Contributors react to EPF’s 6.15% dividend for 2025, with some praising its stability amid global uncertainty while others expected higher returns reflecting economic growth.
PETALING JAYA: The 6.15% dividend declared by the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) for 2025 has drawn mixed responses from contributors, with views ranging from satisfaction over stability to calls for higher returns in line with Malaysia’s economic growth.
Pavithran Ravindran, an IT technologist based in Penang, sees the latest payout as competitive despite being slightly lower than last year’s 6.3%.
“Given global uncertainties, inflationary pressures and market volatility, 6.15% is still strong.”
He added that the rate reflects prudent and stable fund management.
Pavithran said the dividend outcome also bolsters his confidence in EPF as a secure long-term savings vehicle.
He said he is likely to maintain or increase his voluntary contributions rather than withdraw funds for alternative investments.
“EPF offers relatively secure and consistent returns compared with many low-risk savings options. For retirement planning, such stability matters.”
Similarly, UMPSA Holdings Sdn Bhd manager Farah Liyana Mohd Ghazali said she does not place too much emphasis on annual dividend fluctuations.
“I’m not too fixated on the yearly dividend. EPF is more for long-term security.
“Unless there’s a major drop, I will just maintain my contributions.”
Cindi Loo, a communications executive in Petaling Jaya, described the rate as realistic given prevailing global headwinds.
“I’m okay with the dividend. It reflects a cautious approach as we are facing an uncertain global economy.
“EPF is still one of the best avenues for savings and steady financial growth. I won’t increase voluntary contributions but will maintain them.”
Loo said she is also contributing to the Skim Simpanan Pendidikan Nasional for her son’s education and maintaining a junior savings account to ensure stable growth.
Muhammad Azam Suliman, a content moderator in Kuala Lumpur, said the rate fell short of expectations, particularly against the backdrop of government-declared economic growth.
“But I’m still grateful that it didn’t fall below 6%.”
He said he is considering withdrawing a portion of his savings to explore other investment options.
Mohd Fadzli Farid, a corporate communications manager in Johor, bluntly stated that the dividend does not fully mirror Malaysia’s economic trajectory in 2025.
“While the rate is only slightly lower than last year, I feel it does not completely reflect the country’s economic performance.”
He pointed to the strengthening of the ringgit against the US dollar, improved investor sentiment and stronger than expected GDP growth, which surpassed earlier projections.
“With stronger fundamentals, increased foreign investment inflows and better job prospects, contributors would naturally expect returns that track this positive momentum.”
Nonetheless, Fadzli reaffirmed his trust in EPF as his preferred platform for retirement planning.
“EPF remains one of the most stable and trusted retirement savings institutions. I will maintain my compulsory contributions and may consider increasing voluntary contributions strategically, particularly through well-performing funds under EPF-approved channels.”
