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MY

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 we need to have emergency funds (a.k.a. Life-saving funds) set aside.

 

So… how much is enough 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.

 

 

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.