Indicators of poverty and social exclusion in Malaysia: Early findings

The purpose of this paper is to provide preliminary insights on the demographic and economic indicators of poverty and social exclusion in Malaysia. Misled reports on similar areas were the motivation for the research project as the need to identify the hard-core poor is crucial for all stakeholders. From the initial input of 100 survey data, demographic indicators were drawn from those living in the rural areas (75%) and urban locations (25%). The findings show that income and education factors consistently fulfill the criteria under economic indicators with 100% earning incomes below RM1500 per month (equivalent to USD483.9). Furthermore, only 65% of the respondents studied up to high school hence, citizens experiencing economic hardship are in existence regardless of location. Reporting the findings of this study is significant for the government to focus on the identification of the type of development programs available to assist the disadvantage communities in Malaysia. By giving them proper training and other entrepreneurial opportunities, the government will eradicate the citizens' dependence on subsidies while ensuring that communities are socially included and not deprived on any national initiatives.