Mathematical Sciences and Informatics Journal

An Integer Linear Programming Approach to the Travelling Salesman Problem for Optimizing Self-Drive Tourist Routes in Kuala Lumpur

Nur Azirah Suliman — 2023-05-05

Problem: Self-drive tourism offers tourists the flexibility to explore destinations at their own pace, utilizing private transport. However, it is essential to underscore the significance of thorough planning for a successful and enjoyable experience.

Aims/Objectives: The objective of this research is to explore the concept of travelling salesman problem and its application in optimizing travel routes for self-drive tourists visiting Kuala Lumpur.

Methodology/approach: The study employed an integer linear programming (ILP) model to propose efficient routes that connect all seven notable points of interest in Kuala Lumpur, including the Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, Central Market, Merdeka Square, Bukit Bintang, KL Tower, and Titiwangsa Lake Garden.

Results/finding: Implementation of ILP for suggested routes results in reduction of approximately 36.86% in transportation distance, ultimately leading to a decrease in transportation costs. This demonstrates the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed approach, enabling tourists to maximize their experience while minimizing time and energy spent navigating congested or inefficient roads.

Implication/impact: This research emphasizes the importance of self-drive tourism and the application of an ILP model in optimizing travel routes for tourists in Kuala Lumpur. By following the suggested routes, visitors can efficiently navigate the city's diverse neighborhoods and transportation options, while enjoying its notable attractions. The significant reduction in transportation distance achieved through this approach highlights its effectiveness in enhancing the travel experience in Kuala Lumpur.

Forecasting the CO2 Emissions at Malaysia using Group Method of Data Handling

BASRI BADYALINA — 2024-08-27

This study utilizes the Group Method of Data Handling (GMDH) model to anticipate CO2 emissions, providing a comprehensive analysis of various input variables, training methods, and forecasting stages. The research uncovers distinct patterns in the behavior of input variables X1, X2, and X3 during both training and forecasting. Notably, X2 consistently exhibits strong performance, whereas X1 and X3 face difficulties, particularly in the forecasting phase. The GMDH model demonstrates proficiency in adaptive self-organization, automatic feature extraction, managing non-linear relationships, and interpretability, enhancing its effectiveness in capturing complex patterns in CO2 emission data. The observed decrease in performance for specific inputs during the forecasting process highlights the necessity for improving and adjusting the model and developing a detailed grasp of the dynamics of the variables involved.

Notwithstanding these challenges, the study acknowledges the importance of CO2 emission forecasting for policymakers, industries, and environmentalists. It empowers them to make well-informed choices, implement measures to reduce harm, contribute to worldwide efforts to combat climate change and achieve emission reduction objectives. In essence, our research promotes a collective dedication to a future that is both environmentally friendly and resilient in the face of challenges.

An An Illustration of Bilah Keris Luk 7 with Bezier Cubic Curve and Cubic Polynomial Curve

MASNIRA RAMLI — 2024-08-27

The Bezier cubic curve and cubic polynomial curve are used to illustrate the bilah keris, commonly known as a 'blade dagger'. Keris is a popular weapon in Malaysia, originally designed for battle. Currently, it has evolved into a conventional craft with aesthetic characteristics. Keris has wavy edges known as luk, which typically come in odd numbers like three, five, seven, eleven, and thirteen. A luk is a curve on a keris defined by various equations. Traditionally, each luk represents a distinct meaning and symbolism. The keris luk 7 represents authority and charisma in government. However, mathematically, this study examined the various curves on the luk of the bilah keris. Two distinct equations are applied to create the graphic image for the blade of the keris with 7 luk. The equations of curves representing different shapes were defined using MAPLE software, and the coordinates were obtained from the GetData Graph Digitizer. The distinctive curve on the bilah keris model is determined using mathematical equations, which represent two distinct visualisations of the keris. As a result, these eight specific curves demonstrate the flexibility of the curves with the coordinate points acting as the control points on the image.

Optimizing Procurement System Using Nielsen’s Heuristics

SITI NURUL HAYATIE ISHAK — 2024-08-27

A fitness center grapples with significant challenges related to administrative errors, prolonged purchase cycles, and supplier management issues, resulting in escalated costs and operational inefficiencies. To address these hurdles, this project aims to develop a procurement system for this fitness center, targeting the optimization of procurement activities, improvement of inventory management, and facilitation of smoother interactions with suppliers for managers, staff, and suppliers alike. The objective of this study was to identify the requirements for the procurement system, design and develop the system with integrating Nielsen's heuristics. Furthermore, system evaluation has been conducted to test its functionality and usability to the target users. Utilizing an adapted waterfall model as the framework, the system's scope encompasses user registration, login procedures, purchase order submission, invoice generation, and equipment maintenance and management. The evaluation results demonstrated that the system meets all requirements outlined in the test plan. Additionally, feedbacks from both users and experts have been integrated to further refine the system. Implementation of this system will make the procurement process smoother and more organized. By prioritizing usability, efficiency, and user satisfaction, the system has the potential to optimize procurement activities, reduce errors, and ultimately improve the overall functioning of the fitness center.

Comparative Study of the Selection of the Best Contractor Using Fuzzy Weak Autocatalytic Set and Analytic Hierarchy Process

Siti Salwana Mamat — 2024-08-27

The prevalence of pairwise comparison in decision-making processes, particularly in Multiple Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) contexts, and the need for effective techniques to address MCDM challenges in the context of contractor selection. The objectives of this research are; 1) To explore and apply the Fuzzy Weak Autocatalytic Set (FWACS) technique in the problem of contractor selection. 2) To compare the outcomes of FWACS with those obtained using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). This research has been initiated by a preliminary analysis of the characteristics of the theorem based on a literature review. The methodology will start with the utilization of the FWACS technique, followed by the conception of a fuzzy graph through a comparative assessment of a set of alternatives. Next is a comprehensive comparison of outcomes between FWACS and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and lastly, a sensitivity analysis to substantiate the stability and consistency of decisions derived from FWACS. The decisions derived from FWACS exhibit stability and consistency. In comparison with AHP, it's confirmed that FWACS not only matches established methods but also excels in handling uncertainties typical of real-world situations. FWACS, especially within the fuzzy framework, stands out for effectively managing uncertainty. This advantage makes it particularly useful for complex decision problems involving imprecise or ambiguous information. The practical application of FWACS in addressing contractor selection problems. The substantiated stability and consistency of decisions derived from FWACS make them comparable to those derived from AHP.

The Impact of Predator Attack Behaviour on Interactions in Two Prey an One-Predator Systems

Zati Iwani Abdul Manaf — 2024-08-27

This research explores a three-species model of prey and predator interactions, which includes primary and secondary prey and a predator. The main concern is the potential disturbance caused by uncontrolled predator attacks, which can harm the coexistence of species and disrupt the entire food chain system. Thus, this research aims to analyze the impact of predator attacks on primary and secondary prey, focusing on coexistence dynamics or potential extinction within the system. The approach involves formulating a simplified ordinary differential equation for a two-prey and one-predator system, calculating equilibrium points, and performing theoretical stability analysis. Numerical simulations are executed using Maple and MATLAB software to validate the theoretical findings, providing a strong foundation for the research outcomes. The main findings indicate that high-intensity predator attacks can result in the extinction of prey populations, while moderate-intensity attacks facilitate the coexistence of all species. This research holds significant implications for ecological conservation, offering insights that can guide strategies for managing predator populations and influencing ecosystem stability. This study provides a basis for well-informed ecosystem management and conservation initiatives by clarifying the conditions under which coexistence or extinction occurs.

Determinants of Smartphone Prices using Backward Elimination Technique in Multiple Linear Regression

Sarah Yusoff — 2024-08-27

Problem: The rapidly evolving market for smart gadgets causes smartphone prices to vary widely, frequently posing challenges to what consumers expect and can afford. Therefore, understanding the complex interrelationship of factors that determine smartphone prices has emerged as an important subject for study in an era defined by technological developments.

Aims/Objectives: This study seeks to identify the factors that influence the pricing of smartphones.

Methodology/approach: The study focused on various factors, including the battery capacity, camera quality, screen size, charging speed, device weight, and age in months. The primary data for the research came from the Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) online marketplace, comprising sixty smartphones selected through a simple random sampling technique. We initially developed a multiple linear regression model with SPSS and then refined it using backward elimination.

Results/finding: The results highlight the strong influence of several characteristics on smartphone pricing, namely battery capacity, charging speed, weight, and model age. Interestingly, the examination of six variables revealed that camera and screen size had no effect on price.

Implication/impact: The knowledge acquired from this quantitative analysis not only advances our comprehension of the interplay between technology and consumer demand but also has implications for manufacturers, policymakers, and consumers who desire to navigate the ever-changing sphere of smartphone pricing.

Eccentric Connectivity Index of the Non-Commuting Graph Associated to the Dihedral Groups of Order at Most 12

Zulfazleen Natasha binti Zulkiflee — 2024-08-27

A topological index is a numerical value or invariant in mathematics that characterizes specific topological aspects of a space, manifold, or mathematical object. Topological indices are used to differentiate between topological spaces or to capture specific characteristics of their structure. Meanwhile, a non-commuting graph is a graph in which two unique vertices are adjacent if and only if they do not commute, that is , and it consists of the non-central elements set in a group as a vertex. In this paper, Maple software constructed the non-commuting graph of the dihedral groups of order at most 12. Then, the degree and distance of the non-commuting graph for dihedral groups are found. The eccentric connectivity index of the non-commuting graph of dihedral groups of order at most 12 is computed using its definition. As a result, the eccentric connectivity index of non-commuting graphs for dihedral groups increases as the order of the groups increases. In real life, one of the eccentric connectivity index's effects is that it can be utilized as a chemical descriptor in drug discovery to predict biological activities such as binding affinities to target proteins or enzymes.

Efficiency Of Malaysian Life Insurance Company Using Two-Stage DEA Method

Nur Rasyida Mohd Rashid — 2024-08-27

The insurance industry provides unique financial services for the growth and development of every country. The efficiency measurement in the insurance companies may increase the quality of their operations and assist in identifying the inefficacy stages for future improvements. This research intends to evaluate the efficiency of 12 life insurance companies in Malaysia by applying the Traditional DEA method as well as the Two-Stage DEA method in the year 2021. Traditional DEA views the actions of decision-makers as a black box, overlooking the intermediate process which is unsuitable for network systems in the insurance industry. The production process of a life insurance company is divided into two sub-processes, which are operational and profitability stages, suitable to be evaluated by the Two-Stage DEA method. This method calculates the efficiency score of the DMUs by equally considering the intermediate phases. The model was executed using Lingo 20.0 software yielding efficiency scores ranging from 0 to 1. The findings revealed that five companies performed efficiently throughout the whole production process under Traditional DEA. However, none of these five companies has an overall efficiency score of 1 under the Two-Stage DEA. This is because none of those companies are efficient in both sub-processes. This reveals the limitations of Traditional DEA thus offers valuable insights to Malaysian life insurance companies on the effectiveness of Two-Stage DEA in assessing operational and profitability efficiencies. This study aids companies identify areas for improvement and encourage benchmarking against efficient competitors.

An Evaluation of Online Food Delivery Application: Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process

Nur Solihah Khadhiah Abdullah — 2024-08-27

Food delivery is one of the businesses reporting growth rates after the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to social isolation and extensive lockdowns worldwide, individuals who once dined out now choose online food delivery. To keep up with the ever-changing market dynamics, the service provider must be aware of various measurements and aspects related to sustainable growth. Therefore, this study aims to determine the criteria for evaluating online food delivery applications, calculate the weight for criteria, and rank the online food delivery applications according to the most preferred by the customers. This study uses a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM)-based framework which is the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP). The FAHP is used to produce weights for criteria by applying fuzzy set theory to the linguistic evaluation statements of experts and ranking the online food delivery applications according to the customer's preference. The findings indicate that Foodpanda is the most preferred food delivery application, followed by GrabFood and McDelivery. The most crucial main criterion is economics, with delivery cost as the priority sub-criteria. The second most important criterion is technology, the third is service quality, and the last is social and environmental. This study is useful for the service provider in improving the criteria that will most affect the customer, as well as for the customer to wisely choose the e-service application that meets their demand.