The Employees Provident Fund (EPF/KWSP) has announced a range of updates effective 1 January 2026 designed to improve retirement adequacy, strengthen social protection, and provide greater flexibility for members. Many of these changes stem from measures introduced under Budget 2026, with a focus on gig workers, voluntary contributions, and retirement planning guidance.
The Hajj withdrawal limit from Akaun Sejahtera (EPF account for general savings) increases from RM3,000 to RM10,000. Members no longer need to verify balances with Tabung Haji, simplifying access for those planning the pilgrimage.
EPF has introduced i-Saraan Plus, an enhanced retirement savings programme for gig economy workers such as e-hailing and p-hailing drivers:
This initiative strengthens social protection for gig economy workers and encourages voluntary retirement savings.
The i-Suri programme, a voluntary EPF scheme for housewives and women with limited employment income, now aligns with the national retirement age:
This extension allows women participating in i-Suri to increase contributions and enhance retirement savings.
EPF has introduced the Retirement Income Adequacy (RIA) framework, providing clear savings benchmarks to guide members in long-term retirement planning:
| Tier | Savings Target |
| Basic Savings | RM390,000 |
| Adequate Savings | RM650,000 |
| Enhanced Savings | RM1.3 million |
These benchmarks give members a clear reference for planning contributions and tracking progress toward retirement goals.
Members under 55 with savings above RM1 million now have enhanced withdrawal options:
Excess savings withdrawal limits:
This provides greater flexibility while safeguarding retirement funds.
Eligibility for the Members Investment Scheme (MIS), which allows EPF members to invest part of their savings, is now aligned with Basic Savings (RM390,000). Minimum savings thresholds will be revised gradually to protect retirement funds while allowing members to access investment opportunities.
EPF has expanded self-contribution channels:
These complement existing programmes such as i-Saraan, i-Sayang, and i-Suri, offering members additional flexibility to boost retirement savings.
For further guidance on EPF, retirement savings, and social protection schemes in Malaysia, visit our Malaysia Global Insights on the activpayroll website.
For more information on Malaysia’s 2026 EPF updates, including withdrawal limits, gig worker schemes, and voluntary contribution options, please complete our Contact Us form and a member of our expert team will be happy to assist with your queries.