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DOES ENERGY PRODUCTIVITY AFFECT A COUNTRY\u27S ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY? EVIDENCE FROM SELECTED ASEAN COUNTRIES
No full textWith the continuous increase in the demand for energy, rapid and sustained growth in energy consumption and low growth in energy production, one of the top priorities for sustainable development and environmental protection is to reduce energy usage and improve economic efficiency. Although it is clear that energy productivity has a positive impact on a country’s economic efficiency, how sensitive is the response of economic efficiency is to the increase in energy productivity needs to be analyzed. Hence, our study intends to analyze the effect of energy productivity on economic efficiency in the ASEAN countries. The present study utilizes the advanced methodology of CS-ARDL, which is known for producing robust and reliable results, on the ASEAN region which comprises countries that are still dependent on non-renewable energy, thereby drastically polluting the environment. The findings from the CS-ARDL method revealed that energy productivity has a positive and significant relationship with economic efficiency. Based on the findings, several recommendations are proposed, such as adopting renewable energy resources that support environmentally friendly energy production to ensure sustainable energy and encouraging smart energy systems to be installed at government buildings or manufacturing buildings which deploy new technologies that increase energy efficiency
INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL, STAFF DEVELOPMENT AND PROFITABILITY OF BANKS IN NIGERIA
No full textThis study investigates the relationship between intellectual capital (IC), staff development, and profitability in the Nigerian banking sector. By employing a quantitative research design, the study analyzes how staff training and education moderate the effect of IC on profitability. Using data from 12 listed banks spanning 2013–2023, the research identifies that value-added IC significantly contributes to profitability, with capital employed efficiency emerging as the most consistent driver. However, SCE presents challenges, reflecting inefficiencies in operational frameworks and resource utilization. The findings underscore the critical role of staff training as a moderating variable, amplifying the impact of IC on profitability by enabling employees to harness and optimize intellectual resources effectively. Policy implications of the findings are significant, suggesting regulators, such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, to mandate the disclosure of IC metrics in annual financial reports to promote transparency and enhance the stakeholders’ understanding of its impact on performance. In addition, banks should integrate comprehensive training programs into their strategic plans, fostering continuous professional development to maximize intellectual resource efficiency. Addressing structural inefficiencies through investment in advanced technologies and streamlined processes can further enhance profitability. Finally, the study advocates for policymakers to create enabling environments that support IC development, recognizing its potential to drive sustainable growth in the banking sector. These findings align with the resource-based view, contributing to the literature on IC’s contextual role in emerging economies
A HALF-CENTURY OF MOTIVATION RESEARCH IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING: INSIGHTS FROM A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS
No full textPurpose – This study aims to systematically examine the research landscape in the field of ELT motivation over the past five decades, thereby addressing the identified gap in providing a comprehensive mapping of this expanding domain.
Methodology – We employed a comprehensive approach utilizing bibliometric analysis, Origin, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace to analyse and visualise the publication trends, publication venues, highly cited articles and references, the most frequent topics and the emerging themes in ELT motivation domain, based on a metadata collection of 1007 articles retrieved and filtered from Scopus-indexed journals.
Findings – Results revealed a steady increase in annual publications on ELT motivation, with a marked surge beginning in 2011 and with the yearly total surpassing 200 in 2022. The top 20 publications in the fields of education and psychology were published in renowned journals such as, Computer Assisted Language Learning, System, Language Learning, and Language Teaching Research. The highly cited articles highlighted the diverse issues within the ELT motivation field, encompassing learner motivation, instructional strategies, educational settings, and the psychological aspects of language acquisition. Dörnyei, Z. (2005) and his colleagues have significantly advanced ELT motivation research, with numerous studies attaining the highest citation metrics. ‘Self-determination theory’ and ‘L2 motivational self-system’ have maintained a robust orientation in the co-occurrence of search keywords. Emerging trends like ‘directed motivational currents’ hinted at a novel framework from the complex dynamic perspective.
Significance – This study contributes to benefit researchers by extending their understanding of the evolution and future directions of ELT motivation research, while also providing valuable insights for ELT practitioners
AMALAN UNDANG-UNDANG KETERANGAN DI MAHKAMAH SYARIAH SARAWAK: ANALISIS KES-KES FASAKH (2018-2023) (The Practice of Evidence Laws in Sarawak Syariah Court: Analysis of Fasakh Cases (2018-2023))
No full textArtikel ini mengkaji amalan undang-undang keterangan di Mahkamah Syariah Sarawak dengan memberi tumpuan kepada analisis kes-kes fasakh dari tahun 2018 hingga 2023. Kajian ini menilai peranan hakim syariah dalam menangani isu-isu utama seperti penentuan fakta, beban pembuktian dan darjah pembuktian. Dengan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif, kajian ini menjalankan analisis kajian kes secara mendalam terhadap penghakiman fasakh terpilih di Mahkamah Syariah Sarawak. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa walaupun penerapan undang-undang keterangan dalam kes-kes fasakh secara umumnya selaras dengan keperluan prosedur, terdapat beberapa aspek yang boleh dipertingkatkan bagi meningkatkan kecekapan dan keadilan dalam prosiding mahkamah. Isu seperti pengenalpastian fakta yang tepat dan penentuan merit undang-undang dikenal pasti sebagai aspek kritikal yang memerlukan perhatian lanjut. Selain itu, kajian ini menekankan keperluan pematuhan yang lebih baik terhadap Ordinan Keterangan Syariah 2001 serta penerapan prinsip beban dan standard pembuktian secara konsisten. Kajian ini merumuskan dengan cadangan untuk menambah baik amalan kehakiman, termasuk latihan yang dipertingkatkan untuk hakim syariah dan pendekatan yang lebih tersusun dalam pendidikan undang-undang berkaitan undang-undang keterangan. Artikel ini menyumbang kepada pemahaman yang lebih luas terhadap amalan perundangan di mahkamah syariah serta menawarkan pandangan dalam memperhalusi proses kehakiman yang terlibat dalam kes-kes fasakh.
ABSTRACT
This article examines the practice of evidence law in Sarawak Syariah Courts, focusing on the analysis of fasakh cases from 2018 to 2023. This study evaluates the role of Syariah judges in handling key issues such as fact determination, the burden of proof, and the standard of proof. By utilising a qualitative approach, this research conducted an in-depth case study analysis of selected fasakh judgments in Sarawak’s Syariah Courts. The findings reveal that while the application of evidence law in fasakh cases is generally consistent with procedural requirements, there are areas where improvements could enhance efficiency and fairness in court proceedings. Issues such as the proper identification of facts and the determination of legal merit were identified as critical areas needing further attention. Furthermore, this study highlights the need for better adherence to the Syariah Evidence Ordinance, 2001 and consistent application of burden and standard of proof principles. This study concludes with recommendations for improving judicial practices, including enhanced training for Syariah judges and a more structured approach to legal education in evidence law. This article contributes to the broader understanding of legal practices in Syariah courts and offers insights into refining the judicial processes involved in fasakh cases.
Keywords: Syariah Courts, fasakh cases, evidence law, burden of proof, standard of proof
ADDRESSING LEGAL GAPS IN REGULATING TRADING IN INFLUENCE IN INDONESIAN TRADE SECTOR: COMPARATIVE LESSONS FROM FRANCE AND THE UNITED KINGDOM
No full textTrading in influence is regarded as the exchange of favours where individuals offer or accept benefits due to their influence over public authorities. The practice serves as a tactic used by individuals to seek profit and personal enrichment by circumventing established norms and ethics in fulfilling governmental duties and obligations. Conducting normative legal research on this issue, including the analysis of relevant legal sources and the identification of regulatory gaps, shows that such a legal vacuum creates confusion and uncertainty. Although Indonesia has ratified the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), the latest Criminal Code and Corruption Law in Indonesia do not explicitly regulate trading in influence due to its non-mandatory nature, which raises the potential for domestic enforcement of the convention. French and English legal systems have different definitions and rights to criminalise trading in influence. Therefore, this research aimed to recommend the criminalisation of trading in influence in the Indonesian Criminal Code and its detailed inclusion in a specialised anti-corruption law. The measures would provide a clear interpretation of legal provisions, in line with efforts to strengthen anti-corruption institutions. The analysis also addressed and clarified the implications of trading in influence, particularly in the trade sector
MINIMUM WAGE POLICY IN MALAYSIA AND LEGAL CHALLENGES IN THE HOTEL INDUSTRY
No full textThe Minimum Wage Order, introduced by the Malaysian government, aims to protect employees’ welfare and well-being by ensuring that wages are sufficient to meet the cost of living. This article evaluates the purpose of the latest minimum wage in Malaysia, particularly its role in helping employees cope with current living costs, while also examining the impacts of its implementation on both employers and employees in the hotel industry. Legal challenges surrounding the determination of basic wages in this sector are analysed through court rulings and legal precedents, with a critical analysis drawing on relevant literature, legislation, and case law. Our findings reveal that disputes in the hotel industry often arise over whether service charges should be treated as part of the basic wage, an issue that has repeatedly led to legal challenges and court interventions. In the Crystal Crown Hotel case, the Federal Court affirmed that service charges should not be counted as part of the basic wage, with the practical implication that hotel employees are entitled to a basic salary—protected under the minimum wage framework—in addition to service charges. By situating the minimum wage debate within case law and legal precedents, this article provides practical insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and legal practitioners, while offering original perspectives on strengthening wage protection and reducing conflicts in Malaysia’s labour market
GENDER STEREOTYPES AND POLITICAL CULTURE: EXPLORING BIAS AGAINST FEMALE POLITICAL LEADERS IN MALAYSIA
No full textTo date, gender inequality remains a globally concerning issue, especially in politics. Despite evolving trends towards gender equality, Malaysian women remain under-represented in political leadership, even though they constitute approximately half of Malaysia’s population. This study aimed to examine gender inequality in Malaysian politics through the lens of whether women are more suitable for political positions. Data of 1313 respondents were used to analyse the biases by using the logit and probit models. Categorical principal component analysis and the Approximate Likelihood Ratio (LR) test were used to examine the reliability and validity of the results. The findings indicated that gender stereotypes strongly influence individuals’ biases. The respondents commonly believed that men are naturally born leaders and better compared with women. This perception is shaped by several factors, including the importance of education, professional experience, job availability, and income disparities. A factor of political culture suggests that male leaders are preferred, especially in democratically governed countries. However, surprisingly, Malaysian individuals satisfied with Malaysia’s current political system tended to disagree with the idea that men are inherently better political leaders than women. Factors like age, religion, and employment status also contributed to biases against female leaders. In conclusion, this research underscores the enduring gender disparities in Malaysian politics and the detrimental impact of entrenched stereotypes on women’s leadership prospects. It is important to address these biases in promoting gender equality and enhancing better human development in the arena of politics
THE SERVICE OF SOCIAL WELFARE INFORMATION SYSTEM-NEXT GENERATION (SIKS-NG) SOCIAL WELFARE INTEGRATED DATA (DTKS)
No full textThis study examines the implementation of the Social Welfare Information System–Next Generation (SIKS-NG) as an electronic-based public service for managing Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS) at the Bengkulu City Social Service. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the research analyzes SIKS-NG services through six key dimensions: technology focus, operators’ technical skills, operators’ personal skills, organizational commitment, system integration, and the continuity of the Electronic-Based Government System (SPBE). Data were collected through interviews, observations, and document analysis, guided by the Regulation of the Minister of Social Affairs Number 3 of 2021. The findings indicate that while SIKS-NG has enhanced data standardization, transparency, and accountability in social assistance targeting, its effectiveness is constrained by limited human resources, uneven digital competencies among operators, and inadequate technological infrastructure. These constraints affect the timeliness and accuracy of DTKS updates, which are critical for ensuring equitable social protection. The study concludes that strengthening institutional capacity, expanding operator training, improving infrastructure, and reinforcing multi-level coordination are essential to optimize SIKS-NG performance and support sustainable digital welfare governance at the local level
A FUZZY DELPHI APPROACH TO EVALUATING LANGUAGE CURRICULUM MODELS FOR DYSLEXIA
No full textPurpose – The learning challenges faced by dyslexic students highlight the need for curriculum models that go beyond general teaching practices. This study evaluates a newly developed Dyslexia Curriculum Model (DCM) comprising six clusters: Individual Education Plan (IEP), multisensory learning style, teaching method, type of dyslexia, language skills, and assistive technology. The evaluation aims to confirm the model’s appropriateness and usability in guiding teachers for language instruction among dyslexic learners.
Methodology – The study employed the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) to obtain expert consensus on eighteen elements within the DCM. Thirty special education experts from different regions of Malaysia participated in the evaluation using a seven-point Likert scale. The process involved fuzzy analysis to determine the threshold values, consensus levels, and defuzzification scores for each element.
Findings – Results show unanimous agreement among experts on all elements, particularly those under the Individual Education Plan cluster, which recorded full consensus. The analysis confirmed that all components met the acceptance criteria, with threshold values below d ≤ 0.2. These findings indicate that the DCM is both valid and practical for classroom application, offering a clear framework for planning and implementing lessons tailored to dyslexic learners.
Significance – The validated DCM provides a structured yet flexible guide for teachers, combining evidence-based strategies with inclusive approaches. While it was designed for Bahasa Melayu instruction, its adaptable structure allows for use across other language contexts. The study reinforces the importance of expert-driven evaluation in developing inclusive curriculum frameworks and suggests that further research should focus on large-scale implementation and teacher training
AMBIGUITY IN THE PROFIT-SHARING SYSTEM OF MUDHARABAH COOPERATION FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF FIQH MUAMALAH
No full textThis study examines the profit-sharing system in cage fish farming cooperation, where farmers are required to bear one-third of the capital in the event of losses. The purpose of this research is to reveal the practice of profit-sharing cooperation among cage fish farmers in Lake Maninjau, Agam Regency, West Sumatra Province, and to identify the risks of losses that occur. This study employs a qualitative approach with a field research design. In collecting data, researchers conducted interviews with seven informants consisting of one fish cage financier, four fish cage managers, one fish cage owner, and one community leader. The data were analyzed using qualitative descriptive analysis. The findings indicate that profits are divided equally between investors and cage fish managers, with each receiving 50%. However, losses caused by natural factors such as mass fish deaths due to volcanic sulfur (tubo belerang), are charged to the managers, who must bear one third of the capital. The study concludes that the ambiguity in the profit-sharing arrangement leads to injustice for one party. Profit sharing is misunderstood when only profits are shared, while losses due to natural disasters are partially borne by workers. This practice reflects inequity in the mudharabah contract under a profit-sharing system during natural disasters