Resilience and Well-Being of Children in Malaysia: Towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Objective: This study investigates the resilience and happiness of Malaysian children during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to understand their coping mechanisms compared to peers in other Asian countries. Theoretical Framework: The research is grounded in Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory, which emphasizes the impact of various environmental systems on child development. This framework helps explore how families, societal and policy factors influence children's well-being. Method: A cross-national comparative study was conducted with seven Asian countries, led by the Child Research Network Asia, Japan. Participants included Malaysian children aged 5 and 7, with data collected through structured questionnaires on resilience and happiness. Results and Discussion: Findings revealed that Malaysian children aged 5 and 7 have the lowest resilience levels among the countries studied. Only 60% and 67% of these children reported feeling happy, compared to an average of 75% and 81% in other countries. The discussion highlights potential long-term impacts on development and future competencies, considering cultural differences and sample size as limitations. Research Implications: This research provides insights for Malaysian policymakers and educators on the need for improved support systems to enhance resilience and well-being, crucial for future competitiveness. These improvements align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages. Originality/Value: The study offers a comparative analysis of children's resilience and happiness across Asian countries during a crisis, highlighting areas for policy intervention to improve child development outcomes.