Poverty and Federalism in Malaysia: A Preliminary Overview

Abstract:

Poverty is one of the extreme issues that arise globally, which may include matters in social, economy and political elements. Based on the data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia, the poverty rate for this country nowadays showed a significant drop, but, it has been denied by the expert of United Nation, Philip Alston that Malaysia’s claim to have the world’s lowest national poverty rate is inaccurate, as the official figure vastly undercounts poverty. Stability demography of the society is very crucial to achieve a better and more sustainable future. Efforts to eliminate poverty have always been emphasized on several scopes like education and skills development, income generation and provision of access to basic needs. In practical, there are some of the relevant bodies from different ministries and agencies either from Federal or State Governments taking part in general to curb this crisis. However, issues arise with regard to the source of authority when there is no centred policies of poverty mention in any items of 9th Schedule of Federal Constitution. Hence, the aim of the paper is to study the efforts that have been taken by both Governments to eradicate poverty, plus the recommendations that can be done towards a better society in Malaysia. (205 words)