It is very alarming for us to realise that a total of RM5.52 billion has been withdrawn from the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) as of May 22. That amounts to a total of 3.04 million applications, a terrible reflection of our economic status.
A withdrawal by an applicant in the now is a loss in the far future where he or she is no longer able to hold employment. And with the number of applications registered, that means a sizable Malaysian population will be affected. Although this is largely seen as a bad thing, every cloud has its silver lining.
Homeownership remains a cornerstone of a sound investment, and the ability to withdraw from EPF means that home buyers can now leverage the surplus cash to end their renting days.
First and foremost, a home makes for an impressive investment decision besides keeping one’s cash in EPF. Not only are you able to earn passive income every month, you also enjoy an asset that is ever-appreciating in value, especially in the city.
With other forms of investments, there is a right and wrong time to buy. But with property, buying now is always the right time, making it less risky. Besides, everyone wants a place to truly call home since home is more than just a shelter, but an expression of our unique identity.
Think about it. You can’t stick a wallpaper of your favourite cartoon character He-man on the wall without getting prior approval from the landlord. Major modifications? Forget about it.
Finally, the EPF has always been about securing your financial future during your golden years. It would be unthinkable for us to continue paying rent besides not having a home to be passed down to our children.
