A Strategic Step Forward: Advancing Financial Literacy Through Emotional Intelligence

The School of General Studies and Languages (SGSL) continues to strengthen its role in holistic education through impactful collaborations that promote essential life skills and financial literacy. In line with this vision, the Life Skills Development Unit recently participated in the Agensi Kaunseling dan Pengurusan Kredit (AKPK) with Higher Learning Institutions Engagement Day, held at Sasana Kijang, Bank Negara Malaysia. Themed “Advancing Financial Education Together,” the event brought together educators from both public and private institutions, financial education practitioners, and student development leaders, united by a shared commitment to enhancing financial literacy within higher education.

A key highlight of the engagement was the Training of Trainers (ToT) session on the newly enhanced Personal Financial Management (PFM) module. The session equipped educators with updated, research-informed financial literacy content, covering areas such as Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) schemes, scams, debt management, and digital financial tools. Beyond technical knowledge, the ToT also explored strategies for embedding financial education into existing curricula in ways that are relatable, sustainable, and engaging for today’s learners.

The engagement extended beyond knowledge sharing as it deepened participants’ understanding of how students think, feel, and behave around money, bridging the cognitive and emotional dimensions of financial decision-making. Attendees also received access to a range of teaching resources, digital tools, and innovative strategies that are especially relevant to Gen Z learners across diverse educational contexts. Building on the insights gained, the Life Skills Development Unit is now integrating financial literacy content into the Emotional Intelligence in Action (EIA) module. This initiative offers a unique opportunity to explore financial behaviour through the lens of emotional intelligence, examining how self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and responsible decision-making influence financial management.

This collaboration with Agensi Kaunseling dan Pengurusan Kredit (AKPK) marks the beginning of a long-term strategic partnership. With AKPK’s national credibility and expertise, SGSL looks forward to further initiatives such as student engagement activities, AKPK Club collaborations, and co-hosted programmes that advance holistic student development and financial well-being.