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International Journal of
Population Studies Urban poverty framework for B40 in Malaysia

Figure 2. A framework of programs supporting the socioeconomic and health needs of the B40 working age group
Abbreviation: NGOs: Non-government organizations.

Under the employment and business component, several safeguard urban B40 households from healthcare-related
national programs support urban B40 microentrepreneurs. financial shocks.
Tabung Ekonomi Kumpulan Usaha Niaga (TEKUN With regard to financial assistance, the framework
Nasional) provides microfinancing for business expansion, emphasizes financial education, systematic monitoring,
while GiatMARA incubators offer technical training and and continuous program evaluation. Government
business premises. The e-entrepreneur program under the
Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation empowers urban initiatives such as direct cash assistance and financial
literacy programs aim to empower B40 households to
entrepreneurs to leverage digital platforms for income
generation. Looking ahead, a social entrepreneurship better manage their income, control spending, and build
training program can encourage individuals to develop resilience. These interventions not only relieve financial
enterprises that address social problems while generating burdens temporarily but also build long-term financial
income. This includes initiatives in urban agriculture, capability.
childcare services, or community recycling programs, with Finally, the involvement of NGOs, agencies, individuals,
support from start-up grants and structured mentorship. and foundations enhances the reach and impact of support
Health and social service access is another key pillar. systems. Organizations such as Yayasan Hasanah and
The framework supports the availability of basic health Malaysian Medical Relief Society contribute through
services through mobile clinics and urban transformation food, education, and healthcare programs, while zakat
centers, which offer affordable treatment, including dental institutions offer structured financial aid. Private sector
services. Mental and emotional support services such as initiatives like Food Bank Malaysia ensure household
psychosocial assistance through Talian Kasih help alleviate food security. To improve coordination, the framework
emotional stress among vulnerable groups. The digital proposes the establishment of a digital social assistance
health center program introduces telemedicine solutions collaborative platform that brings together efforts from
to improve access, especially for those who face difficulties NGOs, corporations, individuals, and foundations in a
obtaining direct medical care. Expanding digital health unified system. This ensures that resources are optimally
insurance and remote consultation services will help distributed to the right recipients.

Volume 11 Issue 6 (2025) 153 https://doi.org/10.36922/ijps.6558