What does subjective well-being mean to Orang Asli Seletar youth? A case study in Johor, Malaysia

The concept of subjective well-being among Orang Asli youth remains insufficiently understood due to limited empirical research on the community. Orang Asli youth represent a unique social group whose experiences are shaped by their culture, language, belief systems, and traditional lifestyle. These elements influence how well-being is perceived beyond economic indicators. Therefore, this study aims to explain the concept of subjective well-being among the Orang Asli Seletar youth. A case study research design was employed in this qualitative study. Twenty (20) informants aged 18 to 30 years, residing in Johor, participated in focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews. This study’s findings identified seven (7) main themes related to the concept of subjective well-being among Orang Asli Seletar youth: (i) tranquility; (ii) happiness; (iii) comfort; (iv) sufficiency; (v) preferences; (vi) awareness; and (vii) satisfaction. In conclusion, this study provides a basis for understanding the subjective well-being of youth within the Orang Asli Seletar community. From the perspective of mainstream society, their lifestyle may appear modest and inadequate. However, this does not accurately reflect their true experience, as objective well-being should not be the sole measure of this community’s development. Greater emphasis on subjective well-being is essential to support this community’s thriving.

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