The Social and Management Research Journal (SMRJ) (ISSN: 1675-7017; e-ISSN: 0128-1089) is an international, peer-reviewed, open-access scholarly journal. The journal is managed by the Arshad Ayub Graduate Business School (AAGBS) and published by UiTM Press, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia. Published biannually in March and September in electronic format, SMRJ provides a platform for the dissemination of high-quality research in the fields of social sciences and management. The journal welcomes original research articles that contribute to theoretical development, empirical understanding and professional practice within these disciplines. SMRJ is indexed in Google Scholar, MyJurnal, MyCite. Please visit our journal website at https://smrj.uitm.edu.my/ CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT MANUSCRIPT
Scrutinizing Global Banking Fragility: Are Larger or Smaller Banks More Fragile?
The study focuses on the funding fragility arising from the nature of the banking business due to asset-liability mismatches. Incorporating seven (7) countries with dual banking systems, the study aims to assess the global funding fragility of Islamic and conventional banks. The study employs a random effect model with a robust standard error that spans the period from 2009 to 2018, made up of 10-year unbalanced panel data. Islamic and conventional banks should be more cost-efficient and earn greater profitability to reduce funding fragility. Banks with wider income diversification and a higher capital level have a better advantage in lessening funding fragility. Banks that offer high financing growth are exposed to greater credit risk but empirically manage to control the funding fragility. The interaction effect reveals that larger conventional banks are less fragile than smaller conventional banks. On the contrary, larger Islamic banks are found to be more fragile than smaller Islamic banks.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nur Hazimah Amran, Wahida Ahmad, Amir Alfatakh Yusuf https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Effect of Risks on Malaysian Banks Profitability: The Islamic and Conventional Banks
The banking sector in Malaysia has seen substantial changes since the global financial crisis, with a greater focus now being placed on the value of risk management. The study aims to examine the impact of internal and external bank risks on Malaysia’s profitability. Utilising unbalanced panel data from 2010 to 2022, it includes 29 banks, comprising 14 Islamic banks and 15 conventional banks. The random effect model is found to be the most appropriate for the full samples and Islamic banks, while the fixed effect model is the preferred choice for conventional banks. Notably, Islamic banks tend to be less profitable compared to conventional banks. Even though Islamic banks display lower profitability compared to conventional banks, they have greater resilience, and their profitability is less impacted during crisis periods compared to conventional banks. Stronger resilience in Islamic and conventional banks is important to ensure sustainability and profitability.
Copyright (c) 2024 Noralia Aznol, Alif Shahezzat Shahril Nizam, Wahida Ahmad, Nur Hazimah Amran https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Young Malaysian Muslims' online shopping intention and behaviour
The internet's commercialization in 1991 marked the beginning of e- commerce, with online shopping rapidly growing among Malaysians, especially the young. The aim of this study is to explain the online shopping intention and behaviour of young Muslim consumers in Malaysia. An online survey was used to collect data from a convenience sample of young Muslims with prior online shopping experience. A regression analysis was conducted to analyse the data. The results show that security and safety and loyalty are the factors that influence online shopping intention, while attitude, trustworthiness, and marketing information do not. Online shopping intention has also been shown to be a predictor of online shopping behaviour. This study contributes to theory while highlighting practical implications for academics and practitioners in the fields of marketing, consumer behaviour, and online shopping.
Copyright (c) 2024 Wan Rasyidah Wan Nawang, Muhammad Huzairil Syaqir Muhamed Shukri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Muslim Women’s Tourist Gaze: A Comprehensive Systematic Review
This literature review examines the overlooked experiences of Muslim tourists in particular women within tourism studies, focusing on their perspectives through the "tourist gaze." It explores the cultural, religious, and gendered encounters of Muslim women in tourism, addressing the challenges and opportunities influenced by their beliefs and contexts. Despite their increasing presence, there's a lack of comprehensive understanding of how Muslim women perceive tourist spaces. Employing a systematic approach, the review synthesizes existing literature, using keywords to identify relevant studies and applying stringent criteria for selection. Through rigorous analysis, key themes emerge, including religious observance, cultural identity, gender roles, empowerment, and challenges. The review sheds light on how Muslim women's gaze is shaped by faith, cultural practices, and societal expectations, influencing their interactions with tourist destinations and other tourists.
Copyright (c) 2024 Asra Zaliza Asbollah, Khalilah Zakariya, Mazlina Mansor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Redesigning the User Interface Design for the KPM eTextbook Reader Application: A Case Study Among Terengganu School Students
The unprecedented global COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant changes in our lives, especially in social, economic, and political spheres. The importance of e-textbooks has been emphasized in the education sector following the pandemic, which demonstrated the need for this technology for students to access their textbooks or workbooks. When students cannot attend school physically, the Malaysian government-owned KPM eTextbook Reader app allows them to access e-textbooks. However, according to school teachers, during the early stages of the movement control order (MCO), students needed help fully utilizing the KPM eTextbook reader due to various factors influencing their acceptance of the app, including its user interface design (UID). As a result, the purpose of this study is to reconceptualize the UID of the KPM eTextbook Reader application to provide the best learning experience for Terengganu secondary school students. This study opts for a qualitative study in which the researcher interviewed five secondary school teachers from Terengganu. Based on the significant findings, this study discovered that the organisation of the books and content are the most important make-or-break factor regarding the UID in the KPM eTextbook Reader app.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nurul Nabila Hasnor Zubaidy, Muhamad Fairus Kamaruzaman, Toto Mujio Mukmin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Beyond Flexibility: The Moderating Role of Workload in Auditor Retention – Evidence from a Malaysian Big Four Firm
The auditing profession continues to experience persistent turnover challenges, particularly in the post-pandemic environment where expectations surrounding flexibility, workload sustainability, and career progression have evolved. This study investigates the determinants of auditor retention within a Malaysian Big Four audit firm (Company Z), integrating Herzberg’s Motivation–Hygiene Theory, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, and Social Exchange Theory to explain how job satisfaction and relational exchanges influence retention outcomes. Employing a qualitative case study design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with nine auditors selected via purposive sampling. Thematic analysis reveals that flexible working policies, job satisfaction, career development opportunities, supportive work environment, and competitive compensation function as primary retention drivers. However, excessive workload and work-life imbalance emerge as critical moderating factors that may weaken the positive effects of these retention mechanisms, particularly during peak audit seasons. The findings extend prior retention research by demonstrating that flexibility alone is insufficient without equitable workload distribution and consistent managerial support. The study contributes theoretically by integrating motivational and relational frameworks to conceptualise retention as a behavioural outcome shaped by both intrinsic fulfilment and reciprocal organisational support. Practically, the study offers evidence-based recommendations for audit firms seeking to strengthen retention strategies in a highly competitive professional services environment. By situating the analysis within the Malaysian audit context, this research enriches the limited body of qualitative evidence on auditor retention in emerging markets and provides insights relevant to both policymakers and professional bodies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Peck-Leong Tan, Noor Illiza Affendi, Almas Sofea Hassannudin, Fadzlin Zulaika Mohd Badzli Shah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
An Empirical Analysis of Supply Chain Integration and Firm Performance in Malaysian SMEs
Global disruptions have exposed vulnerabilities in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), particularly in emerging economies like Malaysia, where empirical evidence on Supply Chain Integration (SCI) as a resilience strategy remains limited. This study addresses this gap by examining the impact of SCI’s three dimensions: internal, supplier, and customer integration, on SME performance. Employing a quantitative design, data from 200 Malaysian SMEs were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) via SmartPLS. Results confirm a significant positive relationship between all SCI dimensions and performance, with customer integration showing the strongest effect, followed by supplier and internal integration. Theoretically, the findings extend the Resource-Based View theory by revealing the superiority of external integrations in resource-constrained contexts, offering novel insights into competitive advantage hierarchies. Practically, they provide actionable guidance for SME managers and policymakers to prioritise customer and supplier collaborations for enhanced resilience and growth amid volatility.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nurul Azlinda Chek Talib, Noraznira Ab Razak, Nurazree Mahmud https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Workplace Bullying and Job Performance in the Malaysian Public Sector: Examining the Mediating Role of Work Engagement
Following the enactment of the Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2025, psychological harassment has been formally criminalised in Malaysia, highlighting the urgency of understanding its organisational consequences. This study investigates the impact of workplace bullying on job performance among support staff in the Public Works Department (PWD) Sarawak and examines the mediating role of work engagement. Grounded in Public Service Motivation (PSM) theory and the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) model, data were collected from 504 support personnel using the Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised (NAQ-R), the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9), and the Individual Work Performance Questionnaire (IWPQ). Hayes’ PROCESS Macro (Model 4) with 5,000 bootstrap resamples was employed to test the mediation model. The results indicate that workplace bullying significantly reduces job performance both directly and indirectly through diminished work engagement. The findings suggest that bullying operates as a high-intensity job demand that depletes motivational resources essential for effective public service delivery. These results underscore the importance of integrating legal reform with organisational strategies to strengthen psychological safety and employee engagement in the Malaysian public sector.
Copyright (c) 2026 Pauline Bret https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mentorship as Pedagogical Strategy in Teaching Entrepreneurship: A Qualitative Study Among HLIs Student
Despite increasing inclusion of entrepreneurship education in higher education, there has been little empirical research on how mentorship pedagogy works as an essential teaching method rather than a supplementary practice. This qualitative study addresses the gap by examining how mentorship pedagogy (MP) enhances entrepreneurial learning in a Malaysian public university setting. Grounded on Experiential Learning Theory and Social Learning Theory, the study explores how mentorship promotes practical engagement, reflection, and observational learning in entrepreneurship education. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six students from business management faculty who had completed entrepreneurship courses. Thematic analysis identified five important themes: acquisition of practical entrepreneurial knowledge, educators’ roles as mentors and motivators, the influence of entrepreneurial role models, students’ self-motivation and preparedness, and perceived risks alongside the need for university support. The findings show that MP improves student engagement, entrepreneurial self-efficacy, and the integration of theory and practice. This study contributes to the entrepreneurship education literature by empirically demonstrating MP as an effective experiential and socially grounded instructional pedagogy that increases entrepreneurial intention. The findings provide valuable information for educators and policymakers attempting to move beyond traditional teaching methods and towards practical entrepreneurship curriculum.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rahmat Yuliawan, Suhailah Kassim, Norzanah Mat Nor, Ahmad Syahmi Ahmad Fadzil, Amir Imran Zainoddin, Noorain Mohd Nordin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Risk Management Committees in Malaysia: Exploring Structural Variation and Research Opportunities
This study aims to identify and describe the types of risk management committees established by publicly listed companies in Malaysia, particularly in the context of post-pandemic recovery and enhanced governance expectations under MCCG 2021. Using a descriptive quantitative approach, the research analysed 729 company-year observations of companies listed on the main board of Bursa Malaysia between 2021 and 2023. Annual reports and corporate governance disclosures were manually reviewed to determine the presence and structure of RMCs. The findings reveal a gradual increase in RMC adoption from 76% in 2021 to 80% in 2023. However, only 30% of companies adopted the recommended standalone RMC structure, while 29% preferred a combined RMC-Audit Committee model. Smaller proportions established RMCs integrated with other board committees (9%) or at the management level (12%). The results indicate that while many companies are aligning with governance reforms, a significant portion still rely on traditional or hybrid structures, reflecting varied levels of commitment and resource allocation to formal risk oversight. This study contributes to the corporate governance literature by providing updated empirical evidence on RMC adoption trends and highlights areas for future research, including the effectiveness of different RMC structures, the interplay of RMC characteristics, and the behavioural dynamics of committee members. The study contributes to the understanding of RMC structures in practice by documenting their diversity. It also provides a basis for further research on how different RMC designs may influence risk disclosure and governance outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Amir Hakim Osman, Azrul Abdullah, Nurfarizan Mazhani Mahmud https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enhancing Teamwork and Statistical Knowledge Application through Problem-Based Learning: A Data-Driven Study in Information and Knowledge Management Education
This study investigates the relationship between problem-based learning (PBL) and the development of teamwork skills within business administration and management education. Specifically, it examines how PBL influences students’ perception, understanding, and application of statistical concepts and how these cognitive factors shape their ability to work collaboratively. A robust analytical framework was employed, beginning with data extraction from online survey data collected using Google Forms, followed by systematic data cleaning, preprocessing, and feature selection to ensure dataset integrity. To empirically evaluate its effectiveness, a dataset comprising 102 students as respondents and 20 attributes, including demographics, learning perceptions, engagement indicators, and teamwork skills as the class attribute, was examined. The attributes capture diverse aspects such as concept comprehension, material suitability, lecturer indication, statistical language proficiency, communication, and interpersonal skills. Exploratory clustering (EM) identified four student groups, with total instances of each group being 46, 10, 36, and 10 instances, respectively. Two clusters show strong teamwork endorsement, one moderate, and one showing lower or neutral teamwork responses, suggesting that PBL’s effect on teamwork is not uniform across learner subgroups. For feature selection, the results depicted that the top three attributes clearly emphasize the central role of interpersonal interaction in shaping students’ perceptions of teamwork development; namely, the highest-ranked attribute is smooth collaboration and communication with colleagues, indicating that consistent effective peer interaction is the strongest determinant of teamwork skill development. The Apriori analysis produced a set of highly associated rules, all of which consistently pointed to age between 21 and 24 as the dominant outcome. The strongest rule showed perfect confidence of 1.0 when combining demographic attributes of those who report the most positive PBL experiences within the age range. Overall, this study provides strong empirical evidence that PBL significantly enhances teamwork skills by promoting active communication, collaborative problem-solving, and deeper understanding of statistical concepts. The findings contribute to curriculum design, teaching innovation, and policy enhancement in business and management education, highlighting PBL as an effective pedagogical strategy for strengthening teamwork competencies in preparation for the demands of contemporary workplaces
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Atiqah Rochin Demong, Masrur Mohd Khir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Household Debt Through the Lens of Social Reproduction: A Narrative Review
This study employs a narrative review approach to analyse the role of household debt within the context of social reproduction. Drawing upon interdisciplinary perspectives from economics, sociology and feminist political economy, it critiques conventional consumption theories such as the Permanent Income Hypothesis (PIH) and the Life Cycle Model (LCM) for neglecting the structural and social determinants that contribute to indebtedness. The review consolidates literature from prominent academic databases such as Science Direct, Taylor & Francis, Sage Publications and Emerald Insight, encompassing English-language studies published from 1930 to 2024. Approximately 48 key studies were chosen based on their thematic relevance to household debt, financialization and social reproduction. The findings demonstrate that debt has emerged as a fundamental structural mechanism for household survival within financialized capitalism, exhibiting notable regional and class-based variations. In developed economies, mortgage and educational debt exemplify the privatization of welfare, whereas in developing economies, microfinance and unsecured loans serve as substitutes for limited social protection. This duality highlights the influence of welfare regimes and policy environments on household borrowing behaviours. The study provides a conceptual framework that connects economic, cultural and social capital to household debt and presents testable hypotheses for further research. It concludes that reducing household indebtedness necessitates both structural policy measures (to enhance welfare systems and control credit markets) and deeper theoretical engagement with the social processes that sustain financial vulnerability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Shahirah Azman, Nurshila Ahmad, Ribed Vianneca W. Jubilee, Noor Zainab Tunggal, Nurjeehan Ayub, Suria Rismawati Sanwari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Adaptive leadership in AI-driven transformation of higher education institutions in Malaysia
Despite the rapid development and use of AI in higher education (HE) delivery, a persistent leadership gap underscores the imbalance between educators’ AI capabilities and the readiness of HE institutions, including Malaysia. Drawing on a synthesis of literature concerning digital transformation, organisational culture, and AI in decision-making, we present a conceptual model for the ‘AI-Ready Academic Leader’. Drawing on a synthesis of studies between 2019 and 2025, the paper develops a three-pillar Adaptive Leadership Framework—diagnosing the adaptive challenge, mobilising the system, and cultivating agile governance. To translate the conceptual pillars into actionable leadership practices applicable to Malaysia, a competency framework is proposed to cultivate institutional resilience in the face of algorithmic disruption. The paper provides recommendations for effectively adopting the framework in the Malaysian context, highlighting the need to be sensitive to hierarchical cultural norms, diverse stakeholder expectations, and alignment with national digital aspirations. The implications for institutional policy, faculty development, and the future of higher education governance are discussed in detail, offering a roadmap for educators aiming to thrive in an increasingly automated world.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vasilios Stouraitis, Mior Harris Mior Harun, Nur Arfah Mustapha, Nor Irvoni Mohd Ishar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Risk Perceptions Towards Fire Safety among Occupants of Residential College in a Higher Learning Institution
Fire safety in residential colleges remains a critical concern due to high occupancy density, shared facilities, and limited emergency preparedness. Despite the implementation of various safety measures, there remains a scarcity of studies examining the relationship between knowledge, attitude, practice (KAP), and risk perception among occupants of Malaysian residential colleges. This study aims to fill a gap by evaluating fire safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices, as well as risk perception, among 363 students. It employs a cross-sectional survey method utilising a bilingual questionnaire. The analysis of data included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Pearson’s correlation analysis. The findings demonstrated a high level of knowledge, positive attitudes, and commendable safety practices. However, risk perception was only moderate, suggesting a disconnect between awareness and the readiness to act accordingly. Significant associations were found between age and KAP (p < 0.05) and between ethnicity and fire safety practices (p = 0.030). A weak but significant correlation exists between risk perception and safety practices (r = 0.189, p = 0.000), indicating that awareness alone does not ensure preparedness. The results highlight the necessity for institutional fire safety management to move beyond awareness campaigns by integrating practical drills, simulation-based training, and regular assessments to enhance a proactive safety culture within residential colleges.
Copyright (c) 2025 Chen Pei Wen, Wan Zaiton Wan Sulaiman, Noor Diana Abdul Majid, Ratih Damayanti, Khairiah Mohd Mokhtar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Analytic Hierarchy Process for Prioritizing the Determinants of Happiness Among Chinese Higher Education Students in Malaysia
Happiness is a major component of well-being and affects academic performance, mental health, and quality of life. Although extensively studied in various contexts, little research has focused on Malaysian Chinese higher education students. This group faces distinctive challenges, including academic pressure, financial strain, and social integration issues, which makes it important to study them directly. Existing works often provide broad ethnic comparisons but overlook these specific socio-cultural and economic influences. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine and prioritise the factors that influence the happiness of Malaysian Chinese higher education students. The study applies the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a method well suited for evaluating complex relationships through structured pairwise comparisons and consistency checks. Data from 25 respondents revealed that health is the most significant determinant of happiness, followed by family, friends, and leisure time, while economic and political factors exert a more moderate influence. The findings highlight the importance of mental health, strong social connections, and balanced lifestyles in shaping student well-being. The study also highlights the value of targeted support services such as counselling, social activities, and career development programmes. It contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on happiness determinants from an underrepresented demographic and demonstrates the usefulness of AHP as a rigorous tool for prioritising subjective judgements. The outcomes are valuable for higher education institutions and policymakers in designing interventions that promote student welfare and enrich the broader understanding of well-being research.
Copyright (c) 2025 Chee Keong Ch’ng, Boon Guan Tang https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Quality of Work Life (QWL) in the Virtual Office: An Academic Perspective on Remote Work
Remote work became increasingly popular during the COVID-19 lockdown, offering flexible hours, reduced commuting, and improved work-life balance. However, it also presented challenges, such as unclear boundaries between work and personal life, communication difficulties, and limited support. For academics, remote working allowed online lectures but sometimes felt restrictive. This study aims to assess the Quality of Work Life (QWL) among UUM College of Arts and Sciences (UUM-CAS) academic staff and related factors. Using the work-related quality of life (WRQoL) scale, a survey was conducted on 187 randomly chosen UUM-CAS staff. Results indicate that higher job satisfaction, greater general well-being, and lower work stress significantly increase the odds of good QWL. Although female staff showed higher odds of good QWL than male staff, this difference was not statistically significant once other factors were controlled. These findings highlight the unique challenges of UUM-CAS, given its geographical isolation and reliance on remote work, and provide important implications for higher education institutions. Recommendations include stress-management interventions, flexible scheduling, and enhanced support systems to improve staff retention and well-being.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yuhaniz Ahmad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Transforming Education through Generative AI: A Pathway to Equitable Learning and Literacy under SDG4
The advent of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents a significant advancement in the field of education, particularly in addressing global educational disparities. This paper presents a knowledge transfer programme that integrates generative AI into teaching and learning practices, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), specifically SDG 4.5 and SDG 4.6. The programme focuses on reducing inequalities in education and improving literacy and numeracy rates among youth and adults, particularly within vulnerable and marginalized communities. The implementation of AI technologies in educational settings demonstrates their potential in fostering inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education, promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Arfah Mustapha, Zurina Ismail, Nor Irvoni Mohd Ishar, Zoel-Fazlee Omar, Mior Harris Mior Harun https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring the Great Outdoors: A Bibliometric Journey into Adventure Tourism
Adventure tourism studies have garnered increasing attention from scholars worldwide, as reflected in numerous academic publication databases. Most existing research in this field relies on empirical studies conducted through surveys and interviews, with some contributions from conceptual papers. However, bibliometric analyses of adventure tourism remain largely underexplored. This study adopts a bibliometric analysis approach to provide a comprehensive overview of the landscape, evolution, and trends in adventure tourism research. Additionally, this method allows the identification of leading authors, institutions, and countries actively contributing to the field. The study also aims to generate visualization maps using VOSviewer software, illustrating the connections between authors, institutions, and keyword occurrences. A total of 661 scientific documents related to adventure tourism in various forms were sourced from the Elsevier Scopus database. Through this analysis, prominent authors, highly productive institutions, frequent keywords, top funders, and other significant metrics in the field were identified. Finally, this paper offers valuable insights for future researchers by highlighting critical research gaps through the examination of keyword occurrences associated with adventure tourism. In contrast to earlier reviews, this analysis identifies evolving research fronts and underexplored thematic areas, thereby offering a more dynamic and current perspective on the intellectual and structural development of the field.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohamad Khairi Mohamad@Alwi, Norwani Mohd Nazari, Muhamad Shahrin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Building Consumer Trust: Key Factors Shaping Responses to Influencer Marketing Campaign
Trustworthiness has emerged as a fundamental determinant in shaping consumer responses to influencer marketing campaigns, influencing how audiences perceive and engage with promotional content. Current data underscores that 63% of consumers in developed nations feel deceived by influencers who do not disclose paid partnerships, contributing to heightened distrust and scepticism. This figure was derived from a consumer survey which surveyed 1,500 social media users across five developed nations (United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, and Australia). Conversely, 67% of millennials and Gen Z in developing countries, such as Malaysia, express a degree of trust in influencer endorsements, but this trust is contingent upon the influencer's perceived authenticity and transparency. This study aims to examine the influence of influencer expertise, authenticity, transparency, relatability, and emotional appeal on consumer trust in influencer marketing. By focusing on these trustworthiness factors, the research explores how they shape consumer attitudes, engagement, and purchase intentions, particularly across culturally diverse Southeast Asian settings. The findings indicate that influencers who exhibit transparency and demonstrate substantive expertise cultivate a stronger sense of credibility, which in turn positively influences consumer behaviour. Conversely, perceived dishonesty or opacity in such engagements markedly diminishes the efficacy of marketing efforts. For practitioners, the implications are clear: successful marketing campaigns necessitate partnerships with influencers who embody transparency, authenticity and demonstrated expertise, as these qualities are instrumental in fostering enhanced consumer engagement and brand loyalty.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sarah Aida Azhar, Yuslina Liza Mohd Yusof, Zatul Fahany Harun https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Understanding Job Search Intentions: A Study on Psychological Drivers among Malaysian Graduates
This study examines the relationship between job search self-efficacy, subjective norms, PBC, attitude, and job search intention among 139 Malaysian undergraduates in the Klang Valley using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) framework. In recent years, Malaysia has faced increasing challenges of graduate unemployment and skill-related underemployment, raising concerns about students’ readiness to enter the workforce. Understanding the psychological and behavioural factors influencing job search intention is crucial to addressing these issues. The multiple linear regression analysis findings reveal that PBC and attitude significantly and positively influence job search intention. Students with a positive attitude towards job search activities exhibit a higher intention to search, and greater perceived control over the process further strengthens this intention. While subjective norms and job search self-efficacy are positively associated with job search intention, they are not statistically significant predictors. The results highlight the importance of intrinsic factors, such as personal attitudes and control, in shaping job search behaviour. This study recommends that higher education institutions offer targeted career guidance, focusing on resume writing, interview skills, and job market navigation to build students’ confidence. Strengthening engagement in job search activities can improve graduates' employment prospects and contribute to Malaysia’s broader economic development.
Copyright (c) 2025 Choon Wei Low, Mah Pei Yew, Nur Fatihah Shaari, Shukei Liew https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Instrument validation: The impact of perceived instructional leadership on student engagement among the leaders of international schools of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
When engaging students in their studies, instructional leaders are critical. It is challenging to pique the attention of 21st century students in learning. As a result, further in-depth research on this topic is required. Furthermore, the tools now accessible to meet this need are even more critical. As a result, this article aims to validate an instrument used by international secondary school leaders in Jeddah to measure the impact of perceived instructional leadership on student engagement. The scale is based on the 4-H Study for Positive Youth Development's School Engagement Scale (Richard, 2005). Three experts have validated this instrument. The findings highlight a rigorously validated instrument through thematic analysis of expert feedback, emphasizing cultural relevance, clarity, and alignment with instructional leadership in Jeddah’s international schools.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shahzada Khayyam Nisar, Teoh Sian Hoon, Ahmad Zulfadhli Khairuddin, Amna Nabeel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Moderating Role of Influencer Marketing in the Relationship between Customer Perception and Halal Food Products Purchase Behaviour
This study examines the moderating effect of influencer marketing on the relationship between customer perceptions and purchase behavior in Malaysia’s halal food sector. The rise of digital platforms, especially social media, has reshaped consumer behaviour, with influencers playing a key role in purchasing decisions. Hence, this study assesses how influencer marketing influences consumer trust, product authenticity, and purchase intentions in a culturally sensitive market. A cross-sectional survey of 404 respondents from four regions in Selangor, Malaysia, was conducted. Findings show that while customer perceptions, specifically trust and product authenticity, influence purchases, their impact varies with influencer engagement. Additionally, influencer marketing significantly moderates this relationship, reinforcing consumer trust and product credibility, and increasing purchase likelihood. These results highlight the growing role of digital endorsements in halal consumer markets, offering insights into how businesses can leverage influencer credibility. By emphasizing the intersection of cultural values and digital marketing, this study contributes to research on halal consumer behaviour.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Iman Hashim, Nadzirah Mohd Fauzi, Ummi Munirah Syuhada Mohamad Zan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing CRM strategies and their effect on customer satisfaction in Johor’s hospitality industry
Customer satisfaction is a critical challenge in the hospitality industry, where hotels face rising consumer expectations and intense competition. While Customer Relationship Management (CRM) offers a strategic solution, many hotels underutilise CRM dimensions—customer orientation, CRM organisation, knowledge management, and technology-based CRM—limiting their ability to enhance guest experiences. This study investigates the effect of CRM dimensions on customer satisfaction in Johor hotels. This study employed a quantitative, correlational, and cross-sectional survey design and successfully collected data from 200 hotel clients in Johor. Convenience sampling targeted guests who had visited Johor hotels within the past three months. Data were analysed using SPSS version 29.0, and multiple regression was applied to examine the relationships between CRM variables and customer satisfaction. The results show that CRM organisation is the most potent positive driver of customer satisfaction, emphasising the importance of well-structured CRM practices in improving customer experiences. Technology-based CRM also significantly impacts satisfaction, highlighting technology’s growing role in hotel operations. However, customer orientation and knowledge management negatively affected satisfaction, suggesting misalignments between hotel practices and customer expectations. These findings provide valuable insights for hotel management, urging a focus on enhancing CRM organisation and leveraging technology while reassessing customer orientation and knowledge management strategies. This study contributes to CRM research, extending customer experience theory and supporting elements of the Expectancy-Disconfirmation Theory. It calls for an integrated approach to CRM implementation and offers recommendations for future research to explore the adverse effects of specific CRM dimensions and regional differences in customer satisfaction.
Copyright (c) 2025 Noor Aslinda Abu Seman, Nurul Hafizah Mohd Fauzi, Arifha Mohamad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
From restless nights to productive days: Investigating sleep hygiene, social rhythm, and sleep quality in young adults
Sleep is essential for health, well-being, and productivity, particularly among young adults entering the workforce. This study investigated the role of sleep hygiene and social rhythm as predictors of sleep quality, emphasizing implications for daily productivity among young adults in Malaysia. A longitudinal survey was conducted with 113 participants who completed either paper-based or online diaries. Participants provided demographic information and responded to the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Sleep Hygiene Inventory (SHI), Social Rhythm Metric (SRM II-5), Consensus Sleep Diary (CSD), and Stanford Sleepiness Scale (SSS). Participants generally demonstrated good sleep hygiene (M = 12.52; SD = 6.70) and above-average social rhythm (M = 4.78; SD = 1.62). The majority were classified as good sleepers, with a mean PSQI score of 4.29 (SD = 2.44), diary-reported sleep quality (M = 3.52, SD = .38), total sleep time (M = 7 hours 7 minutes, SD = 54 minutes), and sleep efficiency (M = 86.61%, SD = 7.19%). Sleep hygiene showed a significant positive correlation with PSQI-measured sleep quality but was not significantly correlated with diary-reported sleep quality. Regression analysis demonstrated that sleep hygiene was a stronger predictor of overall sleep quality (β = .69, t(110) = 8.38, p < .001), while social rhythm significantly predicted sleep efficiency (β = .33, t(110) = 3.17, p < .002). These findings highlight the importance of healthy sleep habits and regular daily routines in enhancing sleep quality, and potentially improving productivity among young professionals. Future research should explore these relationships in diverse populations to further substantiate generalizability and practical applications for workplace productivity enhancement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nicky Carlmond Ang, Fatanah Ramlee, Vanida Tian https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Navigating Boundaries: Uncovering Constraints in Focus Group Discussion Within the Context of Security Issue
Focus group discussion (FGD) is a crucial data collection strategy in qualitative research design. Using FGDs enables researchers to gather in-depth information from a large number of participants efficiently in terms of cost and effort. The advantage of FDGs is that they allow the collection of diverse perspectives from multiple participants simultaneously in a single location. However, despite their benefits, FDGs―like other research methods―have certain limitations that must be identified to implement appropriate mitigation measures. This paper aims to explore these limitations of FGDs. The researchers employed observation techniques during a series of FGDs in Sabah to examine security issues in the region. The study investigated the challenges experienced by both researchers and participants throughout the process. The findings reveal various constraints that emerged before (networking challenges, inappropriate site selection, last-minute cancellations), during (insufficient information, inadequate moderation skills, device issues, irrelevant information, time constraints, social desirability, groupthink, personality dynamics), and after (analytical constraints) the FGDs were conducted. These insights are expected to benefit future studies, particularly those in which FGDs are being considered as the data collection method.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bibianah Thomas , Afida Arapa, Jennifah Nordin, Ibianaflorinciliana Niane Anthony Aning, Saiful Zizi Jalil https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Graduate soft skills and employability in Malaysia: The view of employers from different manufacturing companies
Employers are increasingly concerned about graduates' shortcomings in soft skills, particularly in leadership, communication, and critical thinking. These deficiencies can negatively affect organisational performance and overall economic growth. This study examines the soft skills that are most valued by managerial personnel in manufacturing companies throughout the Klang Valley. It focuses on communication, critical thinking and problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork, as well as their influence on employability. A structured survey, adapted from the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education, was administered to 173 managerial employees from various manufacturing firms. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS, which involved multiple regression analysis, reliability testing (Cronbach's alpha), and descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are the most essential skills overall. However, teamwork showed the strongest relationship with employability, followed by communication, leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These results emphasize the vital role that soft skills play in workforce readiness, supporting the employability skills model. To enhance managers’ competencies in teamwork and communication, the study recommends that organisations implement mentoring programs, leadership development initiatives, and targeted training. Higher education institutions should integrate experiential learning and structured soft skills development into their curricula to better align graduates' competencies with industry requirements. Additionally, policymakers are encouraged to promote soft skill development through targeted funding and sector-specific initiatives. Future research should investigate the long-term effects of individual soft skills across various industries and regions to more effectively anticipate the evolving demands of the labour market.
Copyright (c) 2025 Idris Osman, Alisa Ibrahim, Idaya Husna Mohd, Maryam Jameelah Mohd Hashim, Nursaadatun Nisak Ahmad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Consumers' Confidence Level Towards Imported Halal Meat Post-Meat Cartel Issues
The halal industry has been triggered by the reported discovery of imported halal meat, like meat smuggling, fake halal logos, meat fraud and cartel meat issue. The meat smuggling incidence in the past 40 years had an unfavourable impact on the confidence level of Muslim consumers towards imported halal meat. Thus, this study is conducted to examine the confidence level of Muslim consumers towards imported halal meat. This study aims to investigate the knowledge of Muslim consumers towards imported halal meat and their confidence level. The quantitative approach has been adopted to achieve the research objective, where the data is collected via survey using Google Form. The questionnaires were distributed to 120 respondents consisting of Muslim consumers in Selangor. The collected data has been analysed adopting descriptive, frequency, reliability and correlation analysis using SPSS v.29. The findings indicated that 40.8% (49 respondents) still feel uncertain and less confident about purchasing imported halal meat in the market. However, the result showed that 71.7% (86 respondents) had shown positive signs of awareness about imported halal meat and are always sensitive to issues related to imported halal meat that often occur in Malaysia, such as the issue of fake halal logos found on the packaging of imported meat, meat products or any other food products. It is recommended that halal-related authorities or agencies work hand in hand to provide and promote clear information on imported halal meat especially on the recognised foreign halal logo by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM). By enabling Muslim consumers to be sensitive, this would increase their confidence level in real halal status for imported halal meat sold in the market.
Copyright (c) 2024 Aina Tasnim Mohd Hanafi, Noorul Huda Sahari, Farah Fayyadah Borhan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Accelerating EV Adoption in Malaysia: Performance and Effort Expectancy as Key Drivers
Adopting electric vehicles (EVs) is essential for reducing carbon emissions and achieving Malaysia’s sustainability objectives. This research examines the key determinants affecting electric vehicle adoption in Malaysia, focusing on Performance Expectancy (PE) and Effort Expectancy (EE) as outlined in the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). PE denotes the conviction that the utilisation of EVs can yield favourable results, including cost savings, environmental advantages, and enhanced driving experiences. EE reflects the perceived ease of using EVs, including the simplicity of charging and maintenance. These psychological factors shape consumer intentions and behaviours toward EV adoption. Despite steady growth in EV sales from 2021 to 2023, Malaysia’s adoption rates remain low compared to neighbouring countries, hindered by barriers such as high upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure, and concerns about EV performance. To address these challenges, it is essential to implement specific measures that enhance public awareness, improve infrastructure, and foster trust in electric vehicle capabilities. This research presents a conceptual framework based on UTAUT, examining the impact of performance expectancy and effort expectancy on consumer decision-making. The findings provide important insights for stakeholders, emphasising the necessity of prioritising user-friendly technologies, dependable infrastructure, and stable government policies. Understanding these determinants enables policymakers and industry stakeholders to formulate strategies that promote electric vehicle adoption, facilitate Malaysia's shift towards sustainable transportation, and align with global decarbonisation initiatives. The proposed framework establishes a basis for future empirical research, facilitating a more in-depth examination of consumer behaviour. This study highlights the necessity of aligning technological innovation with consumer expectations to facilitate significant advancements in the transportation sector. These insights are essential for progressing Malaysia's low- carbon economy and fulfilling its long-term environmental goals.
Copyright (c) 2024 Muhammad Syafiq Abdul Rahman, Alisa Ibrahim, Zurina Ismail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The role of nuklear Malaysia as a hybrid organisation to promote science culture: a study using triple helix model
This research paper investigates the Malaysian Nuclear Agency’s (Nuklear Malaysia) role as a Hybrid Organisation in promoting a scientific culture to help Malaysia achieve its vision of becoming a developed, high-income nation. The analysis focuses on two primary activities led by Nuklear Malaysia as a key agency in nuclear science and technology: (1) education and training and (2) technology transfer to industry stakeholders. The Malaysian Government's initiative to leverage nuclear science and technology for social and economic development is supported by international entities such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The IAEA Technical Cooperation Programme has significantly contributed to Malaysia's national infrastructure development, particularly in human capital development. Through this Programme, Malaysia received assistance through fellowships, scientific visits, training, meetings, workshops, provision of experts, and procurement of equipment, which provided a strong foundation for Malaysia to continue sustaining the peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology in national socio-economic development. This paper examines the activities related to promoting science and technology transfer, emphasizing their impact on strengthening the role of science in enhancing the nation's social and economic landscape. For this study, the modified Triple Helix Model is used to interpret the relationship by substituting the role of academia with public research institutions due to their similar functions in fostering science and technology for industrial development. Thus, the model demonstrates how Nuklear Malaysia, as a hybrid organisation, can expand the application of nuclear science and technology for social and economic progress by advancing sectors such as medicine, manufacturing, environment, agriculture, and oil and gas through its scientific innovations. Furthermore, as a hybrid organisation, Nuklear Malaysia plays a crucial role in translating government policies into actionable strategies for relevant industries.
Copyright (c) 2024 Bashillah Baharuddin, Mohd Hafizal Yusof, Siti Syarina Mat Sali, Habibah Adnan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The determinants of stock market performance: evidence from Malaysia during COVID-19
The stock market’s performance is critical in determining the direction of the current economy. Researchers have extensively documented the factors that influence the stock market for years. However, few studies focused on macroeconomic factors in Malaysia, especially during COVID-19. The study used weekly macroeconomic data during COVID-19 to assess the stock market determinants. Furthermore, the research confirms whether the determinants impacted the stock market during COVID-19. This paper used weekly data from the Malaysia Stock Exchange Composite Index, interest rates, inflation rates, and COVID-19 death cases from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2022. The study looks at autoregressive distribution lag models (ARDL) and diagnostic tests to avoid econometric problems. The study found that COVID-19 cases had an insignificant and positive relationship towards stock market performance in the short run; however, there was a significant negative relationship in the long run. In light of this, the study contributes to broadening the current literature reviews by incorporating interest rates, inflation rates, and some control variables, COVID-19 cases, into the determination of the relationship between the Malaysia stock index during a pandemic.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mohamad Irfan Akmal Harun https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0