ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights the major features of the progress made by Malaysia in poverty reduction since 1971. It provides an analysis of the possible reasons for the achievements. The chapter discusses the enabling environment for poverty reduction; poverty reduction: Policy, Achievements and Future Challenges; and some possible lessons from the Malaysian experience. The efforts of Malaysia in reducing poverty have been conducted against the backdrop of a plural society that has as its ultimate goal the establishment of a united Malaysian nation from amongst its many ethnic groups. Malaysia’s policy against poverty first took a clear and coordinated shape in 1971 with the introduction of the New Economic Policy. An important component or prerequisite of the fight against poverty is agreement on the definition and measurement of poverty. In Malaysia, the government has taken the lead in this task, after consultation with various experts and groups.
