Understanding Your EPF Accounts

How your EPF contributions are split between Akaun Persaraan, Sejahtera and Fleksibel — and why Akaun Fleksibel isn’t your main emergency fund.

Every month part of your salary goes into EPF (KWSP). But do you know where it goes and when you can use it?

How much is contributed?

For Malaysian employees under 60, you contribute 11% of wages. Your employer contributes 13% if wages are RM5,000 or below, or 12% above RM5,000.

Three accounts (members under 55) — contributions received from 11 May 2024 are split:

AccountContribution sectionUsage
Retirement Account75%Retirement savings can generally be withdrawn at age 55
Sejahtera Account15%Approved expenditures, such as housing, education, and health
Flexible Account10%Short-term needs, can be withdrawn at any time (minimum RM50)

Balances from before 11 May 2024 were not re-split.

Use Akaun Fleksibel wisely.

It’s convenient, but every ringgit withdrawn today loses years of dividends and growth. Treat it as a last layer, not a substitute for your own emergency fund.

Tips

  • check statements in the official KWSP app or website.
  • Make sure your employer contributes every month and report it to EPF if not.
  • Self-employed and gig workers can contribute voluntarily.

Key takeaways

  • 75% retirement, 15% big needs, 10% flexible; don’t drain Akaun Fleksibel without a strong reason.