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Money Basics

How to Build Your Emergency Funds: A Step-By-Step Guide

CIMB ❘ 29 Sep 2025

2 min(s) read

Life doesn’t always give warnings – your phone breaks, the car needs repairs or you suddenly lose your job. But bills won’t wait, which is why having an emergency fund (a.k.a. life-saving funds) is essential.

In fact, a 2024 survey by Bank Negara Malaysia found that 61% of Malaysians struggle to set aside RM1,000 for emergencies.

So… how much should you save and how do you build it fast? Let’s break it down.

Step 1:

Figure Out Your Bare Minimum Expenses

Sum up your must-pay monthly essentials:

Rent, bills, makan
Transport
Loan repayments (PTPTN, etc.)
Groceries and basic needs

Example:

Item	RM
Rent + Utilities	900
PTPTN Installments	100
Groceries + Makan	450
Transport	150
Total	1,600

Step 2:

Multiply that by 3 to 6 – Safety First

A good rule of thumb:

3 months = short-term shock absorber
6 months = full-blown protection

Using the example above:

3 months = RM4,800
6 months = RM9,600

💡 Tip: Revisit and top up as your lifestyle or commitments change.

Step 3:

Park it in a Separate Account

Keep these funds in its own savings account so you’re less tempted to spend them.

Step 4:

How to Build Your Emergency Fund Faster

💡Tips	How	Examples
Pay yourself first	Auto-transfer to “Don’t Touch” account on payday	Avoid the “TikTok haul” regret
Cut 1 expense	Drop 1 boba/latte/McD run weekly	Save RM20–30 instantly
Save "extras"	Keep half of bonus, angpao, cashback	Don’t let it fund your impulse buy
Sell stuff	List unused gadgets/clothes online	PS4, sneakers, tagged clothes
No-spend weekend	48 hours of free fun	Netflix, picnic, potluck — save RM50–RM100

Ready to Level Up?

Now you’ve got the formula and game plan, start building your emergency funds so that you can stay chill even when life throws you a curveball.

Reference:

This article is for informational purposes only and CIMB does not make any representation and warranty as to the accuracy, completeness and fairness of any information contained in this article. As this article is general in nature, it is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. You are advised to consult a financial advisor or investment professional before making any decisions based on the information contained in this article. CIMB assumes no liability for any consequences arising from your reliance on the information presented here.