Factors Shaping the Well-Being of the Poor in the States with Higher Household Poverty: A Qualitative Investigation in Peninsula Malaysia

Abstract

Policymakers and economists believe that poor well-being among the poor may be due to a lack of access to adequate healthcare, education, sanitation, and, most importantly, income. As a result, human development metrics are used to measure well-being and have become central to the development of policies and programs aimed at enhancing people’s quality of life. However, despite these efforts, there is limited qualitative evidence that captures the perspectives of poor individuals on the barriers to their well-being. This study examines the lives of impoverished individuals in states with higher household poverty in Malaysia, focusing on their perceptions of the fundamental issues limiting their well-being. Using a qualitative approach, 30 poor households participating in an income increment program were selected through purposive sampling for in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using NVivo 12, revealing several critical themes. Key findings indicate that aging, illness, limited decision-making opportunities, and a lack of functional capacity are significant factors contributing to poor well-being. The study highlights that while income-based initiatives are crucial, they alone are insufficient to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the poor. Non-economic factors play a substantial role in shaping well-being and must be considered when designing policies and interventions. These findings underscore the importance of adopting a holistic approach that incorporates the voices and experiences of marginalized communities to improve their overall quality of life.