Having almost RM1 million in retirement savings may sound like more than enough to many Malaysians.
However, a 48-year-old man reportedly remains worried that his savings will not be able to support his current lifestyle once he retires.
The story was shared on Threads by financial consultant Zahran, who goes by the username @zahranzain_.
Earns around RM22,000 a month
According to Zahran, the man works as a head of department and earns approximately RM22,000 a month.
From the outside, his life appeared almost “perfect”. He reportedly owns a house, has three SUVs and is supporting five children studying at private universities.
Zahran also shared a screenshot showing that the man had RM931,775.02 in total EPF savings as of March 1, 2026.
Of this amount, more than RM917,000 was reportedly held in his Retirement Account.
Initially, Zahran thought the man had little reason to worry about his future finances. However, the man explained that his concern was not simply whether his EPF savings were enough.
I’m not afraid that my EPF savings are insufficient. I’m afraid the money won’t be able to sustain my lifestyle after I retire,” he reportedly said.
Needs almost RM10,000 a month after retiring
The man then listed the commitments he expects to continue paying for, including his house, cars, parents’ expenses, children’s education, medical costs and travelling with his wife.
Based on a rough calculation, Zahran estimated that the man would still need close to RM10,000 a month to continue living the way he does now.
Even at RM8,000 a month, his annual spending would already reach RM96,000.
This does not include rising medical costs, inflation or any financial assistance he may continue providing to his children.
Zahran said this showed why Malaysians should not only focus on reaching RM1 million in retirement savings.
They should also calculate how long that amount would last based on their expected monthly expenses.
Suggested reviewing his retirement strategy
As a financial consultant, Zahran asked whether the man had ever checked his eligibility for EPF’s Members Investment Scheme, also known as i-Invest.
The man reportedly said he had not.
Zahran then showed him a simulation of how part of his eligible EPF savings could be managed through the scheme.
He explained that the purpose was not simply to chase higher returns, but to explore more options when planning for retirement.
However, investments made through i Invest are exposed to market risks. Returns are not guaranteed and members may experience losses depending on the funds selected and market performance.
Netizens warn about unit trust losses
The post sparked mixed reactions among netizens, with several warning that investing EPF savings through unit trusts may not always produce better results.
One commenter claimed to have lost RM15,000 through an EPF linked investment and said the experience made them more cautious about investing.
Another said their investment value had dropped by 8% after a year, adding that they regretted moving the money out of EPF.
Others felt that the man should reduce his expenses after retirement instead of trying to maintain the same lifestyle.
Several commenters also questioned whether a RM22,000 salary could comfortably support three SUVs and five children studying at private universities.
Meanwhile, another netizen estimated that the man’s EPF savings could potentially grow to between RM2.5 million and RM3 million by the time he turns 60 if he continues contributing and leaves the money in EPF.
However, the actual figure would depend on his future contributions, withdrawals and EPF dividend rates.
