The power of small decisions
Lina started her first job with a salary of RM2,500. After rent, PTPTN repayment, and transport, she had barely anything left. When she heard people talking about “investing,” she tuned out. She thought investing was for rich people with thousands to spare. She told herself she would start “when she earned more.”
Starting with a simple savings plan
Our advisor from TM Legacy Builders sat her down for a reality check. “Lina,” she said, “If you wait until you have extra money, you will never start. Expenses always rise to match income.” Our advisor introduced the concept of “paying yourself first.”
They looked at an investment-linked policy that started at just RM200 a month. It seemed insignificant—the price of a few cafe meals. But our advisor showed her a graph of compound interest. Over 20 or 30 years, that small RM200, growing at a projected rate, could snowball into a substantial deposit for a house or a retirement nest egg.
Watching the savings grow
Lina agreed. She set up an auto-debit on payday. For the first few years, she barely noticed the money leaving. But she also didn’t notice it missing from her lifestyle. She adjusted her spending naturally.
Five years later, Lina checked her statement. She was shocked. The fund had grown significantly, bolstered by market returns and her relentless consistency. She had accumulated more than she ever could have by “saving what was left over.”
Emotional and financial benefits
Financial experts often cite the “Time Value of Money.” A dollar invested at 23 is worth exponentially more than a dollar invested at 40. Lina had captured the asset of time. Now 28, Lina has increased her contribution as her salary rose. But the foundation was built on those early, small RM200 steps. She realizes now that wealth isn’t about how much you earn; it’s about how much you keep.
Key takeaways for everyone
- Consistency outweighs the size of contributions.
- Long-term planning transforms small savings into a substantial outcome.
- Early and regular investments reduce stress later.
- Small, intentional steps can make big dreams possible.
How TM Legacy Builders supports savers
TM Legacy Builders supported her by helping design a realistic and achievable savings plan. We provided guidance on growth, compounding, and timelines, ensuring the plan aligned with her personal life goals and risk appetite.
