Guide to Best Fixed Deposit Rate in Malaysia 2023

What You Should Know About Fixed Deposits

I’m delighted you’re here and expressing interest in Fixed Deposits, a key component of personal finance. I’m happy to share what I’ve learned about fixed deposits, the significance of the fixed deposit rate, and how the fixed deposit rate in Malaysia might affect your investment decisions as someone who has successfully negotiated the financial environment.

What is a Fixed Deposit, then? An FD is a financial product banks provide that enables you to save money for a predetermined amount while earning a greater interest rate than a typical savings account. For many investors, especially those just starting, fixed deposits are the best option. They offer a plethora of advantages, including easy management and assured profits. As the cherry on top, they are insured by the government.

The interest rate, also known as the fixed deposit rate, is a crucial factor to consider when it comes to fixed deposits. FD rates in Malaysia are competitive and provide better returns than standard savings accounts. This rate plays a key role in what makes FDs a desirable long-term investment option. It’s also important to note that various banks provide varying fixed deposit rates. It’s important to note that FDs have a time lock, which means the money cannot be accessed until the maturity period has passed. The interest generated is lost if you remove the money too soon. 

Return on Investment Assured

The phrase Return on Investment (ROI) is important when discussing investing. ROI is the amount of money that can be made from an investment in relation to its price. It is a crucial component to consider when investing since it provides us with a clear image of the prospective profits and helps us compare the profitability of various investment paths. Fixed Deposits in Malaysia are a steady and dependable option for investors because the ROI is guaranteed.

Fixed Deposits (FDs) are well-liked, especially among novice investors, mainly due to the guaranteed high returns. Because these investment vehicles have a guaranteed interest rate, known as the fixed deposit rate, they provide assurance. Regardless of changes in the market, the rate chosen at the time of deposit remains the same throughout the term.

But why is this promise of restitution so crucial?

Finding the right balance between risk and return is the key to investing. The potential benefit and loss are inversely correlated with the risk level. The danger is limited with Fixed Deposits, though. Since the return (interest earned) is known up front, you have a clear idea of what your investment will produce and can efficiently organise your finances.

Your primary amount is additionally guaranteed to be safe and protected by the Perbadanan Insurans Deposit Malaysia (PIDM) insurance programme, which is available for FDs in Malaysia. This is a crucial element that guarantees the ROI from FDs.

Competitive Rates of Interest

Unavoidable as we explore the world of fixed deposits in Malaysia is one of their most alluring aspects: the competitive interest rates, also referred to as the fixed deposit rate. Any investment must consider the interest rate because it affects the potential return over the deposit period. Additionally, Malaysia offers some of the most aggressive rates on the market right now for fixed deposits.

So, why are these low rates so important to us investors?

The interest rate directly impacts the yield on our investment; the higher the interest rate, the bigger the return. Due to this, fixed deposits are an appealing alternative to traditional savings accounts, which frequently have lower interest rates. Additionally, the fact that the rate is fixed for the duration of the deposit guarantees that we will always know the exact return on our investment, allowing us to plan our finances accurately.

While high rates are appealing, it’s vital to remember that they shouldn’t be the only thing considered. The minimum deposit amount, the length of the deposit, the bank’s standing, and the availability of government insurance cover like PIDM are all important factors to consider when determining where to invest our money.

Banks Reward Loyal Customers With Better Rates

As a seasoned investor in Malaysia, I can tell that in the banking industry, loyalty does pay off. Long-term customers of Malaysian banks are frequently rewarded with superior fixed deposit rates as a sign of gratitude for their dedication and as a motivation to keep the relationship going.

According to my observations, many banks in Malaysia give their devoted clients attractive fixed deposit rates. Consider the services provided by a few institutions listed in the publications I read. Banks like RHB, Public Bank (PB), and CIMB offer conventional and Islamic fixed deposit options with reasonable rates for their loyal consumers.

For instance, you can be given a better rate on your RHB Ordinary Fixed Deposit than a new customer if you have been a consistent RHB customer and keep a sizable amount of your funds there. Customers of the other banks on the list, such as Ambank, CIMB, and others, may also receive the same special treatment.

Not to mention the infrequently available special deals that banks provide. When these campaigns try to draw in new money or compete for a larger portion of the overall deposits made by consumers, they may offer even more alluring rates.

Understand the difference between savings and fixed deposit accounts

Effective financial management requires understanding the differences between savings and fixed deposit accounts. The two kinds of accounts have various uses and provide advantages that differ.

A savings account is first and foremost used for daily spending and personal savings. It has great liquidity. Therefore, you may always withdraw or deposit money. Savings account interest is often secondary and pays a lower rate than a fixed deposit account. The benefit of a savings account, though, is in its practicality and accessibility. Savings accounts are great for keeping track of monthly costs and building an emergency reserve.

Fixed deposit accounts, on the other hand, are made for specific investments with a set tenure. They frequently provide greater interest rates than savings accounts, enabling you to maximise your profits over time. Low liquidity is the cost of these increased profits, though. Premature withdrawal penalties might significantly reduce your earnings. Because of this, fixed deposit accounts are a suitable choice for long-term savings objectives when you don’t need access to the money for a while.

Here is a comparison table between savings accounts and fixed deposit accounts:

Different Types of Fixed Deposits To Maximize Your Returns

The significance of selecting the appropriate instrument cannot be stressed as we traverse the investing landscape. Let’s investigate fixed deposits today and learn how various sorts of them might help you increase your returns. Understanding the subtle differences will let us explore niche subjects, such as Step-Up Fixed Deposits and Fixed Deposits with CASA Bundling.

Step-Up Fixed Deposit

Embark on a personal adventure with me. Not too long ago, I was drowning in the immense sea of available financial alternatives. The options looked limitless, ranging from term deposits to savings accounts, bonds, and equities. Step-Up Fixed Deposit was one term that shone out like a lighthouse in the midst of this maze.

For those unfamiliar with the idea, a Step-Up Fixed Deposit (FD) is a unique category of FD in which the interest rate is variable. Instead, it increases or “steps up” during the course of the deposit. Now, why would someone like you or me be interested in this?

First, denying the allure of fixed deposits in Malaysia is difficult. They serve as your money’s equivalent of a safe harbour, guaranteeing both protection and great returns. Traditional savings accounts provide you immediate access to your money but offer relatively low returns, whilst fixed-rate deposits (FDs) guarantee greater interest rates but have more restricted access to the invested money. But this is when the Step-Up FD’s magic shines.

For illustrative purposes, let’s imagine a scenario:

Imagine depositing RM10,000 in a conventional FD versus a Step-Up FD. Here’s a hypothetical breakdown over a 6-month period, emphasising the unique nature of Step-Up FDs:

Note: These figures are hypothetical and based on the assumption that the rate gradually steps up. 

The benefit of Step-Up FDs becomes abundantly evident as we move around the table. They might eventually provide higher returns than their conventional counterparts. The increasing interest rate in Malaysia offers a distinct advantage that may align with many investors’ financial objectives. In conclusion, those seeking stability and continuously rising returns should strongly consider FDs, particularly step-up varieties.

Fixed Deposit with CASA Bundling

Have you ever thought, “How can I maximise my returns and still enjoy the flexibility of instant cash access?” Since I’ve been there, I’ve found the ideal remedy: Fixed Deposit with CASA Bundling.

Let’s debunk this monetary phrase. Current Account and Savings Account are referred to as CASA. With a CASA bundle, a Fixed Deposit (FD) is effectively linked to a current or savings account, giving the account holder additional flexibility and perhaps better interest rates. The current or savings account offers liquidity, while the FD offers a better-fixed deposit rate in Malaysia.

Let’s examine an example table to understand better how an FD with CASA bundling might operate by contrasting it with a single FD.

Note: The rates in the table are hypothetical. 

We can see from the table that FD with CASA bundling provides a better return because of the higher interest rate while also giving a way to access rapid funds through a current or savings account. Comparable to getting the best of both worlds

Think about being in a dessert shop to create a vivid mental image. A stand-alone FD resembles a deep, satisfying, and rewarding chocolate cake. The CASA package, on the other hand, is comparable to a chocolate cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A more well-rounded experience is provided by the richness of the cake (FD) and the cooling break provided by the ice cream (CASA).

Can I Withdraw Full or Partial Cash Amounts?

The terms used in the banking and finance industries are many and can scare the inexperienced. I frequently hear, “Can I withdraw my money if I need it?” when talking about fixed deposits. Simply said, yes, you can. But, like with everything excellent, there are certain restrictions.

Let’s go deeper to understand better what happens when you request a withdrawal from your Fixed Deposit (FD) account.

Placement of 1, 2 or 3 Months

The flexibility is comparatively larger for those who choose a brief term of 1, 2, or 3 months. A fixed rate of interest, also known as the fixed deposit rate in Malaysia, is promised in exchange for a specific amount of money being deposited for a specific length of time. Due to the brief contractual period in the case of such short tenures, banks may permit withdrawals with light penalties.

However, early withdrawal from your FD could prevent you from enjoying all its interest rate Malaysia advantages. The principal will usually be returned, but the interest may be prorated or, in some situations, forfeited entirely.

Placement of more than 3 Months

The situation changes slightly for FDs lasting more than three months. The terms for early withdrawals get stiffer the longer the duration. The bank uses your money when you lock it in for a longer period of time for various lending activities because they know they will have access to it for the entire time.

You can be charged a fee if you withdraw before the scheduled period. These fines could take the form of decreased interest payments or charges that deduct from your principal. Before committing to a long-term FD, becoming familiar with these circumstances is crucial. Although linking a savings account to your FD can increase liquidity, early withdrawals may still have drawbacks, such as the potential loss of interest.

Investment Planning: What Is It & How To Do It Better?

I can well recall the excitement I experienced at the beginning of my financial adventure when I considered the possibility of increasing my fortune. It was like standing on the verge of an undiscovered planet with nothing more than aspiration and a meagre amount of money. But I soon understood that planning is as important as investing money. And it was at that point that I discovered the fascinating realm of financial planning.

Investment planning matches a person’s financial objectives with appropriate investment options while considering their risk tolerance, time horizon, and expected returns. The Fixed Deposit (FD) is a valued financial option for many Malaysians. An FD’s simplicity and promise of assured returns make it so attractive.

Tips for Maximizing Returns from Fixed Deposits

1. Explore FD Promotions: Banks frequently launch marketing campaigns offering fixed deposit rates greater than usual. For instance, Bank Simpanan Nasional gives a competitive 3.50% interest rate on its BSN Term Deposit-i Senior Citizen this month. To increase your profits, keeping a watch on these specials is valuable.

Other than BSN giving the promotion, different banks are implementing the promotion. For example:

• Public Bank (PB RCB Special FD/TD-i campaign -Red Carpet Banking customers are required to maintain a minimum aggregated deposit amount), (PB Special Fixed Deposit campaign – for PLUS Fixed Deposit)
• OCBC Bank (FD/CASA bundle promo – requires the customer also to have selected savings accounts with OCBC)
• Hong Leong Bank (HLB Connect Day eFD/-i promo), (New Priority Banking Customers FD promo – for new Priority Banking customers)
• CIMB Bank (eFD/eFRIA-i campaign – only on CIMB Clicks website)
• Bank Islam (MaxCash promotion – requires customers to deposit cash into TDT and invest in Al-Awfar), (TDT Extra promotion)
• Bank Rakyat (Akaun Deposit-i Berjangka promotion)
• Alliance Bank (Alliance Privilege FD/TD-i promotion – open to new Alliance Privilege Banking customers, over-the-counter offer), (Alliance Privilege FD promotion – open to new Alliance Personal customers, over-the-counter offer), (Alliance New Investor campaign – requires customers to invest in selected conventional unit trust products), (Alliance Bank Bancassurance & FD campaign – requires customers to invest in selected bancassurance regular premium products), (Alliance Bank Investment & FD campaign – requires customers to invest in selected investment products)
• Affin Bank (Banca Deposit Campaign 2023 – requires customers to sign up for bancassurance or bancatakaful products).

The fixed deposit promotion mentioned above is suitable for each of you willing to invest in a fixed deposit. Besides, most of the promotion is valid until this September. So, enjoy the promotion! 

You may also check out our “Malaysia’s Best Fixed Deposit Promotions 2023” to know more about latest fixed deposit promotion in Malaysia!

1. Consider Islamic FD Products: Islamic FD products offer higher interest rates than traditional FD products, as previously emphasised. Rates at Agrobank, MBSB Bank, and Alliance Islamic Bank, which vary from 3.10% to 3.45%, are clear examples of this tendency.
2. Monitor Economic Indicators: A key variable affecting the fixed deposit rate in Malaysia is the overnight policy rate (OPR) established by Bank Negara Malaysia. Banks frequently change their base rates (BR) in response to rising OPRs, impacting FD rates. For instance, Maybank, OCBC Bank, and Public Bank recently raised their deposit rates in response to a recent increase in the OPR. You can decide where to place your FD investments in a timely manner by keeping a watch on these economic indicators.

How Secure Are My Deposits in Actuality?

I’ve had that nagging doubt since I first started depositing my hard-earned money in the bank: “Is my money safe in there?” It’s more important than ever to ensure that our savings are protected from potential hazards, especially when discussing fixed deposit rates and fixed deposit rates in Malaysia. This is because the landscape of the world economies is continuously changing, and recent events, like the failure of some banks, have highlighted this issue. But what safeguards are in place, and how reliable are these barriers?

Protection for commercial banks

In Malaysia, including Maybank, CIMB, and Public Bank, are governed by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), ensuring they follow tight guidelines. The Malaysia Deposit Insurance Corporation (PIDM) is a key safety net for depositors. This organisation offers an RM250,000 deposit guarantee. So, PIDM intervenes to protect depositors if any member bank encounters an unanticipated problem. It is important to note that this insurance covers the principal and the interest amount up to a maximum of RM250,000.

When considering making a deposit, I discovered that spreading out my deposits among several banks is a wise choice, especially if the overall amount of my funds exceeds the PIDM protection level. By doing this, I maximise the insured amount and maybe even get Malaysia’s best interest rate.

Protection for co-operative banks

Bank Rakyat is one example of a cooperative bank that comes to mind. These banks operate differently from their commercial counterparts to serve specialised markets, which frequently include specialised communities or professional associations.

Co-operative banks in Malaysia are yet protected by PIDM, just like commercial banks are. This means that, even if a cooperative bank encounters difficulties, our deposits up to the amount of RM250,000 will be safe and secure.

Are Islamic Deposit Accounts Haram in Islam?

I’ve often wondered a crucial question: “Are Islamic deposit accounts truly halal (permissible) in Islam”—especially in light of my recent encounters with the financial sector. Exploring this is crucial, particularly in Malaysia, where many religions coexist with a sizeable Muslim population. While surfing the web, I found a section for Islamic deposits and several possibilities for fixed deposit rates in Malaysia. This motivated me to learn more about the concepts underlying these accounts.

Islamic Financial Services Act 2013 (IFSA)

I focused my attention on the Islamic Financial Services Act 2013 (IFSA) to gain a piece of thorough knowledge. This law, introduced in Malaysia, establishes the guidelines for Islamic financial organisations. The primary goal of IFSA is to ensure that these institutions adhere to the fundamentals of Shariah law.

Islamic deposit accounts are made devoid of riba, regarded as haram (forbidden) in Islam, and so not allowed. These accounts operate on profit-sharing methods rather than interest, ensuring that the depositor and the bank make halal profits.

According to the RinggitPlus website, one of the primary techniques used is the idea of murabahah. Local banks like Bank Rakyat, MBSB, and Bank Muamalat, and global ones like HSBC Amanah and Standard Chartered Saadiq follow these principles. They buy the asset and then resell it to the client at a markup, with a predefined profit.

In addition, banks provide profit through hibah (gift), as the page explains for RinggitPlus savings accounts. Hibah is optional and not required. However, it serves as a gesture of gratitude from the bank to its depositors.

Take Maybank Islamic Berhad as an illustration; it provides Islamic Fixed Deposits. According to their website, they have switched from delivering acknowledgement slips to awarding certificates for placements, ensuring a more streamlined banking experience for the user.

How do I open a Fixed Deposit account?

My forays into the realm of investments have always been thrilling ones. However, the Fixed Deposit (FD) in Malaysia is the investing option I discovered to be the safest, easiest, and best place for anyone to start. The quantity of knowledge accessible, especially for a rookie like myself, pleased me when I recently explored the ins and outs of FDs while browsing the internet. After navigating the complex world of fixed deposit rate Malaysia and interest rate Malaysia, I provided a straightforward tutorial to aid fellow Malaysians in opening an FD account.

Prepare Your Supporting Documents

The cornerstone of starting any financial journey is ensuring all your paperwork is in order. It is the same as opening an FD account. Most Malaysian banks will demand the following:

• A duplicate of your National Identification Card (NRIC).
• Proof of your current address, especially if it differs from your NRIC. Utility bills or a current bank statement are commonly accepted.
• A required minimum deposit, which differs between institutions. Mostly the sample of 6-month FD with an RM5,000 minimum deposit and a competitive interest rate of 3.65% p.a.

It’s wise to verify that you have all the required paperwork by visiting the bank’s official website or contacting customer care. You could save the inconvenience of making repeated trips.

Never Lose Track of Your Certificate of Fixed Deposit

Every FD account holder should adhere to this golden guideline. After your FD account has been successfully opened, the bank will give you a Certificate of Fixed Deposit. It serves as proof of your investment and is more than simply a piece of paper. In particular, this certificate is crucial if you choose to withdraw your FD before it matures.

I found it helpful to take a picture of or scan the certificate and preserve it digitally as a backup while researching online. In addition, certain financial institutions, like Maybank Islamic Berhad, have stopped issuing these certificates in favour of acknowledgement papers to improve customer convenience. In either case, keep an eye on your FD placements.

Fixed Deposit Rate in Malaysia 2023

Here are the information about the fees and charges, and who can apply the FD from each of the banks that mentions above: 

Affin Islamic Bank

• Fees & Charges: RM5 per document.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian and Foreigners.

Agrobank

• Fees & Charges: RM10 Indemnity Stamp Duty & RM5 Service Charge.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian and Foreigners.

Al Rajhi Bank

• Fees & Charges: RM2 per document.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian and Foreigners.

Alliance Bank

• Fees & Charges: RM5 Service Charge.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian, Corporations, Partnerships, Clubs and Societies, Sole proprietorship, Associations, Government Bodies and Trustees.

AmBank Islamic

• Fees & Charges: RM5 Service Charge & RM5 per document.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of any nationality, Company, Partnership, Club and Societies, Sole proprietorship, Association, or Government Bodies.

Bank of Nova Scotia

• Fees & Charges: RM5 Service Charge.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Any nationality, Individuals and SMEs.

Bank Muamalat

• Fees & Charges: RM3 Service Charge.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian, Expatriates, Associations, Clubs and Societies, Companies, Cooperative, Government and SMEs.

Bank Rakyat

• Fees & Charges: RM10 Indemnity Stamp Duty.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian, Individuals, Cooperatives that are established and registered in Malaysia, Charities/Club/Association that are established and registered in Malaysia, Private and Government corporate company and Government agencies.

Bank Simpanan Nasional

• Fees & Charges: RM5 Service Charge.

• • • Additional Statement Request RM1 per document.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian, Non-residents with permanent Malaysian addresses and Business enterprises operating in Malaysia.

CIMB Bank

• Fees & Charges: RM10 Indemnity Stamp Duty & RM2 per document.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian and Foreigners.

Hong Leong Bank

• Fees & Charges: RM10 Indemnity Stamp Duty.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian.

HSBC

• Fees & Charges: RM5 Service Charge.

• • • Additional Statement Request RM5 per document.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian, Permanent residents and Foreigners.

India International Bank

• Fees & Charges: There are no fees associated.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian, Permanent residents, Foreigners, Associations, Clubs and Societies, Companies, Cooperative and Government.

Maybank

• Fees & Charges: There are no fees associated.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian, Permanent residents and Foreigners.

MBSB Bank

• Fees & Charges: RM15 Service Charge.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysians and Foreigners.

OCBC

• Fees & Charges: RM10 per document.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian, Permanent residents and Foreigners.

Public Bank Islamic

• Fees & Charges: RM10 Indemnity Stamp Duty & RM5 Service Charge.

• • • Additional Statement Request RM2 per document.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian and Permanent Residents.

RHB Islamic Bank

• Fees & Charges: RM2 Service Charge.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian and Permanent Residents.

Standard Chartered

• Fees & Charges: There are no fees associated.

• Who Can Apply: 18 years old of Malaysian, Club and Societies, Cooperatives, Private Limited Companies, Partnership and Sole proprietorship.