EMPOWERING INDONESIAN MIGRANT WORKERS IN PENANG, MALAYSIA THROUGH FINANCIAL LITERACY AND MICRO-ENTERPRISE TRAINING
Abstract
This article presents the results of a community service program aimed at enhancing financial literacy and entrepreneurial readiness among Indonesian migrant workers (IMWs) in Penang, Malaysia. Many IMWs, especially those working in informal sectors, face challenges in managing their personal finances and lack the skills needed to initiate small businesses. In collaboration with NGO Permai Malaysia, the program delivered participatory training sessions covering basic financial management, daily expense recording, savings and debt planning, and simple micro-business development. The program was designed using a participatory action research (PAR) approach and evaluated through pre- and post-training assessments, focus group discussions, and a satisfaction survey. The findings revealed a significant increase in financial knowledge and confidence, with participants expressing enthusiasm and readiness to apply the skills gained. The training also promoted peer support through digital communication and inspired participants to pursue responsible and sustainable business practices. The success of the program demonstrates the importance of culturally relevant, practical education in empowering migrant workers toward economic independence. This paper highlights the training design, implementation stages, and evaluation outcomes, while offering recommendations for future development and scale-up. The initiative supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to quality education, decent work, and reduced inequalities.
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