Bridging the Digital Divide in Malaysia: An Empirical Analysis of Technological Transformation and Implications for E-development

Abstract

This article presents an empirical, multi-level analysis of the diffusion of information and communication technologies (ICTs) throughout Malaysia. It reflects on the potential for policy makers in developing countries to steer technological transformation towards ‘desirable’ ends and assesses the contribution of diverse parties and factors to the acceptance or otherwise of ICTs. The study finds that where policy makers ignore the multi-level, multi-actor processes by which technology and society co-evolve, opportunities may be missed to render the use of ICTs meaningful to would-be users. This is turn may retard economic development related to the growth of the information society and e-business.