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Climbing the Ladder: Socioeconomic Mobility in Malaysia

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  • Muhammed Abdul Khalid

    (Centre for Policy Research and International Studies (CenPRIS) University Sains Malaysia 11800 USM Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Author email: Muhammed.abdulkhalid@gmail.com)

Abstract

This study investigates the existence and extent of intergenerational mobility in Malaysia in terms of educational attainment, occupational skills level, and income level. It compares the status of working adults born between the years 1945 and 1960 and their adult children born between 1975 and 1985, using non-linear transition matrix techniques. On average, the majority of adult children have better educational attainment and occupational skills level compared with their parents. Income mobility, in absolute and relative terms, is highest among children born to parents in the lowest income quintile. The results of a logistic regression model show that education, assets ownership, gender, and location matter for upward mobility. Moving forward, there will be difficulties for the children from poor families to move up the socioeconomic ladder because of changes in policies. An inclusive development approach is vital in enhancing socioeconomic mobility to promote social cohesion, economic growth, and greater equity for the next generation.

Suggested Citation

  • Muhammed Abdul Khalid, 2018. "Climbing the Ladder: Socioeconomic Mobility in Malaysia," Asian Economic Papers, MIT Press, vol. 17(3), pages 1-23, Fall.
    • Handle: RePEc:tpr:asiaec:v:17:y:2018:i:3:p:1-23
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    File URL: http://www.mitpressjournals.org/doi/pdf/10.1162/asep_a_00624
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    Cited by:

    1. Hwok‐Aun Lee, 2023. "Social Justice and Affirmative Action in Malaysia: The New Economic Policy after 50 Years," Asian Economic Policy Review, Japan Center for Economic Research, vol. 18(1), pages 97-119, January.
    2. Rongen,Gerton & Binti Ali Ahmad,Zainab & Lanjouw,Peter F. & Simler,Kenneth, 2022. "The Interplay of Regional and Ethnic Inequalities in Malaysian Poverty Dynamics," Policy Research Working Paper Series 9898, The World Bank.

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