Symposium Highlights Innovation, Professional Standards, and the Future of Wealth Management
KUALA LUMPUR, 22 May 2025 – The Financial Planning Association of Malaysia (FPAM) marked its 25th Anniversary with the successful hosting of its flagship Annual Financial Planning Symposium 2025 at M World Hotel, Petaling Jaya. Themed “Shaping Financial Foundations, Securing Wealth for Tomorrow,” the event brought together over 800 financial planning professionals — both in-person and virtually — to explore the latest trends, innovations, and best practices shaping the financial planning industry.
A Milestone Year for Financial Planning in Malaysia
In his opening address, Mr. Alvin Tan, President of FPAM, reflected on the association’s journey and its enduring commitment to professional excellence.
“For 25 years, FPAM has upheld the highest standards of expertise, ethics, and service. We continue to champion the role of CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, who meet global benchmarks in competence, ethics, and client-centered advice,” said Mr. Tan.
Thought-Provoking Key Sessions
The symposium featured a dynamic line-up of presentations and panel discussions, including:
- “Innovative Cyber Insurance: The Financial Planning Insights”
Mr. Andrew Hong, Regional Director of Dynarisk, addressed the rising importance of cyber insurance in modern financial strategies. - “Family Office – A Practical Approach”
Ms. Tay Lee Hoon (Cheng & Co Global Advisory) and Ms. Catherine Yuan (Confiance Family Office) offered insights into structuring and managing family office services for high-net-worth individuals. - “The Psychology of Behaviour Change and Influence”
Professor Alvin Ng Lai Oon (Sunway University) explored the psychological drivers behind client decisions and advisor influence. - “AI, ChatGPT, and DeepSeek: Impact, Challenges, and Opportunities”
Mr. Robin Hoo, Founder & COO of PAiX Tech, examined how artificial intelligence is reshaping financial planning. - “CFP Certification: Elevating Professional Excellence, Client Trust, and Business Growth”
A panel moderated by Dr. Jack Lin and joined by Rafiq Hidayat, Terence Ng, Dr. Jeffrey Chiew, and Dr. Calvin Cheong, focused on how CFP certification elevates the profession and delivers greater value to clients.
Celebrating a Legacy of Impact
A major highlight was the launch of FPAM’s 25th Anniversary Commemorative Book, which chronicles the association’s development and contributions to the financial planning profession in Malaysia over the past two and a half decades.
Commitment to a Financially Resilient Malaysia
“This event is more than a celebration. It’s a strategic gathering of the industry’s leading minds and practitioners, creating synergy that ultimately benefits Malaysian consumers through improved financial advice and outcomes,” said Mr. Tan.
The symposium underscored critical themes for the public, including:
- Innovations in insurance and wealth preservation
- Psychological principles of financial behaviour
- Technological advances in advisory services
These discussions empower both professionals and the public to navigate an increasingly complex financial environment and make more informed financial decisions.
Looking Ahead
FPAM remains steadfast in its mission to build a robust financial planning ecosystem in Malaysia. The association will continue to advance professional development, champion public financial literacy, and uphold the highest standards in financial advisory services.
