Beyond EPF: Making the Case for a Universal Basic Pension
Dr Geoffrey Williams, Economist & Founder, Williams Business Consultancy
23-Jun-25 12:00

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Malaysia's EPF system, designed for a different era, is proving insufficient for a future of longer lifespans and flexible work. As millions face retirement insecurity, the conversation must shift from merely fixing the old model to building a new one. But what should that new social safety net look like?
Economist Dr. Geoffrey Williams joins us to make the case for a radical solution: a universal, non-contributory, basic pension. He dismantles the "work longer, save more" myth and lays out a position for how Malaysia can afford a more inclusive and resilient retirement system for all its citizens.
We discuss:
Why the current retirement models are inadequate in today's environment.
The long-term economic consequences of a retirement savings crisis.
The blueprint for a non-contributory universal basic pension in Malaysia.
How it could be funded by subsidy rationalisation or a Malaysian "super fund."
The long-term economic case for a universal pension versus the status quo.
Debunking the "work longer" myth as a viable solution to the crisis.
For policymakers, economists, and anyone seeking a bold, workable solution to Malaysia's retirement crisis, this lays out the essential argument for fundamental change.
Produced by: Roshan Kanesan, Carol Wong
Presented by: Roshan Kanesan
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Categories: economy, Corporates, managing, financial wellness
Tags: pension reform, universal basic pension, epf, aging population, economic policy,