Identifying factors shaping urban poverty in Malaysia: a household perspective

Urban household poverty refers to the inability of households in urban areas to meet basic needs due to limited income and resources, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and rising living costs. This study investigates the factors contributing to urban household poverty in Malaysia, focusing on demographic, socioeconomic, and regional determinants. Using data from the 2019 Household Expenditure Survey (HES) and logistic regression analysis, the study examines variables such as age, gender, education, occupation, household size, and regional disparities. The findings reveal that lower educational attainment, unstable employment, larger household sizes, and underdeveloped regions are significant contributors to poverty, with female-headed households being particularly vulnerable. These insights provide a foundation for designing targeted, region-specific interventions to reduce poverty, improve socioeconomic resilience, and support sustainable urban development in Malaysia.