Independence is more than just a moment in history; it is a responsibility to protect those who come after us.
Every year on 31st August, Malaysia celebrates its National Day. A day to honour the sacrifices and struggles of our forefathers to achieve independence. While patriotism often revolves around history and milestones, this year, let’s shift this conversation forward, one that centres on the generation that will inherit everything we do today.
At Ouch!, we believe patriotism today means preparing the next generation to thrive, even amidst challenges such as the rising cost of living, climate change and unpredictable futures. Financial, physical, and spiritual security are essential for national resilience. This National Day, let’s think beyond celebration and commit to protecting the generations to come.
The Triple-Pressure Realities of Today
Many Malaysian families are struggling with the rising cost of living, especially in light of the expansion of the Sales and Service Tax (SST) and the revised electricity tariffs. Even the basics have become harder to afford. While previous generations could rely on pensions and steady jobs to secure their future, today’s generation faces a more volatile economy with less job security. Even Employee Provident Funds (EPF) savings, once a dependable fallback, may not be enough for a comfortable retirement.
The youths of today are still on the edge. While Malaysia’s overall unemployment rate just touched a 10-year low, the youth rate remains stubbornly unchanged at 10.3%, with almost 300,000 young adults still job hunting.
At the same time, Malaysia is ageing fast. By 2040, about 14% of Malaysian society will be aged 65 and above. Worryingly, the latest statistics show that only 5.1% of senior citizens have EPF savings that will last beyond the age of 65, meaning more costs will flow downward to their adult children.
These pressures often fall on the shoulders of the ”sandwich generation”, who must care for ageing parents while raising their own children. Add inflation that keeps utilities, food, and medical bills climbing, “merdeka” feels fragile for millions of households.
3 Ways to Start Protecting the Next Generation
This merdeka, let’s redefine patriotism. Beyond parades, speeches, and flags, it is about lifting each other up and building structures of care that can weather economic storms. It is about providing for elderly parents and ensuring your children have a safety net; young ones equipped to take responsibility for their financial futures; and communities looking out for each other.
Takaful, a protection plan built on the principles of mutual care and shared responsibility, gives us a practical way to leave behind a meaningful legacy. Whether it is education, healthcare, or simply day-to-day living expenses, a Takaful plan can offer peace of mind for families when they need it the most. Here are the steps to get you started:
- Audit your financial gaps: Add up monthly household expenses (loan payments, utilities, groceries, school fees), then compare against existing insurance or Takaful coverage. The general rule of thumb is that your coverage should be at least 10 times your annual expenses. If it is not, your family could be left vulnerable in times of crises.
- Explore a Takaful plan that suits your needs: A modern gamily plan can wrap three layers: parental medical care, income replacement for yourself, and education funds for your children. One contribution, three lifelines. Furthermore, the emergence of Takaful startups such as Ouch! offer flexible and affordable plans with seamless online sign-ups. Even a small monthly contribution can go a long way. Find a plan that suits your needs and get protected today.
- Nominate and educate: Don’t just name a beneficiary; prepare them. Take time to discuss hibah, inheritance, and basic financial literacy with your loved ones. It is a conversation we all need to have. One that will leave behind a lasting impact.
Safeguarding tomorrow’s children is not only smart finance – it is a divine trust. It is a call for us to act with foresight, compassion, and responsibility, to leave a better world for the next generation.
Let those who would fear for the future of their own helpless children, if they were to die, show the same concern (for orphans); let them be mindful of God and speak out for justice.” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:9)
Merdeka is a Mindset
The National Day is more than a date in history. It is a mindset of resilience and responsibility. Our forefathers gave us freedom; now it is our turn to protect that freedom by building financial security for generations to come.
The most patriotic thing we can do today is to create a future where every Malaysian has a chance not just to survive but to thrive amidst the financial pressures and volatility of today’s world. Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!
Find out more about Pusara Pro by clicking here or download the Ouch! Takaful mobile app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store today.
Disclaimer: The information in our blog articles and provided by our brand ambassadors/KOLs is for general insights only and not legally binding. We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee the information’s completeness or reliability. For legal matters, consult official documents or contact an authorised Ouch! representative.