FWD Insurance launch financial literacy initiative for youth

FWD Insurance Berhad, a leading insurer in Malaysia, has taken another step in its transformative mission to foster financial literacy among the nation’s youth by launching the Fun(d) for Life – University Edition (FFL Uni) programme in collaboration with Arus Academy. This initiative, aimed at university students across Malaysia, is designed to empower 500 students with the essential financial skills needed to navigate the complexities of personal finance in today’s world.

The programme offers a unique blend of financial education, practical tools, and real-world application. Over a span of three months, participants will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that covers financial goal setting, budgeting, savings, and investments. Students will also gain coaching and mentorship, helping them refine their financial strategies and establish healthy financial habits. As part of the programme’s commitment to fostering financial independence, each participant will receive RM3,000 upon completion, which can be deposited into savings accounts or fixed deposits.

A Holistic Approach to Financial Literacy

“At FWD Insurance, financial literacy is something very dear to our hearts, recognizing it as a fundamental skill everyone should have,” said Mak See Sen, Chief Executive Officer of FWD Insurance. “Through this programme, we go beyond education by offering a holistic approach that not only equips young people with the skills to manage their finance, but also provides them with the resources to put their learning into practice.”

Mak emphasized that this initiative is not just about teaching financial concepts, but also about providing tangible support to help students make sound financial decisions. “By investing in their growth, we empower individuals and cultivate a financially literate society, driving Malaysia’s economic progress,” he added. FWD Insurance’s vision aligns with broader goals of financial inclusion and empowerment, particularly for younger generations who are at a crucial stage in their financial journeys.

Community Engagement and Peer Learning

A key element of the FFL Uni programme is its emphasis on community service. Participants are required to complete eight hours of community service, where they will teach at least 20 of their peers about financial literacy. This component not only helps reinforce their own understanding but also contributes to building a culture of financial knowledge and responsibility among young Malaysians.

“The Fun(d) for Life – University Edition programme equips university students with the financial skills and autonomy to make informed decisions about their futures,” said Alina Amir, CEO and Co-Founder of Arus Academy. “University students are at a pivotal stage of their lives, where building strong financial habits can significantly shape their future careers and personal goals.”

Through this immersive and engaging curriculum, students are encouraged to take ownership of their financial futures. The programme’s innovative approach includes weekly diaries where participants document their financial learning journeys, helping them reflect on their habits and track their progress over time.

A Sustainable, Impact-Driven Future

Aligned with FWD Insurance’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, the programme also integrates sustainable and inclusive practices that contribute to a resilient Malaysian society. By equipping young people with the financial skills to succeed, the FFL Uni programme serves as a stepping stone toward a more financially literate and economically inclusive nation.

With an anticipated reach of over 10,000 beneficiaries, including the direct engagement of 500 students and their community outreach efforts, the initiative is a significant contribution to Malaysia’s vision of fostering a financially aware and responsible population.

Previously, FWD Insurance’s collaboration with Arus Academy under FWD Takaful Berhad benefitted over 47,000 primary and secondary school students in 2024 through a series of interactive financial literacy camps, learning portals, and events. These initiatives have proven to be vital in building a foundation of financial understanding for young Malaysians from an early age.

The first cohort of the FFL Uni programme, comprising 50 students, will begin in February 2025. Aspiring applicants can submit their applications via Arus Academy’s registration portal at FFLUni-registration-of-interest-2025.

For more updates on the programme and financial literacy initiatives, follow FFL Uni on Instagram at @fundforlife_uni.