Economic empowerment through targeted training: Insights from the underprivileged population in Kedah, Malaysia

Ida Normaya Mohd Nasir, Junaida Ismail, Nor Ardyanti Ahmad, Intan Syahriza Azizan, Etty Harniza Harun

Abstract


Vocational training is a critical tool for poverty alleviation. However, a research gap persists regarding how localized socioeconomic variations, and intersectional barriers affect program success in rural Malaysia. This study addresses this by analyzing the training needs of 748 underprivileged participants in Kedah, where 71.3% earn below RM2,208 monthly and encounter significant educational hurdles. Using a quantitative analysis, the research identifies that while 41.2% of participants aim to improve current employment, 36.2% seek to generate extra income. Regional differences are stark; for example, in the Sik district, 55.9% prioritize supplementary income. Vocational demand is highest for food preparation (49.20%), followed by agriculture (16.30%–18.05%) and technology-based skills (8.15%–10.63%). Entrepreneurship interests emphasize business opportunity identification (38.28%) and online business development (35.37%). The study contributes a "hyper-localized" framework for economic empowerment, reconciling traditional livelihoods with modern digital entrepreneurship. By mapping specific regional priorities, the findings provide a scalable blueprint for policymakers to design culturally responsive programs that advance United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 8. These insights are vital for reducing systemic disparities, addressing intersectional barriers, and fostering sustainable self-sufficiency within Malaysia’s marginalized communities. Integrating digital tools and context-specific strategies ensures equitable access and long-term economic resilience for the underprivileged.

 

Keywords: Digital literacy, economic empowerment, entrepreneurship development, skill development programs, targeted training programs, underprivileged populations


Keywords


Digital literacy, economic empowerment, entrepreneurship development, skill development programs, targeted training programs, underprivileged populations

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