A study Malaysian University Students' Perspectives on the Essence of a Meaningful Life

Authors

  • Ahmad Azmi Faculty of Psychology and Education, University Malaysia Sabah, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
  • Ismail Maakip Faculty of Psychology and Education, University Malaysia Sabah, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
  • Wirawati Ngui Faculty of Psychology and Education, University Malaysia Sabah, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
  • Murnizam Halik Faculty of Psychology and Education, University Malaysia Sabah, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53797/icccmjssh.v3i3.7.2024

Keywords:

meaning in life, undergraduate students, qualitative study, perception, Malaysia

Abstract

In this qualitative study, we examine Malaysian university students' views on the essence of life's meaning. Through interpretive phenomenological analysis of interviews with 15 students, we uncover that a meaningful life, as perceived by them, is rooted in the pursuit of personal purpose, experiencing positive emotions, and nurturing enriching relationships. Students stress the importance of existential mattering, evidenced by altruistic actions and societal contributions. Personal growth stands out as well, particularly self-improvement and spiritual development, with an emphasis on faith. This study enhances our understanding of how students conceptualize meaning in life, delineating the multifaceted aspects that contribute to their sense of fulfillment and well-being. The insights derived offer significant implications for designing educational and psychological interventions that aim to boost students' life satisfaction and enrich their understanding of what constitutes life's meaning.

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Published

2024-05-14

How to Cite

Azmi, A. ., Maakip, I. ., Ngui, W. ., & Halik, M. . (2024). A study Malaysian University Students’ Perspectives on the Essence of a Meaningful Life. ICCCM Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities, 3(3), 41–50. https://doi.org/10.53797/icccmjssh.v3i3.7.2024