Journal of the Community Development in Asia
Vol 9, No 2 (2026): May 2026

Beyond Fast Food: The Social Appeal of McDonald’s Among Malaysian Youth

Daisy Mui Hung Kee (Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia)
Dee Ning Tan (Universiti Sains Malaysia)
Boon Kiat Tan (Universiti Sains Malaysia)
Hui Qi Tan (Universiti Sains Malaysia)
Jia Xuan Tan (Universiti Sains Malaysia)



Article Info

Publish Date
20 May 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the social appeal of McDonald’s among young people by examining how social interactions, brand image, ambience, perceived enjoyment, and peer influence shape spending behavior and customer satisfaction. Based on survey data from 200 customers, our findings reveal that social interactions, perceived enjoyment, and peer influence significantly enhance spending behavior, whereas ambience and brand image show no meaningful effect. In predicting customer satisfaction, social interactions, perceived enjoyment, and spending behavior emerge as significant contributors, while ambience, brand image, and peer influence do not. Our findings demonstrate that McDonald’s functions as more than just a fast-food outlet. It serves as a social space where interpersonal connections and enjoyable experiences drive both spending and satisfaction. Our study offers practical implications for marketers and managers seeking to improve youth engagement by strengthening social experiences and enhancing enjoyment within fast-food environments

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JCDA

Publisher

Subject

Humanities

Description

JCDA aims to feature narrative, theoretical, and empirically-based research articles. The journal also accepts articles with data taken from reflections as well as experiences (qualitative research) relevant to community development in Asia. As it explores the community development broadly, the ...