Analyzing the Impact of ICT on Blue Social Capital: The prevalence of Digital Poverty in the Maritime Community

Abstract

This quantitative study investigates the complex relationship between Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and blue social capital within maritime communities, particularly in the context of digital poverty. Through the examination of social trust, networks, community capacity, resilience, and civic engagement, this research aims to uncover their combined influence on collaborative efforts. The primary objective of this study is to identify how the integration of ICT tools shapes the formation and utilization of blue social capital, thereby affecting maritime community development. This study incorporates a sample of 215 individuals, carefully selected to ensure the statistical robustness of the findings, involving participants aged 18 and above. By employing descriptive and inferential analyses of survey data, this study examines the relationship between ICT usage and indicators of blue social capital. The results emphasize significant associations between blue social capital components and the overall progress of maritime communities. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners, offering guidance on leveraging ICT to strengthen social capital and drive sustainable development in maritime communities across Pahang, Terengganu, and Kelantan.