SUBJECTIVE FINANCIAL WELLBEING AS AN INDICATOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FOR THE ORANG ASLI MAH MERI IN SELANGOR, MALAYSIA

Abstract

The Orang Asli Mah Meri in Selangor, Malaysia, are beginning to experience changes in their well-being due to the rapid development surrounding their settlements. This study aims to examine the impacts and factors influencing subjective financial well-being, proposing it as an indicator of the Mah Meri community's transition towards development. Traditionally, the well-being of the Orang Asli has been assessed objectively, primarily through economic indicators. However, this research offers a different perspective by focusing on subjective financial well-being, an area with limited prior study among the Orang Asli, resulting in significant knowledge gaps. The objectives of this study are fourfold: to define subjective financial well-being, assess its status among the Mah Meri, identify the factors influencing it, and explain its relevance as an indicator of community development. Fifteen (15) Mah Meri from various locations across Selangor participated as informants. They are increasingly exposed to modernisation driven by ongoing development and industrialisation. Employing an exploratory research design, data were collected through in-depth interviews, the Nominal Group Technique (NGT), and non-participatory observation. Thematic analysis revealed three main themes: (i) sufficiency, (ii) comfort, and (iii) satisfaction. From the perspective of subjective financial well-being, the studied community demonstrates a generally positive state. The findings also identified four key factors affecting their subjective financial well-being: (i) changes in values, (ii) sources of income, (iii) education, and (iv) social contact. These factors contribute to the community’s adaptation to modernisation and have a significant influence on their well-being. Subjective financial well-being can thus be regarded as a meaningful indicator of community development, aligning with four goals of community development: (i) improving quality of life, (ii) integrating community members, (iii) fostering cooperation among community members, and (iv) initiating social transformation. While the Orang Asli still have considerable progress to make to keep pace with modern society, their positive trajectory in subjective financial well-being is a promising sign. Any improvements to individuals’ quality of life are likely to drive broader economic and social change. Given these continual changes, prioritising the social and economic development of the Orang Asli is essential to ensure they are not left behind.