ADVANCED INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND SME'S (AIJBES)

ISLAMIC BRAND PERSONALITY: CRITICAL REVIEW IN PREVIOUS STUDIES FROM ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

Muhammad Izral Iberahim, Muhammad Saiful Islam Ismail, Muhamad Hasif Yahaya — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Brand personality is defined as the “set of human personality traits that are both applicable to and relevant for brands”. It is aimed at understanding the scientific contributions made by brand personality research and identifying its predominant traits as well as human characteristics. Islamic marketing scholars caught the attention by creating the characteristics of Islamic brand personality model which representing the Muslim consumers world widely in cosmetics, personal care, bakery, clothing Islamic and financial institutions. However, the proposition dimensions of Islamic brand personality seem to be familiar with conventional brand personality. Therefore, the objective of article is to explore by critically reviewed the previous model of brand personality and its dimensions. The present article employed qualitative study in form of library research. Finding indicated strength (i.e. Sharia indicator in Islamic brand personality, strengthening halal procedure in Islamic brand product, and assists the company in providing halal products and services. and weaknesses (i.e. (a) the dimensions of Islamic brand personality are based on conventional pivot, (b) immoral conduct on Islamic brand product, and (c) lack of awareness on the importance of halal brand in Malaysia) studies was reviewed. Present article proposed the component of Qawaid Fiqhiyah in explaining Islamic brand personality. This component able to assist firm to create personality of product in fulfilling demand of consumers align with Islamic conjunction.

IMPROVING BASIC LITERACY SKILLS AMONG ASNAF YOUTH TO EMPOWER THEIR FINANCIAL LITERACY

Abdul Ghafur Hanafi, Nainatul Farzuha Nor, Nor Izham Subri, Wan Azani Mustafa — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This study explores the intersection of basic literacy and financial literacy among Asnaf youth, a group often marginalized in terms of socio-economic opportunities. The research aims to understand how improving fundamental literacy skills can empower these youths to achieve financial literacy, thus enhancing their overall economic stability and independence. By utilizing a qualitative research method, this study draws on in-depth interviews, focus group discussion, and participatory observations in capturing the lived experiences and challenges faced by Asnaf youth in acquiring basic and financial literacy. The findings reveal that literacy skills serve as a crucial foundation for financial literacy, enabling Asnaf youth to better manage their finances, make informed financial decisions, and eventually break the cycle of poverty. The research demonstrates how education needs to use specific approaches which meet the unique needs of Asnaf youth, recommending a holistic approach that integrates literacy education with practical financial training. The research highlights a pathway towards greater financial inclusion and long-term economic empowerment by empowering these youths with the necessary skills.

ESG CONTROVERSIES ON CORPORATE VALUE AND MARKET RISK: THE MODERATING ROLE OF BOARD INDEPENDENCE

Peter Chinedu Okoye, Fadzlina Mohd Fahmi, Mazurina Mohd Ali — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This study investigated the impact of ESG controversies on firms' corporate value and market risk, with a keen interest in the moderating role of board independence. Deploying pooled panel models as earlier adopted by prior studies, the study sampled 117 publicly quoted firms indexed as constituents in FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia (F4GBM), with ESG controversy scores between the period 2021 to 2023, giving a total of 351 firm-year observations. The findings revealed that the ESG controversy score has an insignificant impact on corporate value, while the ESG combined score, which is the performance score after controversy outlay, had a strong, significant positive impact on corporate value. However, the ESG controversy score was revealed to have a considerable positive impact on market risk, while the ESG combined score showed a significant but inverse effect on market risk. Furthermore, it was revealed that the interaction of board independence and ESG controversy does not have a significant moderating effect on corporate value. In contrast, the interaction of board independence and ESG controversy has a significant moderating effect on firms' market risk exposure. The study's findings prompted a couple of substantial contributions relevant to scholarly literature, researchers in ESG disputes, governance practitioners, ESG regulatory policymakers, and company managers. It will enhance understanding within the academic community and facilitate business and regulatory decision-making in the corporate environment.

DETERMINATION OF FITTING ISSUES FOR MALAYSIAN PLUS SIZE WOMEN

Fatin Balqis Jais, Shaliza Mohd Shariff — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Fashion communication should take into account consumers' requirements and tastes. Unfortunately, the categorization of plus-size consumers is overflowing with issues and frustration. The aim is to discover current fitting concerns based on existing Plus Size Women (PSW) size in Malaysia. PSW is having problems identifying the appropriate size. The snowball sample approach was applied for gathering 116 adult women aged 20 to 50 in Selangor. The research results show the body weight and BMI of the PSW, which represents a significant value of data 0.00%. Data were analysed using SPSS version 20. Findings show the pear body shape is the most populated with 32.48% (n=28). The major critical part of measurements in fitting is hip with 48.72% (n=42). Findings revealed there was also PSW having issues in fitting comfort during purchase of their clothing. The study offers a useful ranking of terms that fashion companies can establish for the PSW needs. This study contributes to research on plus size consumer experiences and challenges faced by PSW consumers.

ORGANIZATIONAL IDENTITY AS A MEDIATOR BETWEEN HUMAN RESOURCE (HR) PRACTICES AND TURNOVER INTENTION

Sheng Meng, Zulkefli Muhamad Hanapiyah — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This research explores the impact of HR practices on employees' turnover intentions and the mediating role of organizational identity in this relationship. By operationalizing the concept of "social identification," the study integrates social identity theory and self-determination theory to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding how HR practices contribute to employee retention. The findings reveal that training and engagement programs, as well as fair recruitment processes, significantly reduce turnover intentions by enhancing organizational identity. Employees develop emotional attachment, value alignment, and a sense of identification with the organization through the mediating effect of organizational identity. This research addresses two gaps in the current literature by focusing on both operational efficiency and cultural integration, offering valuable insights for reducing turnover rates. The practical applications emphasize the development of systems that engage all staff members to foster long-term organizational commitment. The study acknowledges limitations such as the reliance on self-reported data and a cross-sectional design, suggesting future research should adopt longitudinal and multi-sectoral approaches. Overall, these results enhance retention theory and offer a strategic guide for effective HR management.

UNDERSTANDING TAX NON-COMPLIANCE INTENTION AMONG SME OWNERS IN MALAYSIA: DENIAL OF RESPONSIBILITY IMPACT AS MODERATOR

Nor Zuhairatun Md Radzi, Zaimah Zainol Ariffin — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are pivotal to Malaysia's economic framework, significantly contributing to national income. However, tax non-compliance among SME owners remains a subject of ongoing debate. Addressing this issue requires consideration beyond the economic perspective, encompassing non-economic views as well. This study seeks to empirically extend the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) by incorporating the concept of neutralisation techniques to evaluate the relationships between TPB constructs, denial of responsibility and tax non-compliance intention. Additionally, it investigates the moderating effect of denial of responsibility. A survey was conducted, distributing questionnaires randomly to 580 SME owners in Malaysia, resulting in a 72.8 percent response rate. Data were analysed using the PLS-SEM statistical tool. The findings indicate that attitude towards tax non-compliance and subjective norms significantly and positively influence tax non-compliance intention, whereas perceived behavioural control shows a negative influence. Furthermore, the positive relationship between subjective norms and tax non-compliance intention weakens when SME owners employ the denial of responsibility technique. These results offer significant theoretical and practical implications, providing valuable insights for academicians, policymakers, and tax authorities in formulating strategies to address tax non-compliance among SME owners. Suggestions for future research are also highlighted.

E-COMMERCE PARTICIPATION: ASSESSING E-COMMERCE SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE AMONG B40 GROUP IN SELANGOR

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This study examines the e-commerce skills and knowledge possessed by the B40 group in Selangor and their participation in e-commerce. Using primary data, a questionnaire was distributed in 2023 to both e-commerce and non-e-commerce sellers in Selangor, yielding 162 valid responses. The findings identify five key skills associated with e-commerce participation: IT skills, digital marketing skills, entrepreneurial skills, financial management and accounting skills, and English language skills. These insights highlight the need for government-led e-commerce training programs to enhance the B40 group’s skills and improve their income opportunities.

EXPLORING THE ROLE OF PERCEIVED EXTERNAL CONTROL AND COMPUTER PLAYFULNESS IN MOBILE BANKING ADOPTION

Zaidie Chen, Fatihah Mohd, Nur Ain Ayunni Sabri — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This study examines the roles of Perceived External Control (PEC) and Computer Playfulness (CP) in shaping users' Behavioral Intention (BI) to adopt mobile banking, alongside Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU) within the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Mathew, Sulphey, & Prabhakaran, 2014). PEC refers to users' beliefs about their ability to control the mobile banking environment, which can lead to increased confidence and BI (Marpaung, Dewi, Grace, Sudirman, & Sugiat, 2021). CP is characterized by enjoyment and engagement, positively influencing users' attitudes and BI (Salah & Ayyash, 2024). The study highlights the significance of PEC and CP in enhancing PEOU, which explains 65% of the variance in BI. PEC allows users to feel in command, reducing anxiety and enhancing user confidence (Gu, Lee, & Suh, 2009). CP contributes to a more enjoyable interaction, encouraging exploration and usage (Zhang, Lu, & Kizildag, 2018). PEOU acts as a crucial mediator between PEC, CP, and BI, indicating that users who find mobile banking easy to use are more likely to adopt it (Obaid, 2021). The research emphasizes the importance of enhancing PEOU to boost user adoption rates in mobile banking services (Aldammagh, Abdeljawad, & Obaid, 2021). However, factors such as trust and perceived risk also play critical roles in user acceptance, suggesting a multifaceted approach is necessary (Illia, Ngniatedema, & Huang, 2015; Obaid, 2021). By integrating playful elements and enhancing users' perceptions of external control, banks can improve PEOU and user satisfaction, aligning with the TAM and emphasizing the importance of perceived enjoyment and control in fostering user engagement.

THE BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE IN MALAYSIA: A DECADE OF SHIFTS, CONTINUITY, AND RENEWED FOCUS

Tan Wooi Yee — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Since the launch of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2013, Malaysia has been an active and pragmatic partner, leveraging the initiative for infrastructure development and economic growth. Existing literature on the BRI in Malaysia primarily focuses on high-profile projects such as the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), Forest City, and the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park. However, this narrow focus overlooks the broader, multidimensional impact of the BRI in Malaysia. This article addresses this gap by analysing Malaysia’s BRI engagement through the lens of the five key connectivity areas: policy coordination, infrastructure connectivity, unimpeded trade, financial integration, and people-to-people exchange. The analysis reveals that Malaysia-China cooperation under the BRI made substantial progress across all five areas before 2018. However, subsequent political changes led to policy adjustments that disrupted the implementation of major projects, particularly the ECRL, and strained Malaysia-China bilateral relations. The COVID-19 pandemic later served as a catalyst for renewed diplomatic engagement, with joint efforts in aid distribution and vaccine cooperation helping to restore relations. Under the current Anwar administration, Malaysia remains committed to the BRI while emphasizing "high-quality cooperation" in emerging sectors such as the digital economy and renewable energy. Three critical factors explain the BRI’s relative success in Malaysia: (1) the strong historical bilateral relationship between Malaysia and China, (2) Malaysia’s pragmatic approach in aligning the BRI with its national development goals, and (3) the strategic use of BRI partnerships by Malaysian elites to bolster political legitimacy. Through a comprehensive assessment of the BRI achievements in Malaysia, this study provides a broader understanding of how Malaysia navigates its participation in China’s global development strategy.

SERVICE TAX COMPLIANCE IN MALAYSIA: A PROPOSED OF CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Maryani Jamian, Zainol Bidin, Saliza Abdul Aziz — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Service tax stands out as the primary revenue generator within Malaysia's system of indirect taxation, emphasizing its crucial role in the country’s fiscal structure. However, research on service tax is relatively sparse compared to studies focused on direct taxes like income and corporate taxes. This discrepancy highlights a need for more comprehensive exploration into service tax dynamics. The objectives of this study are to propose a service tax compliance framework and to develop that framework by focusing on three independent variables: tax fairness, peer influence, and tax complexity. Additionally, trust is introduced as a moderating variable that could affect how these factors relate to tax compliant behaviour. This study utilizes Fisher's model to analyse compliance behaviours. Additionally, trust in government was incorporated from the Slippery Slope Framework to enhance understanding of the dynamics involved in adhering to tax obligations. This study expected to make a significant academic contribution due to the limited existing literature on inquiries into indirect taxes. Moreover, look forward to offer insights compelling enough to drive policy making and strategies that enhance compliance rates among taxpayers throughout Malaysian territories.

THE DETERMINANTS OF LUXURY BRAND STORIES ON ONLINE REPURCHASE INTENTIONS AMONG GEN Z IN CHINA

Tianyang Zhang, Khai Loon Lee, Puteri Fadzline Muhamad Tamyez — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The rise of Gen Z as a dominant consumer segment and the rapid expansion of e-commerce have prompted luxury brands to adopt innovative storytelling strategies to engage and retain this digitally savvy audience. This study explores the impact of luxury brand stories on online repurchase intentions among Gen Z consumers in China, emphasizing the role of narratives in shaping emotional connections, trust, and loyalty. Using a qualitative research approach, this study conducted in-depth interviews with Gen Z consumers who have previously purchased luxury brands online. The findings reveal that authentic and emotionally engaging brand stories significantly influence repurchase intentions by fostering a sense of trust and alignment with personal values. Narratives that highlight sustainability, inclusivity, and cultural relevance were found to resonate strongly with Chinese Gen Z consumers, who prioritize both ethical considerations and social identity in their purchasing decisions. This research contributes to the literature by offering nuanced insights into how luxury brand storytelling drives consumer loyalty in the digital age, particularly within the unique socio-cultural context of China. The study provides practical recommendations for luxury brands seeking to refine their storytelling strategies to cultivate lasting relationships with Gen Z consumers and enhance their competitive positioning in the online market.

UNVEILING DETERMINANTS OF CONSUMER ADOPTION INTENTIONS FOR BUY NOW, PAY LATER (BNPL) SERVICES IN GOODS PURCHASES

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The rising adoption of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services raises concerns about financial sustainability, as consumers increasingly rely on deferred payments. This study examines key determinants of BNPL adoption—financial flexibility, consumer behaviour, and perceived ease of use—through the lens of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). A quantitative survey of 200 Malaysian BNPL users, analysed using multiple regression in SPSS, reveals that financial flexibility and consumer behaviour significantly drive BNPL adoption, while perceived ease of use has little impact. The findings suggest that consumers turn to BNPL primarily out of financial necessity rather than convenience, raising concerns about potential overspending and debt accumulation. This study highlights the urgent need for financial literacy programs to promote responsible BNPL usage and prevent financial distress. By providing empirical insights into BNPL adoption patterns, it informs policymakers and financial institutions on strategies to mitigate risks. Future research should explore broader demographic segments to enhance understanding of BNPL’s long-term implications.

THE DISCRETE EVENT SIMULATIONS EFFECT ON COURIER LOGISTICS DIGITIALIZATIONS AND ITS CONTRIBUTIONS TO INDUSTRY 4.0 WITHIN THE RESILIANCE ECONOMY: A QUANTITATIVE STRATEGY

Hanafi Ahmad, Fadly Habidin, Azman Hasan, Siti Norida Wahab — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The swift digital transformation of courier logistics is transforming the sector, propelled by the imperatives of Industry 4.0 and the necessity for resilience in the changing global economy. This article examines the influence of Discrete Event Simulation (DES) on the digital transformation of courier logistics and its role in Industry 4.0 frameworks within the context of a resilient economy. Discrete Event Simulation (DES) functions as an effective instrument for modelling and optimising intricate logistical systems, allowing organisations to improve operational efficiency, adaptability, and sustainability. This research employs a quantitative case study methodology to analyse how DES applications tackle significant issues, including real-time decision-making, resource allocation, and supply chain disruptions. The findings highlight the crucial importance of DES in promoting digital innovation, enhancing system resilience, and facilitating the incorporation of Industry 4.0 technologies in courier logistics. This research underscores the revolutionary capacity of DES as a catalyst for attaining a robust, sustainable, and digitally optimised logistics sector.

INFLUENCE OF CRISIS COMMUNICATION ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BRAND IDENTITY AND EMPLOYEE BRAND SUPPORT IN AVIATION INDUSTRY: A BIBLIOMETRIC REVIEW AND NEW RESEARCH PATHS

Shafiq Ayub, Rosmiza Bidin, Mohd Nizam Osman, Jen Sern Tham — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

In the aviation industry, this research presents a bibliometric analysis of the existing literature investigating the impact of crisis communication on the association between brand identity and employee brand support. Due to the sensitive nature of the aviation industry, it is necessary to have a comprehensive understanding of the interplay that exists between crisis communication, brand identity, and employee brand support. This is necessitated by the fact that the aviation industry faces distinct challenges. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the existing body of literature, identify areas in which additional research is required, and suggest potential avenues for future research.

SME BUSINESS PERFORMANCE OF A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS

Nor Razuana Amram, Muhammad Asyraaf Hashim — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Bibliometrics involves the systematic combination, analysis, and evaluation of bibliographic information derived from scientific publications. This study aims to the literature on Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) business performance by proposing ten research clusters where scholars can expand business performance research to facilitate effective performance for SME. The study reviewed articles on SME business performance published in the Scopus database between 1996 and February 2025, employing well-established bibliometric techniques and analyzing the data using VOSviewer software. A total of 429 articles published in the past decade were evaluated, focusing on trends in publication patterns, prominent authors, affiliated organizations, countries, frequently cited articles, and recurring themes. This analysis provided insights into the key research topics that have captured researchers' attention in recent years. Surprisingly, the findings revealed limited collaboration among authors, universities, and countries working on SME business performance. In conclusion, bibliometric analysis offers valuable insights into research on SME business performance. By applying this approach, the study contributes to the understanding and promotion of this critical topic, benefiting scientific journals, academics, and institutions in advancing knowledge within the field of education.

FINANCIAL LITERACY AMONG SELF-EMPLOYED: INITIAL FINDINGS

Maskan Md Hassan, Mohamad Nizam Jaafar, Norzitah Abdul Karim — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This paper discusses the initial findings of financial literacy scores related to education background and financial education at the workplace among self-employed in Malaysia. The study complements knowledge of self-employed retirement planning, retirement preparedness, Islamic financial literacy, and business success. The online questionnaire that was adopted from previous literature was distributed throughout Malaysia. A total of 276 responses were received and processed for descriptive analysis. Initial findings indicated that the score differs across ethnicity and formal education attainment. While the score for those enrolling in finance and business-related courses in school, college, and university was not prominent compared with those who did not register for such classes, the increase in scoring was gradually incremental over several financial education sessions. The study implies that self-employed should pursue tertiary education after secondary school and continue attending financial education sessions at the workplace to enhance their financial literacy.

APPLICATION OF META ANALYSIS APPROACH TOWARDS DETERMINING TALENT SHORTAGE IN ISLAMIC BANKING INSTITUTION

Siti Norjannah Jamil, Mohd Ikhwan Aziz, Azwan Abdullah — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The Islamic banking industry's rapid global growth, driven by the increasing demand for Sharia-compliant financial solutions, has exposed a significant challenge: talent shortage. Recruiting and retaining skilled professionals in this specialized sector have proven to be formidable obstacles. This meta-analysis systematically reviews existing research articles and reports to uncover the core factors contributing to talent shortages within Islamic banking and propose strategic solutions. The study encompasses various dimensions of talent shortage, including recruitment, retention, skill development, and industry competitiveness. Key factors identified include a lack of awareness and education, cultural and religious barriers, compensation discrepancies, regulatory complexities, and regional disparities in talent availability. The paper offers a multifaceted approach to address these challenges, providing industry stakeholders with a roadmap to cultivate a skilled workforce and align with Islamic principles, thus ensuring long-term growth and prominence in the global financial landscape.

DIGITAL OR NOT DIGITAL? KEY FACTORS AND BENEFITS OF SMEs’ TRANSFORMATION: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Hanim Nazira Zulkipli, Norazlina Ilias, Wan Zuriati Wan Zakaria — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Within the contemporary corporate landscape, the digital transformation process has emerged as a crucial facilitator for organizations' long-term viability and competitive advantage Although bigger organizations have readily adopted digital technology, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) must carefully evaluate certain variables and understand the benefits of implementing digital transformation efforts. This systematic review aims to provide a thorough and inclusive examination of the elements SMEs consider as they embark on their digital transformation path. The analysis of 418 Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus-indexed articles published between 2014 and 2024 served as the basis for this review. The results suggest that the elements influencing the adoption of digital transformation include environmental, organizational, and technological aspects. One of the key benefits related to adopting digital transformation for SMEs is the potential reduction in operational costs. This study undertakes a comprehensive examination and evaluation of scholarly literature to identify significant subjects and gather data that will influence future research and practical strategies for SMEs aiming to thrive in the digital realm.

CABARAN DAN PERANCANGAN KEWANGAN BAGI MENCAPAI KESEJAHTERAAN HIDUP IBU TUNGGAL DI TERENGGGANU

Sharifah Shahida Syed Muhsin, Lukman Z.M., Azlini, C — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Artikel ini bertujuan menganalisis cabaran hidup yang dialami ibu tunggal serta perancangan kewangan bagi mencapai kesejahteraan hidup ibu tunggal di Terengganu. Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif. Lokasi kajian melibatkan lapan daerah di negeri Terengganu. Bilangan responden yang terlibat dalam kajian ini adalah seramai 612 orang ibu tunggal iaitu seramai 468 orang bercerai hidup dan seramai 144 orang bercerai mati. Proses pengumpulan data diperoleh melalui tiga kaedah iaitu melalui tinjauan, atas talian (google form) dan panggilan telefon. Kajian ini menggunakan analisis deskriptif korelasi yang melibatkan frekuensi, peratusan, min, sisihan piawai dan skor. Hasil kajian menunjukkan seramai 515 orang dengan nilai peratusan sebanyak 84.1% menghadapi cabaran tidak mampu memiliki kenderaan ke tempat kerja, tidak mampu mengisi petrol (bagi yang memiliki kenderaan), dan tidak mampu membayar upah pengasuh anak yang masih kecil. Punca utama terjadinya cabaran kewangan adalah tiada gaji atau sumber pendapatan dengan jumlah seramai 505 orang dengan nilai peratusan 82.5%. Hasil kajian juga mendapati seramai 469 orang ibu tunggal (76.6%) telah membuat keputusan menetapkan matlamat kewangan yang lebih spesifik untuk kesejahteraan pada masa hadapan. Kesimpulannya, kehidupan sebagai ibu tunggal didapati sangat mencabar. Oleh itu ibu tunggal harus segera bertindak untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan hidup. Implikasi kajian ini dapat menunjukkan daripada aspek perlaksanaan program-program latihan dan bantuan daripada agensi-agensi terlibat yang menjurus kepada minat dan peluang untuk menjana pendapatan dalam kalangan ibu tunggal.

This article aims to analyze the life challenges experienced by single mothers as well as financial planning to achieve the well-being of single mothers in Terengganu. This study uses a quantitative approach. The study location involves eight districts in the state of Terengganu. The number of respondents involved in this study is a total of 612 single mothers, which is a total of 468 divorced people alive and a total of 144 divorced people dead. The data collection process is obtained through three methods, namely through surveys, online (google form) and phone calls. This study uses descriptive correlation analysis involving frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and score. The results of the study show that a total of 515 people with a percentage value of 84.1% face the challenge of not being able to own a vehicle to work, not being able to fill up with petrol (for those who own a vehicle), and not being able to pay the wages of babysitters who are still small. The main cause of financial challenges is no salary or source of income with a total of 505 people with a percentage value of 82.5%. The results of the study also found that a total of 469 single mothers (76.6%) have decided to set more specific financial goals for future well-being. In conclusion, life as a single mother is found to be very challenging. Therefore, single mothers should immediately act to improve the well-being of life. The implications of this study can be shown from the aspect of the implementation of training programs and assistance from the agencies involved that lead to interest and opportunities to generate income among single mothers.

DETERMINANTS OF FRANCHISEE SURVIVAL: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY IN MALAYSIA

Nor Hafiza Othman, Nurul Faizah Halim, Nur A’mirah Mohd Yaziz — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The franchise business model has become one of the most successful business models of the 21st century. However, franchisees often face significant challenges in navigating economic downturns and maintaining profitability. This study aims to identify the key factors that influence business survival in Malaysia. It involved 165 franchise business owners, using purposive sampling to collect data through a questionnaire. The data were analyzed using multiple linear regression with IBM SPSS version 26. The findings indicate that financial resources, value proposition, and government support positively contribute to franchisee survival. Among these factors, government support emerges as the most critical element in ensuring business survival during crises or pandemics. This study makes a significant contribution by integrating the Resource-Based View and Institutional Theory, providing strategies to enhance franchisee resilience. Additionally, it offers a comprehensive framework for evaluating franchisee survival capabilities, yielding valuable insights into the franchising industry. Future research should explore the transformative potential of technology-driven strategies, which could offer valuable solutions for franchisees seeking to adapt and thrive in an increasingly dynamic market.

RETHINKING ISLAMIC BRANDING: IS A NEW PHILOSOPHICAL ASSUMPTION NECESSARY?

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The American Marketing Association (AMA) defines a brand as “a name, term, design, symbol, or any other feature that distinguishes one seller's goods or services from those of others”. Ideally, a brand provides consumers with multiple sensory cues that enhance their connection to a company's product. It is also involves forming a perception in consumers' minds and hearts. In 2007, Islamic branding began to capture the attention of marketing scholars. Discussions on Islamic branding can be categorized into three main areas: defining what constitutes an Islamic brand, proposing models or frameworks for Islamic branding, and examining the factors that influence Muslim consumers' attitudes toward a brand. It can be observed that most Islamic branding studies are rooted in conventional frameworks, which may not fully align with Islamic philosophy. This raises questions about whether the current philosophical assumptions underlying Islamic brand studies comply with Islamic principles? Consequently, this study seeks to explore the philosophy of Islamic branding from an Islamic perspective, contrasting it with secular approaches. The scope of this article encompasses the epistemology, ontology, and axiology of brand studies. This article utilizes a qualitative approach through library research, conducting an in-depth examination of existing literature related to both secularism and Islamic philosophy. Finding indicated Islamic brands may exhibit unique characteristics, values, and distinctiveness grounded in the fundamental sources of the Quran and Sunnah. Hence, the present article recommend that the development of Islamic brand must following the epistemology, ontology, and axiology from Islamic philosophy perspective. This philosophy should be as a reference to the marketers as well as Islamic marketing scholars in creating the true Islamic brand product in order to achieve His Blessings in the world and Hereafter.

EVALUATING QUALITY OF EXPERIENCE (QoE) AND BROADBAND ADOPTION IN PUBLIC HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS: INSIGHTS FOR IMPROVED SERVICE QUALITY AND ACCESS

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This study investigates the relationship between the Quality of Experience (QoE) dimensions and broadband service adoption among students in Public Higher Educational Institutions (PHEIs). Four key QoE dimensions; service coverage, service quality, service reliability, and service usability are examined for their impact on broadband adoption rates. A survey of 217 students from public universities was conducted to assess these relationships. Results indicate that service usability and service coverage significantly influence broadband adoption, while service reliability and service quality show positive correlations with broadband adoption. The findings provide insights into improving broadband service strategies in PHEIs, highlighting the importance of ensuring robust, high-quality, and user-friendly services to increase broadband adoption. This study contributes to the understanding of QoE in the context of educational institutions and offers actionable recommendations for policymakers and service providers aiming to enhance service quality and access to broadband networks.

AN ANALYSIS OF STUDENTS’ SATISFACTION AT LOCAL STREET COFFEE SHOP IN PENANG

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Street coffee shops are small, informal establishments often found in busy urban areas, offering a limited menu of coffee, tea, and light snacks. Known for their convenience, these shops cater to people on the move, commonly located in pedestrian-friendly zones or near public transport hubs. Customer satisfaction plays a crucial role in driving repeat visits and word-of-mouth referrals, making it essential for owners and managers to understand customer preferences and improve service. This study investigates factors influencing customer satisfaction at local street coffee shops, focusing on price, quality, and location. Additionally, the study considers the impact of competition among coffee shops and evolving market trends on customer satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of staying competitive in a dynamic environment. Demographic factors, such as age, gender, and income, are also analyzed to explore their influence on consumer preferences and satisfaction levels. Using simple random sampling, data was collected from 390 respondents via an online questionnaire. The results reveal that price, quality, and location significantly impact customer satisfaction in this setting. Based on these findings, the study offers recommendations for coffee shop managers and outlines suggestions for future research.

DETERMINANTS OF YOUTH-PRENEURIAL READINESS FOR SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP: PROPOSING A CONCEPTUAL MODEL

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Social entrepreneurship has increasingly been recognized as a dynamic approach for addressing various social, environmental, and economic issues. Despite the growing prominence of social entrepreneurship, Malaysia is experiencing a noticeable disparity in youth participation in this field. This conceptual study aims to examine the factors influencing the readiness of young individuals to participate in social entrepreneurship, with the objective of empowering both youth and the broader community. Previous researches have established that critical factors such as empathy, prior experience, entrepreneurship education, and self-efficacy are instrumental in shaping the readiness of youth to engage in social entrepreneurship. This study is expected to provide significant insights, which will serve as the foundation for developing a comprehensive framework specifically designed for Malaysian youth. It is intended to clarify the complex dynamics involved, revealing both the facilitating and inhibiting factors affecting Malaysian youth’s participation in social entrepreneurship. This framework will provide policymakers with essential insights to foster a more supportive environment for promoting social entrepreneurship among Malaysian youth. These efforts are ultimately aligned with the broader goals set forth in the National Entrepreneurship Policy 2020-2030, which seeks to position Malaysia as a leading example of entrepreneurial excellence by the year 2030.