More than just getting into university
Mr. Chan managed a team of young executives. He saw a recurring pattern: bright young people stressing over their monthly PTPTN (National Higher Education Fund Corporation) loan repayments. He saw them turning down job opportunities because they needed higher immediate pay to service their debts. He realized that student loans were a heavy anchor that dragged down a young person’s career start.
When his son, David, was born, Mr. Chan decided he wanted a different starting line for him. He wanted David to graduate with a degree in one hand and freedom in the other. He didn’t want David’s first paycheck to be earmarked for debt repayment. The father had a firm belief: education should open doors, not create burdens.
The reality of student loans
The common problem most graduates face is the struggle with repayments. This family understand how debt can delay:
- Career choices
- Further studies
- Financial independence
Planning early to avoid borrowing later
Mr. Chan consulted our advisor from TM Legacy Builders. Our advisor helped him calculate the projected cost of a local private university degree in 20 years. They set up an education savings plan that matched Mr. Chan’s budget. It was a slow and steady marathon.
Staying committed through changing priorities
Over the years, the economy fluctuated. There were times of recession and inflation. But the education plan remained a constant. The funds were separated from Mr. Chan’s daily banking, protecting the money from being spent on renovations or vacations. It was locked away for one purpose only.
When the university became a reality
When David turned 18 and enrolled in a private university in Kuala Lumpur, the funds were ready. The policy paid out in stages, covering the tuition fees semester by semester. Mr. Chan watched as other parents scrambled for loans or withdrew from their retirement savings. He simply signed the cheques from the insurance payout.
The difference it made for him
Last month, David graduated with Honors. He accepted a job at a non-profit organization—a role he was passionate about, even though the starting pay was modest. He could afford to follow his passion because he had no debt hanging over him.
Mr. Chan gave his son more than an education; he gave him choices. In a country where total student debt is in the billions, David is free. TM Legacy Builders helped Mr. Chan build a legacy of freedom, proving that the best gift a parent can give is a debt-free start.
Key takeaways for parents
- Loans aren’t the only path to higher education.
- Planning early reduces future stress.
- Education insurance supports long-term discipline.
- A debt-free start is a powerful gift.
How TM Legacy Builders supports education planning
TM Legacy Builders helps parents plan realistically based on goals and budget. We provide structure for long-term commitments and review plans as children grow. We’re focused on each family’s outcome, not just the savings.
