regret, so you can skip it next time.

5

Check your subscriptions every month

Streaming, apps, gym. Cancel the ones you didn't really use this month.

6

See small buys in hours of work

RM 15 a day doesn't feel like much, but it adds up. Work out your hourly rate and see what a habit costs you in work time.

7

Be careful with PayLater

Small PayLater amounts across several apps add up fast. Keep one list of what you owe and when. How to track it.

8

Make a list before big sales

Before 11.11 or 12.12, write down what you actually need. Leave anything else in the cart for 48 hours.

A simple way to split your salary

One common rule is 50/30/20: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, 20% for savings and paying off debt. See the split for your salary on the salary pages.

General information only, not financial advice.