High value
Nursing and first aid. Fixing generators, cars, wiring, plumbing.
11
Barter and trade
In a long crisis, money stops working before people stop needing things. Here’s what holds value, ranked like a game tier list, because that is how your teenager will remember it.
S
Medicines and first aidClean waterBatteriesLighters
Everyone needs them, nobody stocked enough, and they can’t be made at home.
A
RiceSugar, salt, cooking oilCoffee and MiloSoapSanitary pads, diapersMosquito repellentGas canisters
Daily essentials that run out at the same time in every household on the street.
B
Cigarettes and alcoholHand toolsSeedsCharged powerbanksGold jewellery
Strong trade goods historically. Not an endorsement, just reporting. Gold is Malaysia’s classic crisis savings: portable and liquid, but you can’t eat it.
C
CashElectronicsYour Labubu collection
Cash works early in a crisis and fades in a long one. The rest is for after.
Skills are currency too
Steady value
Cooking for a crowd, sewing, childcare, teaching.
Underrated
Haircuts. Nobody needs one; everyone feels better after.