For many Malaysians, the pressure to “make it” by their early 30s feels overwhelming.
A viral post by a 32-year-old man recently struck a chord online after he revealed that despite working hard, he only has RM77 in his bank account.
‘Friends already bought houses, but I can barely save’
The man shared a screenshot of his balance alongside a heartfelt confession.
While his peers working in Singapore were already buying cars and houses, he said he deeply regretted staying back in Malaysia.
Now when I think back, I regret my decision to stay here. My monthly salary is RM3,000, but after giving my parents money, paying insurance and car loans, I can barely survive. Every month I’m living on the edge.”
He admitted feeling like a failure at 32, worrying that it might be too late to start fresh in Singapore.
He also lamented his limited qualifications, saying he only finished primary school.
‘You’re not a failure’
This sparked an outpouring of comments, with some netizens encouraging him not to give up.
‘You’re not a failure. Maybe you have a family to support, maybe you’re just a responsible person. Supporting your family and supporting yourself is also success.’
Others shared their own hardships. One woman revealed her husband was injured at work in Singapore earlier this year, leaving her family without income and struggling to survive.
‘I’m also working in Singapore but still can’t save any money. Right now I’m still paying off PTPTN, plus family insurance and rent in Singapore already takes up more than half of my pay. ‘
While some sympathised, others reminded the man that comparing himself to others would only make things worse.
‘Pressure often comes from our own comparisons. Keep going. 32 (years old) is still early.’
The post has since gathered hundreds of comments, showing just how common financial struggles are among young Malaysians — especially those juggling family responsibilities and limited income.
