Exploring digital media literacy, information use, and socioeconomic constraints among urban marginalised communities in Malaysia

Malaysia is transitioning from digital citizenship to digital competitiveness to build a more resilient society. The shift from Web 3.0 to Web 5.0 is accelerating both cognitive and economic development in the digital sphere. However, this transition has reignited discussions surrounding the digital divide, particularly in relation to digital inclusion. Despite high internet penetration rates, low-income households in urban areas encounter barriers in accessing reliable digital infrastructure and devices, as well as necessary digital literacy. This study examines the adoption of digital technology among the urban poor in Malaysia, highlighting the urgent need for digital inclusion within the context of Malaysia’s digital economy strategies, particularly the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030. Data were collected through six focus group discussions involving 42 informants, followed by thematic analysis using NVivo software. The findings reveal that public internet facilities, broadband services, and free Wi-Fi play a crucial role in supporting these communities. Digital media literacy is often developed informally through peer learning, yet significant gaps remain in leveraging information for economic and educational growth. Furthermore, government-led communication initiatives are frequently misaligned with the actual needs of the urban poor. The results underscore the need for a multi-stakeholder framework that addresses digital disparities, incorporating infrastructural improvements, policy reforms, and grassroots digital literacy training. By incorporating the perspectives of underserved communities into the national digital inclusion agenda, this research offers valuable insights and policy recommendations to foster inclusive technological adoption among marginalised urban populations, not only in Malaysia but also in other countries.

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