AKPK Introduces Siri Budi To Improve Malaysians' Financial Literacy

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 4 (Bernama) -- The Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency (AKPK) has launched Siri BUDI, a four-volume Malay-language financial guide to strengthen money management among Malaysians from youth to retirement.

In a statement, AKPK said the guide is intended not only to teach money management but also to instil discipline, resilience and dignity in daily life.

“Earlier this year, AKPK released the GROW series, a four-volume English-language guide which was praised for reframing financial literacy around the key milestones of life.

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“Now comes Siri BUDI. It is not a direct translation (of the GROW series) but is a Malay transcreation of GROW. It preserves the essence while expressing it in the language, symbols and spirit of Malaysia,” it said. 

The launch took place at the Financial Independence & Thriving Families (F.I.T. Life) Conference 2025 here recently.

AKPK chief executive officer Azaddin Ngah Tasir said discussions on saving, planning and resilience go beyond financial advice but also involve strengthening families and society.

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“Unlike conventional money guides, Siri BUDI emphasises that money is never neutral, that every decision, whether to save or spend, to plan or avoid, reflects deeper values,” he said.

The four-volume Siri BUDI focuses on students and youth, young professionals, families and retirees. Each book highlights practical steps such as saving early, balancing ambition with sustainability, managing household resources and planning for retirement. 

Former Maybank Group chief human capital officer Datuk Nora Abd Manaf, a speaker at the two-day event, said people in financial difficulty do not need sympathy or punishment but tools and opportunities that restore independence and self-respect.

“That is how lasting well-being is built. No one builds resilience alone. We all need supportive environments and communities that make sound financial guidance accessible to everyone,” she said.

Physician-turned-entrepreneur Dr Mohd Hannan Yusof, another event speaker, said spending without values breeds anxiety, while informed spending strengthens finances and well-being.

“Surrounding ourselves with people who give sound financial advice also matters, because the right guidance builds confidence and resilience,” he said.

AKPK, established in 2006, provides financial education, counselling and debt management services to individuals and micro, small and medium enterprises.

-- BERNAMA