Managing money used to feel very different; you handed over cash, watched the notes leave your wallet, and immediately felt the “pain of paying.”
But in the latest episode of Keluar Sekejap Lagi, Khairy Jamaluddin (KJ) and financial educator Mr Money say today’s digital spending habits make Malaysians, especially Gen Z, lose that awareness.
And that’s exactly why many young people are struggling to control their finances.
Before we dive into their insights, here’s the full episode where the conversation happened:
WATCH: Keluar Sekejap Lagi — Why Debit Cards Should Be Top of Mind
“Back then, we felt the money leaving. Now… we don’t.”
KJ kicks off the discussion with a question many young adults are quietly asking:
Why does spending feel so easy today and saving feel so hard?
Mr Money explains that the issue isn’t just the cost of living. It’s the psychology behind our payment habits.
“When you use cash, you see the notes and coins go. But with digital payments, you don’t feel the money leaving. That disconnect makes overspending easier.”
Small taps, quick scans, and instant payments pile up, and because there’s no physical sensation, most people don’t realise how much they’ve already spent.
Debit cards bring back clarity, discipline & control
KJ highlights something important:
“With a debit card, at least you know you’re spending your own money.”
And that awareness is crucial for developing healthy financial habits. According to both of them, debit cards help you stay grounded because:
● You only spend what’s in your account
No borrowing, no rollover, no bill surprises.
● Every transaction appears instantly
You can see where your money goes in real-time.
● It creates awareness of wants vs needs
You naturally reconsider unnecessary purchases.
● It’s ideal for students and young adults
Especially those still learning to manage budgets and income.
Modern debit is smarter: safer + faster + more secure
Debit cards today are no longer “basic.” They come with smart features that actually reinforce good spending habits:
- Freeze or unfreeze your card instantly
- Set daily or weekly spending caps
- Receive alerts for every transaction
- Use virtual cards for safer online shopping
- Tap to pay under RM250; quick, seamless, reliable
These tools act like a built-in financial safety net, helping Malaysians stay in control without needing complex budgeting systems.
So… what’s the best payment option for daily use?
While the podcast doesn’t declare an outright winner, the message is clear:
Debit cards offer the safest, most transparent way to manage day to day spending.
They provide:
Real-time visibility
You always know exactly how much is left.
Better self-discipline
Easier to track where the money goes.
Fast, convenient payments
Works almost everywhere; kopitiams, malls, public transport, parking, and more.
Strong security features
Freeze function + alerts make it far safer than cash.
In a world of rising subscriptions, digital temptations, and instant purchases, debit keeps you grounded.
Fast. Secure. Everywhere.
Want the full breakdown from KJ & Mr Money?
Watch the complete Keluar Sekejap Lagi episode 16 to hear:
• Why younger Malaysians often lose track of spending
• How psychology affects the way we use money
• Why debit cards help reinforce healthier habits
• Practical tips for daily financial control
Start Spending Smarter With Debit
For more tips, benefits and updates on using debit for your daily payments, follow Pay with Debit Malaysia:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PayWithDebit/?locale=ms_MY
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paywithdebit/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@paywithdebit
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/PayWithDebit
Fast. Secure. Everywhere. #PayWithDebit
