Microcredit for rural poverty alleviation and social well-being: A study of Sabah, Malaysia

Microcredit is an influential intervention used to alleviate poverty and improve social well-being in rural communities in Sabah, Malaysia. This study examined the effects of a microcredit scheme, Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), on the well-being of these communities. Using a survey method, a pre-tes...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Wahab, Haris Abd, Bunyau, William, Rezaul Islam, M.
Format: Article
Published: Wiley 2017
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Online Access:http://eprints.um.edu.my/20416/
https://doi.org/10.1111/aswp.12133
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Institution: Universiti Malaya
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Summary:Microcredit is an influential intervention used to alleviate poverty and improve social well-being in rural communities in Sabah, Malaysia. This study examined the effects of a microcredit scheme, Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), on the well-being of these communities. Using a survey method, a pre-tested interview schedule was administered to 277 AIM recipients in Sabah, Malaysia. Social well-being was examined based on the three indicators of Midgley's social development approach: the management of problems, the fulfillment of basic needs, and social opportunities provided. AIM microcredit schemes were successful in improving the well-being of AIM recipients, although the recipients faced a number of problems, including unemployment, lack of education, and access to public services and healthcare facilities. The findings of this study represent a useful guideline to the AIM authority, development practitioners, policymakers, and governmental organization and non-governmental organization workers.