Socio-economic Impact of Covid-19 on Marginalized Youth in Malaysia

Abstract

The impacts of Covid-19 on society and economy are now a global concern. With the continuous growth of global pandemic caused by Covid-19 infectious disease, limitations on daily living and reduced business operations have squeezed the society and the economy. Although scientists are busy with coronavirus vaccine studies, sociologists and economists are taking policy measures to alleviate the crisis. This paper aims to focus on the social and economic impacts of Covid-19 in Malaysia. The study was conducted through interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire among marginalized youths. Using snowball sampling technique from 36 participants, it was found that 69% youths confirmed strengthening their relationships with family members, 25% youths are having psychological discomfort, 72% youths acknowledged reduced income due to the pandemic and 26% lost their job because of the pandemic. The findings are expected to help the researchers and policymakers to strategize their future actions towards a better Malaysia.