30-year-old Malaysian earning RM2k says saving RM20k for marriage is tough

“If I don’t take a loan, how am I supposed to have 20k? Am I supposed to save? I’m already 30.”

A Malaysian man recently opened up online about the financial pressures of getting married while earning a modest income, prompting a wave of discussion among netizens.

The 30-year-old shared in a Threads post that he works a normal job, earning RM2,000 and he has to resort to taking a bank loan in order to save RM20,000.

“If I don’t take a loan, how am I supposed to have RM20k? Am I supposed to save? I’m already 30.”

He explained that the bride’s family refuses to have a simple wedding as it would embarrassing.

“Even financial advisers told me not to take a loan, but if I don’t, how am I supposed to save? And I can’t start a business anytime soon. What should I do? Being poor automatically becomes a shame. This world is cruel.”

Frustrated, the man added that the current economy is tough for a person earning RM2,000 and that he did not ask to be poor.

“This is my fate, and I’m trying to change it. Do you think I’m God or can predict my own future?”

The post drew a range of advice from netizens. One user suggested practical ways to raise the money:

“Honestly getting a loan is really going to hurt you financially, especially after you are married. Do a side gig like Grab and try to discuss with your partner if she is willing to share a bit for the RM20,000 target. Or do you have any bikes you can sell off, like what most guys do when their budget isn’t enough? Gotta sacrifice some to get some, ya’know.”

Another cautioned against taking on debt for a wedding:

“Bro, seriously, don’t get married. Not because you’re poor, but taking on debt for a wedding is wrong. If you really want to get married, find someone compatible. Do only what’s necessary.”

A third added more practical advice for supplementing income:

“Work as a delivery rider after hours, or sell small products. It’s not compatible if her family asks for 20k but you can’t afford it. Go find someone compatible.”

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