What to Include in Your Malaysian Will: Practical Tips from ZiggFin Advisors

Introduction

Let’s be honest—writing a will isn’t exactly something we look forward to. Most Malaysians will say, “Aiyoh, not my problem yet lah, still young!” But we’ve all heard the stories: properties frozen for years, children left confused, family quarrels over who gets what.The truth is, a simple, clear will is one of the kindest things you can do for your family. It’s not just for orang kaya; even if you only own a car and some savings, you still want your loved ones to avoid drama.

If you’ve ever wondered, “So, what should I actually put in my will?”—don’t worry. The team at ZiggFin has helped countless Malaysians write wills that really work for local families. Here’s a no-nonsense, Malaysian-style guide to what should go inside your will.

Why Writing a Proper Will Matters So Much

Imagine this: you’ve worked hard your whole life, built a little nest egg, bought a house, maybe even opened some investment accounts.But if you don’t leave clear instructions, your loved ones might face years of red tape, legal fees, and sometimes… heartbreak.

With a will:

• • You decide who gets what—no need to ikut default law
• • Your kids and spouse are protected
• • Everything moves faster and with less headache
• • No need to worry about outsiders or distant relatives trying to “claim” things

What to Include in Your Will? Step-by-Step, Malaysian Style

1. Start With Who You Are

State your full name (like in your IC), NRIC number, and address.You don’t want any confusion with someone else who happens to share your name. (You know lah, Malaysia got many Ahmad, Lee, Tan…)

2. Cancel Out Any Previous Wills

Be sure to write: “I hereby revoke all previous wills and codicils.”Otherwise, old instructions might mess things up for your family.

3. Appoint Your Executor(s) and Trustee(s)

This is the person or people you trust to get things done after you’re gone—pay bills, claim your assets, and make sure everything is distributed according to your wishes.If you have young children or someone who needs help managing money, name a trustee to look after their share until they’re ready.

Pro tip: Don’t just simply “tembak” your eldest child or best friend—think carefully who’s reliable, available, and willing to do the job. Always ask them first! Need more tips? Check out our Executor & Trustee guide.

4. Appoint Guardians for Minor Kids

If your children are under 18, name a guardian—someone you truly trust to raise them if both parents can’t.You can even name a backup guardian just in case.

5. List Down Your Assets (Big and Small)

No need to be super formal—just be clear. For example:

• • Properties: “Double-storey house at Taman Jaya, No. 12, Jalan Mawar”
• • Bank accounts: “Maybank, account ending 5678”
• • EPF, insurance policies, ASB/Tabung Haji units
• • Shares, unit trusts, business ownership
• • Cars, motorbikes
• • Jewellery, family heirlooms, even your favourite kopi set if you want!

If you have digital stuff (e-wallets, crypto, online business accounts), mention those too.Don’t stress if the list changes—just remember to update your will when your assets change.

6. Mention Debts & Liabilities

It’s good to state any loans, mortgages, or debts. Your executor needs to settle these first before giving out the rest.

7. Be Specific About Distribution

Who gets what?

• • “My wife gets the house and car.”
• • “Savings in Maybank to be split equally among my three children.”
• • “Give my gold bracelet to my eldest daughter, and my watch to my son.”

Try not to be vague (“divide everything equally”) if you have specific wishes—especially for special items, property, or family businesses.

For anything not specifically given, add a “residuary clause”, like “all remaining assets to be divided equally between my children.”

8. Special Requests & Instructions

Want to donate to a charity? Have a wish for funeral arrangements? Want your cat to be cared for by your sister?Write it down. If you’re Muslim, make sure you mention how you want faraid rules to apply, if relevant.

9. Signatures and Witnesses—Don’t Skip This!

Two witnesses (who are not beneficiaries or married to beneficiaries) need to be present when you sign.Write full names, IC numbers, and get everyone to sign together.No proper witnesses = will not valid!

Common Malaysian Mistakes When Writing a Will

1. • Outdated Will:Forgot to update after new baby, divorce, new property—old instructions may not suit your current life.
2. • Appointing the Wrong Executor:Sometimes people pick someone just for “face”, but that person is always overseas or not responsible.
3. • Being Too General:“Divide equally” but didn’t say how for the property or family business—leads to fighting or confusion.
4. • Skipping Professional Help:DIY is okay for simple wills, but if you have assets, business, or special needs, get a certified will writer. On ZiggFin, you’ll find people who know Malaysian law and all the little local details.
5. • Ignoring Religious Requirements:For Muslims, faraid applies by law. If unsure, always talk to an advisor with Islamic estate experience.

How ZiggFin Makes Will Writing Less Scary

• • All advisors are licensed and reviewed—no “scammy” side hustlers
• • Profiles show language skills, specialties, real client feedback—find someone you’re comfortable with
• • Step-by-step advice, no jargon—they explain, not confuse!
• • Your info stays private—you only share with the advisor you choose, no spam
• • You decide, no hard sell—ask all your questions, get a quote, then take your time

True Stories from Malaysian Families

Case 1:Mr. Tan from Klang used an online template for his will, but forgot to name a guardian for his youngest daughter. His ZiggFin advisor caught the mistake—helped him redo the will, and now he’s sleeping better at night.

Case 2:Pn. Aishah had some ASB units, a condo, and an online business. She wasn’t sure how to handle digital assets. Her will writer (found on ZiggFin) explained everything in BM, included her GrabPay and crypto wallets, and made sure nothing is left out.

FAQs

Q: Can I update my will later?A: Of course! You should. Every time your family or assets change, review and update your will. Your ZiggFin advisor will guide you—no problem.

Q: Need a lawyer or just a certified will writer?A: For most people, a certified will writer is enough. But if your estate is complicated, your ZiggFin advisor can recommend a good lawyer too.

Q: What if I’m not rich? Worth writing a will?A: Definitely. It’s about protecting your loved ones and giving everyone peace of mind, no matter how big or small your assets.

Conclusion

Writing a will isn’t about being negative—it’s about saying “I love you” to your family in the most practical way. With ZiggFin, you can find the right advisor, ask questions, and make sure everything is done right—without headache or hidden costs.

Ready to start? Visit the ZiggFin homepage or explore the [ZiggFin Blog] for more friendly tips and true Malaysian stories. Register free and get matched with a will writer who really understands your needs.

🔍 Explore today: www.ziggfin.com

🛡️ Don’t guess who to trust—let the platform filter for you , give your future a steady foundation. ZiggFin helps you make informed choices. No more guesswork—just facts and local experience you can trust.

“Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. ZiggFin does not sell financial products or provide investment advice. All advisors listed are independently licensed professionals. Past performance does not guarantee future results.”

ZiggFin Malaysia: What to Include in Your Will—Practical Guide & Local Tips

Write your will with confidence—Malaysian advice from ZiggFin experts.