ECONOMIC RECIRCULATION AND CIRCULAR ECONOMY PRACTICES IN SUPPORTING MIGRANT WORKERS: A CASE STUDY OF PERMAI PENANG, MALAYSIA

Rosalendro Eddy NUGROHO

doi:10.33068/iccd.v7i1.929

Rosalendro Eddy NUGROHO Universitas Mercu Buana

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33068/iccd.v7i1.929

Keywords: Economic Recirculation, Circular Economy, SME Sustainability, Migrant Workers, Community Development

Abstract

This study explores the role of economic recirculation and circular economy practices in enhancing the sustainability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and improving the socio-economic conditions of migrant workers managed by PERMAI in Penang Island, Malaysia. Migrant workers contribute significantly to the local economy but face challenges related to social inclusion, economic vulnerability, and limited access to sustainable livelihood opportunities. By integrating circular economy principles into business operations and community programs, PERMAI aims to empower migrant workers, stimulate local economic development, and promote environmental sustainability. The findings suggest that targeted financial support, capacity building, digital market access, and community-based circular initiatives foster economic resilience, social cohesion, and environmental responsibility within migrant communities and SMEs.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

References

Ding, H., & Powell, R. (2022). Inclusive labor practices for migrant workers in SMEs: A sustainable development approach. Journal of Business Ethics, 175(4), 857–874. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-020-04512-5
Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2021). Completing the picture: How the circular economy tackles climate change. https://ellenmacarthurfoundation.org
Geissdoerfer, M., Savaget, P., Bocken, N. M. P., & Hultink, E. J. (2020). The Circular Economy – A new sustainability paradigm? Journal of Cleaner Production, 143, 757-768. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2016.12.048
ILO. (2022). Skills development for migrant workers: Promoting decent work in Malaysia. International Labour Organization. https://www.ilo.org
Kirchherr, J., Reike, D., & Hekkert, M. (2021). Conceptualizing the circular economy: An analysis of 114 definitions. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 127, 221-232. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2017.09.005
Lacy, P., & Rutqvist, J. (2020). Waste to Wealth: The Circular Economy Advantage. Palgrave Macmillan.
Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation. (2023). Digital adoption in SMEs: Penang’s progress report. https://mdec.my
Nasiri, M. (2004). Properties and applications of plastic polymers. Waste Management Journal.
OECD. (2022). SMEs and entrepreneurship: Key indicators and policies. https://www.oecd.org
PERMAI. (2024). Annual report and program review. Pertubuhan Masyarakat Indonesia di Pulau Pinang Malaysia.
Tan, A. H., Lim, S. F., & Lee, J. (2023). Community-based circular economy initiatives: Impact on migrant workers’ livelihoods in Southeast Asia. Sustainability, 15(2), 876. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15020876
Zeng, S., Li, J., & Shi, Y. (2023). Economic recirculation and local SME resilience: A study from developing economies. Economic Development Quarterly, 37(1), 45-60. https://doi.org/10.1177/0891242422112345