Bridging Finance and Education for Sustainability: A Case Study of Malaysia’s Stock Market and Economic Performance
List of Authors
Chin Fwu Hurng, Chong Seng Tong6, Ng Poh Kiat, Ng Yu Jin, Sasitharan Manokaran, Yeow Jian Ai
Keyword
Education for Sustainable Development, Financial Literacy, Interdisciplinary Learning, Stock Market and Economic Growth, Sustainable Finance Education
Abstract
This study explores the intersection of financial performance and sustainable economic development in Malaysia, emphasizing the role of interdisciplinary education in fostering long-term growth. In light of Malaysia’s 2021 budget priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly economic sustainability, the research investigates how stock market performance influences national output growth. Using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression analysis, the study evaluates five macroeconomic variables—stock market capitalization (MCAP), inflation rate, government expenditure, school enrollment, and openness—over a 23-year period (1989–2011). The findings reveal that MCAP is the most significant variable affecting output growth, highlighting the importance of robust financial systems in driving sustainable development. The study underscores the need for interdisciplinary approaches that integrate finance, education, and policy to enhance economic resilience. School enrollment, though less statistically significant, represents a critical link between education and economic performance, suggesting that financial literacy and education reform are essential for empowering future generations. By bridging economic theory, financial analytics, and educational policy, this research contributes to a holistic understanding of sustainable development. It advocates for finance education as a strategic tool to equip individuals with the knowledge to navigate and contribute to increasingly complex global financial systems. Ultimately, the study supports the integration of interdisciplinary education into national development strategies to ensure inclusive, informed, and sustainable economic growth.