Livelihood Assets and Well-Being: The Case of Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) Participants in Selangor

Abstract

This study examines the well-being of micro-entrepreneurs participating in Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) in Selangor through the lens of the Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF). Specifically, it analyses asset ownership, socio-economic vulnerability, resilience strategies, and their influence on well-being. A structured quantitative approach was employed, using a questionnaire distributed to 375 AIM participants across seven state constituencies: Sungai Gabai, Sungai Ramal, Sungai Chua, Sungai Tangkas, Bukit Mewah, Beranang, and Semenyih. The large sample size enhances representativeness and strengthens the reliability of statistical analysis. The findings show that both asset ownership and well-being levels are high, while socio-economic vulnerability and resilience strategies are at moderate levels. More importantly, asset ownership demonstrates a stronger influence on well-being compared to other variables, highlighting its central role in improving livelihood outcomes. This study also aligns with Malaysia’s 11th and 12th Development Plans, underscoring its policy relevance for sustainable entrepreneurship and poverty reduction.