Kuala Lumpur:The National Financial Literacy Symposium 2026 (NFLS 2026) is emphasizing efforts to enhance the financial well-being of the public through targeted education for specific groups.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the two-day event, themed 'No One Left Behind: Bridging Gaps, Securing Futures', commenced today at Sasana Kijang. It gathers policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, researchers, and academicians to discuss strategies for strengthening financial resilience and inclusion.

Key issues discussed include the financial challenges faced by the sandwich generation, gig and platform workers dealing with irregular incomes, and families with children who have special needs. The GoGiggers Financial Literacy Programme, organized by the Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency (AKPK) with partners like the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) and Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN), has resulted in a 34.4% increase in financial well-being among participating gig workers in Peninsular Malaysia. Additionally, 74% of participants have started building emergency savings, accumulating over RM68,000 in savings and RM40,000 in investments.

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) Deputy Governor Adnan Zaylani Mohamad Zahid highlighted the importance of financial literacy as a foundation for informed decision-making and long-term resilience at the launch of Financial Literacy Month 2026 and NFLS 2026.

The symposium includes a plenary session titled 'When Love Meets Limits: Financial Literacy for the Sandwich Generation in an Ageing Society', moderated by BNM Assistant Governor Suhaimi Ali. This session explores how financial literacy can aid the sandwich generation in balancing caregiving, daily financial needs, and long-term security.

Additionally, paper presentation sessions address topics such as financial literacy and behavior, retirement preparedness, and digital financial inclusion. These presentations aim to explore the challenges and opportunities Malaysians face in terms of retirement savings adequacy, financial vulnerability, and participation in the digital financial ecosystem.

NFLS 2026 is co-organized by FEN members, including BNM, EPF, and AKPK, with the Malaysian Economic Association (MEA). This year's symposium coincides with FEN's 10th anniversary, marking a decade of collaboration among regulators, government agencies, and industry stakeholders in promoting financial literacy and well-being for Malaysians.