JAS is indexed in MyCite. The Journal of Administrative Science (JAS) (e-ISSN: 2600-9374) is an open-access international refereed journal. Journal of Administrative Science will be accepting research papers in humanities and social sciences . JAS is indexed in MyCite. JAS is also available at Google Scholar. Important Notice! The journal is currently migrating from official website of Journal of Administrative Science (JAS) server to UiTM's server. Please submit your new or revised submission by using this website. To view and download JAS articles from our older issues (April 2024 and older), please click HERE.
Determinants of Campus Political Participation: A Case Study of AM, AC, and AT Faculties at UiTM Sabah, Malaysia
In recent years, students' involvement in campus politics is not exhilarating compared to the early 1970s, when politics on campus started to arise. Participation in campus politics is not only focusing on campus elections but also on activism and debate, as well as discussion. This activity has a significant contribution for the future of democracy in Malaysia among the young generation. It is crucial to address these issues with the university students to ensure significant actions could be taken to encourage their participation and to prevent their existence in politics from lessening. Therefore, the researchers believe that there are several factors that are associated with students' participation in campus politics. In this quantitative exploratory study, descriptive analysis was used to determine the mean for the variables. Furthermore, inferential analysis using Kruskal-Wallis and Spearman were observed. The findings highlighted a significant difference in students’ participation in campus politics between the Faculty of Administrative Science and Policy Studies (AM), the Faculty of Accountancy (AC), and the Faculty of Plantation and Agrotechnology (AT). On top of that, the factor of social media has a weak to moderate positive correlation among the three factors studied.
Copyright (c) 2025 Afiq Daniel Ahmad Raud, Muhammad Asyari Markus, Nurfaizah Abbdullah, Azwan Ahzran Perman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Empowering Democracy through Education: The Role of Student Leadership at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu
This study explores the impact of student representative leadership at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) on promoting democratic values and civic engagement within Malaysian higher education. Student leadership is recognized as a platform for nurturing future leaders with integrity, accountability and ethical awareness which is the qualities that are increasingly important in both national governance and global diplomacy. The research aligns with Malaysia’s broader commitment to democratic principles and its role in advancing soft power through educational institutions. Using a cross-sectional survey approach, data were collected from final year students in two academic programs at UMT. The study examines how demographic factors such as gender, age and ethnicity influence perceptions of student leadership and democratic awareness. It also investigates the relationship between student leadership experience and understanding of democratic practices. The findings aim to provide valuable insights into the role of higher education institutions sustaining democratic citizenship and participatory governance. By reinforcing student engagement in campus governance, universities contribute not only to domestic educational reform but also to Malaysia’s international image as a democratic and diplomatically engaged nation. Using leadership theory, tthis study proposess the potential of student leadership as a strategic tool in shaping youth diplomacy and fostering a more inclusive, informed and participatory academic culture.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohd Shazwan Mohd Ariffin, Aina Shamimi Mohd Azleesham https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
UN Peacekeeping Mission in Conflict Zone: An Analysis of the Implementation on the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) Doctrine and Resolution
For the past of 76 years, the United Nations has been a vital force in helping to prevent and resolve conflicts around the globe. UN Peacekeeping missions have played a crucial role in the implementation doctrine of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) in conflict zones, providing a platform for countries to work together and build peace. The objective of the study is to identify the roles and responsibilities of various actors in the implementation of R2P, analyse the challenges faced in the operation of R2P in conflict zones, and evaluate ways to improve the effectiveness of the UN peacekeeping mission in the R2P implementation process. Drawing on methods from discourse analysis, this study will be conducted through a qualitative methodology involving the study of important UN documents and also in- depth case studies. The analysis reveal that there are obstacles such as political constraints, insufficiently strong and clear mandates, lack of equipment resources and uneven integration among UN security council members. In addition, the policy of selective intervention in favour of powerful countries has affected application and consistency against the doctrine. As a conclusion, without overcoming the political and operational challenges, the effectiveness of R2P will remain compromised
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohd Safwan Syahmi Mohamad Zainuddin , Farhatul Mustamirrah Mahamad Aziz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Childhood Vaccination Views Across Genders: What Do Mothers and Fathers Really Think?
Childhood vaccination is a crucial public health endeavour aimed at preventing infectious illnesses and decreasing child mortality. Although vaccine uptake in Malaysia is generally high, disparities may occur among different demographic groups, including gender. This study evaluates parental views regarding childhood vaccination in Pahang, Malaysia, and assesses whether these attitudes significantly differ between male and female parents. The target population comprised parents who have at least one child under 15 years of age. A quantitative cross-sectional design was utilised, involving 333 parents from Pahang. Data were gathered via a structured questionnaire assessing views regarding childhood vaccination. Descriptive statistics and an independent samples t-test were performed to assess attitudes and gender differences, respectively. The independent t-test revealed a statistically significant disparity between male and female parents, with female parents exhibiting more favourable attitudes toward childhood vaccination. The findings highlight the significance of gender in influencing parental perspectives on immunisation. This study advances the application of Gender Schema Theory in public health research and highlights the need for gender-sensitive strategies to improve vaccine acceptance, particularly among male parents
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Hidayahtul Nabihah Manas, Mohd Rozaimy Ridzuan, Noor Amira Syazwani Abd Rahman, Muhammad Redzuan Osman, Muhammad Iqbal M. Pd https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Toward Sustainable Waste Management: Assessing the Potential Implications of Sabah's Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Enactment 2022
The Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Enactment 2022 marks a legislative milestone for sustainable waste management in Sabah. This study applies document analysis to assess its potential impacts, focusing on institutional frameworks, waste minimization strategies, financial mechanisms, and enforcement provisions. Unlike previous research that mainly described Malaysia’s federal legislation, this paper highlights how the Enactment offers a state-driven model tailored to Sabah’s local governance context. The findings suggest that while the Enactment has strong potential to strengthen institutional clarity and funding mechanisms, its success will depend on overcoming challenges such as limited municipal budgets, enforcement capacity, and public participation. This study contributes to policy discourse by situating Sabah’s approach within broader Southeast Asian waste governance trends. Limitations include reliance on documentary sources; future studies should incorporate stakeholder interviews to deepen practical insights.
Sustainable waste managemen, Legislative framework, Waste minimization, Institutional frameworks, Financial support mechanisms, Enforcement measures
Copyright (c) 2025 Haidy Henry Dusim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Strategic Analysis of Influx of Foreign Workers in Malaysia
Foreign workers play a crucial role in filling labor gaps and supporting the workforce of this country for years. Nevertheless, uncontrolled foreign workers' influx can result in various challenges. This paper primarily focuses on the Malaysian Ministry of Human Resources (MoHR) effort to address the influx of foreign workers and its impact on the labor market. The study begins with external and internal analyses of the MoHR, utilizing the PEST analysis and a custom-made internal audit. Secondary sources and interviews with MoHR staff provide insights for the analysis. The SWOT matrix is used to present the findings and the TOWS Matrix guides the development of alternative recommendations. Through adoption of BOS, this paper proposes a set of strategic recommendations based on the strategic analyses using strategic management tools and techniques. These recommendations aim to address the challenges posed by foreign worker influx and improve the MoHR's management capabilities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fatin Nadzira Mohd Khamdani, Muhammad Aiman Harith Hairan, Nur Mastura Mustafa Kamal, Nurul Azira Samsuden, Fadilah Puteh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Crisis Management in Corporate Landscape Based on Multisector in Malaysia: A Cross-Sectorial Review
The critical role of effective management during crises has been underscored by the unprecedented challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly disrupted corporate operations worldwide. In Malaysia, the pandemic induced substantial financial and operational losses across various industries. In Malaysia, companies under the categories of Government-Linked Companies (GLCs) exhibited more robust crisis management frameworks compared to private sector firms. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the literature on crisis management, focusing on its application within Malaysian companies during periods of crisis and adversity. Additionally, it investigates crisis management practices across diverse sectors to identify key determinants of crisis management effectiveness. In other words, this paper focuses on the multi-sectors of the different companies in Malaysia under the scope of crisis management. The reviews suggest that conventional business models and strategies that historically ensured corporate success are increasingly insufficient under crisis conditions, necessitating adaptive and proactive management approaches to sustain organizational viability during and post-crisis.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nurul Nabilah Yahaya, Sarina Othman, Tuan Nooriani Tuan Ismail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Governance Structure and Challenges in COVID-19 Response Management by Public Authorities, Malaysia: A Case Study
Crisis response management to non-conventional transboundary threats, such as COVID-19, necessitated a robust governance structure due to its unprecedented nature, marked by uncertainty and regarded as the worst global catastrophe since World War II. This health emergency not only caused immense human suffering but also triggered significant socioeconomic disruptions. As of May 6, 2023, approximately 687,968,896 individuals had been infected, with 6,894,694 reported deaths. In response, countries around the world were compelled to develop effective strategies to minimise infections and fatalities. A strong governance structure, particularly in public administration, is crucial for determining the success of response management, as emphasised by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This study aimed to investigate the effective governance structure for managing COVID-19 responses in Malaysia and the challenges faced in ensuring an effective response. The analysis focused on four leading public authorities that were central to COVID-19 response management in Malaysia. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews using purposeful sampling, targeting top management representatives from the respective public authorities. Findings indicated that the current disaster response management necessitates a re-evaluation of existing governance structures or the development of a specific governance framework for non-conventional transboundary threats. It also highlighted the importance of embracing technology, enhancing data governance, improving communication, fostering community involvement, adopting flexible procurement procedures, and developing leadership skills to respond to such crises effectively.
Challenges in COVID-19 Response Management
Crisis Response Management Effectiveness
Copyright (c) 2025 Zakwan Azahari, Anuar Shah Bali Mahomed, Ho Jo Ann3 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Navigating Complexity: A Systematic Review of the Challenges in Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Implementation
Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Program is a global effort proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to cater the needs of people with disabilities (PWDs). As the number of registered PWDs increases annually, the demand for accessible rehabilitation services becomes more urgent to foster their social inclusion. While the government and community are focusing on providing better and reachable rehabilitation services based on the local capacities and resources, they face multiple challenges in the program implementation. This study aims to systematically review and synthesize the challenges of CBR implementation. Following the PRISMA guidelines, 13 eligible studies were selected and critically appraised by using CASP Checklist and then analysed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes. From the analysis, five main themes are highlighted: 1. lack of skilled workforce and training deficiencies; 2. insufficient resources; 3. poor integration and coordination; 4. attitudinal and cultural barriers; 5. barriers to accessing CBR services. To reap its great potential in empowering PWDs, CBR must be backed by strong and coordinated policies, well trained manpower, sustainable funding, and social support.
Copyright (c) 2025 Farhana Yaakub, Asiyah Kassim, Makmor Tumin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Bridging Theory and Practice: The Role of Experiential Learning in Deepening Understanding of Industrial Relations
This study explores the implementation of role play as an experiential learning tool in the Principles of Industrial Relations (PAD363) course at Universiti Teknologi MARA. The objective is to evaluate how role play enhances students' understanding of industrial relations concepts while fostering problem-solving, communication, and collaborative skills. The methodology involves task-based learning where students, in groups of 7-8, develop and perform role play scenarios reflecting real-world industrial issues, such as labour disputes and collective bargaining. Data were collected through video recordings of the role plays and reflective essays, which were analysed to assess the students’ learning experiences. Findings indicate that role play effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enabling students to grasp complex industrial relations processes more thoroughly. Students reported increased comprehension, improved teamwork, and the acquisition of new skills like acting and video editing. Furthermore, the activity enhanced interpersonal relationships, creating a supportive learning environment. This study underscores the value of experiential learning in industrial relations education, suggesting that role play can serve as a dynamic and engaging pedagogical approach to reinforce both academic understanding and real-world competencies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Suhaimi Abd Samad , Siti Nur Fathanah Abd Hamid, Syahrina Adliana Abdul Halim, Mohammad Bastyian Mahmud https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mapping Malaysia’s Poverty Alleviation Strategy: A Typological Analysis of the Malaysia Plans
Poverty eradication remains a central priority in Malaysia’s development planning, with poverty alleviation programmes embedded in national strategies since the inception of the New Economic Policy in the 1970s. Examining how these interventions are framed within long-term planning documents is vital to understanding the strategic priorities that shape Malaysia’s evolving response to poverty. However, research on Malaysia’s poverty strategy lacks a systematic classification of programme types, limiting the ability to assess coherence, evolution, and institutional adaptation over time. This study aims to develop a typology of Malaysia’s poverty alleviation programmes by examining their representation in national development plans. The study identifies eight strategic categories and nineteen codes based on qualitative content analysis of 216 excerpts from the Second to Twelfth Malaysia Plans and their Mid-Term Reviews. These categories are analysed to reveal how Malaysia’s poverty response has shifted from structuralist models toward more individualised and empowerment-based interventions. Findings show that while infrastructure and human capital development remain dominant, recent strategies have begun incorporating microfinance, livelihood insurance, and limited social protection. Critical gaps remain, particularly in market integration, risk protection, and policy integration. The analysis also reveals strong institutional path dependency, with legacy agencies and rural-biased interventions persisting across policy eras. The typology provides a foundational lens to analyse how Malaysia’s poverty alleviation strategies have evolved across policy eras. It offers critical insights for rebalancing long-standing structural interventions with emerging needs, guiding more responsive, inclusive, and context-sensitive poverty policy development.
Copyright (c) 2025 Iskandar Idris, Nooraini Othman, Wan Normeza Wan Zakaria https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Regulating Beneficial Ownership Practices in Malaysia
Money laundering is the process of acquiring money illegally and trying to hide the illegal activity by converting the money into legitimate money through the use of financial and non-financial institutions. Most of the country's efforts are to fight against criminal activity. The recent trend in money laundering is to have multiple layers of beneficial ownership in the company through the concealment of beneficial owners in corporate vehicles. Beneficial ownership has gained significant attention , as governments and regulatory bodies worldwide have attempted to address issues related to money laundering, tax fraud, and the use of complex corporate structures to hide the real owners of assets. In response to international standards of money laundering and terrorism financing set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Malaysia has introduced legal and policy measures which aim to enhance the transparency and accountability in corporate structure. Most countries have a system for obtaining information on the legal person or owner of the company. This paper will examine the current regulatory framework governing beneficial ownership in Malaysia, which includes the requirements under the International Standard of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), and Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). It will also highlight the vulnerabilities of ultimate beneficial ownership (UBO) and challenges in implementing it in Malaysia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nursyakila Kamaruddin, Nor Suziwana Hj. Tahir, Sarina Othman, Saslina Kamaruddin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Determinants of Job Performance of Public Servants in Asian Countries: A Systematic Literature Review
The primary causes that affect job performance among civil servants in Asian countries were addressed in this systematic literature review. The review further determines six key themes that are based on 14 peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2024, which are leadership styles and behaviours, emotional and psychological factors, organisational commitment and citizenship behaviour, human resource management practices and skills, organisational support and perceptions of fairness, and work environment and job demands. These factors play pivotal roles in improving job performance and are grounded in established frameworks such as Transformational and Servant Leadership Theory, Organizational Commitment Theory, and Strategic HRM, along with supporting concepts like Emotional Intelligence, Self-Efficacy, and Equity Theory. These perspectives elucidate the interaction of factors to shape performance outcomes. The cultural dynamics comprising collectivism and hierarchical structures affect how these factors are perceived as well as how it is applied across national contexts. It also emphasises the importance of people-centred leadership, fair governance, and culturally sensitive reforms that address workload pressures and psychological well-being in the public service. The limitations are indicating to the need for broader regional and longitudinal studies together with a narrow geographical scope and uneven thematic coverage, pointing to the need for broader regional and longitudinal studies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Siti Munirrah Ahmad Zahran, Nurul Hidayana Mohd Noor, Marni Ghazali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Tracing Autonomy: Sarawak’s Educational Governance from the Brooke Era to MA63
The renewed focus on fulfilling the demands of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) began when Pakatan Harapan formed the government in 2018, which was then continued to be pursued under the Unity Government led by Dato Sri Anwar Ibrahim, established after the 15th General Election in November of 2022, with the issue first raised in March 2023 during the MA63 Technical Committee Meeting. In line with this development, the state of Sarawak emerged as a leader in education autonomy. This article contends that the historical evolution of Sarawak’s education system has been instrumental in shaping the state’s pursuit of both autonomy and cohesion, ultimately determining how federal Ministry of Education policies are adapted and implemented within the framework of a highly centralized federation. By going through document analysis and analyzing them through a multifaceted theoretical framework—institutional memory, political order and decay, legibility, and dynamic federalism —the study reveals that Sarawak’s current assertion of educational autonomy is rooted in a long historical trajectory marked by institutional continuity, elite socialisation, and embedded governance norms dating back to the Brooke era and constitutional safeguards in 1963 as well as the selective application of autonomy under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 which creates an asymmetrical federal arrangement, where Sarawak exercises conditional education governance rather than full policy-making authority.
Copyright (c) 2025 Auzellea Kristin Mozihim, Ariff Adi Putera Anwar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Revitalizing Malaysia's Agro Sector: Cultivating A Path To Food Security
Malaysia's agricultural sector is crucial for ensuring food security and promoting economic growth. Since the 2008 global financial crisis, food security has become a top priority on the national agenda. Every country, including Malaysia, worries about food security. Despite the country's inability to produce food independently, food is available throughout the year. Malaysia outsources its food supply to satisfy local consumer demand, making it a net importer of food. This situation is deemed necessary due to the country's limited arable land and farmers' restricted output capabilities. This article primarily focused on the Malaysian Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) in its efforts to rejuvenate the agro sector and enhance food security. Malaysia's rejuvenate the agro sector and food security were analysed using some key strategic management techniques, including PEST analysis, a custom-made internal analysis, and SWOT analysis. These approaches serves as a tool for identifying food security issues. The TOWS matrix and BOS were then employed to generate many viable recommendations. This article provides information on food security in Malaysia as well as appropriate recommendations for stakeholders.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hazlina Razali, Mohamad Fahmi Ali Kutty, Nur Fatin Syakirah Shaiful Fairuz, Abdul Azim Abdul Ghani, Fadilah Puteh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Echoes of Empowerment to Roars of Collective Action: Indigenous Women Redefining Leadership
This article explores Orang Asli women’s leadership in Peninsular Malaysia, focusing on how individual empowerment evolves into collective mobilization. The title, “From Echoes of Empowerment to Roars of Collective Action,” reflects this journey: early, often subdued voices of empowerment gradually amplify into powerful, organized movements demanding justice and recognition. The purpose of the study is to examine how Orang Asli women leaders promote gender inclusivity, defend customary land, and challenge both state structures and patriarchal norms. Using a qualitative research design, purposive sampling was employed to select Orang Asli women leaders from Semai, Temuan, and Semoq Beri communities. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, transcribed, coded, and analyzed thematically to identify recurring patterns of leadership and activism. Thematic analysis revealed three interrelated themes: (1) the transformation of domestic vigilance into political leadership, (2) the strategic use of maternal frames and cultural values to legitimize activism, and (3) the creation of informal, leaderless networks such as SPNS and JKOASM to sustain community resistance. These findings demonstrate how Orang Asli women redefine leadership as a collective, gender-inclusive practice rooted in cultural survival. The study contributes to broader debates on indigenous rights, feminist leadership, and community mobilization in Southeast Asia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Asilatul Hanaa Abdullah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Institutional Barriers and Policy Opportunities for Heirloom Rice in Sabah: A Preliminary Analysis
The problem to be addressed in this article is linked to the limitations that hinder the sustainability and growth of heirloom rice within Sabah’s policy framework. As heirloom rice considered as a crop of high cultural and ecological value however, it remains underrepresented in the state’s agricultural context. Current agricultural policies prioritize high-yield commercial rice, thereby marginalizing heirloom varieties that lack formal support for financial, genetic, or market development. The objective of this paper is to analyse and discuss the institutional barriers that hinder the sustainability and growth of heirloom rice in Sabah. Using a qualitative approach grounded in institutional theory, data were collected through purposive sampling of key informants with expert knowledge and experience in the sector. Thematic analysis revealed four major barriers: (1) policy frameworks and institutional neglect that sideline heirloom rice, (2) limited prioritization within state agricultural agendas (3) weak market demand and fragmented value chains, and (4) structural barriers to farmer support, including infrastructure, incentives, and generational continuity.The study highlights the need for realigned institutional priorities, enhanced collaboration, and targeted support structures to integrate heirloom rice into Sabah’s agricultural framework. Policy reforms and dedicated support can foster sustainability, cultural preservation, and agricultural resilience within Sabah’s food systems.
Copyright (c) 2025 Faridah Suffian, Haijon Gunggut, Hendry Joseph, Firdausi Suffian https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Operationalizing Adaptive Team Performance: Design, Validation, and Application of Instruments in Law Enforcement
This paper presents the concept of adaptive team performance in the context of law enforcement, focusing on how teams can respond effectively to dynamic and often unpredictable challenges. Adaptive performance is important for teams that must make quick decisions, solve complex problems, and maintain effectiveness in high-pressure situations. Based on existing literature, this study identifies key dimensions of adaptive team performance, including handling emergencies, managing stress, solving problems creatively, dealing with uncertainty, training and learning efforts, interpersonal adaptability, cultural adaptability, and physical adaptability. It also explores the antecedents influencing adaptive behavior, such as individual characteristics, job autonomy, group dynamics, and organizational support. This study involves a review of selected literature to identify and synthesize relevant dimensions and antecedents of adaptive performance. The items from each adaptive performance dimension and antecedent were coded and subjected to thematic analysis to uncover underlying patterns and interrelationships. A systematic categorization of items was conducted, leading to the development of an adaptive performance framework. The adaptive performance framework focuses on key concepts from existing research to provide a comprehensive understanding of adaptive performance and how it can be fostered within organizations. This framework is particularly relevant for high-stakes environments like law enforcement, where adaptability is crucial for success.
Copyright (c) 2025 Norsyazwani Ab Halim, Azlyn Ahmad Zawawi, Nur Zafifa Kamarunzaman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Shaping Identity, Shaping Power: The Politics of Kadazandusun Ethnic Identity in Sabah
The Kadazandusun ethnic identity in Sabah, Malaysia, has long been a subject of political and socio-cultural debate, particularly regarding its inclusivity and representation of Dusunic, Murutic, and Paitanic-speaking communities. Since the introduction of "Kadazandusun" as a unifying identity in 1989, efforts to consolidate this identity have been marked by contention and negotiation. Political leaders and ethnic organizations have repeatedly called for unity, transcending political ideologies, to establish a singular generic identity for the Kadazandusun that could also replace the "Lain-lain" (Others) category in official government classifications. This article examines the evolution of Kadazandusun identity politics, focusing on how political elites and ethnic organizations construct, reconstruct, and mobilize ethnic identity to achieve both cultural and political objectives. Adopting a multifaceted methodological approach—including thematic analysis, content analysis, and ethnographic methods—the study reveals that Kadazandusun ethnic identity is not static but continuously shaped by the strategic actions of political elites and the instrumentalization of identity for political and electoral gains. By analyzing these dynamics, the article provides critical insights into the complex interplay between identity construction, political leadership, and cultural representation within the Kadazandusun community.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tony Paridi Bagang, Arnold Puyok , Neilson Ilan Mersat https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Examining E-Waste Recycling Behaviour Among Malaysian Public in Negeri Sembilan
E-waste refers to electrical and electronic equipment that is damaged, non-functional, or outdated, including items such as washing machines, refrigerators, televisions, computers, air conditioners, and mobile phones. These materials often contain hazardous substances, including lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic. Improper disposal of e-waste, such as in landfills, rivers, or through incineration, releases toxic chemicals that pose significant risks to both the environment and human health. This study investigates the influence of attitude, e-waste sorting knowledge, facility support, and subjective norms on e-waste recycling practices among residents of Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. Data were collected from 100 respondents using a convenience sampling method and a Google Form questionnaire. Descriptive analysis revealed that most respondents demonstrated moderate levels of e-waste recycling behavior and perceived facility support to be at a medium level, while their attitudes, knowledge, and subjective norms were high. Pearson correlation analysis indicated a significant positive relationship between e-waste sorting knowledge and subjective norms with e-waste recycling behavior. The findings provide valuable insights for stakeholders to enhance and promote effective recycling practices. Educating the public on e-waste management is crucial to fostering environmental responsibility and ensuring the sustainable management of resources.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Batrisyia Nordin, Nurul Hidayana Mohd Noor, Mahazril 'Aini Yaacob https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Food Accessibility and the Sustainability of Food Security Among Urban Low-Income Households in Selangor: A Qualitative Study
The limited financial resources constrain food access and encourage families to purchase cheap rather than healthy food servers. Compounding this is the unpredictability that routine grocery shopping has on one's daily capabilities, along with rising and falling food prices. This instability of prices also makes it difficult for families to have adequate access and stability in consumption, forcing many times to have a transitory compromise that generates some long-term problems largely related to sustainable food security. This qualitative study examines the issues influencing food access and the sustainability of food security among urban low-income households in Selangor. To this end, through thematic analysis of in-depth interviews carried out with 10 participants from low-income neighborhoods, this research discloses the five most important themes: (1) economic constraints, (2) geographical and infrastructure barriers, (3) the problem of food price and market fluctuation, (4) limited involvement in urban agriculture, and (5) coping strategies in response to food insecurity. Data show that financial difficulties represent the most significant barrier to food access, which leads to families having to choose less healthy foods simply because they are more affordable. This could imply that the need to promote food security means that more support and possibly infrastructure for urban farming may be required. Lastly, although the coping strategies employed by families are inventive, they are unsustainable and highlight the pressing need for long-term policy interventions. This research highlights the necessity for action.
Copyright (c) 2025 Norfaiezah Alias, Nor Hafizah Mohamed Harith, Thenmolli Vadeveloo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Recycling Intention Among Urban Community in Seremban: A Pilot Study
Recycling involves the collection, processing, and conversion of waste materials into new products to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. Recycling in Malaysia is less than the rate of waste generation, and due to this, Malaysia is dealing with multiple waste management problems, including full landfills and piling up daily household waste. This study aims to pilot test the reliability of a questionnaire to be used in a larger study. Employing a quantitative method with a descriptive design and cross-sectional design, data were collected from 30 residents of Seremban who have participated in recycling activities in the district. Furthermore, the questionnaire's reliability was checked for Cronbach's Alpha test using SPSS software. Results from the pilot study indicated that all three factors that the questionnaire measured were reliable. Although the 'attitude' dimension had a marginally lower reliability value than the others initially, the removal of specific items improved the score, thereby validating the questionnaire's overall reliability and validity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rissa Ivy Hairee Wee, Ku Shahnaim Mohamad Soffi, Saidatul Akma Hamik https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluating the Role of Public Enterprises in Nigeria's Economic Growth
This study assesses the role of public enterprises in Nigeria’s economic growth, acknowledging their historical purpose to drive development in key sectors. However, their performance has been hindered by inefficiency, corruption, and poor management. Using Institutional Theory, the research explores how formal structures, governance frameworks, and informal norms shape the operations and outcomes of these enterprises. The study adopts a qualitative methodology, analyzing government reports, policy papers, and academic literature. Findings reveal that institutional weaknesses such as regulatory capture, lack of accountability, and politicization of leadership have obstructed the effectiveness of public enterprises. Nevertheless, the research identifies instances where institutional reforms, autonomy, and adherence to corporate governance principles led to improved performance and sectoral contributions. The study emphasizes the need for aligning institutional frameworks with the objectives of public enterprises to boost their developmental impact. It concludes that while public enterprises can drive economic growth, their success depends on institutional coherence, transparent regulatory oversight, and a shift from politically driven management to performance-based systems. The study contributes to the discourse on public sector reform in Nigeria and provides policy recommendations aimed at strengthening institutional structures to improve the performance of public enterprises.
Copyright (c) 2025 Margaret Oyekan , Zekeri Momoh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Understanding the Influences on Food Waste Segregation in the Malaysian Food Sector
Food waste is a major worldwide problem that has important implications for sustainability. The issue has received scholarly interest because of its environmental, social, and economic implications. Adopting segregation practices in the food sector has become widely accepted as a practical approach to reducing food wastage. Given the food sector’s significant contribution to waste generation, it is critical to investigate the factors that influence the adoption of segregation practices in this sector. This study examines the influences by synthesising findings from prior studies between 2020 and 2024. Using a comprehensive literature review, the findings discuss critical factors impacting food waste segregation while highlighting existing gaps and limitations in the sector. These findings also provide future research with significant information and suggestions consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that aim to promote effective and sustainable food waste management strategies. It also contributes significantly to the body of knowledge and practical ideas for developing sustainable practices in the food sector.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Nini Emieyza Ra-Ibnulamin, Saidatul Akma Hamik, Mahazril ‘Aini Yaacob https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Examining Factors Affecting Rural Farmers' Well-being: A Case Study of Settlers Development Programme or Program Pembangunan Peneroka (PPP) in Malaysia
Globally, governments and policy makers have introduced various programmes to address poverty issues among the rural poor. One common programme is an income generation programme, which aims to enhance the well-being of the rural poor. In Malaysia such a programme is known as the Settler Development Programme aims to increase the income and well-being of rural farmers. However, this programme has encountered challenges in enhancing the well-being of rural farmers, as numerous settlers have struggled to improve their income and living conditions. This study aims to investigate the factors that impede settlers from improving their income and overall well-being. This study employed a qualitative study and conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 22 respondents. This study is purposely selected the respondents among FELDA settlers using a purposive sampling method. The study's findings indicate that factors such as financial burden, limited capability to act, and technological challenges hindered the settlers from improving their well-being. This study suggests that the government should ensure that the programme is more inclusive, allowing settlers to actively contribute to and benefit from the PPP.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Raihan Asilah Rasali, Nor Ardyanti Ahmad, Mahazril Aini Yaacob https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring Approaches to Strengthen Higher-Order Thinking Skills in Malaysian Higher Education
This study explores factors influencing the development of Higher-Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) among students in Malaysian higher education institutions (HEIs) and their impact on graduates’ employability. Using a phenomenological approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with nine participants, including educators and students. The findings highlight key challenges such as power imbalances, rigid teaching methods, low student engagement, inadequate knowledge, and ineffective learning strategies. Institutional issues, including restrictive regulations and less effective learning outcomes, hinder HOTS development. To address these challenges, the study suggests adopting student-centered teaching approaches, encouraging active student involvement in problem-solving, and revising institutional policies to foster a supportive learning environment. Graduates with strong HOTS were found to be more competitive in the job market. However, the study’s scope is limited by its small sample size and focus on select HEIs, which may not fully represent the national context. Future research should include a broader sample and examine the role of technology in enhancing HOTS. This study provides practical insights for policymakers, HEI administrators, and educators to develop strategies that improve HOTS and graduate employability, contributing to the body of knowledge in higher education by offering a holistic and evidence-based perspective on teaching and learning HOTS.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nurin Farzana Mohamad Fadzil, Nurul Hidayana Mohd Noor, Ahmad Naqiyuddin Bakar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Graphical Representation of Clothing Store Location and Its Application with Potential Method
Multi-criteria Decision Making (MCDM) is a widely utilized approach for addressing decision problems by assessing pairwise comparisons of alternatives. MCDM involves evaluating various elements as input and deriving weighted outcomes for each alternative. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Potential Method (PM) are two examples of tools within MCDM. The PM employs a directed graph known as a preference, generated through paired comparisons, to establish a value function for the set of alternatives. In this study, PM is applied to the store location selection problem, with AHP already providing results. The objective is to demonstrate the use of PM in decision-making. The obtained results are then compared, revealing similar rankings for alternatives between the two methods. Consequently, PM is deemed comparable to AHP in effectively addressing real-life problems with multiple criteria.
Copyright (c) 2025 Khairunnisha Amira Johar, Mohammad Adam Hafiz Nor Mohd Amin, Muhammad Fared Tuah, Siti Salwana Mamat https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Dinamik Penguasaan Politik Melayu di Negeri Selangor dari Tahun 2008 hingga 2018
Kajian ini bertujuan menganalisis penguasaan politik Melayu dalam konteks politik di Selangor dari tahun 2008 hingga 2018, dengan mengambil kira perubahan politik yang signifikan di Malaysia. Kajian ini menggunakan metodologi kualitatif melalui analisis dokumen seperti artikel ilmiah, ucapan politik, dan laporan pilihan raya. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa gerakan reformasi, peningkatan pengaruh media sosial, dan kelemahan tadbir urus Barisan Nasional (BN) menjadi faktor utama dalam keputusan Pilihan Raya Umum Ke-12 (PRU-12), yang membawa kepada peralihan kuasa daripada BN kepada Pakatan Rakyat (PR). Sokongan bukan Melayu terhadap PR melebihi 90 peratus, manakala sokongan Melayu berada pada kadar 25 hingga 40 peratus. Perpecahan dalam gabungan pembangkang meningkat selepas PRU-12, khususnya apabila sentimen konservatif berkembang di kawasan luar bandar. Kajian ini menggariskan cabaran dalam merundingkan sosiopolitik masyarakat berbilang budaya. Untuk memastikan kestabilan politik di Selangor, pendekatan inklusif yang merentasi sempadan etnik, pematuhan kepada nilai perlembagaan dan dasar yang komprehensif diperlukan. Kajian ini turut meneliti perubahan konsep ketuanan politik Melayu dan kesannya terhadap pentadbiran Selangor. Penemuan ini menekankan keperluan pendekatan kerajaan yang menghargai kepelbagaian dan memastikan pertumbuhan yang adil demi perpaduan politik jangka panjang.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhamad Atlizan Darlis, Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub, Awang Azman Awang Pawi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
An Overview of the Structure and Future Prospects of China’s Urban and Rural Resident Pension Insurance (URRPI)
Urban and Rural Resident Pension Insurance (URRPI) is a significant component of the social security framework, aimed at promoting equal access to old-age security public services. This study systematically organizes the institutional structure of the URRPI using qualitative research methods. The URRPI’s system structure consists of five main components: the responsible body, beneficiary composition, financing mode, payment mode, and operational mode. The analysis has revealed shortcomings in the current financing, payment, and operational models of the URRPI system. Several suggestions have been proposed to address the challenges faced during its implementation regarding the institutional composition of URRPI. These include enhancing financing capabilities, improving the payment process, and optimizing the operational capacity of pension insurance funds. Through these measures, it is expected that URRPI will better meet the needs of China’s social development, alleviate the pressure of population aging, and provide more equitable and sustainable pension security for insured residents.
Urban and Rural Resident Pension Insurance (URRPI)
Copyright (c) 2025 Hanjue Wang, Thenmolli Vadeveloo, Suhaimi Abd. Samad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Reducing Bullying Boosts Employee Engagement and Performance: A Study Among Employees at the Sarawak Public Works Department
Workplace bullying is becoming a widely recognised issue that can harm employee welfare and organisational efficiency, particularly in the public sector. This study examines the relationship between workplace bullying, employee engagement, and job performance among Sarawak Public Works Department support group staff. We distributed a standard questionnaire electronically and received 504 responses (258 females and 246 males). The study found a significant negative correlation between workplace bullying, employee engagement (r = -0.45, p < 0.01), and job performance (r = -0.50, p < 0.01). These findings highlight the importance of strong anti-bullying policies and employee engagement activities in public sector organisations, as these strategies are critical for improving job performance and organisational efficacy. The study emphasises that a supportive workplace reduces the adverse effects of bullying and positively increases individuals’ ability to contribute to organisational goals. To summarise, public sector managers and legislators must prioritise workplace bullying prevention and involvement. Organisations can foster a resilient workplace culture by emphasising these characteristics, improving employee well-being, and achieving organisational outcomes. Future research should better examine the long-term effects of bullying treatment and engagement activities to understand effective management strategies in public sector environments.
Copyright (c) 2025 Pauline Bret, Yarina Ahmad, Kuldip Singh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0