Mounting expenses in the first three months of 2026 weigh heavily on the minds of many Malaysians, especially those from the low- and medium-income groups. Even before the burden of school-related expenses begins to ease, Ramadan is set to arrive, followed closely by Hari Raya Aidilfitri in March. They are not complaining, but it would not be an exaggeration to say that the families concerned will find themselves caught in a cycle of spending that leaves little room to pause, let alone save.