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What Can You Do With Your First Salary, Gen Z?

There’s no better feeling than receiving your first paycheck! But knowing what to do with your first salary can be daunting. 

The wish list is endless, whether it’s a new phone, the latest game on Steam, skincare products, or that pair of shoes you’ve been eyeing, the options are plenty. 

While it’s always great to reward yourself, making wise financial decisions can help you plan for a more secure and stable future. Instead of spending a huge chunk of your salary on things that give you instant gratification, here are some effective ways to use your first paycheck:

4 Things To Do With Your First Salary

Create an emergency fund 

Start building an emergency fund so that you are covered when an unexpected expense hits. Set some funds aside in a different account for at least 3 to 6 months’ worth of expenses.

Savings and Investments 

Begin saving some portion of your salary into saving accounts, fixed deposits, and beginner-friendly investments like unit trust or EPF i-invest. Even a small amount can accumulate over time, and your future self will appreciate that you got started early! 

Self-Development 

Want to upgrade your career prospect? Then, invest some of your salary into online courses, certificates, and even networking events. Developing new skills will boost your earning potential and lead to better opportunities.

Health Insurance

We’ve often been told by family members to put our health first. Eating healthy, getting enough exercise and sleeping well are the non-negotiables. 

But what about unforeseen medical expenses? Despite us getting a full eight hours of sleep and going for our daily 10,000-step-a-day walk, some things aren’t just in our control. A health insurance plan helps you spend your time and energy focusing on things you can control – like your career goals instead of worrying about the unexpected. 

Rising medical costs are the last thing you want to be thinking about while trying to find your footing in this new era of your life. Let your insurance company take that mental load off you!

Besides, getting a health insurance plan when you are in your early twenties is super affordable when compared to getting them at a later age! 

Let Etiqa’s OneMedical Insurance Be Your First Plan

Receiving your first salary is exciting, but how you choose to spend it matters. While it’s tempting to splurge a little, making thoughtful financial choices can help secure your future. One of the best investments you can make is in your health—starting with the right health insurance.

Getting health insurance for the first time can feel overwhelming, but choosing a simple and comprehensive plan makes it easier. 

That’s why you need Etiqa’s OneMedical Insurance. It’s a straightforward and comprehensive healthcare plan that you can easily purchase online. No fuss, no complex procedures.

5 Reasons Why Etiqa’s OneMedical Insurance is the Plan for Gen Z

  1. High Coverage: Unlimited lifetime coverage, up to RM150,000 per year.
  2. Affordable Premium: Starting at just RM1.38 a day, this would fit your budget without compromising on coverage.
  3. Wide Healthcare Accessibility: Access over 3,000 panel hospitals and healthcare centers nationwide, ensuring you receive quality care wherever you are.
  4. Cashless Hospital Admission: No cash needed for hospital admission in times of emergency, including for diagnosis of a variety of communicable diseases, such as COVID-19, MERS-CoV, SARS, Malaria, Zika Virus, and more.
  5. Immediate Approval: Sign up online with no medical check-up required, making it hassle-free and accessible for Gen Z’s on-the-go lifestyle.

Terms & Conditions apply.

It is never too early nor too late to start making wise choices. In fact, buying earlier is always more affordable than waiting until later. Bear in mind, your decisions today will have influence on your future, so invest in your health now. Choose Etiqa’s OneMedical Insurance and take the first step towards a worry-free tomorrow. 

Apply now to protect your health with Etiqa’s OneMedical Insurance!

Remember, health is wealth! Your first salary is more than just a paycheck. It’s your chance to make smart moves for your future, and getting health insurance early is a smart step toward long-term peace of mind.


Sources:

The information contained in this blog is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as advice on any matter. Etiqa accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from reliance on information contained in the article. This information is correct as of 9th April 2025.

Maybank, The Star