KUALA LUMPUR, February 19 — A new Sun Life regional survey has found that 64% of Malaysians expect to continue working beyond retirement age, revealing a growing divide between those who work by choice and those driven by financial necessity.

The study, Retirement Reimagined: Asia’s Retirement Divide, shows that while 63% stay in work to meet income needs, many also cite purpose, mental stimulation and social connection, with 79% believing retirement should be a personal choice.

The survey highlights two emerging paths — financially prepared individuals who work longer for fulfilment, and underprepared retirees who delay retirement due to insufficient savings — as Malaysia moves towards an ageing society.

Alongside rising use of generative AI for retirement planning and persistent concerns over financial security.