Journal of Nusantara Studies (JONUS) (Journal of UniSZA - Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin)
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Beyond university support: How family business background shapes social entrepreneurship intention in Indonesia?
Full text linkBackground and Purpose: While university support is widely acknowledged as a catalyst for entrepreneurship, its role in shaping social entrepreneurship intention (SEI) remains debated in literature. Some studies report strong links between institutional support and SEI, while others find minimal or inconsistent influence. This study aims to address this ambiguity by examining the relationship between university support and SEI among Indonesian university students. The broader purpose is to better understand how different forms of perceived institutional support contribute to shaping the social entrepreneurial mindset in emerging economies like Indonesia, particularly within a youth and higher education context.
Methodology: This quantitative study employed a cross-sectional survey approach using structured questionnaires administered to 318 Indonesian university students, selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) via AMOS to assess the direct and indirect effects of university support on SEI, with attitudes toward social entrepreneurship (ATSE) as a mediating variable. The measurement model was validated through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), ensuring construct reliability and validity before hypothesis testing.
Findings: Findings indicate that university support has both direct and indirect effects on SEI. However, university support does not significantly influence ATSE, suggesting that other psychosocial or familial factors may be more critical in shaping attitudes. This points to the complexity of SEI formation, where institutional support may trigger intention through pathways other than attitudinal shifts.
Contributions: This study contributes a contextualized SEI model specific to Indonesian youth and higher education. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, universities, and SME stakeholders seeking to build robust ecosystems for nurturing future social entrepreneurs.
Keywords: University support, social entrepreneurship, intention, higher education, AMOS software.
Cite as: Mohd Wahid, S. D., Wan Hussain, W. M. H., Krishnan, V., Jayabalan, N., & Susanto, P. (2026). Beyond university support: How family business background shapes social entrepreneurship intention in Indonesia? Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 19-32. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp19-3
Towards developing an Islamic affairs management index in Malaysia: A framework based on the analytic hierarchy process
Full text linkBackground and Purpose: In Malaysia, Islamic affairs significantly influence various aspects of governance, social policy, and community life. Despite their importance, there is currently a lack of an index to evaluate the efforts and policies implemented in this domain. As a result, policymakers face challenges in monitoring and guiding the progress of these initiatives. Therefore, this study aims to develop a framework for the Islamic Affairs Management Index (IAMI) to assess the performance of Islamic affairs management in Malaysia.
Methodology: The study employed the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to determine and prioritise indicators and sub-indicators of Islamic affairs. The index framework was constructed based on input from twelve (12) experts, including policymakers, policy executors, academicians, and representatives from non-governmental organisations.
Findings: The study found that Islamic Religious Education (LW = 0.160) is the top priority in evaluating Islamic affairs management, followed by Islamic Family Management (LW = 0.152) and Performance of Islamic Affairs Management (LW = 0.128). At the sub-indicator level, the ‘Quality of Religious Schools’ (GW = 0.068) was identified as the most critical, followed by ‘Performance of Religious School Students’ (GW = 0.055) and ‘Children Management’ (GW = 0.052). These results highlight the key role of educational quality and family management in evaluating Islamic affairs.
Contributions: This study provides a practical tool for Islamic institutions to evaluate and enhance the management of Islamic affairs, supporting informed policy decisions and strategic improvements.
Keywords: Islamic affairs management, index framework, performance assessment, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Malaysia.
Cite as: Zulkefli, M. I. I., Endut, M. N. A., Abdullah, M. R. T. L., Che Jamaludin, F. I., & Zulkipli, S. (2026). Towards developing an Islamic affairs management index in Malaysia: A framework based on the analytic hierarchy process. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 214-231. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp214-23
Capturing hope: the struggle continues for a new Malaysia
Full text linkMahathir Mohamad writes about the political comeback of Malaysia's longest-serving leader during its most turbulent time in Capturing Hope: The Struggle Continues for a New Malaysia from 2018 to 2020. The book documents Mahathir’s reflections as Malaysia’s seventh Prime Minister after spearheading Pakatan Harapan (PH) to victory in the 14th General Election, which ended six decades of Barisan Nasional’s dominance. The text combines Mahathir's life story with political analysis through his dual role as a memoirist and political commentator. The text combines Mahathir's story of his 92-year-old political comeback with his analysis of corruption and governance, coalition politics, and reform. Central to the account is the fragile nature of PH’s multiracial coalition, Mahathir’s uneasy reconciliation with Anwar Ibrahim, and the eventual collapse of the government following his resignation in 2020. The book shows that Mahathir believed that strong leadership was needed to achieve reform and stability, but his approach was often seen as authoritarian. Mahathir presents himself as both a reformist and a pragmatist who wants to create a Malaysia without corruption, ethnic divisions, and institutional weaknesses. Through its blend of inspiration and controversy, Capturing Hope offers valuable insights into the complexities of Malaysia’s democratic transition and leadership challenges.
Cite as: Razali, N. A., & Sabtu, M. H. (2026). Review of the book Capturing hope: the struggle continues for a new Malaysia by Mahathir Mohamad. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 311-314. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp311-31
Learning Chinese at Confucius institutes in Malaysian universities: Perspectives from east Malaysia through a cultural diplomacy lens
Full text linkBackground and Purpose: Global demand for Chinese as a foreign language has surged, especially in Southeast Asia, driven by China’s growth. Malaysia, with strong China ties, has high demand, partly met by Confucius Institutes (CIs), yet research on East Malaysian university CIs is scarce. Since Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) launched East Malaysia’s first CI in 2019, its operations and learner experiences require systematic study. This research addresses this gap, exploring Chinese learning realities at UMS’s CI to illuminate dynamics in multilingual, cross-cultural contexts.
Methodology: A qualitative case study was used, with semi-structured interviews of two CI management directors and three students (purposively sampled to capture institutional and learner perspectives). Interviews focused on experiences, pedagogy, challenges, and strategies. Data were analyzed via thematic coding in Microsoft Excel to identify key patterns.
Findings: Students highlighted five factors: (a) mixed motivations (career/interest), (b) contextual pedagogy effectiveness, (c) limited immersive cultural engagement, (d) productive skill acquisition barriers, and (e) needs for program enhancement. Directors emphasized: (a) the integrative mission, (b) aligning with local needs, (c) multifaceted challenges, and(d) growth through community collaboration.
Contributions: This study fills a gap on East Malaysian CIs, offering insights for improving programs (e.g., cultural immersion, skill practice). It enriches understanding of global language initiatives in local contexts, guiding educators, policymakers, and future research on Chinese education in Southeast Asia.
Keywords: Chinese education, Confucius Institute, cultural diplomacy, Malaysia-China relation, East Malaysia.
Cite as: AlSaqqaf, A., Hu, K., Rahim, S., & Rudie Adie, R. (2026). Learning Chinese at Confucius institutes in Malaysian universities: Perspectives from east Malaysia through a cultural diplomacy lens. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 1-18. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp1-1
A scientometric review of religiosity, spirituality, and well-being in elderly populations
Full text linkBackground and Purpose: Research on the relationships between religiosity, spirituality, and elderly well-being has grown rapidly, yet its intellectual structure and thematic evolution remain fragmented across disciplines. This study maps the knowledge base on religiosity/spirituality and well-being among older adults, identifies influential contributors and themes, and highlights gaps to guide future scholarship.
Methodology: We retrieved 577 English-language journal articles published from 1992 to 2023 from the Web of Science Core Collection using topic searches combining religiosity/spirituality, well-being, and elderly-related terms. We conducted descriptive performance analysis (publication trends and leading journals, countries, and institutions) and used CiteSpace to run co-citation network analysis and thematic clustering.
Findings: The literature shows sustained growth, with the steepest rise in the last decade. Key clusters emphasize mental health and quality-of-life outcomes, religious/spiritual coping, social support, and care settings. Less-developed fronts include spirituality-informed public health and social policy, as well as longitudinal evidence on how religiosity and spirituality shape well-being trajectories in later life.
Contributions: This scientometric study consolidates a dispersed field by visualizing its core structure and emerging fronts, and proposes a forward agenda that is more interdisciplinary, policy-relevant, and longitudinal.
Keywords: Aging population, co-citation analysis, elderly well-being, mental health, religiosity, scientometric analysis, spirituality.
Cite as: Abd Aziz, N. N., & Mohd Noor, M. I. (2026). A scientometric review of religiosity, spirituality, and well-being in elderly populations. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 99-115. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp99-11
Sustaining “Chineseness” via Chinese clan associations: Youth and the reproduction of social capital
Full text linkBackground and Purpose: Traditional Chinese clan associations are often considered at risk in the face of rapidly developing technology and a shift away from traditional norms. Using Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association Kuala Lumpur & Selangor (CSSYKL) as a case study, this paper explores how a centennial Cantonese ancestral clan association in Malaysia seeks to involve youth, and how the reproduction of social capital through youth participation contributes to its continued sustainability.
Methodology: This study collects data through fieldwork, participant observation, interview, and document review. Fieldwork was conducted at the clan house at Petaling Street, KL and observations were performed both physically and online. In-depth interviews were conducted with 13 clan members using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Data were analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework.
Findings: Data analysis reveals that youth serve as culture bearers, network builders, operational facilitators, and innovators in CSSYKL. While contributing to the effective functioning and sustainability of the clan association, youth benefit from the social capital developed through their participation. However, social capital can create barriers to inclusion and reinforce power imbalances within the clan association, limiting the potential of youth and openness of the organization.
Contributions: This study contributes to understanding the continuity of traditional clan associations in the 21st century, supported by youth’s participation. It highlights the cultural and social significance of clan associations in shaping youth’s cultural identity and social capital, as well as their impact on personal and communal life.
Keywords: Clan association, CSSYKL, social capital, clan identity, youth.
Cite as: Tang, Y. Y., Khalid, K. A. T. & Chan, R. S. K. (2025). Sustaining “Chineseness” via Chinese clan associations: Youth and the reproduction of social capital. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 155-173. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp155-17
Eco realities on the east coast of Malaysia: Who knows more, who does more?
Full text linkBackground and Purpose: Malaysia’s remarkable natural landscapes face increasing threats from the worsening global climate crisis, further exacerbated by local human activities such as improper waste management, deforestation, and pollution of air and waterways. This study assesses the current awareness, knowledge, and attitudes toward environmental practices among communities on the East Coast of Malaysia ‒ Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang.
Methodology: This study employed a cross-sectional research design and a non-probability purposive sampling technique. Primary data were collected using self-administered questionnaires which were distributed to 267 adults in the communities of Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang between September and October 2024. This study utilised SPSS and SmartPLS 3.0 for data analysis.
Findings: The findings reveal a positive influence of environmental awareness, knowledge, and attitude on environmental practices within these communities. Additionally, multigroup analysis shows that urban communities exhibit a stronger positive attitude toward environmental practices than rural communities. The results from this study extend the environmental literacy model by incorporating residential area (rural vs. urban) as a moderating variable, highlighting the need for differentiated approaches in environmental sustainability programs.
Contributions: It contributes a valuable insight to policymakers and agencies to design any policies or programmes in addressing the unique challenges of rural and urban areas on Malaysia’s East Coast, thereby supporting the nation’s broader sustainability agenda.
Keywords: Awareness, knowledge, attitude, environmental practices, multi-group analysis.
Cite as: Hashim, N. H., Mohamad Ibrahim, R., Othman, A., Abdul Halim, B., & Sulong, Z. (2026). Eco realities on the east coast of Malaysia: Who knows more, who does more? Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 33-49. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp33-4
Exploring 22 years of research on mobile educational games: A bibliometric analysis
Full text linkBackground and Purpose: Digital educational technologies have optimised educational methods while enabling the integration of education and games. Whereas previous studies have explored the modules of educational games design, development and evaluation separately, a comprehensive study is still lacking. Therefore, this study uses bibliometrics to provide an in-depth analysis of the full flow of mobile educational games research over the past 22 years, including identifying core authors, analysing key organisations, exploring key countries/areas, and revealing research hotspots.
Methodology: In order to explore research related to the design, development and evaluation of mobile educational games between 2003 and 2024, this study searched 1,048 articles through the Web of Science (WoS) database and conducted quantitative analyses of core authors, organisations, countries/areas, and keywords using the VOSviewer software.
Findings: The bibliometric analysis shows that there are a total of 137 core authors in the field of mobile educational games. There is a high collaboration intensity between Utrecht University and University of Amsterdam. The USA, China and England are the core countries. The research themes were focused on basic education, learning effectiveness, and technological innovation, respectively.
Contributions: This research can be a comprehensive resource for researchers interested in the design, development and evaluation of mobile educational games.
Keywords: Mobile Educational Games, Design, Development, Evaluation, Bibliometric Analysis.
Cite as: Tan, J. Y., Abd Majid, M. Z., & Abdul Karim, A. (2026). Exploring 22 years of research on mobile educational games: A bibliometric analysis. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 50-63. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp50-6
Special education for children with learning disabilities: Parental views
Full text linkBackground and Purpose: The Malaysian Education Act 1996 (1998) introduced inclusive education to ensure equal opportunities for all students, including those with special educational needs (SENs). While emphasising a child's right to education and a school's responsibility to provide support, parents of children with learning disabilities often face significant stress from unaddressed worries. This study, therefore, aims to investigate Malaysian parents' perspectives on their children's special needs education, acknowledging their critical role.
Methodology: This quantitative study surveyed 60 parents of children diagnosed with learning disabilities via a virtual snowball sampling method. An adapted questionnaire was electronically distributed using WhatsApp and Facebook. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, with open-ended responses examined thematically.
Findings: The survey revealed notably high levels of parental agreement across various aspects, demonstrating progress in Malaysian special education. Parents expressed satisfaction with aspects like their role as partners, parent-friendly resources, school support networks, and their child’s participation and acceptance. However, areas identified for improvement include teacher training, Inclusive Education Program (IEP) implementation, infrastructure, equitable public vs. private programme quality, and access to experts. Despite overall positive feedback, these specific concerns warrant attention.
Contributions: These findings offer relevant parties, particularly the Ministry of Education, a crucial opportunity to re-evaluate and enhance the national special education programme. Policy and process changes, informed by collected data and stakeholder advice (parents, teachers, administrators, specialists), are essential. For instance, improving service quality requires providing teachers, especially in public schools, with proper training to manage diverse classroom needs. (249 words)
Keywords: Parent perceptions, children, learning disability, inclusive education, special education.
Cite as: Abdullah, H., Ab Wahab, N., Baharudin, D. F., Mohd Ali, M. A., Zakaria, Z. A., Saimin, R., & Abdullah, N. (2026). Special education for children with learning disabilities: Parental views. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 276-290. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp276-29
The relationship between mathematics attitude and creative thinking among secondary students
Full text linkBackground and Purpose: This study aims to examine the levels of mathematics attitudes and creative thinking among Malaysian secondary school students and to explore the relationship between these two factors. The goal is to provide valuable insights and recommendations to enhance the overall quality of mathematics education in Malaysia.
Methodology: A quantitative research design was adopted, using a survey as the primary method of data collection. Data were collected from 531 secondary school students in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur through a validated instrument that is Mathematics Attitude and Creative Thinking Scale (MACTS). Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS.
Findings: The findings indicate that the overall levels of mathematics attitude (M = 3.26, SD = 0.71) and creative thinking (M = 3.28, SD = 0.69) among Malaysian secondary school students were at a middle high level. Additionally, the study revealed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.70, p < 0.001) between students' attitudes toward mathematics and their creative thinking skills.
Contributions: This study provides significant contributions to both theory and practice in mathematics education. Theoretically, it enriches the existing literature by exploring the relationship between mathematics attitudes and creative thinking skills within the Malaysian secondary school context. Practically, it provides valuable information for teachers, curriculum developers, and policymakers.
Keywords: Mathematics attitudes, creative thinking, mathematics education, STEM education, secondary school students