Version: CN IQI has strengthened its presence in the Philippines through a strategic partnership with Mapletree Investments Corp, a Metro Manila-based real estate brokerage firm generating more than 1 billion Philippine pesos in annual sales. The partnership deepens IQI’s footprint in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic property markets. The Philippines receives more than US$5 billion in remittances flowing into property annually, while outbound residential investment is estimated at over US$750 million in 2025. The market serves both as a destination for foreign investors and as a significant source of cross-border capital. Juwai IQI Co-Founder and Group CEO Kashif Ansari said the move reinforces IQI’s strategy of strengthening key growth markets across Asia. “We are establishing our extended country operation in the Philippines in partnership with Mapletree Investments Corp. Mapletree is a Metro Manila-based real estate brokerage firm with a strong local presence and more than 1 billion Philippine pesos in annual sales." He said the collaboration enhances IQI’s ability to connect local expertise with global investment flows. "The partnership further reinforces our footprint in the Philippines and brings a new team of experienced professionals to our network. Most importantly for our global network, which operates extensively with cross-border buyers, the new IQI Philippines will connect local buyers and developers with global investment opportunities and investors." Kashif Ansari, Co Founder and Group CEO of IQI. Ansari added that the Philippines’ extensive overseas Filipino investor base and rising regional investment interest make it strategically aligned with IQI’s cross-border platform. Juwai IQI Co-Founder and Group Managing Director Daniel Ho said buyer demand in the Philippines has broadened in recent years, with a growing mix of investors and resident expatriates. Foreign buyers are most active in Metro Manila, Cebu and key resort destinations. He noted that the local housing market is recovering as supply tightens. “New condo supply will drop by a third in 2026 and by 2028 it will be only about 20% of last year’s level.” The adjustment in new supply is expected to support market stability and strengthen long-term fundamentals. As part of the partnership, Christine Dara Ko Saavedra, CEO of Mapletree Investments Corp, has been appointed Country Head of IQI Philippines. “Mapletree's decision to join IQI resulted from the desire to align with a world-class team that embodies a high-performance corporate culture,” Saavedra said. “IQI is one of the largest real estate brokerages born out of Asia and offers an unparalleled network, industry-leading technology, a highly professional team and great culture.” She said joining IQI will elevate Mapletree’s ability to serve clients seeking both domestic and international real estate opportunities. "We see significant appetite among our clients to diversify their portfolios internationally. Being part of the IQI network will enable us to act as the bridge between the local and global." Christine Dara Ko Saavedra, CEO of Mapletree Investments Corp and Country Head of IQI Philippines Through the integration, IQI Philippines will leverage the group’s Atlas super app, AI-powered IQPilot, IQIGlobal.com, juwai.com and juwai.asia property portals, as well as its international referral and marketing platforms. The expansion strengthens IQI’s position in Southeast Asia and reinforces its strategy to connect local property markets with global investors through technology, cross-border expertise and an integrated international network. Explore global property opportunities with IQI Philippines and connect with our team to discover cross-border investment solutions tailored to your portfolio. [custom_blog_form] Continue Reading: IQI Accelerates Its India Expansion with the Launch of IQI Chennai IQI Breaks New Ground in Europe with IQI Germany Juwai IQI Strengthens ASEAN Presence with the Launch of Juwai Cambodia

Version: BM Some career decisions are not made in meeting rooms. They are made quietly. Late at night.Between doubts.Between “what if” and “what now”. If you have ever searched “how to become a real estate agent in Malaysia”, chances are you are not just curious. You are considering change! Before you step into a real estate agent career in Malaysia, there is one story you should hear. View this post on Instagram A post shared by IQI (@iqiglobal) Table of contentsWhy Real Estate Remains an Open Opportunity in MalaysiaThe Challenges Many Faces in Career TransitionsFrom Journalism to Real Estate Success: The Story of Natasha GideonWhat Natasha’s Journey Teaches About Career ReinventionWhat It Actually Takes to Succeed as a Real Estate Agent in MalaysiaHow to Start a Real Estate Career in Malaysia Why Real Estate Remains an Open Opportunity in Malaysia Unlike professions that demand specific degrees or years of industry certification, becoming a real estate agent in Malaysia follows a structured yet accessible pathway. You do not need a property-related academic background. You need: Registration under a licensed real estate agency Official Real Estate Negotiator status Required training Commitment Malaysia’s property market continues to generate transactions across residential, subsale and investment segments. As long as people buy, sell and upgrade homes, agents remain relevant. Real estate is not limited by corporate hierarchy. Income is performance-based. For many, that is both the attraction and the fear. The Challenges Many Faces in Career Transitions Changing careers is rarely comfortable. The biggest challenge is not learning something new. It is leaving something familiar. Fixed salaries provide stability. Commission-based careers provide possibility. But possibility comes with uncertainty. New agents often struggle with: Irregular income in early months Rejection from prospects Doubt from friends or family Self-doubt The first year is less about talent and more about resilience. Those who stay consistent build momentum. Those expecting quick results often leave too early. From Journalism to Real Estate Success: The Story of Natasha Gideon Before becoming a recognised real estate agent in Malaysia, Natasha Gideon was a journalist covering the property industry. Through interviews with developers and negotiators, she observed how successful agents built their careers. Over time, she realised that long-term success in a real estate agent career in Malaysia was not about being the loudest — it was about discipline, follow-up and consistency. Eventually, she made a decision that many consider but few execute. She left a fixed salary to enter commission-based real estate. @natashagideon This page started in 2019 and I’ve been posting a lot since then. Here’s just a reminder of who I am and what I do #hartanahmalaysia #realestate #realestatejourney #teammjk #mariejualkondo ♬ original sound - MarieJualKondo The early months were challenging. There were viewings that did not convert and periods without commission. Instead of losing confidence, she focused on professionalism and structured follow-up. Within three weeks of handling one of her early subsale cases, she secured the deal! @natashagideon Thanks for having me @HITZ. What a blast with @Keanu Azman and my twin @ili ♬ original sound - songs n lyrics Nine years later, Natasha is now a team leader within IQI. Her journey was not built on luck, but on consistency, resilience and operating within a structured real estate platform. What Natasha’s Journey Teaches About Career Reinvention Her story reveals several truths about becoming a real estate agent in Malaysia. First, background does not determine success. She transitioned from journalism into property sales. Second, the early stage is emotionally demanding. Not because the industry is unfair, but because momentum takes time. Third, consistency compounds. Natasha did not rely solely on transactions. She began sharing educational property content under the name 'MarieJualKondo' long before digital branding became common among agents. I’m motivated by challenges. I’ve always understood the income potential that comes with being a REN and real estate negotiator, and I genuinely enjoy building my earnings! In a 9-to-5 job, even if you give 200 percent effort, your salary stays the same. But in real estate, when I put in 200 percent effort, my income can grow just as fast! Natasha Gideon There was no viral breakthrough. There was repetition, structured explanations and steady content creation. Over time, credibility accumulated, media recognition followed and leadership opportunities expanded. Career reinvention, especially in real estate, is rarely dramatic. It is disciplined and cumulative. What It Actually Takes to Succeed as a Real Estate Agent in Malaysia A sustainable real estate agent career in Malaysia depends on behavioural consistency. It rewards daily prospecting, systematic follow-ups, relationship management and emotional regulation during rejection. It does not reward impatience. Success during the first year often depends on three factors: surviving income fluctuations, committing to daily outreach activity and choosing structured mentorship. Operating under an established agency such as IQI provides compliance support, training systems, brand credibility and access to experienced leaders. While structure does not eliminate effort, it significantly reduces confusion and accelerates early learning. How to Start a Real Estate Career in Malaysia If you are serious about becoming a real estate agent in Malaysia, the pathway is clear: Join a licensed real estate agency Register as a Real Estate Negotiator Complete required training Operate under supervision The mechanics are straightforward. The mindset is the real decision. Is This the Right Path for You? Ask yourself honestly: Can you operate without guaranteed income initially? Are you willing to stay consistent even when results are delayed? Do you want growth without ceiling? Real estate in Malaysia remains one of the few industries where effort directly impacts income trajectory. Natasha once wrote about Malaysia’s property market. Today, she shapes it. The opportunity remains open. The real question is whether you are prepared to commit to it. At IQI, we provide the platform, training and mentorship to help you grow faster. Join Natasha’s team and build your real estate career in an environment designed for performance, progression and real results. [custom_blog_recruit_form] Continue Reading: What are the Benefits of Joining IQI Global as a Real Estate Agent? From Engineer to Top-Selling Real Estate Agent: How One Failure Can Bring You Closer to Years of Success Are You a -P or -J MBTI Personality Type? Unleash Your Hidden Talent as a Real Estate Agent Based On Your Type!

Malaysia’s Ringgit recently strengthened to around RM4.20 to RM4.30 against the USD, marking one of its strongest levels in years. Bank Negara Malaysia has maintained the OPR at 3.00 percent, signalling stability. Inflation has moderated compared to 2023 peaks. On paper, the economy looks healthier. In daily life, it doesn’t feel that way. Groceries are still expensive. Eating out costs more. Property prices have not softened meaningfully. For Malaysians aged 23 to 45, this is not just economic theory. It is lived reality. This is the Malaysian purchasing power paradox of 2026. Navigating the 2026 Housing and Survival Gap in Malaysia1. Why a Stronger Ringgit Has Not Lowered Your Cost of Living2. The RM1,700 Minimum Wage and Wage Compression3. Property in 2025: Buy or Rent First?4. Rental Yield Reality Check5. The Side Hustle Question: Survival or Strategy?6. What Should Malaysians Aged 23 to 45 Do in 2026?The Bottom LineFAQs 1. Why a Stronger Ringgit Has Not Lowered Your Cost of Living In theory, a stronger Ringgit should reduce import costs. Malaysia imports food inputs, wheat, corn feed, machinery and consumer goods. When the currency strengthens, these should become cheaper. But three realities delay the impact: 1.1 The Lag Effect Many businesses secure raw materials using forward contracts months earlier at weaker exchange rates. Retail pricing reflects old costs, not today’s currency strength. Currency recovery does not mean instant price cuts. 1.2 Sticky Operational Costs Even if import costs ease, the following remain elevated: Electricity tariffs Rental for commercial units Logistics and warehousing Labour costs Once prices move up, they rarely move down unless there is deflation. 1.3 Wage Adjustments Minimum wage increased to RM1,700 effective 2025. This is positive for B40 households. However, for small businesses and F&B operators, higher wage bills often translate into higher menu prices. Key Insight A strong Ringgit protects the economy from worsening inflation. It does not automatically reverse past price increases.r the individual, it mostly acts as a shield to prevent prices from rising even faster. 2. The RM1,700 Minimum Wage and Wage Compression The minimum wage increase from RM1,500 to RM1,700 narrows the gap between entry-level workers and lower-tier executives. For M40 earners between RM5,000 and RM10,000 monthly, this creates a subtle pressure: Entry-level salaries rise Your salary may not adjust Cost floor of services increases This is called wage compression. The result is psychological and financial. You are not struggling enough to receive subsidies. But you are not earning enough to feel secure. That middle pressure defines the 2025 Malaysian professional. 3. Property in 2025: Buy or Rent First? This is where finance meets real life. According to NAPIC data, residential property prices continue gradual growth. In Klang Valley, many new high-rise projects still transact between RM500,000 and RM800,000 for mid-range units. Meanwhile, national rental yields average around 4 to 6 percent gross. Let’s compare realistically. Scenario Comparison: Own vs Rent (RM500,000 Condo) CategoryBuyRentDownpayment 10%RM50,000RM3,000 depositMonthly mortgage at 3.00% OPR linked loanApprox RM2,200RM1,700 rentMaintenance + sinking fundRM300 to RM400RM0FlexibilityLowHighLiquidityLocked in propertyCapital preserved Observation: In many urban locations, renting costs less than owning on a monthly basis. When Buying Makes Sense You plan to stay at least 5 to 7 years Monthly instalment is below 30 percent of take-home pay You qualify for stamp duty exemptions extended to 2027 You use SJKP if needed for financing support When Renting First Is Smarter You value mobility You are uncertain about career location You want to build emergency savings You prefer liquidity over leverage In 2025, renting is not financial failure. It is strategic patience. Before committing to ownership, review current first time home buyer schemes in Malaysia. 4. Rental Yield Reality Check Gross yield of 4 to 6 percent does not equal profit. You must deduct: Maintenance fees Sinking fund Agent fees Vacancy period Repairs Assessment and quit rent Net yield can drop significantly. If cash flow is tight, becoming a landlord may increase stress rather than security. Investors should also evaluate the average rental yield in Malaysia before expecting positive cash flow. 5. The Side Hustle Question: Survival or Strategy? Surveys show more Malaysians are taking on: E-hailing Delivery Freelance digital work Small online businesses But here is the truth many feel: It is not for luxury. It is for breathing room. Instead of trading time endlessly, focus on skill-based income: Digital services Design Marketing Coding AI-assisted freelancing A stronger Ringgit slightly reduces subscription costs for global software tools. Use currency strength strategically. Income resilience is more powerful than waiting for prices to fall. 6. What Should Malaysians Aged 23 to 45 Do in 2026? 1. Protect Cash Flow Keep total debt repayment below 40 percent of income. Housing ideally below 30 percent. 2. Build a 6-Month Emergency Fund Before committing to a mortgage. 3. Buy Property Based on Math, Not FOMO Instagram key handovers are curated moments. Mortgages are 30-year commitments. 4. Track Policy Changes Watch: 2025 Budget implementation Targeted subsidies OPR movements Stamp duty exemption timelines Policy timing matters in property decisions. The Bottom Line A strong Ringgit improves Malaysia’s macro story. But only strong personal cash flow improves your life. Economic recovery is national. Financial security is personal. FAQs Is 2026 a good time to buy property in Malaysia? Buying in 2026 depends on cash flow stability and long-term plans. If your mortgage repayment is below 30 percent of take-home pay and you intend to stay at least five years, buying can be financially sound. Otherwise, renting may preserve liquidity. Why are groceries still expensive despite a strong Ringgit? Due to forward contracts, sticky operational costs and wage adjustments. Currency strength takes time to affect retail prices. What is the average rental yield in Malaysia? National gross rental yields average around 4 to 6 percent, but net returns are lower after expenses. Should I rent or buy in Klang Valley in 2026? If renting costs significantly less than owning monthly, and you value liquidity, renting first can be financially prudent. If you are unsure whether buying now makes sense for your financial position, speak to a professional real estate advisor who understands both market data and financing structures. A good agent does not just sell property. They help you calculate risk and timing. [custom_blog_form] Continue reading: The Beginner’s Guide to Property Investment in Malaysia The Difference Between An Apartment And A Service Apartment Real Estate Agent Salary in Malaysia – How Much Do They Really Make? Why I Choose Renting Over Buying a House in Malaysia Insights into the Average Malaysian Salary Trends of 2025 Source: Academic & Technical Papers Mohamad Haizam Mohamed Saraf, Muhammad Eidlan Hakimi Radzi, Syahmimi Ayuni Ramli, & Mohammad Fitry Md Wadzir. (2025). Youth insights on factors influencing housing purchase and rental decisions. Journal of Computing Research and Innovation, 10(2), 26–34. https://doi.org/10.24191/jcrinn.v10i2.518 Chia, M. S., & Wei, C. Y. (2018). To purchase or to rent a home in Malaysia? A case study in Selangor. Journal of Contemporary Issues and Thought, 8, 1–7. https://doi.org/10.37134/jcit.vol8.1.2018. Websites, News, and Reports ASEAN Briefing. (n.d.). Salaries and minimum wages in Malaysia. https://www.aseanbriefing.com/doing-business-guide/malaysia/human-resources-and-payroll/salaries-minimum-wages-malaysia Bank Negara Malaysia. (2011). The introduction of the minimum wage policy [Box Article]. https://www.bnm.gov.my/documents/20124/830190/cp04_005_box.pdf Channel News Asia. (2024, August 2). Malaysia ringgit rally: Why the currency is at a year-high against the US dollar. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/malaysia-ringgit-rally-currency-us-dollar-anwar-ibrahim-5887731 DAP Malaysia. (2024, October 2). The Malaysian Ringgit has strengthened to its highest level in eight years [Facebook post]. https://www.facebook.com/DAPMalaysia/posts/1472905400866978/ FocusEconomics. (n.d.). Malaysia economic outlook. https://www.focus-economics.com/countries/malaysia/ GoDigit. (2023). Cost of living in Malaysia: Average monthly expenses. https://www.godigit.com/living-expenses/cost-of-living-in-malaysia Maybank. (n.d.). A guide to the cost of living in Malaysia. https://www.maybank2u.com.my/maybank2u/malaysia/en/articles/daily-living/personal-finance/cost-of-living-malaysia.page New Straits Times. (2025, August 2). Some workers take two jobs, delay marriage to cope with living costs. https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/08/1255007/some-workers-take-two-jobs-delay-marriage-cope-living-costs Numbeo. (2024). Cost of living in Malaysia. https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Malaysia Sunway Property. (2024, May 22). Property ownership for the sandwich generation matters more than ever. https://sunwayproperty.com/news-events/property-ownership-for-the-sandwich-generation-matters-more-than-ever/ The Edge Malaysia. (2024, November 4). Economy. https://theedgemalaysia.com/categories/economy The Rakyat Post. (2022, October 5). Survey shows more Malaysians working 2 jobs to make ends meet. https://www.therakyatpost.com/news/2022/10/05/survey-shows-more-malaysians-working-2-jobs-to-make-ends-meet/ University of Reading Malaysia. (2024, August 15). Strengthening of the Ringgit: Insights from the Provost. https://www.reading.edu.my/blogs/strengthening-of-the-ringgit-provost