Financial literacy must go beyond understanding money to developing the judgement, discipline and confidence needed to make informed financial decisions in an increasingly complex economy.
This was the central message of Money Sense for the Modern Mind, the latest book by financial literacy advocate and researcher Dr Lalua Rahsiad, recently launched by former Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Tan Sri Dr Zeti Aziz at the Khazanah Auditorium, Asia School of Business, Kuala Lumpur. The event was attended by over 300 guests.
In his welcoming remarks, Jason Chin, Chief Executive Officer of MyCelik Network, emphasised the importance of making financial literacy accessible to Malaysians across all socioeconomic backgrounds.
Anuar Shuib, Chairman of the International Development Committee, Malaysian Financial Planning Council (MFPC), echoed this sentiment, stating, “Financial literacy is one of the most important life skills, yet money remains a sensitive subject that many people avoid discussing.”
Bridging Research and Real-Life Financial Decisions
Developed from Dr Lalua’s doctoral research at Putra Business School, Universiti Putra Malaysia, the book examines the relationship between financial proficiency, risk tolerance and sustainable investment decisions among Malaysian retail investors.
Drawing on 695 valid responses from 698 participants, the research distinguished between an individual’s willingness to take financial risks and their actual capacity to absorb losses. It also found that financial knowledge, attitude and awareness directly influenced sustainable investment decisions.
These findings underpin the Lalua FinPro Model, which integrates financial knowledge, behaviour and risk tolerance to support informed financial decisions.
“This book is a bridge between research and real life, between numbers and the people whose lives they shape. It is built on a belief that ‘people come first, planning comes next and progress must always continue’,” Dr Lalua said.
She emphasised that understanding an individual’s money personality, emotions and experiences was just as important as financial models in shaping investment behaviour.
Dr Lalua dedicated the book to her late parents, who instilled in her the belief that knowledge becomes meaningful when shared. In remembrance of her late mother, she also invited children and representatives from Rumah Anak Yatim dan Miskin Sungai Pinang, Klang, a charitable home close to her mother’s heart and one Dr Lalua continues to support.
Financial Literacy for a Resilient Economy
Beyond personal financial management, the book reinforces the importance of financial proficiency in advancing financial inclusion, household resilience and sustainable investment participation.
In her foreword, Tan Sri Dr Zeti highlighted the growing importance of financial literacy in an increasingly digital and technology-driven economy.
“Financial literacy is not a destination but a continuous practice. It is a vital skill that allows you to take better control of your financial future,” she said, underscoring its wider contribution to stronger communities and economic resilience.
With over 25 years of experience across academia and corporate sectors in Malaysia and the United Kingdom, Dr Lalua remains committed to making financial education practical and inclusive.
“My mission is to make financial knowledge clear, human and usable – to meet people where they are, regardless of background, income or experience,” she said.
The book is available on Amazon.
About Dr Lalua Rahsiad
Dr Lalua Rahsiad, widely known as the Money Queen, is a financial literacy advocate, researcher, speaker, author and FinTech and Financial Literacy Ambassador with over 25 years of experience. As Chairman of MyCelik Network, she champions financial literacy, digital inclusion and sustainable financial practices. Her publications include Money Moves at Work, Money Minds for Teens and the My First Money Story series.
More information: www.mycelik.org
