Socio-Economic Differences in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case in Malaysia

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Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically transformed the human lifestyle and world socioeconomic conditions. It has attracted many scholars to assess the consequences of this pandemic. From a different angle, this study aims to compare the socioeconomic conditions before and during the COVID-19 pandemic; and to assess which socioeconomic indicator was most impacted by the pandemic. This empirical study employed a valid and reliable questionnaire that was randomly distributed to 516 respondents aged 18 to 65 years old in Peninsular Malaysia. Paired sample t-test and frequency analysis were utilised for the data analysis. Results show a significant difference in terms of socioeconomic conditions, namely income, saving, job security, health conditions, security/personal safety, emotional condition, spirituality, and work productivity was observed before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, spirituality (99.4%), food security (96.9%), health (88%), and personal safety (83.5%) were the most affected indicators during the COVID-19 pandemic. The outcomes of this study could provide policymakers with a clear picture of the effective strategy for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and aiding Malaysia in its economic and social recovery after the pandemic.
Funding Information
  • UiTM Kedah Branch under Geran Dalaman Negeri (GDN) Tahun 2020 (600-UiTMKDH (PJI.5/4/1)(4/2020))

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