Journal of International Business, Economics and Entrepreneurship
The Journal of International Business, Economics and Entrepreneurship (JIBE), registered ISSN 2550-1429 (Online), is a scientific, open access, peer-reviewed journal by UiTM Press, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia. JIBE promotes knowledge that addresses the complexities of operating in institutionally diverse, resource-constrained and rapidly evolving global markets. JIBE is published biannually in May and October. JIBE is indexed by MyCite and DOAJ International Business in Emerging and Transitional Economies Economic Development and Institutional Change Entrepreneurship and Innovation Systems Sustainable and Responsible Enterprise Next Scheduled Issue Volume 11, Issue No. 1 is scheduled for publication in May 2026. Articles accepted or dated before this issue will be published online in advance as pre-press articles, ensuring early access, dissemination and citation visibility. Pre-press articles | Submission deadline | Submit manuscript
Digital Resilience in Volatile Markets: Antecedents and Performance Outcomes of Social Media Integration Among Malaysian SMEs
Contemporary markets are characterized by intense rivalry, uncertainty, and volatility. The COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies a “perfect storm” of abrupt environmental disruption, compelling organizations to accelerate digital transformation. In this context, social media has emerged as a prominent open innovation resource, a cost-effective tool for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to maintain operations amid restrictions, altered procedures, and remote work arrangements. When deployed effectively, social media offers considerable potential to enhance organizational outcomes. Nevertheless, the precise nature of its relationship with firm performance, both direct and indirect, warrants deeper scholarly attention. Malaysian policy authorities have highlighted digitalization as a pathway to strengthen SME resilience and competitiveness, addressing concerns over high failure rates. This article develops a conceptual model that positions social media adoption as a mediating construct, linking two antecedent factors, compatibility and security concern, to firm performance. Grounded in the Resource-Based View (RBV), the study treats social media as a strategic resource that may foster competitive advantage. The discussion provides an updated perspective, bridging academic insight and practical application for SMEs operating under challenging conditions.
Compatibility, Firm Performance, Security Concern, Small and Medium Enterprises, Social Media Adoption
Copyright (c) 2025 Rosman Mohamed Hussin, Geetha Subramaniam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Role of Institutional Factors and Environmental Policy in Improving Corporate Sustainability Initiatives in Nigerian Listed Non-Financial Firms
As a result of low attention given towards corporate sustainability initiatives (CSI) which encompass economic, environmental, social, and governance aspects by companies to their host communities, this study examines the relationship between institutional factors such as economic constraints, and competition, and environmental policy towards CSI, as well as firm specific attributes such as company size and leverage on the Nigerian non-financial listed firms. Data were collected from the firms assessed and documented by global consensus rate of corporate social responsibility (CSRHUB) from 2018 to 2023. A total of 300 firm-year observations were considered using the annual reports and accounts of 50 sampled companies. The panel-corrected standard errors (PCSEs) and fixed generalised lease square (GLS) regression models were used to test the hypotheses for this study. The result established that economic constraints measured by access to finance is not significantly related to CSI. In contrast, competition and environmental policy are positive and significantly associated with CSI. Likewise, company size and leverage indicate a positive relationship with CSI. Hence, this study suggests that regulatory authorities should assess how the companies deal with issues relating economic constraints to ensure a good access to finance that could be responsible for sustainability initiative practices among non-financial firms in Nigeria.
Environmental Policy, Corporate Sustainability Initiatives, Institutional Factors, Nigeria
Copyright (c) 2025 Auwalu Musa, Usman Ahmed Kumo, Fathilatul Zakimi Abdul Hamid, Mohd Hadafi Sahdan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Bridging the Digital Gap: Factors Influencing Digital Economy Adoption in Small Enterprises
The digital economy has emerged as an important driver of enterprise growth, productivity, and innovation across various industries in recent years. Nonetheless, the implementation of a digital economy presents numerous challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in states such as Kelantan with low gross domestic product (GDP) growth. Additionally, the presence of web technology is among the lowest in Kelantan compared with other states in Peninsular Malaysia, especially in the small- and medium-sized enterprise sector. This paper examines the key determinants affecting the adoption of the digital economy by small enterprises in Kelantan. As digital technologies persist in transforming economic activities, comprehending the factors that facilitate or impede their adoption is crucial for maintaining small business competitiveness. A quantitative approach was utilized, and structured questionnaires were administered to small business proprietors across diverse industries in Kelantan. Data analysis was performed utilizing SPSS (version 29.0.2.0) and SmartPLS4 (version 4.1.1.4). This research, led by the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, identified and studied the technological, organizational, and environmental aspects influencing adoption decisions. The findings indicate that organizational and environmental factors, including innovation culture, employee skills and knowledge, market competition pressures, government restrictions, and financial support from the government, greatly affect adoption levels. These findings provide important insights for policymakers, technology providers, and support agencies to formulate policies that might effectively advance digital transformation among small enterprises across the nation.
Adoption Factors, Digital Economy, TOE Framework, Small Businesses
Copyright (c) 2025 Izzul Halim, Jasber Kaur Gian Singh, Rozianawaty Osman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Process Improvement as a Driver of Employee Development: A Study of SMEs in Southwest Region of Nigeria
The poor performance and inefficiency of small and medium-sized businesses have been a great concern among scholars and experts; SMEs have increasingly adopted systematic approaches to streamline operations while fostering workforce growth. Hence, this paper aims to investigate process improvement as a driver of employee development: a study of SMEs in the southwest region of Nigeria. Specifically, it examined the effect of training and program workshops, mentorship and coaching, and career advancement opportunities on employee development. Descriptive survey research design was adopted with a population of 253, the total number of selected registered electrical and electronics stores across the six southwestern states of Nigeria (Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti). 155 sample sizes were administered a structured questionnaire. Data collected was analyzed using PLS-SEM. The study findings indicate that process improvement positively impacts employee development within electronic SMEs, as shown by the statistical result that training and program workshops have the strongest effect on employees, followed by career advancement opportunities and mentorship and coaching. It concluded that process improvement is significantly vital for driving employee development in selected electrical and electronics SME stores in the southwest region of Nigeria. It is therefore strongly recommended that to increase the employee development of electronic SMEs, their managers should focus on developing unique and appealing career advancement opportunity strategies, training and program workshops, and mentorship and coaching to ensure strong process improvement that helps achieve employee development.
Copyright (c) 2025 Falilat Ajoke Abdul https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Perceived Value and Brand Loyalty in China’s Tea Industry: Evidence from the S-O-R Framework
In the context of China’s Rural Revitalization Strategy, developing strong agricultural brands has become a key mechanism to support rural industrial upgrading and farmers’ income growth. This study investigates how different dimensions of customer perceived value, namely functional value, economic value, and social value, influence brand loyalty in the tea industry, which plays a vital role in rural economies. Grounded in the Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) framework, this research focuses on the direct effects of these value dimensions on consumer loyalty. A total of 408 valid responses were collected from tea consumers in China through an online survey. Structural equation modelling was conducted using SmartPLS 4.0. The findings reveal that all three perceived value dimensions significantly predict brand loyalty, with economic value exerting the strongest influence. The study provides theoretical insights into value-based loyalty formation and offers practical implications for building sustainable rural origin brands aligned with China’s rural development goals.
Copyright (c) 2025 Peilin Lei, Tara Ahmed Mohammed, Shiyao Wang, Jiuhong Chen https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Asymmetric Adjustment Pass-Through of Oil Price on Transportation Cost
This study investigates how petroleum pump prices affect Nigeria's transportation costs asymmetrically. The momentum autoregressive (MTAR) and threshold autoregressive (TAR) models were used to analyse the monthly data from January 1995 to December 2023. Based on the findings, asymmetric cointegration was found in the MTAR consistent model. The influence of oil prices on transportation costs is signified as asymmetric in the nature of adjustment to the equilibrium position. Once oil prices fluctuate, increases in oil prices push the transportation cost upward, while decreases in oil prices have an insignificant effect on the cost of transportation. Furthermore, long-run results also reveal a positive correlation between oil prices and transportation cost, exchange rate, and GDP per capita. Based on the outcomes, the exchange rate is also a determinant of transportation cost. Once the exchange rate is depreciated, the effects will pass through to the high import costs of petroleum products. To stabilize the Nigerian transportation system, the government should consider both direct and indirect effects. Direct asymmetric effect through input cost, while the indirect effect is through the exchange rate.
Asymmetric Adjustment, Nigeria, Oil Price, Pass-Through, Transportation Cost
Copyright (c) 2025 Rabiu Maijamaa, Umar Bala, Murtala Garba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Agripreneurship as a Catalyst for Rural Women Empowerment and Sustainable Livelihoods in Northeastern Nigeria
This study develops and validates the Rural Women Agripreneurship’s Empowerment Index (RWAEI), a multidimensional framework designed to measure the empowerment outcomes of women agripreneurs in conflict-affected communities of Northeastern Nigeria. Anchored on Sen’s Capability Approach and Gendered Institutions Theory, the study assesses how agripreneurial engagement enhances women’s agency, access to productive resources, decision-making autonomy, and livelihood sustainability. Using data from 1,146 women across Gombe, Bauchi, and Adamawa States, and employing Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), the study identifies significant empowerment pathways through mechanization, hired labour, production participation, and market integration. The RWAEI demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.812), validating its utility for gendered rural development assessment. Findings reveal that agripreneurship significantly strengthens women’s economic inclusion and leadership capabilities, thereby promoting sustainable livelihoods and post-conflict resilience. The paper recommends integrating empowerment indicators into agricultural policy, expanding access to mechanization finance, and supporting women-led agribusiness networks to accelerate progress toward SDGs 1, 5, and 8.
Agripreneurship, Women Empowerment, Capability Approach, Sustainable Livelihoods
Copyright (c) 2025 Freda Ijanada Fidelis, Mercy Modupe Adeyeye https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Essential Resources that African Immigrant Entrepreneurs Access to Start Up their Business in South Africa
Entrepreneurship is a crucial element of economic growth and development, and immigrant entrepreneurs make a substantial contribution to the economy of the host country. Nevertheless, African immigrant entrepreneurs often face uncommon obstacles in accessing essential resources to establish and grow their businesses. Regardless of the increasing study on immigrant entrepreneurship, there is a need for more research that examines the distinct obstacles and experiences of African immigrant entrepreneurs in accessing resources to establish and develop their businesses in South Africa. This research aims to explore the essential resources that African immigrant entrepreneurs’ access to venture into businesses in South Africa. Particularly, the research seeks to investigate the financial, physical, information, and human resources that they access. The research used a qualitative research methodology, employing semi-structured interviews with 12 African immigrant entrepreneurs (owners/managers) operating in various sectors in South Africa. The data was analysed utilising content analysis, in which chunks of related data were connected to existing themes. The results showed that African immigrant entrepreneurs in South Africa encounter obstacles in accessing essential resources, involving financial capital, physical resources, information capital and human capital. Nonetheless, African immigrant entrepreneurs use several approaches to overcome these obstacles, such as depending on personal savings, networks, and family support. The research contributes to the current literature on immigrant entrepreneurship by highlighting the particular obstacles and experiences of African immigrant entrepreneurs in South Africa. The results have implications for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers seeking to promote and support immigrant entrepreneurship in this area.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bernard Lama Ngota, Elroy Eugene Smith , Ayanda Pamella Deliwe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Predicting Consumer Price Index Movements with SARIMA: A Case from Kediri City
The city of Kediri plays a significant role in driving the regional economy. One factor that plays an important role in regional economic stability is the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This study aims to predict the Consumer Price Index (CPI) of Kediri City using the Seasonal ARIMA (SARIMA) model, taking into account seasonal patterns. The data used consists of monthly CPI secondary data from January 2020 to December 2023 obtained from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The analysis was conducted through several stages, including a stationarity test using the Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) method, model identification using ACF and PACF, parameter estimation, model selection based on the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) value, and forecasting. The results of the study indicate that the SARIMA(2,2,0)(1,0,0)[12] model has the lowest AIC value. With a narrow confidence interval and a stable trend, this model can accurately predict the CPI for 2024. The forecasting results show that the CPI continues to increase each year. It is hoped that these findings will contribute academically to seasonal time series modelling and assist the government and businesses in developing data-driven economic strategies in area.
Akaike Information Criterion, Consumer Price Index, SARIMA, Stationarity
Copyright (c) 2025 Kurnia Ahadiyah, Nik'matur Rohmah, Agus Eko Sujianto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Shaping Consumer Intention in Emerging Markets: The Role of Personality Traits in Foreign Product Preference
This study examines what drives consumers in an emerging market to choose foreign hygiene products, using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) as its foundation. It focuses on two key influences, social norms and perceived behavioural control and explores whether personality traits play a mediating role in shaping purchase intention. Data were gathered from 260 Malaysian consumers through a structured survey and analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings show that both social norms and perceived control significantly affect purchase intention. Perceived control also shapes personality traits, which themselves influence intention, though personality traits do not mediate the overall relationships. By extending TPB with personality factors, this study sheds light on consumer decision-making in the context of foreign products, an area often overlooked in emerging market research. From a business perspective, the results suggest that companies should focus on strengthening consumers’ sense of control and responding to social influence rather than relying on personality-based segmentation. These insights are valuable for multinational firms and local entrepreneurs aiming to refine product positioning and build stronger connections with consumers in globalised markets.
Consumer Behaviour, Emerging Markets, Entrepreneurship Strategy, International Marketing
Copyright (c) 2025 Nurul Azrin Ariffin, Norzaidi Mohd Daud, Nor Lelawati Jamaludin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Drivers of Social Media Marketing Continuance among MSMEs in Emerging Economies
Entrepreneurial activities in many business sectors nowadays are immensely significant for economic growth and national development. The utilization of marketing tools via online digital platforms such as social media marketing, pay-per-click advertisements, and search engine optimization is also rapidly growing for many business activities. This study aims to examine micro, small and medium-sized (MSME) entrepreneurs’ continued usage intention of social media marketing (SMM) within the gastronomic business sector. Drawing from the Technology Acceptance Model, it attempts to investigate whether perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, facilitating conditions, and cost may influence their SMM usage. By using a non-probability sampling technique, 122 usable online survey questionnaire feedback were collected from MSME entrepreneurs in Malaysia. Data was analysed via SPSS version 26.0 to undertake both descriptive and multivariate analyses. Results demonstrate significant findings on all hypotheses. Perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, cost, and facilitating conditions significantly influence MSMEs’ usage of SMM in enhancing their business performance. Several managerial contributions are further discussed
Entrepreneurs, Micro Small and Medium sized, Perceived ease of use, Perceived usefulness, Social Media Marketing, Technology Acceptance Model
Copyright (c) 2025 Lennora Putit, Muhammad Iskandar Hamzah, Mohamad Fariz Abdullah, Sharifah Nurafizah Syed Annuar, Arief Yulianto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Strategic Marketing and Digital Transformation for SME Empowerment: Insights from a Malaysia–Indonesia Service-Learning Collaboration
This study explores a Malaysia–Indonesia service-learning initiative aimed at strengthening Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through strategic marketing and digital transformation. Conducted under the Service-Learning Malaysia – University for Society (SULAM) framework, the program combined workshops on marketing and digital strategies with applied sessions where SMEs worked alongside students to solve business challenges. The program involved 22 SME participants, 5 students’ representatives from Airlangga University and 32 students from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia. Findings show that participants gained confidence in using digital tools, adapting products and applying marketing concepts, though gaps remain in cultural communication and digital readiness. Overall, the program was positively evaluated (mean = 4.09, SD = 0.81), confirming the effectiveness of targeted interventions in improving SME competencies. The study highlights how cross-border service-learning can enhance SME competitiveness and offers guidance for future training and support.
Service-Learning Malaysia-University for Society (SULAM)
Copyright (c) 2025 Noor Adila Abd. Raub, Ainie Hairianie Aluwi, Nurul Illahi Binti Zainal Abidin, Ervina Maulida https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Foreign Direct Investment and Green Innovation: Driving Low-Carbon Economic Growth in China Eastern Provinces
This study examines the effect of foreign direct investment (FDI), green technology innovation and economic growth on CO₂ emissions in eastern China. This study employs the extended STIRPAT model and the EKC model to analyze the relevant data of 12 provinces in eastern China from 2001 to 2021. The estimation methods of Pooled OLS, Fixed Effect and Random Effect are compared and analyzed using the static panel data analysis method. Finally, the robust standard error estimation method of the fixed effect is adopted. The robust standard error estimation results indicate that green technology innovation and economic growth have a negative impact on CO₂ emissions. In contrast, population growth rate and the proportion of secondary and tertiary industries have a positive effect. The impact of FDI on CO₂ emissions is found to be insignificant, suggesting that neither the Pollution Haven Hypothesis nor the Pollution Halo Hypothesis is prevalent in the eastern region of China. This suggests that the “inverted U-shaped” EKC does not exist in the eastern region of China. It is therefore evident that the enhancement of green technology innovation is of paramount importance for the reduction of CO₂ emissions in the eastern region.
CO₂ Emissions, Economic Growth, Foreign Direct Investment, Green Innovation
Copyright (c) 2025 Yunxiu Qiu, Soo Cheng Chuah, Ruhaini Muda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Exploring Market Challenges and Entrepreneurial Opportunities in Plus-Size Women’s Fashion in Malaysia
This study investigates the challenges faced by plus-size women in Malaysia’s ready-to-wear fashion industry, with a focus on issues of fit, accessibility, affordability and representation. Using a qualitative approach, insights were gathered from 34 Malaysian women aged 18 to 50 through open-ended survey responses. The findings highlight structural market gaps, including inconsistent sizing and poor fit, limited retail availability, design and aesthetic shortcomings, premium pricing, negative consumer experiences, and a lack of inclusive marketing strategies. These barriers reveal untapped opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs to address underserved consumer needs through innovation, customer-centred product development, and inclusive marketing approaches. Beyond contributing to social inclusion, such strategies hold significant potential to enhance competitiveness and stimulate growth in Malaysia’s fashion sector, with broader implications for emerging markets seeking to strengthen consumer engagement and expand into niche yet high-potential segments.
Consumer Challenges, Entrepreneurship Opportunities, Inclusive Marketing, Malaysia Fashion Industry, Plus-size Fashion
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Syafiqah Suhaili Haslin, Hasma Ahmad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
SARIMA-Intervention Analysis: The Impact of SARS and COVID-19 Outbreak on Export in Malaysia
International trade is important for a country which enables it to export excess goods and import goods which are in shortage. Meanwhile, exports are the main components that generate income for a country. However, there are some disturbances that influence exports, such as financial crises, disease outbreaks, wars, and others. Malaysia, with a high degree of economic openness, also receives the impact of these disturbances. The objective of this paper is to study the impact of the SARS and COVID-19 outbreaks on the exports of Malaysia. The monthly time series data from January 2000 to December 2024 are adopted from Bank Negara Malaysia. In this study, a Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) intervention model is applied. The results show that SARS has an insignificant negative impact, while the COVID-19 pandemic has a significant positive impact on the exports of Malaysia. Therefore, exports in Malaysia still remain strong even during public health crises. The COVID-19 pandemic, despite its disruptions, has created an opportunity for Malaysia’s export sector to accelerate growth and play a pivotal role in revitalizing the national economy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Kuang Yong Ng, Zalina Zainal, Shamzaeffa Samsudin, Haitian Wei https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Impact of AI-Powered Advertising on Webroomers' Brand Equity and Purchase Intentions: Evidence from Tunisia
This study investigates the impact of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered advertising on brand equity and purchase intentions among Tunisian webroomers. Drawing on flow theory and the theory of reasoned action, we develop a conceptual model linking AI-based advertising to consumer responses. A survey of 350 Tunisian students was conducted after exposing participants to an AI-powered advertising campaign, and the data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The findings confirm that AI-powered advertising significantly enhances both brand equity and webroomers’ purchase intentions. Reliability and validity tests further support the robustness of the measurement model. By addressing an underexplored context in North Africa, this research contributes to the literature on AI in digital marketing and consumer behaviour. The results also provide meaningful managerial implications for companies seeking to leverage AI-based advertising to strengthen brand equity and stimulate purchase intentions.
AI-powered advertising, Brand equity, North Africa, Webroomers' behavioral intentions
Copyright (c) 2025 Nesrine MZID https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Green Innovation, Business Opportunities and Managerial Environmental Concern in the Performance of Jordanian Agri-Food Firms: A Conceptual Framework
The agri-food sector in developing countries like Jordan plays a critical role in economic development but faces growing environmental challenges due to resource inefficiencies, ecological degradation, and increasing sustainability pressures. Green innovation (GI) has emerged as a vital strategy to enhance both environmental and financial performance. However, existing research has largely overlooked how the dimensions of GI, namely green product, green process and green organizational innovation, interact with internal and external drivers in low-technology, resource-constrained sectors. In particular, the mediating role of business opportunities and the moderating role of managerial environmental concern remain underexplored. To address this gap, this conceptual study proposes an integrative framework that synthesizes insights from the Porter Hypothesis, Ecological Modernization Theory, the Resource-Based View, the Natural Resource-Based View, Stakeholder Theory, and Institutional Theory. The framework incorporates four key drivers: market demand, environmental collaboration, regulation, and firm capabilities, and examines their influence on the three dimensions of GI. It also positions business opportunities as a mediating mechanism and managerial environmental concern as a moderating factor in the relationship between GI and firm performance. Tailored to the context of Jordan’s agri-food sector, the proposed model offers a foundation for future empirical research and provides strategic insights for firms and policymakers seeking to advance sustainable innovation in developing economies.
Green Innovation, Business Opportunities, Managerial Environmental concern, Financial Performance, Environmental Performance
Copyright (c) 2025 Nour Othman Qatanani, Keshminder J.S., Azlin Shafinaz Arshad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Impact of Organizational Culture on Employee Performance in the Telecommunication Sectors in Afghanistan
Organizational culture influences how people perceive their roles, interact with each other, and perceive the organization's purpose and values. A strong and positive organizational culture can lead to increased employee performance. This research aims to study the relationship between organizational culture and employee performance in the telecommunication sectors in Afghanistan. The researcher employed a mixed-methods approach and a quantitative and qualitative research design for the current study. Random sampling was employed in this study, and the sample size was 316 workers from the telecommunication sectors in Afghanistan. The data collection technique used in this study was questionnaires for analyzing data and testing the hypothesis used from SPSS version 25. The finding showed that organizational culture significantly impacts employee performance in selected telecommunication sectors in Afghanistan. Employee participation is the most critical factor in accomplishing organizational goals. This study fulfills an acknowledged need to learn the impact of organizational culture on employee performance in the telecommunication sectors in Afghanistan.
Employee Performance, Organizational Culture, Telecommunication Sectors, Afghanistan.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ghousddin Noorzad, Joseph P.D https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Herzberg's Theory: Hygiene Factors and Job Satisfaction at a Public Agency in Federal Territories of Malaysia
Due to the Covid-19 epidemic, many employees are switching from traditional office settings to working from home, which has drastically changed the way they operate. Organizations are now faced with the difficulty of making the shift back to the office significant concerning employee preferences, workplace relations and the nature of working conditions. Going back to work brings with it both chances and obstacles. Some employees are excited to get back in touch with peers and restore the office atmosphere, while others have become used to the convenience and comfort of working from home. The organization needs to work through these opposing viewpoints to develop a balanced strategy that promotes employee job satisfaction. Therefore, these papers measure the level of factors that influence working conditions and interpersonal relationships and the relationship between job satisfaction. Quantitative measurements had been used to analyse data on respondent variables. Data was collected from 138 participants at a public agency in the Federal Territories of Malaysia and the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) has been used to analysed data.
Herzberg's Theory, Hygiene factors, Interpersonal Relationship, Job Satisfaction, Working Condition
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohamad Fahimi Ahmad, Hairunnisa Ma’amor, Shazlin Suhaiba Samaan, Sharifah Fazirah Syed Ahmad, Noor Azura Dahalan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Impact of Delays on Business Start-Up: A Case Study of SC and ST Women Entrepreneurs in Mysuru Division
This research considers the various factors contributing to delays in the initiation of businesses by SC and ST women entrepreneurs in Mysuru Division. The objectives are identified and analyse the factors causing delays in the start-up of businesses by SC and ST women entrepreneurs and develop a regression model that effectively predicts the delay in the initiation of businesses based on various predictors. Descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, and regression modelling were employed to analyse primary data collected from 514 respondents. The study identified various factors contributing to delays in the initiation of businesses by SC and ST women entrepreneurs in Mysuru Division. Key factors include shortages of raw materials, high costs, legal disputes, administrative hurdles, and difficulties in arranging finance. However, the study also presents a comprehensive model that effectively explains the delay phenomenon. The implications of these delays are discussed, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to support women entrepreneurs.
Business Start-up, SC and ST Entrepreneurs, Women Entrepreneurship
Copyright (c) 2025 Bharath V, Nikhilavathi S https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Towards a Better Understanding of the Factors of Entrepreneurial Failure: An Exploratory Study among Entrepreneurs in the Sfax Region, Tunisia
Entrepreneurial failure remains a complex, multi-dimensional subject of study that continues to generate academic debate due to the lack of consensus on its definition and implications. While some researchers associate it with cessation of activity or economic failure, others see it as a learning and resilience process for the entrepreneur. This study explores the factors behind entrepreneurial failure in Tunisian SMEs, specifically in the Sfax region. The main objective is to identify the internal and external causes leading to the failure of new SMEs, focusing on the role of the entrepreneur, available resources and the contextual environment. Using an exploratory qualitative approach, 20 entrepreneurs were interviewed to gather data on their experiences, challenges and obstacles encountered. The results reveal that the failure of Tunisian SMEs results from the complex interaction of several factors. The main factors identified include a lack of managerial skills, difficulties in accessing finance, cumbersome administrative bureaucracy, as well as a lack of institutional support. Although entrepreneurial motivation and commitment are important, they are often insufficient in the face of structural and contextual obstacles to SME development. This study sheds light on the limitations of public support policies and suggests ways of improving the sustainability of Tunisian SMEs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mourad Souissi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Impact of Absorptive Capacity on Innovation: The Mediating Role of Organisational Learning
The Nigerian pharmaceutical industry, like many other sectors in the country, has been grappling with the challenge of optimal performance. Despite the industry's significant role in the nation's healthcare delivery system, it faces several challenges in achieving optimal performance. Hence, this study investigates organizational learning as a mediator of the impact of absorptive capacity on innovation. Specific objectives are to investigate the impact of research and development intensity on product innovation, assess the influence of employee training and development on organizational innovation and investigate the impact of knowledge management practices on process innovation. A descriptive research design with a population of 431 staff of the Tuyil pharmaceutical factory was used. A sample size of 207 was obtained using the Taro Yamane formula. Hypotheses were tested using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) with the aid of SmartPLS 3. The findings show that the relationship between research and development intensity, employee training and development and organizational learning mediates the relationship between knowledge management practices and product innovation, organizational innovation, process innovation and innovation are statistically significant, respectively, with R2s of 66.0%, 67.1%, 52.7% and 58.4% as mediator impact and 65.9% as overall impact. The study concluded that organizational learning mediates the effect of absorptive capacity on innovation in a positively significant manner at the Tuyil Pharmaceutical factory.
Absorptive capacity, Organizational learning, Knowledge management practices, Process innovation
Copyright (c) 2025 Isaac Iortimbir Aun, Oluwayomi Omotayo Olota, Peter Abiodun Abogurin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Challenges Faced by Ex-Offenders in Securing Employment in Green Job Sectors: Systematic Literature Review
This systematic literature review explores the challenges ex-offenders face in securing employment within the growing green job sector, with a specific focus on studies published in Asia between 2000 and 2014. Guided by the ROSES (Reporting Standards for Systematic Evidence Syntheses) protocol, this study follows a structured and transparent process. Four relevant studies were selected from reputable databases, including Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and BASE-Search. This study identifies several recurring barriers: employer discrimination, limited access to green skills training, weak policy support, and persistent social stigma. These challenges not only reduce employment opportunities for ex-offenders but also hinder broader efforts to build inclusive and sustainable labour markets. The findings offer valuable insights for employers, policymakers, and rehabilitation programs. They emphasize the need for targeted training programs, supportive policies, and fair hiring practices. Ultimately, this study highlights the potential of green jobs as a pathway to successful reintegration, reduced recidivism, and a more socially just and environmentally sustainable society.
Ex-offenders, Systematic literature review, Green jobs, ROSES, Employment barriers
Copyright (c) 2025 Fatin Nadirah Khasni, JS KESHMINDER SINGH, S.C. Chuah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Technological Innovation and Customers' Patronage of Selected Deposit Money Banks in Abeokuta, Ogun State
This study examined the effect of technological innovation on customer patronage in selected deposit money banks in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. It explored the significant relationship between technological innovation tools such as Automated Teller Machines (ATM), Mobile Banking (MB), E-Transfers (ET), and Point of Sale (POS) systems and customer patronage. To achieve this, the study used simple random sampling to select nine banks: First Bank Plc., United Bank of Africa Plc., Guarantee Trust Bank Plc., Access Bank, First City Monument Bank, Wema Bank, Keystone Bank, Diamond Bank, and Fidelity Bank Plc. A convenience sampling method was used to select 30 customers from each bank, resulting in 270 respondents. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS), with Pearson’s correlation coefficient and linear regression analysis employed to test the hypotheses and determine whether a significant relationship existed between technological innovation tools and customer patronage. The findings revealed a positive relationship between technological innovation tools and customer patronage, with three independent variables ATM, Mobile Banking (MB), and E-transfer showing strong positive effects on customer patronage, with coefficients of 0.780, 0.737, and 0.705, respectively. Point of Sale (POS) systems had a moderate effect with a coefficient of 0.524, all at a 1% level of significance. The study concluded that ATM, MB, E-transfer, and POS systems significantly impact customer patronage. Therefore, technological innovations adopted by the selected deposit money banks in Abeokuta would help increase customer patronage. The study recommended that the management of these banks address issues related to customer complaints on POS transaction errors promptly and ensure the efficient operation of ATM, mobile banking, and E-transfer systems to retain and attract more customers, fostering continuous patronage and loyalty
Customer and Patronage, Bank, Innovation, Technology
Copyright (c) 2025 John Olopade, I Akintan, S. O Jolaosho https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Exploring the Nexus Between Digital Financial Inclusion and Financial Stability: A Systematic Review of the Literature
The rapid pace of technological advancement has driven the widespread adoption of digital infrastructure in the financial sector, significantly promoting digital financial inclusion. In pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals, digital infrastructure is bridging financial gaps for marginalised communities. Nevertheless, concerns arise across the globe regarding potential challenges accompanying financial service digitilisation. This systematic review comprehensively examines the relationship between digital financial inclusion and financial stability by synthesizing existing research findings. The current research employed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework for accessing articles from Scopus databases. Inclusion criteria comprised peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2017 and 2024 inclusive. The literature survey findings indicated that 41.4% of studies reported negative effects of digital financial inclusion on financial stability, while 17.9% yielded mixed results. Although digital financial technology has been instrumental in promoting digital financial inclusion, majority of studies reviewed highlight potential negative implications for financial stability. The study reveals regulatory framework challenges, severe competition in the financial sector, systemic and cybersecurity vulnerabilities and financial literacy gaps as significant challenges arising from digital financial inclusion. Although digital financial inclusion significantly contributes to the economy, its effectiveness hinges on addressing regulatory, security and literacy concerns. In line with the above findings and conclusions, this study recommends the strengthening of the regulatory frameworks to safeguard financial stability. Policymakers, financial institutions and stakeholders should prioritize digital financial inclusion while establishing robust regulatory frameworks that balance expansion with effective risk management.
Financial Inclusion, Financial Stability, Financial Literacy, Financial Technology
Copyright (c) 2025 Bronson Mutanda, Bomi Cyril Nomlala https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Energy Use in Rural Kenyan Households: A Case Study on the Welfare Impact of Rural Electrification
Rural electrification can, potentially, enhance the welfare of households if the scarcity of inefficient fuels and/or a rise in income facilities inter-fuel substitution towards electricity use. This research aimed to analyse the rural energy use patterns and gauge the welfare impact of rural electrification on households. Descriptive techniques and non-parametric statistics were used to evaluate the inter-fuel substitution to more efficient fuels. Further, regression analysis was used to gain insights into the factors that influence the level of electricity consumption. The analysis shows that firewood is the main energy source in the study area. Further, inter-fuel substitution is hampered by unfavourable electricity tariffs and costly electric appliances for cooking. Although connected households enjoy social benefits attributed to electricity use, its consumption in the study area is low, and the range of electricity-dependent activities is narrow. The findings suggest that there is a need, in the short run, to sustain current efforts to increase wood fuel supply and its end-use efficiency as part of the solution to the rural energy crisis. For electricity to be the major source of energy, the Kenya Power Company should work out a tariff structure that encourages its adoption and consumption. In addition, the Kenyan government should initiate appropriate tax exemptions and subsidies towards wood-fuel-saving devices and relevant electric cooking appliances. Moreover, rural electrification should be treated as an infrastructural project, requiring modification of Rural Electrification Program expansion so that connections are made in those rural areas where the expected electricity demand level and growth appear promising. However, the government should heavily subsidize community standalone solar photovoltaic systems projects to ensure that economically vulnerable communities access electricity service
Copyright (c) 2025 Jacob Chege https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Bibliometric Analysis of Islamic Banking Publication in the Post-Covid-19 Pandemic Era
The deconstruction aims to achieve a comprehensive understanding of Islamic banking and its relationship with Covid-19 through bibliometric analysis. The model analysed 200 papers published between 2020 and 2023, utilizing the Scopus database with the keywords "Islamic banking in the Covid-19 pandemic era." This analysis employed VOSviewer software and Publish or Perish to provide a visual representation of bibliometric data and the effects of the analysis. The first article published during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 appeared in the Journal of Islamic Marketing, authored by D. Suhartanto from Indonesia. In 2020, there were 103 publications, while in 2023, the number decreased to 97. The decline in the number of published journal articles related to Islamic banking from 2020 to 2023 is not substantial, as it reflects a difference of only 6 articles. This research presents current publications on the topic of Islamic banking worldwide, thereby supporting the development of guidelines for the perseverance of Islamic banking. The findings of the study also establish a connection between Islamic banking activities and academic associations. Furthermore, the researcher's commitment to continue studying Islamic banking during the Covid-19 pandemic, and behind it evolves endemic. Through the bibliometric analysis, the emerging topic of the Covid-19 pandemic in the field of Islamic banking can be effectively reviewed, offering a systematic and transparent overview of the literature. As Islamic banking is an evolving financial specialization, there is a pressing need for a more global interpretation of this banking strategy.
Bibliometric, Covid 19, Islamic Banking, Scopus, VOSviewer
Copyright (c) 2025 Zulfikar Hasan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Tabarru’ Taste: A Centralized Hub for Unifying Shariah-Compliant Efforts to Alleviate Poverty Through Food Redistribution
Tabarru' Taste addresses food waste and hunger through a Shariah-compliant approach, blending Islamic financial principles such as Tabarru', Waqf, Takaful, and Wakalah. The platform partners with grocery stores, small businesses, NGOs, and government agencies to collect and redistribute surplus food, reducing waste while providing for those in need. It actively promotes corporate social responsibility by offering incentives like awards, tax benefits, and recognition to participating SMEs, which in turn enhances their reputation and financial stability. The platform's foundation, rooted in Islamic values, makes it especially appealing in Muslim-majority regions, setting it apart in a competitive market. Environmental sustainability is central, with a focus on reducing landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions through effective food redistribution. The platform encourages community involvement through donations and crowdfunding, fostering a culture of shared responsibility and unity. scalable and comprehensive model addresses immediate food security challenges and contributes to long-term community well-being and environmental sustainability.
Community engagement, Food surplus, Hunger alleviation, Shariah-compliant, Tabarru’
Copyright (c) 2024 Najwatul Nadhirah Bohari, Nur Qurratuain Mardhiah Mohamad Zamri, Mohammad Firdaus Mohammad Hatta, Nor Irvoni Mohd Ishar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Uninsured Motorists’ Risk Attitudes and Pedestrian Road Safety: Evidence from Metropolitan Lagos, Nigeria
With the increasing prevalence of uninsured vehicles in urban areas, motorists’ behaviours on pedestrian safety are crucial for developing effective road safety strategies. This study investigated the happenings around uninsured motorists’ risk attitudes and pedestrian road safety in metropolitan Lagos, Nigeria. Using the survey approach cum the two-way sampling techniques comprised of purposive and convenience, data were gathered to analyse the behavioural dispositions of uninsured motorists and their implications on pedestrian road safety. The study adopted a structured questionnaire as a research instrument for data collection from a sample population of 209. The data analytical employed was descriptive statistics comprised of simple frequency percentages presented in tabular form and bar chart description. Findings revealed, based on pedestrian opinions, that uninsured motorists display riskier driving behaviours, such speeding and reckless driving pattern; which was found prevalent among commercial uninsured motorists. In addition, insufficient implementation of insurance regulation and socio-economic factors contributed to the proliferation of uninsured vehicles. The study also showcased the descriptive analysis of uninsured motorists’ risk attitudes towards pedestrian road safety. Further finding presented a descriptive analysis of pedestrians’ road safety metrics on Lagos roads. Then, the study accentuates the urgent need for comprehensive policy intervention targeting uninsured motorists, including stricter application of insurance laws, public awareness campaigns, enhanced infrastructure to improve pedestrian safety in urban environment, like metropolitan, Lagos, Nigeria and in similar contexts in other African cities and beyond. Thus, insurance practitioners, especially motor insurance providers, should synergise their efforts to improve the accessibility and affordability of insurance for motorists, particularly, the low-income individuals; by creating flexible payment options, and subsidising insurance premiums. Lastly, local communities should engage with other stakeholders in the transport industry to ensure road safety culture, promoting responsible driving behaviour and encouraging compliance with insurance regulation.
Uninsured motorists, Risk attitudes, Pedestrian, Road safety, Lagos metropolitan
Copyright (c) 2024 Sunday Stephen Ajemunigbohun, Mrs. Kudirat Adeola BANJO, Mrs Taiwo Olarinre OLUWALEYE https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Environmental Justice in the Age of Energy Transition: A Case Study of Shell's Operational Impact on Bayelsa State Ecosystem (2000-2023)
This study investigates environmental justice within the context of the ongoing energy transition, focusing on the shell's operational impact on the ecosystem of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. It assesses the effects of shell's activities on local communities, particularly regarding environmental degradation and socioeconomic well-being. The research employs a descriptive design, surveying 290 respondents, including chiefs, community leaders, youths, and opinion leaders from ten purposively selected oil-producing communities in Bayelsa State. Data were collected using a self-designed questionnaire on environmental justice concerns and Shell's operational impact, with responses measured on a four-point Likert scale. The questionnaire's validity was ensured through expert review, with reliability confirmed by a Cronbach's alpha of 0.73. Data collection, achieved with a 91% response rate, involved frequency counts, percentages, means, standard deviations, and independent linear regression to test the null hypothesis at a 0.05 significance level. The findings reveal a statistically significant relationship between Shell's operational activities and the degradation of Bayelsa State's ecosystem. Additionally, the study discovered that community resistance significantly influences corporate accountability, with Shell's operations detrimentally affecting environmental justice and ecological integrity in the region. Thus this research contributes to the broader discourse on environmental justice during the energy transition, offering specific recommendations for Shell to adopt a human rights-based approach to its operations, emphasizing ecological restoration to address the environmental and social harms caused by its activities in oil-producing regions. .
Environmental Justice, Energy Transition, Ecosystem, Oil Pollution, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC)
Copyright (c) 2024 Tamaramiebi Timidi, Richman Oyindoubra Angiamaowei https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0