A Malaysian woman recently sparked online debate after questioning why the Employees Provident Fund exists in the first place.
In a post shared online, she wrote:
EPF shouldn’t even exist. We should be able to withdraw whenever we want.”
Her comment quickly drew strong reactions from netizens, many of whom defended the retirement savings scheme and criticised her stance.
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EPF exists to protect Malaysians
Several users pointed out that EPF was created to ensure Malaysians have savings for retirement and do not end up financially dependent on the government later in life.
One user wrote: ‘It’s meant specifically for people like you. I don’t want the government burdened by those with no financial discipline ending up penniless in old age and expecting taxpayers to take care of them.’
Another added that without compulsory savings, many Malaysians might not save consistently on their own.
Employers contribute too
Some also reminded her that EPF contributions do not come solely from employees’ salaries.
Another user pointed out that without EPF, employees would lose the additional percentage contributed by their employers.
One commenter even sarcastically suggested that she inform her employer if she truly did not want EPF contributions.
Questions about retirement plans
Beyond the sarcasm, some netizens questioned what her long term financial plan would be without EPF savings.
Others warned that those who push for full withdrawals now may later blame the government if they struggle financially in old age.
