Financial pressures force Malaysians to delay marriage, first child

FINANCIAL concerns have led nearly one in four Malaysians aged 25 to 44 to postpone or decide against getting married or having their first child over the past five years, according to a new survey.

The 2026 RinggitPlus Malaysia Financial Literacy Survey (RMFLS) found that 24.3% of respondents in the age group had made such decisions because of financial constraints.

The proportion was higher among those aged 25 to 34, at 28.9%, compared with 19.1% among respondents aged 35 to 44.

The findings point to the role money plays in major life decisions, as Malaysians weigh the costs of starting a family against their financial commitments.

By income, 25.8% of respondents aged 25 to 44 earning between RM2,000 and RM4,999 a month said financial concerns had influenced their decisions.

The figure stood at 23.1% among those earning RM5,000 and above, and 22.8% among those earning less than RM2,000 a month.

The survey also found that many Malaysians were helping to support older family members, adding another commitment to their household budgets.

Overall, 63% of respondents said they gave money to their parents or parents-in-law. Some 32% provided financial support every month, while 30.9% did so occasionally.

Among respondents earning less than RM2,000 a month, 51.4% said they gave money to their parents or parents-in-law, including 18.5% who did so monthly.

RinggitPlus chief executive officer Yuen Tuck Siew said the findings highlighted the links between financial circumstances, family responsibilities and Malaysians’ plans for the future.

He also drew attention to the widening savings gap between those earning less than RM2,000 a month and respondents in higher income brackets.

“Financial education needs to be practical and accessible so Malaysians can apply what they learn to everyday decisions and better prepare for the future,” he said.

The online survey involved 3,005 Malaysians aged 18 and above and was conducted from September 28 to October 11.

The RMFLS is an annual study by RinggitPlus recognised by the Financial Education Network (FEN). - October 24, 2026