Asian Social Work Journal
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The Impact of Social Media on The Voting Trend of Malaysian Undergraduates
No full textSocial media has had a significant impact on political communication and election outcomes worldwide. In Malaysia, politicians and parties have rapidly adopted social media platforms to engage with the electorate, highlighting its importance in shaping voter behavior and political campaigns. However, there is limited research on its specific impact on election outcomes. This study aims to examine how social media influences the decision-making of Malaysian undergraduates, who represent a significant portion of new voters due to the Undi18 initiative. This study utilized a multiple-choice questionnaire to gather data on the political preferences and behaviors of Malaysian undergraduates in the context of recent electoral changes. The questionnaire was distributed via the WhatsApp platform to ensure wide accessibility and participation among students across the country. The survey was conducted from January 17 to January 26, 2023, and received responses from 772 undergraduates enrolled in both public and private universities.The study reveals that platforms like TikTok play a crucial role in shaping political preferences and engagement among young voters. TikTok has become the primary source of information for this demographic, surpassing traditional media platforms like Facebook and television. The study also shows that social media influences go beyond information dissemination, impacting perceptions of political leaders and parties. Political parties are adapting to this shift by prioritizing platforms like TikTok for their campaigns, recognizing the importance of effective social media utilization for electoral success. Understanding the role of social media in shaping the political landscape is crucial for Malaysia's political future and for fostering a vibrant and inclusive democracy. The findings highlight the need for political parties to adapt to this new reality by engaging with young voters through innovative digital strategies and addressing their priorities transparently and accountably
Penyatuan Politik UMNO dan PAS Pasca Pru-14 Sehingga Kejatuhan Kerajaan Pakatan Harapan Pada Tahun 2020
Full text linkKajian ini membincangkan mengenai penyatuan politik antara UMNO dan PAS pasca PRU-14 sehingga kejatuhan kerajaan PH pada tahun 2020. Kajian ini memfokuskan kepada kerjasama dan penyatuan antara parti UMNO dan PAS yang berkongsi ideologi yang sama iaitu Melayu dan Islam sejak berakhirnya PRU-14 yang lalu. Pelbagai faktor telah diambil kira dan hasilnya, penyatuan ini berlaku kerana persefahaman antara kedua-dua parti ini, perjuangan kearah isu yang sama serta kerajaan Pakatan Harapan sendiri yang tidak kompeten serta tidak sensitif dalam menangani isu yang melibatkan Melayu dan Islam. Melalui reka bentuk kajian kualitatif, hasil kajian ini telah berjaya menunjukkan kesan yang signifikan terhadap penyatuan ini. Kesan penyatuan UMNO dan PAS dibawah Muafakat Nasional telah memperlihatkan kemenangan BN dalam beberapa siri pilihan raya kecil serta kejayaan UMNO dan PAS dalam menjuarai isu-isu yang tidak mampu ditangani oleh PH khususnya melibatkan Melayu dan Islam yang merupakan isu yang sensitif di samping ketidakupayaan kerajaan PH dalam menjadi sebuah kerajaan yang lebih baik daripada kerajaan BN sebelum ini
“Skin Shades” of Marriage: Viewers’ Perspectives on Controversial Skincare TV Advertisements in Malaysia
Full text linkWith the massive use of skincare products among Malaysians, advertisements for these products are becoming more targeted and personalised, but at the same time, they are also becoming more intrusive and misleading. Therefore, the present study aims to identify the controversial elements portrayed in these skincare TV advertisements and analyse whether these elements are deemed viable marketing strategies by the target audience. A questionnaire adapted from Lester’s Six Perspectives of Visual Communication was distributed to 140 skincare users. Results from the questionnaire revealed that most respondents perceived the approach used by the skincare companies in their advertisements sampled in this research to be highly controversial in terms of their different approaches. Male viewers showed their strong perception on the importance of controversial consideration to produce any skincare TV advertisements. This was based on their perceptions towards the same advertisements presented with the controversial idea that the shade of the skin would determine the stability of the marriage. However, a thorough review should be conducted on these controversial advertisements to ensure they do not violate the target audience’s moral beliefs. By having a specific guideline on the advertising code of conduct, it will ensure that the advertisements will be well-received by them despite the controversial approach. Future research can be done to focus on the different levels of consideration shown by viewers from the old and new generations for more informative findings on this style of advertisement
Interrogating Human Security And Human Trafficking Along Nigeria-Niger Borders 2015-to 2022
Full text linkHuman trafficking is a crime that has persist despite the effort of government in combating the challenge. Various governmental actors at the local, national and international levels have collaborated in combating this menace yet, it still thrives. This has made scholars to beam their searchlight at the factors responsible for its origin and persistence. The Rational Choice Institutionalist theory was adopted as the theoretical framework. This study aimed at the identifying the causes of this menace between Nigeria and Niger Borders from 2015 to 2022. The Illela and Jibia borderlands in Sokoto and Katsina States in the North-Western Nigeria are the focus of this research. Data was collected through interview as a primary source of data. The qualitative data was analyzed using Nvivo to describe the interview responses. The study concluded that poverty is the major factor that responsible for human trafficking in Nigeria. Poverty among other factors has reduced the economic prospects of individuals as such those desperate for better lives are deceived by traffickers usually offer them employment opportunities and improved livelihoods
Comparative Analysis of Social Work Curricula in Asia: Recommendations for Curriculum Development in Cambodia
Full text linkDespite growing recognition of the need for social workers, Cambodia is still at beginning stage in establishing a standardize system recognizing the social service workforce which is an important factor providing direction for social work education development. This paper compares social workforce development frameworks and curricula in developed countries like Korea and developing countries like Thailand to suggest improvements for curriculum development in Cambodia. The research aimed to assess the strengths and limitations of social work curricula in the region and identify effective methods for advancing social work education in Cambodia. The analysis of the social work curriculum using curriculum frameworks such as Curriculum Design and Content, Pedagogical Approaches, Field education, and Accreditation and Registration Systems provides a descriptive analysis of the current state of social work curricula in Korea, Thailand, and Cambodia. Nine recommendations for Cambodia's Social Work Curriculum Development include establishing a well-defined licensure and certification framework, expanding elective courses to focus on specific areas of interest, preserving practicum hours, enhancing collaborations with local social service organizations, including interdisciplinary courses, customizing curriculum material to meet local socioeconomic demands, providing ongoing professional development opportunities for social work educators, enhancing Competency-Based Education by prioritizing skills in line with local contexts, and promoting community involvement through community-based projects and activities
Drug Abuse from Social Work Perspectives
Full text linkSocial work plays a crucial role in restoring societal functions. This paper advocates for integral theory as a defining framework for the identity of social work. In the context of Malaysia, a nation characterized by its multicultural landscape and grappling with a two-century-long issue of drug abuse, the application of integral theory becomes particularly relevant. Through an in-depth case study, this paper aims to illustrate the practicality and efficacy of integral theory in addressing the complex challenges posed by drug abuse in Malaysia. The discussion delves into various facets, including social identities, ego development, ethnopharmacology, and the political climate of Malaysia, providing a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing drug abuse issue. By examining these elements, the paper seeks to underscore how integral theory can serve as a transformative lens for social work in Malaysia. Crucially, this exploration contends that integral theory is not merely a practical tool for establishing the identity of social work; it should also be regarded as the future trajectory of social work. As societal issues evolve, the holistic and inclusive approach offered by integral theory positions social work to effectively navigate the complexities and nuances inherent in addressing drug abuse and other pressing challenges in the years to come
The Application of Solution-Focused Therapy Intervention Module to help Individuals Experiencing Psychological Distress in Organization
Full text linkThis study is a descriptive study of developing a solution-focused therapy as a counselling intervention module for individuals experiencing psychological distress. This module was built based on the Sidek’s module development model that includes the principles of module construction. This counselling intervention model is specifically designed to help individuals with psychological distress to reduce their symptoms. Solution-focused therapy was chosen as an aid because the techniques in this therapy focus more on solution rather than the problem, counselling sessions are simple and brief with minimal cost. There are nine (9) experts consisting of counselling practitioners and counselling academics experts participating as module expert evaluator. The Pearlin's theory of distress psychology is used in this study as a theoretical foundation to understand the distress psychology and its symptoms. Overall, the experts found that the content of the module is suitable for the target audiences with an acceptable evaluation score. Solution focused therapy embedded in a module is a good initiative and can be strengthened further to be used by counselling practitioners in a real setting
Finding Strength Through Adversity: An Exploratory Study of the Role of Homesickness among International Students
Full text linkHomesickness is a well-studied phenomenon among international students, traditionally viewed as a negative experience. However, emerging research suggests that it can also have positive implications for other individuals. This exploratory study aims to address this gap by investigating the potential benefits of homesickness on international students from diverse cultural backgrounds and exploring the coping mechanisms they employ to manage it. Utilizing a purposive sampling approach, the study recruited ten participants: five from Africa, three from America, and two from Asia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of their experiences with homesickness, its impact on their lives, and the coping strategies they utilized. The findings indicate that homesickness can act as a catalyst for positive change, fostering identity-based cohesion, a willingness to learn, and cultural appreciation resilience. Participants reported re-evaluating and redefining their existing relationships, underscoring the significance of social connections. The study also identified various coping mechanisms employed by students, including cultural engagement, social networks, and the utilization of emotional coping strategies. Overall, our study suggests that while homesickness presents challenges, it can also serve as a trigger for personal growth and positive development among international students
Accessibility of Young Farmers Towards the Government's Paddy Agricultural Aid Program in The MADA Administration Area
Full text linkThe role of young farmers in the paddy agriculture sector is vital for ensuring the sustainability and progression of agricultural activities. Therefore, it is crucial that young farmers receive attention from various parties to gain access to government aid for paddy agriculture. This study aims to address three objectives: identifying the challenges young farmers face in accessing government programs and aid for paddy agriculture, understanding the importance of accessibility to these programs and aid for young farmers, and exploring strategies to enhance accessibility. For this study, a qualitative approach was adopted, and 15 respondents were interviewed individually. The findings reveal that the main issue and challenge faced by young farmers is their lack of preparedness to access government aid for paddy agriculture. The study also explores the importance of government aid for young farmers through the insights gathered during the interviews. Five key benefits of government paddy agriculture aid for young farmers were identified: reducing operational costs, increasing revenue, lightening the workload, improving fertilizing and harvesting techniques, and increasing paddy farming yields. Finally, the study proposes practices to enhance accessibility for young farmers, which include empowering their skills and abilities, strengthening public institutions, and improving infrastructure facilities. These findings can serve as a benchmark for future endeavors and guide interested parties in their efforts to support young farmers
Unveiling Opium Knowledge Level: A Gender-Based Analysis Among Tertiary Students
Full text linkThe surge in opioid abuse has significantly impacted the general population, particularly affecting tertiary students. Opium misuse within this demographic presents a complex challenge influenced by various social, psychological, and environmental factors. Addressing this research gap, the study investigates the knowledge of opium-type drugs (opiate, heroin, morphine, and oxycodone) among tertiary students, with a specific focus on gender differences. Using a cross-sectional research design and a quantitative approach, data were collected from 296 tertiary students through Google Forms. Descriptive analysis, employing percentages and frequencies, revealed intriguing patterns in knowledge and lack of knowledge across genders regarding various opium drugs. In the opiates category, females demonstrate a slightly higher knowledge percentage (42.9%) compared to males (40.2%). Conversely, females show a significantly higher lack of knowledge about LSD (33.1%) compared to males (22.3%). Regarding heroin, males display a slightly higher knowledge percentage (43.2%) than females (40.9%); nevertheless, females have a notably higher lack of knowledge about heroin (10.1%) compared to males (5.8%). Knowledge about morphine is comparable between males (42.6%) and females (41.2%), but females exhibit a slightly higher lack of knowledge (9.8%) compared to males (6.4%). In the case of oxycodone, males exhibit a significantly higher knowledge percentage (16.2%) than females (9.1%); however, females show a notably higher lack of knowledge (41.9%) compared to males (32.8%). The analysis underscores diverse knowledge patterns among genders, emphasizing the need for targeted educational interventions. Overall, the study concludes that the knowledge level concerning opiates, heroin, and morphine is robust, shaped by widespread information dissemination, educational initiatives, and the involvement of healthcare professionals, collectively enhancing public awareness