Open Journal System Universiti Malaysia Kelantan
Not a member yet
1069 research outputs found
Sort by
Beauty, Branding and Breakthroughs: THE.ICS Journey
No full textA ceiling fan turned lazily above the sewing table, but the true colour in the room came from a makeshift vanity crowded with lipsticks, loose pans of pigment, and trial bottles.
“One day I’ll put my own name on these,” whispered Iqah, steadying her hand as she labelled a sample jar.
Months earlier she had tried to sell a foundation and a face mist, but almost no one bought them. The disappointment lingered, but so did curiosity. Her phone chimed. An Instagram follower wrote,
“Your bridal look was gorgeous. Do you sell your own products?”
She looked from the message to the scattered samples and quietly answered herself. Not yet, but soon
Evaluation of nutritional profiles, phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activities in Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench (red vs. white)
No full textSorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) is the fifth most widely cultivated cereal grain globally. It is valued for its rich nutritional profile, gluten-free nature, and health-promoting properties, particularly its antioxidant potential. However, limited comparative data exist on the nutritional content, phytochemicals, and antioxidant activities between the red and white sorghum. This research aims to compare these characteristics between the two variants of sorghum, which is red sorghum and white sorghum. Red and white sorghum were dehydrated at 60 °C for 1 hour. Proximate analysis was performed to determine the nutritional content, Folin-Ciocalteu assay for total phenolic content (TPC) and aluminum chloride colorimetric method for total flavonoid content (TFC). Antioxidant activities were assessed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH+) and 2,2\u27-azino-bis [3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid] (ABTS+) assays. The results were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and differences with p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Red sorghum exhibited significantly higher protein (p = 0.001), while white sorghum exhibited higher ash content (p = 0.036). Although red sorghum showed slightly higher TPC (235.03 ± 59.82 µg GAE/g) and TFC (6.53 ± 3.27 µg QE/g) than white sorghum (214.03 ± 74.08 µg GAE/g and 4.95 ± 2.8 µg QE/g, respectively), the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The DPPH assay showed that WS exhibited significantly higher radical scavenging activity with 87.4% inhibition (IC₅₀ = 260.01 µg/ml) compared to RS at 77.4% inhibition (IC₅₀ = 268.67 µg/ml). Conversely, the ABTS assay revealed stronger antioxidant activity in RS, which had a higher inhibition percentage (67.6%, IC₅₀ = 326.00 µg/ml) than WS (49.0%, IC₅₀ = 827.27 µg/ml), indicating cultivar-dependent differences in antioxidant efficacy. Thus, red and white sorghum each exhibit distinct strengths, with significant differences in protein, ash content and free radical inhibitions (DPPH and ABTS). However, their comparable TPC, TFC suggest equal potential for functional food applications
Determination of the macroinvertebrates benthic ecological index for river health assessment
No full textConventional river assessments often rely on physico-chemical parameters, which cannot fully capture ecological integrity or long-term impacts of human activities. Benthic macroinvertebrates, however, provide reliable bioindicators as they integrate responses to both short-term and cumulative stressors. This study investigated three rivers in Johor, Malaysia of Sungai Mengkibol, Sungai Dengar and Sungai Madek representing different land-use influences including reference conditions, oil palm plantations and logging activities. Eight sampling stations were established, with benthic macroinvertebrates collected using a Surber net and identified to family or genus level where possible. Four ecological indices were calculated using Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index, Simpson’s Dominance Index, Margalef Richness Index, and Hill’s Evenness Index that purposely to evaluate river health. Threshold values were developed by comparing reference and impaired stations, leading to the establishment of a Recommended Ecological Index for River Health Assessment. Results showed that healthy rivers consistently displayed high diversity (>1.8), high richness (>2.0), low dominance (<0.2), and strong evenness (>0.8), reflecting balanced and resilient communities. In contrast, impaired rivers exposed to anthropogenic pressures recorded low diversity and richness, high dominance, and poor evenness. The proposed framework sets out clear ecological thresholds to help categorize rivers as healthy, slightly unhealthy, or polluted. This is a significant step, as it’s the first time we’re developing reference values for Malaysian rivers using macroinvertebrate indices. The findings emphasize how innovative and practical benthic macroinvertebrate-based biomonitoring can be cost-effective and meaningful from an ecological standpoint. By using these indices, we can strengthen our national river management strategies and promote evidence-based approaches to preserving our tropical freshwater ecosystems
Assessment of Non-Volant Small Mammals at Lenggor Forest Reserve and Mersing Forest Reserve in Johor, Malaysia
No full textSurveys of non-volant small mammals were conducted in two fragmented forest reserves within Johor, namely Mersing Forest Reserve (MFR) and Lenggor Forest Reserve (LFR), which are part of the J-PL1 ecological corridor under the Central Forest Spine (CFS) initiative. The surveys were conducted from June to October 2024 to document the diversity of non-volant small mammals at the MFR and LFR. In each forest reserve, six transect lines measuring 100m in length were established at distances of 300m, 500m, and 1000m from the forest edge. Ten collapsible cage traps were set along each transect line and operated for five consecutive nights per session. A total of four sampling sessions were conducted at each site. Apart from this, observation was made to document arboreal species. Overall, 15 species are recorded from both forest reserves. MFR recorded 15 species (six families), while LFR recorded 11 species (four families). Species diversity (Shannon-Wiener Index) is comparable between MFR (H′ = 1.658) and LFR (H′ = 1.635). Notably, two Vulnerable species, namely Maxomys whiteheadi and Maxomys rajah, were also documented at both forest reserves. These findings portray the ecological significance of LFR and MFR as vital habitats that support a diverse community of non-volant small mammals. Hence, maintaining and enhancing habitat connectivity within the J-PL1 corridor is crucial for preserving ecological integrity and ensuring the long-term survival of non-volant small mammal populations in this ecological corridor and its adjacent areas
From Farm to Fork: Evaluating the Socio-Economic and Environmental Impact of Consumer Meat Preferences in Support of Local Agriculture
No full textConsumer food choices, particularly regarding meat consumption, significantly influence both environmental sustainability and rural economic development. This study examines how consumer preferences for locally sourced versus industrially produced meat impact local agricultural systems, ecological outcomes, and socio-economic conditions. A total of 292 questionnaires were distributed through an online platform. Using a descriptive analysis and Binary Logistic Regression Model, the research explores the drivers of meat purchasing decisions. Results indicate that Malaysian consumers frequently prioritise factors such as price, availability, and brand recognition, even while expressing preference for locally sourced and halal meat. However, barriers such as price sensitivity, consumer awareness, and distribution access limit broader adoption. The study concludes with policy and market recommendations to promote sustainable meat consumption that benefits both local communities and the environment such as addressing price sensitivity, improving consumer awareness, enhancing halal certification, and improving network system and availability of local meat
The Economic Value of Forest Ecosystem Services: Insights from Recreation and Ecotourism
No full textForests provide a variety of ecosystem services essential for human well-being, with recreation and ecotourism increasingly recognised as valuable non-market benefits. This study assesses the economic value of forest ecosystem services and visitors’ perceptions of recreational and conservation roles within two selected Eco Parks in Perak, Malaysia, namely Taman Eko-Rimba (TER) Lata Iskandar and TER Pasir Panjang. Using the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), primary data were collected through structured surveys of 501 visitors (with a minimum of 250 respondents per site) to estimate their willingness to pay (WTP) for continued recreational access and enhanced conservation initiatives. The findings reveal that recreational and ecotourism services contribute significantly to the local economy through notable non-market values and individual WTP estimates. The OLS and Logistic regression models show mean WTP values of RM5.85 (OLS) and RM8.80 (Logit) for TER Lata Iskandar, and RM8.10 (OLS) and RM10.50 (Logit) for TER Pasir Panjang. Key significant determinants of WTP include income, education, visit frequency, visit duration, and repeat visitation, underscoring the influence of socio-economic capacity and behavioural factors on conservation support. Most visitors expressed strong support for conservation initiatives and recognised the importance of Eco Parks in providing environmental education, biodiversity protection, and community benefits. Positive visitor perceptions further reinforce the role of Eco Parks as essential assets for sustainable tourism and rural economic development. This study highlights the importance of integrating both economic valuation and public perception into forest management strategies to enhance conservation financing, improve visitor experiences, and support community livelihood
Bite’s Story: Balancing Growth Ambition and Entrepreneurial Reality
No full textThe warm aroma of freshly fried doughnuts and melted chocolate filled the air inside Bite’s Story Donut and Pastry House (Bite’s Story), a small but busy bakery tucked into the heart of Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan. Customers queued eagerly at the counter, their chatter blending with the hiss of frying oil and the rhythmic hum of a doughnut-making machine, as trays of doughnuts disappeared almost as quickly as they were filled.
Behind the counter, however, stood a weary yet determined figure. At 32 years old, Nazmi, a civil engineering graduate turned entrepreneur, had already come far from a part-time stall assistant during his diploma days to the owner of Bite’s Story, which had grown from a modest stall on a polytechnic campus to a bakery with multiple outlets and a loyal customer base. On the surface, it was a picture of success.
But on this particular evening, his thoughts were elsewhere, not on the cash register or the sweet smiles of satisfied customers. Nazmi’s mind was far from at ease, wandering to the industry giants, such as Big Apple Donuts and Coffee (Big Apple), Dunkin’ Donuts, J.CO Donuts and Coffee (J.CO), and Krispy Kreme. He admired their growth, brand visibility, and sheer dominance of the market.
“Bite’s Story is doing fine,” he told himself. “But fine is not enough.”
Ambition burned in him. He dreamed of making Bite’s Story a household name, a brand that capable of competing with the multinational doughnut chains. Yet, reality weighed heavily as he grappled with inconsistent machine efficiency, daily operational burdens, insufficiently skilled staff, and financial pressures that made every expansion step a constant struggle. As he glanced at the golden-brown doughnuts arranged neatly on trays, ready to be served, a single question lingered as stubbornly as the sweet scent of doughnuts in the shop. He questioned whether to push boldly toward growth or to consolidate and secure what he had already built. His dilemma was apparent. Should he chase ambition at all costs and scale boldly, or settle for a steady, more manageable path that secures survival
Beyond Beauty: The Inspiring Journey of Sobella
No full textIn the bustling and ever-evolving beauty industry, only a few brands manage to break through the noise and capture the hearts of consumers. Sobella, a homegrown Malaysian cosmetics brand, is one of those rare gems. Its story is not just about makeup. It is about ambition, courage, and the power of believing in one’s dreams.
For founder Wan Nur Syuhada Wan Norzie, the journey began in 2016 when she was a fresh graduate facing a bleak job market. Rejections and unanswered applications could have crushed her spirit, but instead, she decided to carve her own path. With the encouragement of her parents and a strong sense of independence, Syuhada ventured into the cosmetics world. She dreamed of creating products that were not only beautiful but also accessible to everyday women. From that dream, Sobella, short for “So Beautiful” was born
An Empirical Analysis of Buy Now, Pay Later Mechanism and Its Impact on Customer Retention in Digital Commerce
No full textThe "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) mechanism has transformed e-commerce payment systems by providing consumers with enhanced financial flexibility. This study examines the influence of four key factors—interest rate, customer age, credit limit, and income level—on customer retention, aiming to elucidate the relationships among these variables. Utilizing a sample of 385 Malaysian consumers, the study employs both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. The findings indicate that all four independent variables exert a significant positive impact on customer retention. Specifically, lower interest rates alleviate financial burdens, thereby fostering higher retention rates. Increased credit limits enhance purchasing power and financial flexibility, leading to sustained engagement with BNPL services. Younger consumers exhibit higher retention rates due to their preference for flexible payment solutions, while older users demonstrate consistent BNPL usage, contributing to long-term retention. Additionally, lower-income consumers rely more on BNPL to manage financial constraints, which results in higher retention within this demographic. Notably, usage frequency serves as a significant mediator between customer age and retention, as younger consumers\u27 frequent BNPL usage partially accounts for their elevated retention rates. Conversely, interest rate, credit limit, and income level directly influence retention without substantial mediation by usage frequency. These findings provide valuable insights for e-commerce platforms and policymakers in optimizing BNPL frameworks to accommodate diverse consumer segments and enhance long-term customer loyalty
Mango Pulp Weevils (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) Sternochetus frigidus Interaction with Mango Volatile Compound
No full textSternochetus frigidus, commonly known as the mango pulp weevil, threatens mango trees. The current study evaluated the infestation of this weevil and its influence by the volatile compound of the mango species: Mangifera indica (mangga epal) and M. odorata (kuinin). The length from the mango skin to the location of the weevil found was measured. The mango peel and pulp were extracted for volatile compound determination using gas chromotography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) headspace concentration methods. Results demonstrated a higher number of larvae, pupae, and adults of S. frigidus on M. odorata (100%) than M. indica (70%). The higher infestation level was demonstrated by M. odorata, which had higher amine and monoterpene hydrocarbon concentrations. The study found only M. indica contained phenolandrene and copaene compounds, which were not found in M. odorata. Mangifera odorata contained linalool, limonene, and terpinene which was not found in M. indica. These compounds can be good pheromone-trapping lures for controlling mango pulp weevils