How to Write a Will in Malaysia: A Simple Guide for Young Professionals and Families

Talking about wills isn’t usually the most exciting topic—especially for young professionals or parents busy building a life in Malaysia. But if you have assets, savings, or loved ones who depend on you, having a will is a vital part of securing your family’s future and ensuring peace of mind. Whether you’re a fresh grad just starting to build your net worth or a parent juggling career and childcare, understanding how to write a will is an important step in your financial journey. This guide breaks down the process for Malaysians, highlighting essentials and debunking myths along the way.

Why Having a Will Matters—Even If You’re Young

Too many Malaysians believe wills are just for the elderly or the extremely wealthy. The reality is much different. A will is simply a legal document that lets you decide what happens to your assets—your savings, car, insurance payouts, EPF (Employees Provident Fund), home, or even your prized sneaker collection—after you’re gone. Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to Malaysia’s inheritance laws, which might not reflect your wishes and could cause complications for your loved ones.

Here’s why young professionals and families should consider writing a will:

• Protect your loved ones: Make sure your assets go to the people you care about.
• Avoid family disputes: Clear instructions can reduce misunderstandings or conflicts among family members.
• Guardianship for children: You can appoint guardians for your kids if anything happens to you and your spouse.
• Smooth asset distribution: With a will, the process of transferring your property and savings is generally faster and less stressful for your beneficiaries.

The Basics: What Makes a Will Valid in Malaysia?

Malaysian law is clear about the requirements for a valid will. Here’s what you need to know:

• You must be at least 18 years old (for Peninsular Malaysia; in Sabah and Sarawak the age is 21).
• You must be of sound mind.
• The will must be written and signed. Oral wills are generally not recognised under Malaysian law.
• Your signature must be witnessed by at least two people. These witnesses cannot be beneficiaries (they shouldn’t stand to inherit anything from the will).

Note: For Muslims in Malaysia, different rules apply (Faraid and Wasiat). The following guide refers to non-Muslim wills.

Step-by-Step: How to Write Your Will

1. List All Your Assets

Start by jotting down everything you own and its approximate value. This might include:

• Savings (bank accounts, Tabung Haji, Amanah Saham, etc.)
• EPF and SOCSO benefits
• Property (houses, land, condos)
• Vehicles (cars, motorbikes)
• Insurance policies (with “nominees” or otherwise)
• Personal possessions (jewellery, gadgets, art, collectibles)

2. Decide Who Gets What (Your Beneficiaries)

Think about how you wish to distribute your assets. For example, you might want your car to go to a sibling who just graduated, or your condo in Petaling Jaya to be shared among your children.

Tip: Try to be as specific as possible—use full names and IC numbers to avoid confusion.

3. Appoint an Executor

An executor is the person entrusted to carry out your wishes. This should be someone you trust—often a close friend, relative, or a professional advisor. You can also appoint a trust company or law firm in Malaysia for added peace of mind.

4. Name Guardians for Your Children

If you have children under 18, this is especially important. Discuss your wishes with the person beforehand to ensure they’re willing and able to take on the role if needed.

5. Write and Sign Your Will

While you can write your own will (“DIY will”) on plain paper, making mistakes can lead to legal issues or delays. To make things easier:

• Consider using a template approved for Malaysia.
• Draft your will in clear, simple language.
• Have it signed in front of two independent witnesses (not beneficiaries or their spouses).

Practical example: If you are a young couple residing in Kuala Lumpur with a car, joint savings accounts, and a pet, your will could specify who should take care of your pet, who gets the car, and how the savings are split. By being specific, you assist your loved ones in managing your affairs with less stress.

6. Safekeeping and Updating Your Will

Store your will in a safe, accessible place. Notify your executor and trusted family members where they can find it. You may also lodge your will with a law firm or a trust company for additional security.

Review and update your will whenever your life situation changes (marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, new property purchase, etc.). An outdated will can cause confusion or result in unintended asset distribution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Writing a Will in Malaysia

• Can I write a will in Bahasa Malaysia or Chinese?
  Yes! You can write your will in any language you’re comfortable with, as long as the contents are clear and legally valid.
• Do I need a lawyer?
  Not legally required, but getting professional help ensures your will is airtight and helps you avoid common mistakes.
• What happens if I die without a will?
  Your assets will be distributed according to Malaysia’s Distribution Act—this may not reflect your wishes, and the process can be much slower.
• Can I change my will?
  Absolutely. You can amend or rewrite your will at any time as long as you’re of sound mind.

Common Challenges Faced by Malaysians

Many people in Malaysia delay writing a will due to misconceptions (“I’m too young”, “It’s expensive”, “I don’t have enough assets”). However, as more young professionals grow their portfolios—buying property, investing in ASB, or starting families—these excuses can end up complicating the lives of those left behind. Don’t wait for a “perfect time”—start the process now, no matter the size of your estate.

Conclusion: Secure Your Legacy, Whatever Your Age

Writing a will may seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process that everyone—young professionals, single adults, couples, and families—should consider. By taking this simple step, you ensure your loved ones are protected, your wishes are respected, and unnecessary complications are avoided. Remember, your will is a living document: update it as your life changes and review it regularly to keep it relevant.

Ready to safeguard your family’s future or just want to discuss your unique situation? Whether you’re just starting out or already managing a growing portfolio, our expert team can guide you every step of the way. For personalized financial services, please visit our website at www.awf.com.my or contact us today directly via WhatsApp at https://wa.link/gevjcy. We’re here to help you secure your legacy with confidence and peace of mind!