In 2026, financial pressure is hitting harder than ever. Rising living costs, inflation, expensive food prices, unstable job markets, and global uncertainty are making many young Malaysians rethink one big question:
“Is studying at university still worth it?”
More youths today are choosing to skip traditional higher education. Some believe degrees are too expensive. Others feel they can earn money faster through business, content creation, freelancing, or short online courses instead of spending years in university.
And honestly, the debate is real.
Many people argue:
“Why borrow money to study when someone with only SPM can already earn RM4,000?”
But here’s the truth most people ignore:
Education Is Still One of the Best Investments You Can Make
Not everyone needs a degree. The world has changed. Today, there are many paths to success — TVET, online certifications, digital skills, programming, video editing, business, and creative industries.
But one thing remains the same:
People who keep learning will always have an advantage.
Education is not only about certificates. It’s about upgrading your skills, improving your thinking, and increasing your earning potential.
Someone without skills may earn RM2,000 today.
But with knowledge and expertise, they may earn RM5,000, RM10,000, or even more in the future.
That’s why many financial experts call education a form of human capital investment — investing in yourself so your future income can grow.
The Real Problem Isn’t Low Income — It’s Financial Habits
Many people say:
“I can’t save because my salary is too small.”
And yes, survival comes first. But financial habits still matter.
Even saving RM0.50 or RM1 a day helps build discipline.
Because what often happens is:
- Income increases…
- But spending increases too.
That’s why some people still struggle financially even after their salary doubles.
The key difference?
Habits.
Parents who teach children to save early often help them avoid huge financial stress later in life.
Some families save duit raya in places like Tabung Haji, ASB, or SSPN from childhood. At first, kids may not understand why they can’t spend freely on games or gadgets.
But years later, they realize:
- They started adulthood with savings
- They avoided unnecessary debt
- They had a stronger financial foundation
PTPTN Isn’t Always Bad — If Used Correctly
Many people are now anti-loan and anti-PTPTN.
But if there’s no savings and no scholarship, education still needs funding.
PTPTN can actually be a smart tool when viewed as an investment instead of a burden.
Because the real question is:
“Will the knowledge and skills help increase your future income?”
If yes, then the loan becomes an investment into your future.
Parents Must Plan Early
Education costs continue to rise every year.
And education inflation is often higher than normal inflation.
That’s why smart parents start planning early through:
- SSPN
- ASB
- Tabung Haji
- Takaful protection
- Automatic savings systems
One of the most attractive options today is SSPN because:
- Low risk
- Competitive dividend returns
- Tax relief benefits up to RM8,000
- Designed specifically for children’s education savings
Financial planning isn’t about showing off wealth.
It’s about creating peace of mind for your family’s future.
Social Media Is Secretly Making People Spend More
Another major issue in 2026 is lifestyle inflation.
Every day on TikTok, Instagram, and social media, people are constantly exposed to:
- Luxury lifestyles
- Expensive cars
- Renovated houses
- Viral products
- Influencer culture
Over time, many people begin chasing lifestyles they never originally wanted.
This is why controlling desires and learning delayed gratification are becoming one of the most important financial skills today.
Real financial freedom comes from:
- Self-control
- Long-term thinking
- Smart saving habits
- Continuous learning
Not from impressing strangers online.
Secure Your Future Before It’s Too Late
Whether you’re a student, parent, or young adult trying to survive financially in 2026, one thing is clear:
Financial planning can no longer wait.
Start small.
Build better habits.
Invest in knowledge.
And prepare for your future before inflation gets even worse.
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