6 points, SCA Band 3, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
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Synopsis
The unit explains how the Malaysian government operates in comparison with governments in other developed and developing countries. Main topics are: (a) welfare economics (mixed economies and the extent to which they can be met by private markets; role of government in redistributing income; various modes of privatisation, public-private sector partnerships; role and performance of state-owned enterprises); (b) government budget expenditure (welfare economics, provision of public goods and externalities, emphasising environmental issues, income distribution, social insurance and cost-benefit analysis); (c) taxation (emphasis on constructing a theoretical framework for considering tax policy; how taxes should be levied to enhance economic efficiency and promote a fair distribution of income).
Outcomes
The learning goals associated with this unit are to:
- understand the theory and issues related to welfare economics
- identify the rationale for government intervention in the economy and the extent of that intervention
- analyse specific policy issues in the area of public expenditure and taxation from the perspective of both traditional public finance and public choice
- critically evaluate economic analysis and contemporary public debate in the area of public finance
- analyse and understand a framework for taxation which enhances economic efficiency and promotes a fairer distribution of income.
Assessment
Within semester assessment: 40% + Examination: 60%
Workload requirements
Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. The unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.
See also Unit timetable information