Jaiyeoba, Haruna Babatunde and Fernando, Yudi and Abdullah, Moha Asri and Mohd Sanusi, Zuraidah (2024) Non-standard workers' perceptions of Malaysia’s social security programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Governance and Integrity, 7 (2). pp. 820-831. ISSN 2600-7479 E-ISSN 2600-786X
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Abstract
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with its unprecedented economic and livelihood challenges, has had unparalleled repercussions on non-standard workers worldwide. To cushion the impact of COVID-19 on workers and employment, several measures were implemented by the Malaysian government. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that these measures largely focused on those in standard employment. Accordingly, this study explores non-standard workers’ perceptions of Malaysia’s social security programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research adopts a qualitative design, with data collected from nine non-standard workers and analysed using thematic analysis. The results reveal that non-standard workers experienced job losses, financial strain, significant income reductions, and challenges in accessing government assistance during COVID-19. The findings also indicate that this group did not benefit as equally as standard workers from the government’s emergency social measures, such as wage subsidies, financial aid, and other pandemic-related programmes. While financial aid and special grants for microbusinesses provided short-term relief, many non-standard workers believe the government could have done more. Additionally, the government’s social security programmes were found to promote social cohesion and contribute to a more unified society. Overall, the findings underscore the need for inclusive and adaptable social security frameworks that address the unique needs of non-standard workers, particularly in times of crisis.
| Item Type: | Article (Journal) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Non-standard workers, COVID-19, Malaysia, Social cohesion, Social security programme |
| Subjects: | H Social Sciences > HM Sociology > HM826 Social institutions H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare > HV697 Protection, assistance and relief |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | International Institute for Halal Research and Training (INHART) |
| Depositing User: | Dr. Haruna Babatunde Jaiyeoba |
| Date Deposited: | 26 Jan 2025 13:40 |
| Last Modified: | 26 Jan 2025 13:40 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/118781 |
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