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RIDING THE DIGITAL WAVES: READINESS OF SMALL ENTREPRENEURS IN ADOPTING DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
No full textMalaysia business environment was predominantly made up of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which indicates a total of 1,151,339 SMEs that represent 97.2 percent of total business establishments. The SMEs created employment accounted for 7.25 million workforces, which indicates 48 percent of total employment in the year 2020. The unexpected outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has presented a notable challenge for numerous SMEs, particularly in developing nations that have been slower in implementing digitalization strategies. Without exception, SMEs in Malaysia are currently facing ongoing challenges in their efforts to undertake digital transformation. Despite the considerable advantages derived from the digitised economy, small and financially constrained SMEs continued to lag due to internal resource and information deficiencies, skills gaps, and challenges related to securing financing. Hence, this study aims to investigate the digital transformation phenomenon and the challenges faced by SMEs following the COVID-19 pandemic so that the government can provide the necessary support for SMEs’ digital transformation
BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION EFFORTS AMONG MUSLIM COUNTRIES: EVIDENCE FROM THE ORGANIZATION OF ISLAMIC COOPERATION COUNTRIES
No full textAccording to mainstream literature, Muslim countries often lag behind in terms of environmental sustainability despite their beingfully compliant with global environmental regulations. This raises the question of whether this applies to all aspects of environmentalconservation. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of biodiversity conservation efforts in countries that are members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and determine whether a consistent growth trend in biodiversity conservation can be identified. The study employs semi-quantitative and policy-science methods, analysing data from Yale University’s Biodiversity and Habitat Protection Index from 2010 to 2020. The findings show a significant increase in biodiversity conservation performance over the ten-year study period. Interestingly, low-income countries outperformed their wealthier OIC counterparts in terms of biodiversity conservation, despite having the lowest economic development status. This positive trend highlights the effectiveness of essential biodiversity policies and measures adopted in these Muslim countries. Furthermore, these results align with Stern’s approach, which argues that economic expansion can have diverse impacts on environmental quality, leading to the rejection of the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis in the context of biodiversity conservation in Muslim countries. The study emphasises the need for further research into the nature of biodiversity policies among low-income nations. The policy ideas and solutions from these countries can provide valuable insights for combating biodiversity loss within OIC countries and globally, contributing to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, it has the potential to enhance the capacity of OIC countries in biodiversity conservation and their role in supporting fellow Muslim nations in achieving the SDGs.
LOGISTICS ACTIVITIES AND LOGISTICS PERFORMANCE OF THAI EXPORTERS EXPORTING CUT ORCHID FLOWERS TO VIETNAM
No full textThe objectives of the study are to examine the logistics activities of hai cut flower orchid exporters to Vietnam and evaluate their logistics performance across nine logistical operations in three dimensions: cost, time, and reliability. Identifying issues in improving the logistics efficiency of exporters is the key to gaining a competitive edge in exporting. Thai orchid exporters to Vietnam were interviewed in Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, and Samut Sakhon provinces, Thailand’s main orchid production regions, using semi- structured interviews with open-ended questions. Quantitative and logistics management data were collected using the Agricultural Logistics Performance Index (ALPI), which evaluated nine logistics activities in three dimensions. Qualitative data were obtained from conceptual framework inquiries. Inductive analysis was used to study qualitative data, whereas percentages and averages were used to analyse quantitative data. According to the report, exporters performed six logistics tasks but ignored demand forecasting. Furthermore, site selection, warehousing and storage, and reverse logistics were absent. Exporter logistics performance averaged 94.98, with purchasing and procurement performing best at 98.05. Transportation, with an average performance of 90.84, needed the most optimisation. Exporters had the highest logistical reliability at 99.14, followed by cost and time.
MODEL OF TEACHING MALAY LANGUAGE TO NON-NATIVE AND FOREIGN SPEAKER
No full textPurpose – This study aims to develop a teaching model of the Malay language for non-native and foreign speakers in schools. Implementing this model can assist educators in teaching the Malay language to students who do not use it as their first language in everyday use.
Methodology – This study used a qualitative approach to develop teaching models for non-native and foreign Malay speakers. Interviews were conducted with 27 teachers and 23 stakeholders who are experts in teaching the Malay language, especially in teaching non-native speakers. A prototype model was developed thematically as a result of interviews using ATLAS.ti 22. Further, the prototype model was used by ten teachers from primary, secondary, and international schools in their teaching.
Findings – This study has succeeded in developing a model for teaching the Malay language to non-native speakers and foreigners that includes five elements: teaching strategies, individual differences, input, social, and motivation. This model strongly emphasises instruction involving interaction, communication, and bilateral relations as a medium for students’ language acquisition and meaningful input. Verbal interaction between teachers and students can stimulate and improve students’ language skills in learning Malay.
Significance – This model can help teachers teach the Malay language to non-native speakers and foreigners with a greater focus onachieving learning objectives. This model is expected to expand the usage, cultivate interest, and facilitate teaching the Malay language in educational institutions
MODERATOR EFFECT OF TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT ON FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH NEXUS IN ASIAN COUNTRIES
No full textThe examination of the nexus between Financial Development (FD), Technological Advancement (TA), Human Capital (HC), andPrivate Consumption (PC) to Economic Growth (EG) has gained substantial attention in both empirical and theoretical academia sincethe early nineteenth century. Scholars affirm that FD, HC, PC, and TA are crucial factors in determining optimal resource allocationand efficient utilization required to achieve sustainable EG. This study investigates the nexus of FD, HC, and PC with EG in Asiancountries, with TA serving as the moderator. Data from 35 countries were collected annually over 15 years, spanning from 2005 to 2019. Using short panel data analysis, due to the higher number of crosssections (35) compared to time intervals (15), the findings confirm TA’s significant moderator effect in both short and long-run time scenarios. Additionally, a significant negative relationship with EG is observed for FD and PC, while TA and HC are identified as promoters of EG. The study underscores the importance of investing in TA while concurrently developing the quality of the labor force. Policymakers are encouraged to prioritize technology development and the introduction of innovative techniques. However, caution is advised in FD projects, necessitating strategies to reduce domestic private consumption
EVALUATING THE APPLICATION OF COMPONENTS GOVERNANCE AND CULTURE BASED ON COSO ERM AT PT. AGRO
No full textThis article explores the effective establishment of governance and corporate culture within companies by implementing the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). Utilizing COSO ERM provides an understandable framework for shaping corporate governance, defining company strategy, instilling culture and values, and appreciating competent employees. The study demonstrates that companies implementing COSO ERM\u27s governance and culture components can attain their anticipated goals by minimizing potential risks. By employing a qualitative case study analysis, researchers explored the topic in depth; the research focuses on PT. Agro, revealing its successful implementation of COSO ERM\u27s governance and culture components. The findings showcase PT. Agro established robust directorial supervision, an effective assessment system, adoption of a three-line organizational structure prioritizing risk control, and cultivation of an influential work culture through applying the BISA culture and IACE company values. The article emphasizes the significance of employees as valuable assets for companies, with PT. Agro consistently develops competent individuals for mutual benefit. Through ongoing training, skill-building workshops, and mentorship programs, PT. Agro invests in its workforce, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. This commitment strengthens internal capabilities and nurtures employee satisfaction and loyalty. This study contributes to the limited discussion on the COSO ERM governance and culture components, providing a detailed exploration of the five principles and serving as a valuable material for future research in other companies
COMPULSORY VACCINATION OF COVID-19: A DILEMMA BETWEEN ENSURING PUBLIC HEALTH AND RESPECTING INDIVIDUAL FREEDOM
No full textIn recent years, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has suffered and undergone a radical transformation. At the beginning of 2020, the world was at the mercy of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a ray of hope shone upon the world with the development of COVID-19 vaccination. Even though everyone needs to get vaccinated, it prompts a question about whether people can be forced to get vaccinated or if they should be able to choose for themselves. A welfare state must protect its citizens’ health. Despite this, citizens have reasons to be vaccinated against the virus. This paper discusses the abovementioned issue by analyzing judicial decisions, international legal instruments and contemporary data on pandemic situations. This study aimed to address the dilemma of mandatory vaccination and the independence of those who choose to vaccinate. The study revealed that a state can impose mandatory vaccination in certain situations, subject to legal and practical constraints. In contrast, individual freedom is always respected because human rights are vested in international and domestic law. While enforcing vaccination policies, an equitable balance between an authoritarian measure to protect public health and granting an exception to specific individuals, as well as honouring human rights, is the paramount approach
"MAMA PAPA PLEASE HEAR ME": THE PARTICIPATION OF CHILDREN IN CHILD CUSTODY MEDIATION IN THE SYARIAH COURTS OF MALAYSIA
No full textThe laws in Malaysia uphold the rights of children to participate in family law proceedings, particularly in custody disputes. However, with regard to the practice of mediation (sulh) in child custody disputes, the specific legislation that highlights measures to obtain the views of children is still vague. This paper will discuss the practice of children’s participation during mediation (sulh) in child custody disputes. The study reported in this paper has also highlighted the challenges and the adequacy of legal provisions on the practice of children’s participation during mediation (sulh). The present qualitative study has adopted a library-based research method to collect information, data, and theories from selected materials, including journal articles, textbooks, statutes, and interview methods. It also discussed how children were engaged in court-directed mediation proceedings in the Syariah Court of Malaysia. It has also examined the practice of the Syariah court in accepting the voice of children in mediation regarding decision-making in child custody dispute cases. The examination focused on the relevant legislations and policies relating to children participating in mediation in the context of international legal provisions and Syariah laws. The paper further discussed the analysis of whether the rules and procedures in Malaysia are adequate to sustain children’s participation during mediation. The data were also gathered from interviews conducted with mediators or sulh officers. Finally, the study revealed that interviewing children during sulh sessions at the Syariah Court is common even though there are no clear regulations on the practice. It is suggested that a broader interpretation of the current legislation on the voice of children enables the legality of the practice of accepting children’s voices during the Majlis Sulh. Furthermore, it is recommended that a proper standard operating procedure (SOP) for obtaining children’s views during the mediation (sulh) process is also needed
E-ARBITRAL IN MALAYSIA: ISSUES, CHALLENGES, AND OPPORTUNITIES
No full textThe shift from traditional arbitration to electronic arbitration (hereinafter referred to as “e-arbitration”) has been driven by severalfactors, including the increasing availability of technology and the need for more efficient and cost-effective dispute resolution in aglobalised world. E-arbitration has been well-received because of its remarkable advantages, including increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved accessibility, making it an attractive alternative to traditional arbitration. However, to date, the adoption of e-arbitration has not been as expected and the legal position surrounding the legitimacy of the electronic arbitral award (hereinafter referred to as “e-arbitral award”) in Malaysia has yet to be established. This requires a careful examination of existing laws and regulations, as well as a careful consideration of potential challenges and opportunities. This article has been grounded in doctrinal legal research where primary and secondary sources were collected through a library-based approach and later examined using critical and analytical approaches. The use of e-arbitration in Malaysia is expected to encounter several legal challenges since it is not yet fully regulated. However, the present study has found that Malaysian national laws, including the current arbitration laws, are relevant, sufficient, and relatively developed to legalise e-arbitral award. It has also discovered several legal loopholes that must be adequately and directly considered by Malaysian lawmakers. This will enhance the sustainable establishment of e-arbitration in Malaysia and ensure the protection of the interests and rights of all parties involved. Finally, this study has proposed two models for predicting e-arbitral award by human-arbitrators and for enforcing e-arbitral award under the auspices of the AIAC.
PREDICTIVE POWER OF SELF-EFFICACY, FAMILIARITY WITH TRAINING CONTENT ON JOB PERFORMANCE: MODERATING EFFECT OF TRAINING EFFECTIVENESS IN OMAN’S HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS
No full textThe higher education institutions (HEIs) in Oman have witnessed rapid development over the last decade; and yet, the quality of their training programs programmes has not yielded the anticipated results. The desired outcome, which failed to meet expectations, pertains to the effectiveness of these programs in enhancing employee job performance. This study aims to investigate the influence of self- efficacy, trainee familiarity with training content and employees’ performance in Oman’s higher education sector. Additionally, the study explores the moderating effect of training effectiveness on employee’s performance. The researcher examined 184 academics as well as administrative employees that participated in a training program sponsored by Takatuf, a consulting firm responsible for assessing, training, and developing employees in Oman. Results indicated that self-efficacy and familiarity with training content contribute to high employee job performance in the country’s HEIs, confirming the significant moderating role of training effectiveness in this relationship. Furthermore, the study suggests two implications for human resource practices. First, it is crucial for managers to provide comprehensive training-related information aimed at increasing self- efficacy before the actual training program. Second, HR managers and individuals can jointly improve the performance effectiveness by creating suitable methods for fostering self-efficacy. The findings suggest that organizations can enhance job performance and reduce turnover intention intentions by improving the effectiveness of training programs for employees. There is limited research linking self-efficacy, training effectiveness, and job performance in HEIs, particularly within member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This research contributes to the expansion of theoretical and managerial doctrines regarding the relationships among the identified variables. Therefore, this research represents a unique attempt to determine the effectiveness of training programs in HEIs grappling with transitional challenges