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

WHAT DRIVES SMES TO ADOPT FINTECH? THE MEDIATING ROLE OF PERCEIVED RELATIVE ADVANTAGE AND SECURITY

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This research aims to examine the adoption intention of FinTech among SMEs in Bangladesh using a cross-sectional approach with data collected through a standardized questionnaire comprising six constructs: perceived organizational readiness, perceived competitive pressure, facilitating conditions, perceived relative advantage, perceived security, and behavioral intention. A quantitative method was applied, integrating positivism and deductive reasoning to identify relationships among variables, and the data were analyzed using PLS-SEM. The findings reveal that perceived organizational readiness and perceived competitive pressure positively influence behavioral intention, whereas facilitating conditions show no significant effect on adoption intention. Moreover, perceived relative advantage mediates the relationship between organizational readiness and adoption intention, while perceived security mediates the relationship between facilitating conditions and adoption intention; however, no mediation effect was observed for organizational readiness and competitive pressure. PLSpredict results indicate that the proposed model has a medium level of predictive power, and robustness tests examining quadratic effects and endogeneity further confirm the reliability of the model.

BEYOND AUDIT AUTOMATION: MAPPING THE EMERGING LANDSCAPE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE RESEARCH IN AUDITING

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Artificial intelligence (AI) is swiftly reshaping the auditing profession by strengthening audit efficiency, elevating the ability to detect fraud, and supporting more data-driven decision-making processes. Although there is growing scholarly interest in AI applications within auditing, the existing literature remains fragmented across multiple disciplines, resulting in a limited understanding of thematic evolution, intellectual structure, as well as the patterns of international research collaboration within the field. Accordingly, this study seeks to deliver an extensive bibliometric examination of AI scholarship within auditing published between 2006 and 2025. Using a PRISMA-informed screening approach, bibliographic records were extracted from the Scopus database via a sophisticated search strategy incorporating keywords associated with artificial intelligence and auditing. After applying systematic inclusion and exclusion criteria, a final corpus comprising 597 journal articles was selected for analytical purposes. The study employed Scopus Analyzer, OpenRefine, and VOSviewer software to examine publication trends, citation structures, co-authorship networks, as well as patterns of keyword co-occurrence. The results indicate a pronounced exponential upsurge in research on AI auditing, particularly after 2020, reflecting the increasing adoption of digital technologies within audit practices. The United States stood out as the leading contributor in publication volume, citation influence, and the robustness of international collaborative networks, with the United Kingdom and China ranking subsequently in that order. Keyword co-occurrence analysis further demonstrated that the field has evolved beyond technical automation themes toward broader discussions involving governance, explainability, ethical accountability, generative AI, and human–AI collaboration. Highly cited studies also indicate a strong interdisciplinary orientation integrating accounting, information systems, governance, and business ethics perspectives. Overall, this study delivers a structured and comprehensive examination of the intellectual evolution and developing research trajectories of artificial intelligence within the auditing field, yielding meaningful insights for scholars, practitioners, regulators, and policymakers aiming to facilitate the responsible and efficient incorporation of AI into auditing contexts.

BEYOND ECONOMICS: RELIGIOUS VALUES AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT AMONG MUSLIM RETIREES

Wan Nadiah Wan Mohd Nasir, Azwan Abdullah — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

As Malaysia transitions into an ageing society, understanding the motivations underlying post-retirement financial management among Muslim retirees has become increasingly important. While previous studies have examined retirement planning, financial adequacy, and financial practices, the motivations shaping retirees' financial decisions, particularly those related to social responsibility and religious values, remain underexplored in the Malaysian context. This study addresses this gap by examining the motivations underlying post-retirement financial management among Muslim retirees in Malaysia. A qualitative research design was adopted, with in-depth semi-structured interviews conducted among Muslim retirees from the public and private sectors in Kelantan and Selangor. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. Two overarching themes emerged: a sense of responsibility and religious values. A sense of responsibility was reflected in ongoing obligations towards family, children, and the wider community, whereas religious values were expressed through the prioritisation of zakat and sadaqah, contentment (qana'ah), and essential needs alongside spiritual preparation for the Hereafter. The findings indicate that post-retirement financial management extends beyond managing income and expenditure, reflecting broader social responsibilities and religious commitments that shape financial decision-making in later life. By focusing on retirees' motivations rather than financial practices alone, this study contributes to the retirement finance literature and offers a richer understanding of post-retirement financial management among Muslim retirees in Malaysia. It also provides qualitative evidence on how a sense of responsibility and religious values shape post-retirement financial management among Muslim retirees in Malaysia.

HOW CASHLESS PAYMENTS SUPPORT SUSTAINABLE FINANCIAL INCLUSION

Nur Ain Ahmad Yatim Mustafa, Muhammad Iskandar Hamzah, Faten Aisyah Ahmad Ramli — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Cashless payments are emerging as an important mechanism to expand financial access, especially in the context of underserved communities. QR-based technologies and digital banking can reduce the provision of physical banking infrastructure and can reduce transaction costs by providing a more secure and transparent platform for every financial transaction. Despite the rapid growth of the cashless ecosystem, the role of cashless transactions in supporting financial inclusion remains crucial. However, underserved communities remain underexplored. This paper investigates how cashless payment systems support sustainable financial inclusion among underserved communities by expanding financial accessibility, enhancing service efficiency, improving transparency and financial security, reducing environmental impact, and supporting long-term economic participation. In addition, the study highlights key challenges that may hinder the effective and inclusive adoption of cashless payment systems among vulnerable populations. This study uses a conceptual research approach, synthesising existing literature on cashless payments, mobile wallets, QR-based transactions, and digital banking to identify how cashless systems contribute to sustainable financial inclusion. The findings indicate that cashless payment systems contribute to sustainable financial inclusion for underserved communities through wider access to financial services, improved transparency and security, lower environmental and operational costs, and enhanced opportunities for long-term economic empowerment. The study concludes that cashless payment systems play a critical role in ensuring that financial inclusion operates effectively and sustainably over time, particularly for underserved populations. To realise these benefits, all parties, such as policymakers, financial institutions, and technology providers, need to work together to strengthen digital infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and user capabilities.

SERVICE QUALITY AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION IN THE AIRLINE INDUSTRY: A CASE STUDY OF MALAYSIA AIRLINES IN MALAYSIA

Nur Anis Afiqah Hasni, Ain Shamimi Arifin, Noraihan Mohamad — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This study examines the relationship between service quality dimensions and customer satisfaction in the airline industry, with specific focus on Malaysia Airlines. Grounded in SERVQUAL and Customer Satisfaction Theory, the study evaluates reliability, responsiveness, assurance, tangibility, and empathy among Generation Z passengers. A quantitative cross-sectional design was adopted, and 385 valid responses were analysed using SPSS. The findings indicate that reliability, tangibility, and empathy are the most influential predictors of customer satisfaction, while responsiveness shows comparatively weaker influence. The study contributes theoretically by extending SERVQUAL with cognitive and affective components and provides managerial implications for enhancing service delivery strategies.

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION TOWARDS FOODPANDA SERVICE DELIVERY IN KLANG VALLEY

Muhammad Hakim Hamdan, Noraihan Mohamad — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

The primary objective of this study is to examine the effect of service quality and food quality on customer satisfaction amongst users of Foodpanda in Klang Valley. In so doing, this study aims to investigate customers’ satisfaction with service delivery provided by Foodpanda and also to identify critical factors that affect customers’ experiences with online food delivery service. A quantitative approach was used to collect data from users of Foodpanda in Klang Valley through established measures for assessing service quality (SERVQUAL) and online food delivery services (OFD). Findings from the survey were analyzed to test hypotheses of the study. Results of the study revealed that food quality has more significant impact on customers’ satisfaction than service quality. Key factors that affect customers’ satisfaction with their experiences with Foodpanda were identified and discussed. Moreover, findings of the study revealed that service quality is relevant and has significant effect on customers’ satisfaction with their experiences with online food delivery service. Specifically, findings revealed that aspects of service quality such as reliability and responsiveness have significant effect on customers’ satisfaction with their experiences with Foodpanda. The study employed e-SERVQUAL and Expectancy Disconfirmation Theory to understand how customers judge service quality provided by Foodpanda in digital delivery ecosystem where customers judge service quality based on their expectations of services provided. Findings and contributions of the study identified critical factors that affect customers’ experiences and thus, their satisfaction with online food delivery service and relative importance of food quality to service quality. The study also provided practical implications on how customers’ experiences with Foodpanda could be improved particularly with respect to delivery, handling of food and managing customers’ experiences with online food delivery service.

UNDERSTANDING TURNOVER INTENTION AMONG NURSES: INTEGRATING WORK PRESSURE AND JOB CRAFTING WITHIN THE JD-R PERSPECTIVE — A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Nurse turnover remains a critical challenge in the healthcare sector, particularly in private hospitals, where workforce stability is essential in ensuring high-quality and sustainable healthcare. Excessive work pressure, characterized by a heavy workload, emotional exhaustion, and demanding work environments, has significantly contributed to nurses' intention to leave their roles. Conversely, job crafting has emerged as a vital personal resource that enhances employees' adaptability, engagement, and resilience. Grounded in the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) Theory, this conceptual paper examines the influence of work pressure and job crafting on turnover intention among nurses working in private hospitals in Malaysia. Specifically, the paper posits that work pressure positively influences turnover intention, whereas job crafting negatively influences turnover intention. Through both theoretical and empirical discussions, this paper underscores the importance of balancing job demands with proactive personal resources to improve nurse retention and workforce sustainability. The study contributes to the healthcare management literature by extending the application of JD-R Theory within the Malaysian healthcare context. Furthermore, the paper supports Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by promoting sustainable nurse retention, employee well-being, and stability in the healthcare workforce.

MACROECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF GOVERNANCE IN MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE: A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This conceptual analysis paper presents an integrated framework to analyse how key macroeconomic determinants such as economic growth, foreign direct investment, trade openness, human capital, and income inequality systematically influence the governance in Malaysia and Singapore. By drawing on institutional economics, political economy, and development theory, this study highlights the channels through which macroeconomic conditions impact the governance of a nation. By contrasting a middle-income developing economy with a high-income developed economy, this study emphasizes the importance of developmental stages and institutional maturity in shaping governance responses. The proposed framework contributes to the governance literature by reframing governance as a macro-driven outcome and offers policy insights aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

INVESTIGATING THE CUSTOMER PERCEPTIONS OF TRUST, RELIGIOSITY, AND SATISFACTION WITH THE USE OF ISLAMIC BANKING SERVICES: BANGLADESH PERSPECTIVES

Abdullah Al Faruque, Ashurov Sharofiddin, Farah Abdullah, Fawzia Abdullah — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Islamic banking in Bangladesh has experienced significant expansion during recent decades, but it has certain limits in its development, conditioned by several systemic and operational issues. Although Islamic banking has experienced substantial growth, its market share remains below its potential considering that more than 90% of Bangladesh's population is Muslim and Islamic banking accounts for approximately one-fourth of the total banking industry assets and deposits. However, customers' perceptions of Islamic banking services may deteriorate if banks violate Shariah and provide poor service. This paper seeks to explore expert perspectives regarding the factors shaping customer perceptions of trust, religiosity, and satisfaction toward Islamic banking services in Bangladesh and the important roles these factors play in enhancing the performance of Islamic banks. A total of six semi-structured interviews with staff members of different Islamic financial organizations of Bangladesh were conducted to collect the data. In addition, focus group discussion was also conducted involving four Shariah scholars, academicians, and Islamic finance experts. Data were analysed thematically using the Atlas.ti platform. As found in this study, the success of Islamic banking products is largely dependent on the views of trust, religiosity, and satisfaction. Islamic banks can cultivate a loyal customer base that is more likely to maintain long-term relationships with the institution and engage in positive word-of-mouth communication. In an era of stiff competition in the financial field, this combination could prove helpful for the sustainability and growth of the Islamic banking system. The results of the current study would be helpful for regulators, policymakers, and bankers, and it is anticipated that the recommendations made from the current study can indeed make some valuable contributions to the development of the services offered by Islamic banking in Bangladesh. Through the current study, the literature on Islamic banking gets enriched as it provides qualitative information from industry experts and Shariah practitioners on how trust, religiosity, and satisfaction affect customer loyalty.

GOVERNANCE AND MACROECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY IN MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE: A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Environmental quality has become a major policy concern as developing and developed economies struggle to balance economic expansion with ecological sustainability. In Southeast Asia, Malaysia and Singapore provide a useful analytical setting because both countries are economically integrated and growth-oriented, yet differ institutional strength, regulatory enforcement, and environmental governance capacity. This conceptual paper develops a framework linking governance, economic growth, energy consumption, foreign direct investment, trade openness, and domestic investment to environmental quality, proxied by carbon dioxide emissions. This paper argues that governance is not only a direct determinant of environmental quality, but also other macroeconomic variables affect environmental outcomes. The Environmental Kuznets Curve and institutional governance perspectives are used to explain the expected relationships. This paper identifies a conceptual gap in the literature, namely the limited integration of governance with macroeconomic drivers of environmental quality in a comparative Southeast Asian setting. It proposes a framework in which strong governance can mitigate the environmentally harmful effects of growth, energy use, trade, and investment by improving regulation, enforcement, and policy coordination. This paper also contributes by offering a clearer theoretical basis for understanding environmental sustainability through institutional quality and by providing propositions that may guide future empirical work and policy design.

WHAT DRIVES E-WALLET ACCEPTANCE AMONG MALAYSIA’S LOW-INCOME GROUPS? A MEDIATED UTAUT MODEL

Nur Syafatul Aqilla Samar, Shafinar Ismail, Nur Hayati Abd Rahman — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This study examines the factors influencing e-wallet adoption among low-income groups in Malaysia, where digital financial inclusion remains limited despite the rapid expansion of fintech. Using data collected from 384 respondents, the research applies the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to assess how performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and facilitating conditions shape e-wallet acceptance. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test both direct and indirect relationships, with behavioural intention included as a mediating variable. The results indicate that performance expectancy, facilitating conditions, and behavioural intention significantly predict e-wallet acceptance, while effort expectancy shows no significant direct effect. Mediation analysis further reveals that behavioural intention significantly mediates the effects of performance expectancy and facilitating conditions on acceptance. Overall, this study concludes that performance expectancy and facilitating conditions are more critical than effort expectancy in driving e-wallet adoption among low-income groups, providing practical guidance for policymakers and service providers seeking to enhance digital financial inclusion.

ANTECEDENTS OF EVENT MANAGEMENT INTENTION TOWARD SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES IN KLANG VALLEY

Noorita Mohammad, Khamisah Abd Manaf, Norhusniyati Husin, Mariam Setapa — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and the depletion of natural resources have intensified concerns regarding environmental sustainability across industries, including event management. In response, sustainable event management has emerged as a strategic approach that integrates environmentally responsible, socially ethical, and economically viable practices throughout the event lifecycle. This study aims to understand the challenges in practicing sustainable behavior among event management company and propose a factor that could solve the challenges among the industry to promote sustainable practice.

FACTORS IMPACTING SERVICE TAX COMPLIANCE: A CONCEPTUAL REVIEW UNDER THE SST REGIME IN MALAYSIA

Farah Nor Aishah Rosli, Nor Azrina Mohd Yusof, Kamarudin Othman — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Service tax compliance has become a critical concern in Malaysia's evolving Sales and Service Tax (SST) regime, particularly following recent legislative revisions that increased tax rates and expanded taxable categories. Despite continuing enforcement efforts by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD), challenges such as underreporting and inaccurate declarations persist among business registrants. While existing literature extensively covers income tax, Goods and Services Tax (GST), and Value-Added Tax (VAT), service tax compliance in Malaysia's current system is limited attention has been given. To address this gap, this study synthesises behavioural taxation literature to develop a conceptual framework based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). The proposed model examines how perceived tax system effectiveness, law enforcement, tax complexity, tax knowledge, and trust in tax authorities influence service tax compliance behaviour. Importantly, this study indicates that compliance is driven not only by deterrent mechanisms, but also by institutional and behavioural factors that influence voluntary compliance. Moreover, in this complex situation, trust in tax authorities is introduced as a key moderator that may strengthen or weaken compliance behaviour. Finally, this paper contributes to the indirect tax literature by extending the TPB to the indirect tax setting and provides the groundwork for future empirical research and targeted policy development.

MAPPING AND OVERCOMING THE BARRIERS: AN EXPLORATORY CASE STUDY OF COMMUNICATION AND COLLABORATION AMONG CARERS IN DOMICILIARY CARE

Nancy Sinha , Mohammad Alrabie — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This study investigates communication and collaboration challenges within domiciliary care teams, focusing on a family-run domiciliary care organisation. As the demand for domiciliary care increases and carers often work in isolation, effective communication becomes essential for ensuring the continuity, quality, and safety of care. The primary aim of this paper is to identify barriers to communication among carers, evaluate the effectiveness of existing communication tools and practices, and develop a conceptual framework to improve coordination in geographically dispersed care teams. A qualitative methodology was employed, consisting of eight semi-structured interviews with carers. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts via NVivo revealed recurring issues, which guided the creation of causal loop diagrams to better understand the underlying dynamics of communication breakdowns. Project management measures and metrics, including risk registers and stakeholder analysis, were used to support the analysis process. The findings highlight significant barriers, including inconsistent handovers, language and cultural differences, limited interpersonal interaction, and underutilisation of digital tools. These challenges align with broader theoretical frameworks of relational coordination and communication models, reinforcing the need for structured interventions. The study concludes that standardising documentation, implementing targeted training, and fostering proactive team-building strategies are essential for overcoming these barriers. The outcomes contribute to the development of a practical conceptual framework aimed at improving team collaboration, reducing misunderstandings, and enhancing the overall quality of care in domiciliary settings.

NAVIGATING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND SUSTAINABLE PERFORMANCE: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW ON THE HUMAN-CENTRIC PARADIGM IN INDUSTRY 4.0

Wang Meng, Gary Tan Peng Liang — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

In the era of Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0—the latter emphasising human-centric and sustainable production—organisations face a multidimensional challenge: aligning rapid technological advancement with sustainable human resource management. This systematic literature review synthesises recent research on the drivers of sustainable performance, innovative work behaviour, and employee well-being. Drawing on literature across Education 4.0 (the integration of digital and adaptive technologies in higher education), digital transformation, and workplace spirituality (a multidimensional construct comprising meaningful work, sense of community, and alignment with organisational values), the review identifies factors shaping organisational performance and sustainability. Central to the synthesis is the shift from purely performance-driven strategies to human-centric, resilience-based approaches that prioritise work engagement and psychological safety. The findings indicate that while digital tools provide the necessary infrastructure, employees’ perceived empowerment and the experience of meaningful work remain the principal catalysts of measurable innovative outcomes. The review identifies two critical research gaps: (1) generational differences in digital work adaptation and (2) the lack of longitudinal evidence on AI-driven workplace transformation. It offers a comprehensive roadmap for both academic inquiry and management practice in the digital age.

CUSTOMER RETENTION TOWARDS FAST FOOD RESTAURANT IN KLANG VALLEY

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This study examines the factors influencing customer retention toward fast-food restaurants in Klang Valley, Malaysia. With the rapid growth of the fast-food industry and increasing competition among local and international brands, retaining customers has become a critical challenge. The research focuses on three independent variables – brand image, service quality, and price perception – and examines their impact on the dependent variable, customer retention. The study is grounded in Customer Perceived Value Theory and Relationship Marketing Theory, which explain how perceived value, trust, and commitment influence long-term loyalty. A quantitative research approach was adopted using a structured questionnaire distributed through Google Forms. A total of 167 valid responses were collected from customers aged 18 years and above who had experience dining at fast-food restaurants in Klang Valley. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. The findings reveal that price perception and service quality have a significant positive effect on customer retention. Price perception was identified as the strongest predictor, indicating that customers are more likely to remain loyal when they perceive prices as fair and reasonable. Service quality also significantly contributes to retention, particularly in terms of staff friendliness and efficiency. However, brand image, although rated positively in the descriptive analysis, was not found to be statistically significant in influencing customer retention. The regression model shows that 72.4% of the variance in customer retention can be explained by the three variables. The study concludes that fast-food operators in Klang Valley should prioritize fair pricing strategies and high service standards rather than relying solely on brand reputation. These findings provide practical insights for marketers and contribute to a better understanding of customer retention in the Malaysian fast-food industry.

INTERNAL CONTROL PRACTICES IN MALAYSIAN MOSQUES

Muhd Ikhwan Syamil Azhar, Muhammad Ahmar Ali, Shafawaty Mohamad Shabri — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Internal control systems have an important role in strengthening accountability and financial governance in nonprofit religious institutions like mosques. This study aims to examine to what extent the five COSO internal control components are practised in Malaysian mosques and how these practices support accountability, transparency, compliance and responsible financial management. The study examines five internal control components which are control environment, risk assessment, control activities, information and communication, and monitoring activities. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was used, targeting mosque administrators, treasurers and financial committee members who are directly involved in managing mosque financial resources including donations and waqf funds. A total of 300 questionnaires were distributed, 254 returned, and 206 usable responses are being used for final analysis. The data for this study were analysed using SmartPLS software through descriptive statistics, such as mean and standard deviation. The results indicate the internal control practices of Malaysian mosques are at a high level, with an overall mean of 4.15 and a standard deviation of 0.77. Of the five components, control environment recorded the highest mean score whereas risk assessment recorded the lowest mean score. The findings show that Malaysian mosques generally have strong foundations for governance, especially in ethical leadership, accountability culture, monitoring, documentation and communication. However, risk assessment practices require further attention, especially in relation to systematic risk identification and fraud-risk awareness. Overall, this study provides empirical evidence on the importance of internal control practices in Malaysian mosques and highlights the relevance of the COSO framework in strengthening mosque governance, public trust, and financial management in faith-based nonprofit institutions.

A CHRONOLOGICAL REVIEW OF THE IMPACT OF GREENWASHING ON ESG PERFORMANCE

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This chronological literature review examines the impact of greenwashing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) research and practice, with emphasis on how scholarly understanding has evolved across recent years. The study is motivated by the growing concern that ESG disclosure, although increasingly important for investors, regulators, and other stakeholders, may be undermined by symbolic sustainability claims that do not reflect actual environmental or social performance. Such a condition weakens the credibility of ESG reporting, creates information asymmetry, and may distort sustainable investment decisions. To address this issue, the review applies a systematic advanced search strategy using the Scopus database, guided by the main keywords greenwashing, ESG, and sustainability. After screening and selection, the final primary dataset comprised 104 documents (n = 104). The selected studies were analysed using a chronological approach and grouped into three temporal phases: Foundational Emergence (2020–2021), Early Development and Consolidation (2022–2023), and Rapid Expansion and Intensification (2024–2026). The results indicate a clear growth in publication activity and conceptual maturity over time. In the first phase, the literature mainly focused on disclosure credibility, governance mechanisms, and the early identification of greenwashing behaviour. In the second phase, the discussion expanded toward financial constraints, regulatory pressures, green finance, assurance, and methodological refinement in detecting symbolic ESG conduct. In the third phase, the literature showed substantial intensification, with stronger attention to artificial intelligence, digital governance, investor reactions, policy intervention, and more advanced measurement frameworks for distinguishing substantive ESG performance from reputational signalling. Overall, the review concludes that greenwashing has become a central challenge in ESG literature, not only as a reporting issue but also as a governance, financial, and regulatory concern. The chronological structure provides a clearer understanding of how the field has progressed and where future research should be directed.

AN ACADEMIC DISCOURSE ON LEADERSHIP STYLE IN WAQF MANAGEMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY

Mohammad Firdaus Nizam, Balakrishnan Parasuraman, Hazriah Hasan — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

The growing lack of public funds and rising operational pressures has seen increased interest in Waqf as a viable source of income for higher education. However, most previous studies have focused on legal, financial and governance aspects, while the role of leadership in shaping waqf management practices has not yet been given due attention. Based on a qualitative multi-case study approach, this study examines how leadership interacts with sustainable operational practices in influencing organizational performance in higher education waqf institutions. Findings indicate that leadership plays an important role in guiding the implementation of operational practices, strengthening governance and building stakeholder trust. Transformational, transactional, service-oriented and Islamic leadership styles are found to complement each other in supporting institutional sustainability and organizational effectiveness. This study also emphasizes that contextual factors such as governance structure and socio-cultural environment greatly influence the way leadership is implemented.

CORPORATE CULTURE AS A DETERMINANT OF WORK EFFICIENCY AND LIFESTYLE HEALTH IN UAE ORGANIZATIONS: A STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELING APPROACH

Hessa Khalifa Salem Alnuaimi, Saslina Kamaruddin — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Most companies describe culture, but very few really understand how culture influences the day-to-day stuff that matters: whether workers do their jobs on time or walk home burned out. A lot of the research connects corporate culture to performance overall, but we still don’t know what exact cultural pieces really fuel efficiency, versus physical employee health. That gap has leaders questioning where they should get their efforts. The purpose of this study is to investigate how five aspects of corporate culture --namely, leadership style, communication practices, shared values, organizational structure, and health and wellness--influence work performance (i.e., task completion rates and time management) and employees’ health (i.e., food intake and the work-life balance). Statistics were obtained from 372 employees in sectors in the UAE and assessed by PLS-SEM. The research confirmed that leadership style strongly and significantly predicted work-life balance (β = 0.778, p < 0.001) and time management (β = 0.287, p = 0.002), although interestingly it did not influence task completion. In nutrition, communication practice had a large impact (β = 0.786, p < 0.001); but no direct effect on efficiency measures. Health and wellness culture, in contrast, actually improved task completion (β = 0.394, p < 0.001) and time management (β = 0.397, p < 0.001). Shared value was associated with greater task completion (β = 0.301, p = 0.006) and work-life balance (β = 0.242, p < 0.001), but not with nutrition. Organizational structure was helpful for work-life balance and nutrition, not efficiency. But surprisingly, communication practice had no direct impact on time management, and shared value didn't lead to nutrition. Inconclusion corporate culture is not one toolkit. Leaders who want healthier, more balanced employees should double down on leadership and communication. Those who seek productivity growth must channel resources into health programs and shared beliefs. Stop guessing. Start targeting.

EMERGING FORENSIC ACCOUNTING TECHNOLOGIES FOR FRAUD DETECTION: A COMPREHENSIVE SCOPING REVIEW

Ros Azilatul Nadiah Md Isa, Mohd Danial Afiq Khamar Tazilah — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

As the world becomes digital, financial fraud too is evolving and is a challenge for organisations today to detect and prevent frauds. The fraud schemes get more involved and rely on the latest technology, and traditional audit methods are no longer able to catch up. This scoping review follows the PRISMA-ScR guidelines and the Arksey and O'Malley (2005) framework to analyse how forensic accounting is evolving with the development of new technologies, using a combination of Web of Science and Scopus for literature collection, which results in 116 empirical studies between 2022 and 2024 (89 from Web of Science and 27 from Scopus). Five themes were identified from the analysis. The technology-based fraud detection using artificial intelligence and machine learning was the most notable which was seen in 67 studies (57.8%) with a range of accuracy between 93% and 98.58%. Although the role of technology is becoming increasingly important, there were still 18 studies (15.5%) that emphasized the importance of the auditor's role in supporting the technological tools. Governance and internal controls were found in 21 studies (18.1%) and professional skepticism in 12 studies (10.3%) were organizational and individual factors, respectively. Specifically, the highest accuracy was obtained by using Random Forest (98.58%), K-Nearest Neighbor (95.89%) and Convolutional Neural Networks (95.8%). The hybrid combinations of Multiple Benford's Law models and the K-Means clustering technique were found to be useful for the accuracy of the detection increased from 40% to 93.33%. In terms of geographical distribution, Asian markets are the most prolific and more than 68 studies (58.6%) were published in Asia of which more than 24 (24.1%) were published in China and 12.9% in Indonesia, suggesting the region's high rate of digitalization and dire need for fraud detection. African and Latin American research was very little (4.3% combined) and therefore there was a huge research gap. There were a couple of limitations identified: Most studies (94.8%) were of cross-sectional designs which overlooked longitudinal perspectives and research into implementation challenges is still limited, as is research into the cost benefit analysis and the ethical implications of AI-based fraud detection. This review provides a comprehensive, up-to-date literature review and integrates the latest developments in forensic accounting technology, providing recommendations for organizations, policy makers and researchers.

THE ROLE OF PARASOCIAL INTERACTION IN INFLUENCER MARKETING AND CONSUMER PURCHASE INTENTIONS WITHIN THE TPB FRAMEWORK

Annie Yong Ing Ing, Zahir Osman, Irene Yong Ley Mui — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This study aims to examine the mediating role of parasocial interaction (PSI) in the relationship between media figure characteristics and consumer behavioral intentions within the framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). With the growing influence of social media personalities and brand ambassadors, the research investigates how variables such as media figure credibility, attractiveness, interaction frequency, and emotional connection foster strong parasocial bonds with consumers. These bonds are hypothesized to influence key TPB components—attitudes toward purchasing or endorsing a product, subjective norms related to brand perception, and perceived behavioral control—ultimately affecting consumers’ purchase intentions and behaviors. The proposed model emphasizes the mediating role of PSI in translating media-driven relationships into consumer decision-making processes. Data will be collected from social media users through a structured survey and analysed using structural equation modeling (SEM). This integration aims to enhance understanding of how influencer marketing and parasocial bonds can effectively shape consumer behavior and brand loyalty. The findings provide valuable insights for business managers and marketers, suggesting that cultivating meaningful parasocial connections with influencers can strengthen brand engagement and drive purchasing actions. Overall, this study contributes to the literature on media psychology and consumer behavior by integrating parasocial interaction into the TPB framework as a mechanism explaining how influencer relationships shape purchase intention.

A MODERATED CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK OF AI-DRIVEN EDUCATIONAL GAMES AND THEIR IMPACTS ON LEARNING OUTCOMES: THE ROLES OF TEACHER SUPPORT, LEARNER PREPAREDNESS AND ETHICAL AWARENESS

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

The use of artificial intelligence in education has become a major influence in the development of "smart" educational games, which have been shown to be effective in creating personalized learning experiences through adaptive technology, immediate student feedback, and individualized levels of engagement. Educational artificial intelligence has the potential to enhance educational outcomes, such as improved academic achievement, increased motivation, and the development of higher-order thinking skills. However, studies have found that previous implementations of AI- driven learning environments are not consistent in their ability to produce similar results across different educational settings. This conceptual paper examines the relationship between educational games powered by artificial intelligence as an independent variable producing changes in educational outcomes as the dependent variables. This study draws on three theoretical frameworks: Constructivist Learning Theory, TAM (Technology Acceptance Model), and SDT (Self-Determination Theory). In addition, it proposes that the relationships between these two variables are moderated by three factors: teacher support, learner preparedness, and ethical awareness. This study will also develop a model, representing an integration of the technological, pedagogical, and psychological aspects of using intelligence in education and provide a framework for determining when and how AI can have a positive effect on educational outcomes.

QUANTIFYING THE MEDIATING ROLE OF STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INFORMATION SYSTEMS DEPLOYMENT AND MULTI-DIMENSIONAL SPORTS AGENCY EFFICIENCY: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY FROM UAE

Hamad Salim Hamad Albaymani, Khalizul Khalid — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Information systems investment in sports agencies in the UAE is growing with inconsistent efficiency gains. But there is a lack of empirical evidence that suggests strategic management mediates the relationship between IS and efficiency across industries. This study is urgent now, and the previous research was either about technology acceptance or IS-performance relation which has not directly measured the mediating role of strategic management in the context of UAE sports agency. This disjuncture restricts evidence-based decision making when making technology investments. This research studied the effect of strategic management on information system application relationship and efficiency of UAE sports agencies. The study used a quantitative, deductive design, using stratified random sampling of 364 employees from UAE Ministry of Sport. Data analysed using PLS-SEM. This indicates that Client Relationship Management (β = 0.188, p = 0.008), Data Analytics (β = 0.231, p = 0.000) and Operational Automation (β = 0.203, p = 0.000) had significant positive total indirect effects on efficiency through strategic management. Theoretical underpinning: Resource Optimization mediated CRM → Strategic Efficiency (β = 0.160, p = 0.011) and Data Analytics → Operational Efficiency (β = 0.149, p = 0.004). Decision Making mediated Operational Automation → Operational Efficiency (β = 0.143, p = 0.000). Communication Tools did not mediate the relationship statistically significantly, meanwhile Digital Marketing showed negative indirect effects through Resource Optimization (β = -0.099, p = 0.008). Ultimately Strategic management is a strong mediator towards the IS efficiency relationship, yet its mediation is system specific. CRM, Data Analytics and Operational Automation result in indirect efficiency gains, while communication tools and digital marketing need an even more strategic fit. UAE sports agencies need to apply strategic management frameworks so that they can achieve returns on technology investments.

ENHANCING SUPPLY CHAIN PERFORMANCE THROUGH INTEGRATION: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF SUPPLY CHAIN RISK MANAGEMENT AND THE MODERATING ROLE OF KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT

Shuang Chen, Norlaile Salleh Hudin — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Supply chain integration has been widely recognized as a critical driver of supply chain performance in increasingly complex and uncertain business environments. However, the mechanisms through which integration translates into performance outcomes remain under-theorized in the literature. This conceptual paper proposes an integrated framework that examines the mediating role of supply chain risk management and the moderating role of knowledge management in the relationship between supply chain integration and supply chain performance. Drawing upon Transaction Cost Theory and the Knowledge-Based View, the paper argues that supply chain integration improves performance indirectly through enhancing risk management practices, while knowledge management capabilities further strengthens this indirect relationship by improving organizational learning and decision-making processes. The proposed framework advances the supply chain management literature by providing an integrated explanation of how integration-driven performance can be sustained under conditions of uncertainty. Practical implications underscore the necessity of aligning integration strategies with knowledge-driven risk management capabilities to achieve resilient and high-performing supply chains.

TAX COMPLIANCE AMONG SMES: A STUDY IN KEDAH MALAYSIA

Siti Norfazlina Yusoff, Nur Fatisha Najwa Che Mansor, Siti Zuliana Azmi — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are significantly contributed to Malaysia’s economy as one of the revenue sources. As one of the developing countries, SMEs able to gear up the economic growth, create job opportunities, and support government revenue. As SMEs continue to develop, they will assist and facilitate the innovation process and make industries more competitive. Despite the fact that SMEs play such a big role, many of them still face challenges when it comes to act of complying with tax laws. This is due to some business owners have limited knowledge on taxation, worried about tax penalties, and lack of trust towards the authorities. These issues may affect their ability to manage finances accordingly and could discourage their ability to expand their business. Therefore, this study focuses on three main objectives. First, to identify the level of tax compliance among SMEs in Kedah. Second, to examine how factors like tax knowledge, fear of penalties, and trust in authorities affect their compliance behaviour. Third, to explore whether differences in tax filing experience influence how SMEs handle their tax responsibilities. 100 questionnaires were distributed to SME owners in Kedah using convenience sampling, and the data was then analysed using non-parametric methods namely Spearman’s Rho and the Kruskal-Wallis test to identify relationships and differences among the respondents. The results show that SMEs in Kedah generally have a moderate level of tax compliance. It was also found that tax knowledge, concerns about penalties, and trust in authorities play an important role in influencing their behaviour towards tax compliance. The Kruskal–Wallis test shows a statistically significant difference in tax compliance across different levels of tax filing experience. This study aims to provide useful insights for policymakers, particularly in improving tax education, ensuring fair penalties, and building trust on the tax authorities.

CAPITAL STRUCTURE DETERMINANTS AND SDG ALIGNMENT: EVIDENCE FROM MALAYSIA’S CONSUMER GOODS SECTOR

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

The Malaysian consumer goods industry is currently facing increasing financial pressure due to rising interest rates, inflationary pressures, and economic uncertainty. These challenges have significantly influenced firms' financing decisions and their ability to maintain sustainable capital structures. Capital structure remains an important component for corporate financial management because it determines how a firm balances its debt and equity financing while influencing financial risk and firm value. Therefore, analyzing the determinants of capital structure choices is important to maintain a firm's long-term financial stability and strengthening its ability to adapt to changing business conditions. Despite the importance of capital structure in ensuring long-term financial stability as SDG 8, limited studies have examined impact of firm-specific determinants on capital structure decisions among Malaysian consumer goods companies. Existing Malaysian studies tend to examine broader industrial sectors or focus on corporate governance and firm performance rather than analysing the combined effects of asset structure, earnings volatility, financial flexibility, and growth opportunities on firms’ financing decisions. Furthermore, recent economic challenges, including rising interest rates and inflationary pressures, have altered corporate financing behaviour, creating a need for updated evidence within the Malaysian consumer goods industry. Therefore, this research observes the relationship between asset structure, earnings volatility, financial flexibility, and growth opportunities on the capital structure of consumer goods companies listed on Bursa Malaysia from 2015 to 2024. To determine the most appropriate model requirement, both the Fixed Effects Model (FEM) and Random Effects Model (REM) were estimated and evaluated using Hausman test. The findings provide empirical support for the Pecking Order Theory within the Malaysian consumer goods sector. The results reveal that asset structure and financial flexibility is associated with firm leverage, whereas earnings volatility exerts a significant negative effect.

A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK ON MOTIVATION TO INSURE AGAINST FLOOD PERIL AND THE MODERATING ROLE OF CHARITY HAZARD

Intan Syafiqah Mohd Shah, Azreen Roslan — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

The increasing frequency and severity of flash flood disasters in Malaysia, particularly in states such as Selangor, Kelantan, and Pahang, has exposed a reality that despite the increasing risk of flood disasters, 74% of homeowners still do not have flood insurance coverage. Moreover, the mind-sets that “floods happen, but it won’t happen to me” indicates that risk perception alone is insufficient to drive protective action. Therefore, a study is essential to investigate the behavioural factors that influence individuals’ motivation to adopt insurance as a protective measure. This paper aims to propose a conceptual framework based on Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) to identify the main factors influencing individuals’ motivation to purchase flood peril cover. Additionally, this paper operationalizes protection motivation variables in the context of insurance purchase motivation This framework developed on two main cognitive appraisals namely threat appraisal and coping appraisal. The uniqueness of this framework lies in the integration of "charity hazard" as a moderator variable to test the extent to which reliance on government assistance weakens the relationship between cognitive appraisal and protection motivation. Theoretically, this study refined the application of PMT by adding moderating effects of charity hazards. Data analysis is proposed through PLS-SEM 3.0 to simultaneously examine direct relationships and for precise moderation analysis. Practically, this framework provides valuable insights to Ministry of Finance, NADMA, insurance companies, NGO’s and communities in designing more effective strategies to reduce household vulnerability through insurance.

INTEGRATING BIG DATA AND CRM FOR SMES: A HYBRID RFM AND LEXICON-BASED CLUSTERING APPROACH FOR CUSTOMER SEGMENTATION

Syaimak Abdul Shukor, Siti Hajar Zulkefly — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

In the era of Big Data, integrating Customer Relationship Management (CRM) with advanced analytics is essential for businesses to maintain a competitive edge. This study focuses on customer segmentation, a core CRM strategy, using a public dataset from a giftware retailer. Although previous CRM segmentation studies have extensively applied the RFM model and clustering algorithms, most focus mainly on transactional metrics without examining product-category purchasing behaviours embedded within unstructured product descriptions. Current studies rely heavily on raw product identifiers, which produce high-dimensional sparse data and limit the interpretability of customer preferences. Accordingly, there remains limited research integrating semantic product categorisation with RFM-based clustering to uncover cluster-specific purchasing behaviours within SME retail environments. To bridge this gap, this study proposes a methodology that combines the RFM (Recency, Frequency, Monetary) model with a Lexicon-based approach for product categorisation during data preprocessing. This approach effectively reduces the dimensionality of product varieties, allowing for a more meaningful analysis of buying behaviours. The study employed an unsupervised K-means clustering algorithm using engineered RFM features derived from transactional records. The optimal number of clusters was determined using the Elbow Method, while the model’s validity was confirmed using the Silhouette Index and business logic. The results identified four distinct customer segments: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze, ranked by their monetary value. Findings specify that the Lexicon-based categorisation significantly enhances the interpretability of purchasing patterns within each cluster. This research proposes SMEs a scalable framework for customer profiling, targeted marketing, inventory optimisation, and strategic CRM decision-making through the integration of transactional analytics and semantic product categorisation.

POST-RETIREMENT FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT: PERSPECTIVES AND PRACTICES AMONG MUSLIM RETIREES IN MALAYSIA

Wan Nadiah Wan Mohd Nasir , Azwan Abdullah — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

As Malaysia moves towards an aging society, concerns about the adequacy of retirement income and long-term financial sustainability among retirees have increased. Although previous studies have focused on retirement planning and financial adequacy, limited attention has been given to post-retirement financial management, particularly from an Islamic perspective. Therefore, this study explores post-retirement financial management among Muslim retirees in Malaysia by examining their perceptions and practices. Using a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with Muslim retirees from both public and private sectors, and the data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings show that retirees perceive financial management as the ability to manage money carefully and maintain financial adequacy in meeting daily needs. Retirees also practised careful spending, budgeting, controlled debt management, and Islamic financial practices such as sadaqah. The findings demonstrate that post-retirement financial management is shaped not only by economic considerations but also by religious values, moderation, and responsibilities towards family and society. This study contributes to the literature by providing a qualitative understanding of post-retirement financial management from behavioural and Islamic perspectives.

BRIDGING PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL AND ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTION: A CONCEPTUAL MEDIATION MODEL AMONG HOSPITALITY STUDENTS IN MALAYSIAN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

The hospitality sector increasingly demands graduates with entrepreneurial capabilities, yet previous studies indicate that many students lack the psychological readiness to translate entrepreneurial intentions into action. This study synthesizes prior research to examine how psychological capital influences the relationship between key antecedents, including perceived desirability, perceived feasibility, propensity to act, and subjective norms, and entrepreneurial intention among hospitality students in Malaysian higher education institutions. The reviewed studies employ various quantitative approaches, including systematic sampling and structural equation modeling techniques such as SmartPLS, to examine these relationships. Conceptually, the literature highlights the importance of psychological resources in shaping students’ entrepreneurial motivation, suggesting that entrepreneurial intention is influenced not only by cognitive and social factors but also by individual psychological strengths. This synthesis provides theoretical insights for integrating psychological capital into established entrepreneurial intention models and offers guidance for educators, curriculum planners, and higher education policymakers seeking to cultivate entrepreneurial capabilities among hospitality students.

TAX COLLECTION EFFICIENCY IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION: A BIBLIOMETRIC AND SCIENCE‑MAPPING ANALYSIS OF CONCEPTS, MEASURES, AND THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONS

Nurulhuda Mohammad, Norzaidi Mohd Daud — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This study examines how scholarly research on tax collection efficiency in public administration has evolved using bibliometric and science-mapping techniques. It focuses on how the field is conceptualised, how efficiency is measured, and which theories are most frequently used. The topic is increasingly crucial for revenue administration, fiscal sustainability, and public-sector performance. Nevertheless, existing work is spread across tax administration, public finance, governance, compliance, and digital transformation. To address this fragmentation, the article maps the field’s development, influence, main themes, and patterns of international collaboration. Accordingly, data were retrieved from the Scopus database for 299 English-language journal articles published between 2000 and 2026 using a TITLE-ABS-KEY search string that combined terms such as “tax administration efficiency,” “public administration,” and “tax collection performance.” After screening by language, subject area, and publication year, the dataset was analysed using Scopus Analyser, OpenRefine, and VOSviewer. The results reveal slow growth in publications between 2000 and 2010, followed by a marked increase after 2020, with the highest annual outputs recorded between 2021 and 2025. Citation analysis highlights a small group of highly cited articles, while keyword co-occurrence analysis reveals dominant themes such as tax revenue, tax administration, tax compliance, corruption, revenue administration, tax reform, efficiency, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). Meanwhile, country-level co-authorship analysis indicates that the United States (US) contributes the most documents, while the United Kingdom (UK) has the highest citation impact. Overall, the study indicates that tax collection efficiency is a multidimensional and interdisciplinary research domain shaped by administrative capacity, governance quality, digitalisation, compliance behaviour, and performance measurement. It also offers a structured knowledge base for future work on efficient and technology-enabled revenue administration.

FROM ESG COMMITMENT TO MARKET VALUE: DOES GREEN INNOVATION UNLOCK FINANCIAL GAINS IN ASEAN MINING AND MANUFACTURING FIRMS?

Muliani Muliani, Nurhidayah Yahya, Jamaliah Said, Maslinawati Mohamad — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Despite the rapid global adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks, growing evidence suggests that ESG initiatives frequently fail to translate into tangible financial value, raising concerns about symbolic compliance and potential negative market consequences. This study examines the mediating role of green innovation in the relationship between Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) scores and financial performance in mining and manufacturing companies across ASEAN countries. As sustainability gains prominence in corporate strategy, ESG has emerged as a framework intended to align environmental responsibility with long-term profitability. However, its actual impact on financial performance remains unclear, particularly in high-impact sectors such as mining and manufacturing that face regulatory and operational complexities. Using panel data from 2016 to 2023 and applying path analysis, the study investigates whether green innovation serves as a conduit through which ESG influences firm performance. The empirical results reveal no statistically significant direct relationship between ESG scores and financial performance, nor a significant mediating effect of green innovation. These findings suggest that ESG implementation, in isolation, does not deliver financial advantages unless coupled with substantive innovation strategies. A key insight from this study is the identification of an “ESG–Innovation Misalignment,” wherein ESG reporting may be more symbolic than transformative, leading to limited innovation outcomes and failing to support sustainable financial returns. This issue raises concerns about greenwashing and the superficial adoption of sustainability frameworks in ASEAN’s industrial sectors. The findings emphasize the need for an integrated, performance-based ESG strategy supported by effective innovative ecosystems and proactive policy incentives. Such alignment is critical to translating ESG and sustainability commitments into measurable economic and environmental value in emerging markets.

MARKETING DETERMINANTS OF EFFECTIVE ONLINE ADVERTISING: THE IMPACT OF CORPORATE CREDIBILITY, INFORMATIVENESS AND MATERIALISM ON CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

As Malaysia progresses towards being a developed nation, online advertising has become one of the most beneficial marketing platforms for companies to promote and sell their products. Individuals today utilize the internet nearly 24 hours a day in their daily lives, whether for communication through social media platforms, conducting online purchases, or fulfilling employment responsibilities. The challenges encountered by the company include the misinterpretation of information, such as incorrect usage instructions and misleading product details, as well as deceptive advertisements. These misunderstandings can significantly affect consumer behavior regarding online advertising, particularly resulting in negative perceptions. Therefore, this research aims to explore consumer attitudes towards online advertising, specifically to analyze the connection between independent variables, which are corporate credibility, informativeness, and materialism. A sample of 100 respondents was chosen and analyzed using the convenience sampling technique. The questionnaires were distributed to participants who regularly use the internet, particularly those who have made purchases through Facebook and are likely to have encountered with online advertisements. The analysis revealed that both corporate credibility and informativeness are significantly related to consumer attitudes towards online advertising. Meanwhile, the materialism variable does not show a positive correlation with consumer behavior. Hence, various suggestions have been proposed to improve the future research regarding online advertising and to make it easier for respondents to grasp the study conducted. For instance, the company should develop an online survey, targeting respondents who are internet users, which could enhance the overall efficiency of the research results in a more cost-effective manner. Additionally, future studies should provide a brief and straightforward explanation to less educated respondents before they respond to the questions.

THE EXPECTATION GAP IN E-COMMERCE: HOW TRANSPARENCY SHAPES CONSUMER TRUST AND BEHAVIOUR

Anizah Zainuddin, Sarah Addeany Ridzwan, Sarah Irdina Ridzwan — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Consumers form expectations in online shopping through product representations, delivery information, packaging disclosures, and platform-mediated communication. When actual experiences fail to match these expectations, dissatisfaction and post-purchase conflict may arise. Although prior studies have examined customer satisfaction and trust in e-commerce, limited research has explored how expectation management intersects with transparency and consumer legal awareness in shaping post-purchase outcomes. This study addresses that gap by examining how transparency and realistic communication moderate expectation–reality gaps and influence consumer dissatisfaction, behavioural responses, and awareness of consumer protection rights in Malaysia. A qualitative-dominant mixed-method exploratory approach was employed, integrating literature synthesis with primary qualitative data collected through open-ended online surveys from 40 households in Shah Alam. Thematic analysis identified five interrelated themes: representational misalignment, delivery realism gaps, packaging transparency deficits, platform-mediated expectation formation, and legal awareness. The findings demonstrate that inaccurate product representations, unrealistic delivery promises, inadequate packaging transparency, and platform-generated cues contribute significantly to expectation–reality gaps and consumer dissatisfaction. Conversely, transparent communication and realistic expectation management reduce negative post-purchase behaviours and strengthen consumer trust. The study contributes to e-commerce and consumer behaviour literature by linking expectation management, transparency practices, and consumer protection awareness within a unified post-purchase framework. The findings provide practical guidance for retailers, digital platforms, and policymakers seeking to strengthen consumer trust, improve platform accountability, and reduce post-purchase disputes in online retail environments.

LEADERSHIP STYLES IN MULTI-LEVEL MARKETING: A CONCEPTUAL MODEL FOR BUSINESS SUSTAINABILITY AND NETWORK RETENTION IN MALAYSIA

Shalini Raja Kapol, Balakrishnan Parasuraman, Dzulkifli Mukhtar — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

The Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) industry plays an important role to Malaysia economy, but yet faced some challenges likewise instability of MLM network and high turnover rate among distributors. Due to the lack of formal employment contracts among dispersed distributors, traditional command-and-control leadership styles are ineffective, necessitating a shift towards a people-centric Leadership 5.0 model. This paper proposes a comprehensive theoretical framework to explain how different leadership styles influence the long-term sustainability of networks and distributor retention. By integrating the Resource-Based View (RBV), Leader-Member Exchange Theory (LMX), and Fiedler’s contingency theory, this paper categorizes ten major leadership styles into a structured classification system (relational, developmental, and directional), built within an Input-Process-Output (IPO) framework. This paper presents five testable hypothesiss, demonstrating that while directional leadership styles can improve short-term sales metrics, the long-term sustainability of networks highly depends on high-quality LMX relationships, which act as mediators. Furthermore, the Resource-Based Value (RBV) perspective suggests that leader’s relational assets and ethics, including the Islamic leadership dimension are scarce, inimitable, and irreplaceable resources that buffer networks against market shocks, while pay equity and product quality serve as situational moderating factors. While future quantitative validation using structural equation modelling (SEM) is needed, this model provides a strategic roadmap for MLM executives to restructure training around relationship coaching and offers a clear compliance benchmark for regulators such as the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) to distinguish legitimate MLM networks from predatory scams.

STRATEGIES INFLUENCING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) ADOPTION AMONG ACCOUNTING PERSONNEL IN MALAYSIA: A FUZZY DELPHI ANALYSIS

Norlela Awang Cha, Zam Zuriyati Mohamad, Zuriawati Zakaria — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Purpose. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become increasingly important in transforming accounting practices through automation, predictive analytics, intelligent auditing systems, and cloud accounting technologies. Despite rapid technological development and government initiatives to encourage digital transformation, the adoption of AI among accounting personnel in Malaysia remains relatively low. Therefore, this study aims to identify the important strategies influencing AI adoption among accounting personnel in Malaysia. Problem statement. Accounting personnel remain reluctant to adopt the technology, despite many campaigns and awareness have been carried out by the companies and government. The hesitation to adopt AI because of lack of knowledge, concern about security and confidentiality, lack of trust and the strong preference for using traditional methods to complete the accounting tasks. Furthermore, the function and application of AI are very complex and costly. Small accounting businesses are unable to adopt AI due to insufficient funds and limited awareness of AI adoption. Methodology. This study focuses on strategies for AI adoption among accounting personnel in Malaysia using the Fuzzy Delphi method. A total of 15 accounting experts were selected as respondents, of which 5 were from academia and 10 were from industry. There are 5 aspects and 26 criteria proposed in this study. Findings: The results showed that only 4 aspects and 13 criteria were accepted at a threshold of 0.44 for aspects as well as criteria. The findings revealed that support from government, vendors, and management, responsible AI development, cost effectiveness, and accelerated AI adoption were identified as the most important factors influencing AI adoption among accounting personnel in Malaysia. Implications: The study contributes to the literature by providing expert consensus regarding strategic factors influencing AI adoption among accounting personnel. The findings also provide practical implications for policymakers, professional accounting bodies, and organizations in developing effective AI adoption strategies.

ACADEMIC DISCOURSE ON EMPLOYEE PARTICIPATION MODELS

Wang Yajuan, Balakrishnan Parasuraman, Adi Aizat Yajid — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This study, set against the backdrop of China's special economic zones, explores the transformation and localization process of employee participation models, focusing on the interaction among adaptation mechanisms, cultural buffering mechanisms, and employees' technological engagement capabilities. A qualitative multi-case study methodology is employed, using employees from six companies across the manufacturing, technology, and service sectors as the analysis subjects. Through semi-structured analysis, the data ultimately reveals the main forms of participation: institutionalized participation, technology-driven participation, and culture-embedded participation. Furthermore, based on differences in company structure, industry sector, and technological accumulation, some typical employee participation models are further identified. Empirical analysis shows that local cultural norms have a significant moderating effect on the effectiveness of formal employee participation systems, and employees' digital skills are a key factor determining the level and depth of employee participation in the industry 4.0 era. This study refines and expands the theoretical framework of employee participatory politics, incorporating cultural and technological dimensions into the traditional framework of institutional research and analysis. The research findings can provide theoretical support and practical reference for business managers and policymakers in emerging economies to build localized employee participation mechanisms and optimize employee participation management strategies according to local conditions.

STRENGTHENING E-BRAND EQUITY IN THREE-STAR HOTELS IN MALAYSIA: THE ROLE OF E-CRM AND E-BRAND EXPERIENCE

Lydia Hidayu Lily Suhairi, Noor Hasmini AbdGhani — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This study examines the development of electronic brand equity (EBE) through the integration of electronic customer relationship management (e-CRM) and e-brand experience in Malaysia’s three-star hotel industry. Amid growing digital competition and post-pandemic recovery challenges, many hotels encounter challenges in maintaining brand equity online. Using a quantitative approach with a total of 251 valid responses were collected and analysed to test the hypothesized relationships through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The study found that e-CRM positively impacts e-brand experience but has an exerts a negative direct effect on e-brand equity. Importantly, e-brand experience plays a mediating role, serves as a mediating mechanism that translates digital interactions into enhanced e-brand equity outcomes. Theoretically, study contributes to and extends the literature on e-brand equity by incorporating e-CRM as antecedent and e-brand experience as a mediating mechanism, thus offering an enriched conceptual framework for hospitality branding. Methodologically, the study demonstrates the value of PLS-SEM in capturing complex relationships among multiple constructs. Moreover, the findings offer practical insights for hoteliers aiming to improve brand equity and competitiveness through strategic digital engagement.

MACROECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF UNEMPLOYMENT IN MALAYSIA: AN ARDL ANALYSIS

Roza Nuratisyah Rosle, Hafizah Hammad Ahmad Khan, Rosmaiza Abdul Ghani — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This study examines the macroeconomic determinants of unemployment in Malaysia by focusing on total unemployment as a key indicator of labor market performance in Malaysia. In particular, this study investigates the effects of foreign direct investment, gross domestic product, inflation, interest rate, and population on unemployment using annual time series data from 1990 to 2023. The ARDL approach was employed to estimate both the long-run equilibrium relationships and short-run adjustment dynamics among the variables. The findings reveal that GDP and inflation significantly reduce unemployment, whereas population growth exerts strong upward pressure on unemployment. Interest rates exhibit a positive but relatively weak effect, whereas FDI is statistically insignificant. These results suggest that unemployment in Malaysia is shaped by both cyclical factors associated with aggregate demand and structural factors related to labor supply dynamics. By integrating demand-side, supply-side, and external determinants within a unified framework, this study provides updated empirical evidence on the drivers of aggregate unemployment and offers practical insights for employment generation, investment policy, and labor market planning in Malaysia.

HUMAN FACTORS IN LEAN MANUFACTURING: A CHRONOLOGICAL REVIEW

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Human factors are increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of success in lean manufacturing systems; however, existing studies remain fragmented across different periods and research focuses. This study provides a structured understanding by conducting a chronological literature review of human factors in lean manufacturing. A systematic search was performed using the Scopus database with the keywords “human factor” and “lean manufacturing,” applying strict inclusion criteria. From 395 initial records, 113 journal articles were selected for analysis. The literature was categorized into four temporal phases: Emergent (2003–2012), Development and Recognition (2013–2017), Expansion and Peak Interest (2018–2020), and Consolidation and Stabilization (2021–2026). The findings indicate a clear evolution from basic awareness of human-related issues to a stronger emphasis on ergonomics, organizational culture, and workforce engagement. Recent studies highlight the integration of human factors with performance measurement, digitalization, and Lean Six Sigma practices, alongside growing alignment with Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0. Overall, human factors have evolved from a supporting role to a central element in lean system design. This study offers a temporal framework that enhances understanding of research trends and informs future human-centric lean manufacturing research.

FROM RESILIENCE TO SUSTAINABILITY: ADVANCING THE HALAL SUPPLY CHAIN RESEARCH AGENDA

Musdiana Mohamad Salleh , Etty Harniza Harun , Syafiqah Md. Nayan — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

The rising global demand for halal products calls for robust and sustainable supply chains. Unfortunately, studies in this area have been largely fragmented, especially with regards to resilience, sustainability, and incorporation of technology into halal supply chains. The research method employed includes systematic literature review as well as bibliometric analysis. Systematic literature review has been conducted with the help of Scopus AI. First, the targeted search was carried out; later, the concept mapping, topic identification through experts, and thematically clustering of articles were done. Three thematic layers are found to characterize the trajectory of research on halal supply chain management; these include (i) basic themes such as consumer trust and certification; (ii) emerging themes including sustainability incorporation and ESG initiatives; and (iii) transformational themes such as blockchain technology, artificial intelligence, and geospatial technologies. The study makes several contributions in terms of theory development by broadening the scope of supply chain resilience and sustainability to include dimensions of certification integrity, religious compliance, and consumer trust. From the practitioner's point of view, the study provides insights for policymakers and industry practitioners to enhance traceability, operational efficiency, and global competitiveness. The study also identifies current limitations and proposes future research directions, particularly in digital innovation and artificial intelligence to enhance halal supply chain performance.

EXPLORING ISSUES AND CHALLENGES IN CROWDSOURCING PLATFORM: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW (SLR)

Nur Aqilah Muhamad Ghazali, Nur Amalina Aziz, Nor Azairiah Fatimah Othman — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals have shifted from traditional employment to digital work to mitigate job and income losses. This shift has created opportunities to engage in multiple forms of freelancing and online business with the help of the Internet and technology. They can now perform various freelance jobs at flexible hours and connect virtually with customers across the globe. In line with the current technology trend, many people are turning to crowdsourcing platforms as means of finding a job. However, a borderless world also poses significant challenges, which this paper seeks to explore, particularly the difficulties of digital workers using crowdsourcing. The open accessibility of crowdsourcing platforms, often without adequate security protection, exposes them to risks and difficulties that complicate their work experience. This study employed a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) involving SCOPUS and Web of Science (WOS) databases. Only 7 articles that met the inclusion criteria were included in the study out of the 44 records. The findings revealed that three themes emerged: (1) exploitation and power imbalance, (2) recognition and online community support, and (3) crowdsourcing platform dependency. In conclusion, in the fast-moving digital era, it is imperative to provide protection, support and specific legal measures to address the critical needs of digital workers. Such efforts are crucial to advancing the national agenda for the digital economy by 2030.

UNDERSTANDING TURNOVER INTENTION AMONG COURIERS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF ORGANISATIONAL COMMITMENT, BURNOUT AND PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL

Halimaton Sa’adiah Abdul Jalil, Mohammad Aziz Shah Mohamed Arip, Hapsah Md Yusof — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Turnover intention remains a huge problem for labour-intensive services work and is particularly acute in courier and logistics. Couriers work under time constraints, heavy workloads and high-pressure work situations and all of these factors affect whether they intend to stay with an organisation. This narrative review brings together the literature on organisational commitment, burnout, and psychological capital in order to explore how these factors affect turnover intentions and employee retention. Based on the evidence from management, psychology, health and logistics research and recent empirical studies, it is generally understood that higher organisational commitment is associated with lower turnover intention while burnout is associated with a greater wish to leave. Psychological capital appears to be one more resource for employees to cope with and keep on with their commitment to stay. So far, much of the evidence is from healthcare, education, aviation and service domains. There is still limited research about couriers, particularly in Malaysia. Based on this background, the review argues that courier turnover intention can be better understood if the context of workplace and employees’ psychological resources are taken together. Key research gaps and practical implications for retention in courier and logistics organisations are also addressed.

THE IMPACT OF GREEN TAX INCENTIVES ON ESG PERFORMANCE OF SMES

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This article discusses the impact of green tax incentives on driving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) transformation among the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia. ESG activities should be well adopted by large corporation, but it is yet to be fully understand and adopted by smaller businesses. ESG for SMEs is crucial because SMEs with robust ESG policies and activities will have a competitive edge and visibility among the investors, consumers and public at large. Thus, this paper explores how targeted tax policies can help SMEs in promoting sustainable business practices, reducing environmental impact, and fostering innovation. By incentivizing renewable energy, waste reduction, and resource efficiency, green tax incentives support small and medium-sized enterprises in meeting ESG goals and contributing to global sustainability targets as stated in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study highlights the role of government in designing effective tax frameworks, the benefits for businesses adopting these incentives, challenges and recommendations on the long-term economic and environmental advantages of a robust ESG transformation driven by green taxation.

AN INTEGRATED ISLAMIC SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP MODEL FOR EMPOWERING PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN MALAYSIA

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This study develops an Integrated Islamic Social Entrepreneurship Model (IISEM) for empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Malaysia through a holistic framework that integrates Islamic values, social entrepreneurship principles, and disability-inclusive empowerment practices. The study addresses the limitations of existing social entrepreneurship models, which are predominantly rooted in Western paradigms and often overlook the roles of spirituality, Islamic ethical principles, and Shariah-compliant social finance mechanisms in promoting sustainable entrepreneurial empowerment among Muslim PWDs. Guided by the Islamic worldview (tasawwur Islami) and the objectives of maqasid al-shariah, this study adopts a qualitative phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of Muslim entrepreneurs with disabilities. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 18 entrepreneurs with disabilities and seven key informants representing policymakers, Islamic finance institutions, and disability-related organisations. The data were further enriched through focus group discussions and document analysis. All qualitative data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis supported by NVivo 12 software. The findings reveal five interrelated themes that shape entrepreneurial empowerment among Muslim PWDs: (1) Spiritual and Ethical Foundations, where faith, sincerity (ikhlas), trustworthiness (amanah), perseverance (sabr), and reliance on Allah (tawakkul) strengthen entrepreneurial motivation and resilience; (2) Inclusive Islamic Financing, highlighting the importance of zakat, waqf, and qard al-hasan as mechanisms for sustainable entrepreneurial support; (3) Entrepreneurial Resilience and Adaptive Capacity, reflecting the ability of entrepreneurs to overcome disability-related and market challenges through innovation and persistence; (4) Community-Based Support and Social Capital, involving the contributions of family, mentors, non-governmental organisations, religious institutions, and government agencies; and (5) Operationalisation of Maqasid al-Shariah, which emphasises the preservation of human dignity, welfare, justice, and social inclusion. These themes were subsequently synthesised into the Integrated Islamic Social Entrepreneurship Model (IISEM), which positions entrepreneurship as a form of ibadah and integrates spiritual, financial, entrepreneurial, social, and developmental dimensions within a unified empowerment framework. The study contributes to the social entrepreneurship literature by extending existing empowerment models through an Islamic epistemological perspective and by providing a contextualised framework for addressing the multidimensional challenges faced by Muslim entrepreneurs with disabilities. Practically, the model offers valuable guidance for policymakers, Islamic social finance institutions, and community development agencies in designing inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurship ecosystems for PWDs.

A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK FOR TAX COMPLIANCE BEHAVIOUR AMONG STUDENTS: THE ROLE OF TAX KNOWLEDGE, TAX MORALE, TAX AWARENESS AND PERCEIVED TAX COMPLEXITY

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Tax compliance is a global concern as it has a direct impact on government income and overall economic stability. Students represent future taxpayers, therefore developing tax compliance behaviour at an early stage is crucial as their attitudes and behaviours may influence future compliance practices. However, limited studies have specifically focused on tax compliance behaviour among students. This study aims to develop a conceptual framework for explaining the determinants of tax compliance behaviours among students by integrating tax knowledge, tax morale, tax awareness, and perceived tax complexity. The framework is underpinned by the Theories of Planned Behaviour, Social Learning, and Experiential Learning, which collectively explain how cognitive, ethical, and social dimensions shape the compliance behaviour of students. This study adopts a conceptual research design through a comprehensive review of the existing literature, theoretical synthesis, and empirical findings related to tax compliance. The conceptual framework highlights that tax knowledge, tax morale, tax awareness, and perceived tax complexity are important factors that may influence students’ tax compliance behaviour. This study contributes to existing literature by providing an integrated theoretical framework that may assist researchers, educators, and policymakers in understanding the determinants of tax compliance among students and the importance of tax education exposure at an early stage. Future research is recommended to extend this study by collecting empirical data involving students to examine the proposed relationship and validate the conceptual framework.

HALAL CERTIFIED PRODUCTS PREFERENCES AMONG GENERATION Z IN MALAYSIA

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

The halal industry has experienced significant growth globally, driven by increasing consumer awareness, lifestyle changes, and demand for ethical and quality-assured products. In Malaysia, Generation Z represents an emerging consumer segment whose preferences towards halal certified products remain underexplored, particularly beyond religious considerations. Despite the widespread availability of halal certified products, limited empirical evidence exists on the factors influencing Gen Z consumers’ preferences in the Malaysian context. This study aims to examine the influence of halal lifestyle and values, social circle influence, and perceived halal benefits of halal certified products on preferences towards halal certified products among Generation Z consumers in Malaysia. A quantitative research design was employed, using a structured questionnaire administered through an online survey. Data were collected from 200 Generation Z respondents using a snowball sampling technique. The data were analysed using SPSS, incorporating reliability analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis. The results reveal that halal lifestyle and values and perceived halal benefits of halal certified products have a significant positive influence on preferences towards halal certified products. In contrast, social circle influence was found to have no significant effect. The findings suggest that Generation Z consumers’ preferences are primarily driven by personal values and perceived functional benefits such as health, safety, and quality, rather than social influence. This study contributes to the halal marketing literature by providing insights into Gen Z consumer behaviour and offers practical implications for halal producers and marketers in developing targeted strategies that align with the values and expectations of younger consumers.

CONTENT RELEVANCE AND PURCHASE INTENTION IN DOUYIN ADVERTISING AMONG GENERATION Z IN HEBEI PROVINCE

Shiyao Yu, Nor Azura Adzharuddin, Chuyao Wang — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

With the rapid expansion of the online platforms for short videos, Generation Z advertising strategies moving towards the use of algorithm-based networks like Douyin. Although previous studies have extensively explored the effectiveness of social media advertisements, they mainly focused on traditional social media platforms, while the personalized content recommendation and comprehensive e-commerce functions of Douyin have not been explored. Moreover, the applicability of the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) in explaining how content relevance shapes purchase intentions in the context of short-video advertisements has not been empirically verified. Focusing on central route of persuasion, this study based on the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) examines the relation between the sponsored content relevance and the buying intention of Generation Z users on Douyin. By applying multiple regression analysis, this study has tested the proposed relationship based on surveys data obtained by 510 valid participants in Hebei provincial area. The results show that the relevance of the advertisement content has a significant positive impact on the consumer purchase propensity. This means that advertisements that are personally relevant sponsored content to individuals play an important role in influencing the shopping decisions of the Z-generation. The paper extends the application of the Elaboration Likelihood Model to algorithm-mediated short-form video advertising scenarios and provides practical recommendations to marketers interested in improving advertising effectiveness with Douyin.

DEMOGRAPHIC DETERMINANTS OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IN MOSQUE-CENTRED SOCIO-ECONOMIC (MCS) INITIATIVES: A CASE STUDY OF AL-BUSYRA MOSQUE MERBOK, KEDAH

Muhammad Amir Zuhdi Abdullah, Muhammad Saiful Islam Ismail, Faezy Adenan — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

The mosque is increasingly recognized as a multi-dimensional institution capable of addressing contemporary challenges beyond traditional ritual practices. Driven by challenges like limited funding, poor infrastructure, and weak communal ties (Asabiyyah), recent literature emphasizes assessing congregational satisfaction within mosque-based centre. This study examines whether demographic characteristics influence the Muslim community's decision to engage with Mosque-Centred Socio-economic (MCS) initiatives at Al-Busyra Mosque, Merbok, Kedah, Malaysia. Using a quantitative case study approach, survey data were collected 420 respondents from Muslim residents within the Kuala Muda district. An Independent T-Test and One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were employed to evaluate differences in engagement across major demographic backgrounds. The Independent T-Test revealed no statistically significant difference in MCS engagement between male and female respondents, demonstrating that both genders participate in and accept mosque-based socio-economic activities equally. Conversely, the One-Way ANOVA indicated highly significant differences in community engagement based on age, and education level. These findings indicate that socio-demographic backgrounds heavily shape how individuals perceive and access mosque-based programs. This research contributes empirical evidence to the scarce quantitative literature on MCS engagement by highlighting the necessity of integrated demographic planning. Pragmatically, the results assist mosque administrators and policymakers in moving past uniform designs toward inclusive, targeted interventions that satisfy diverse communal needs, ultimately strengthening the contemporary mosque’s role as a sustainable catalyst for holistic socio-economic growth.

INVESTOR SENTIMENT AND POST-IPO PERFORMANCE IN CHINA'S CHINEXT MARKET

Zhong Qin Zhao , Norliza Che Yahya — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Post-IPO performance remains a persistent anomaly in financial markets, particularly in emerging economies characterized by high retail investor participation. This study proposes to assess whether investor sentiment at the time of issuance predicts short, medium, and long-term post-IPO performance for firms listed on China’s ChiNext board. Using a multidimensional sentiment measure that integrates market-based indicators with textual sentiment extracted from investor-generated online discourse, the analysis will capture both trading-driven and narrative-based components of collective mood. Empirical results is expected to show that elevated investor sentiment significantly amplifies IPO initial returns and is associated with subsequent return reversals over one to three year horizons. High-sentiment issuance periods are also expected to be linked to increased post-listing volatility, suggesting that sentiment driven demand contributes to both mispricing and risk amplification. By providing board-specific evidence from a retail-dominated emerging market, this study is expected to advance behavioral asset pricing research and highlights the structural conditions under which sentiment-driven IPO mispricing is most likely to arise and persist. The expected results offer implications for market stability, investor protection, and the evaluation of pricing efficiency in growth-oriented equity segments.

RISK MANAGEMENT IN INVESTMENTS: MACRO-ECONOMIC INSTABILITY, REGULATORY REFORM, AND FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT IN ASEAN

Mohd Fairuzz Rosli — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) represents one of the key factors driving economic development in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). However, managing FDI strategically becomes complicated due to the persistent occurrence of macroeconomic shocks and different institutional structures. While there exists abundant literature on FDI, few studies have attempted to explore FDI's determinants and the interaction effect between them, in which, these have serious implications for finance management and investment strategies. This study explores the direct impact of macroeconomic instability and policy reforms, and their interaction effect on FDI inflows in ten ASEAN countries from 1990 to 2024, particularly comparing Malaysia's situation. Furthermore, this study will analyses the interaction effect using the Panel ARDL method with Pooled Mean Group, Mean Group, and Dynamic Fixed Effects estimations to jointly capture the dynamics of the adjustment and equilibrium processes. Macroeconomic instability is measured by the within year variance of six macroeconomic variables, whereas a composite Policy Reform Index (PRI) will be developed using Principal Component Analysis based on five governance dimensions. Three hypotheses formulated in this study are as follows: (H1) Macro instability has a significant adverse impact on FDI; (H2) Policy reforms significantly boost FDI; and (H3) Policy reforms mitigate the adverse effect of instability on FDI as a strategic instrument of managing investment risks. The expected results provide useful implications not only for FDI promotion agencies but also for finance managers evaluating the ASEAN markets' risks and policymakers formulating reform packages that attract the highest amount of FDI.

EXPLORING GREEN-DIGITAL INTEGRATION AND FIRM PERFORMANCE IN MALAYSIA'S AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY: A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

A.N. Anna, Zam Zuriyati Mohamad, Vikniswari Viji Kumaran — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0800

This article examines the relationship between green resources, digital technology capabilities, and firm performance within the Malaysian automotive industry. Despite growing attention to sustainability, the industry continues to operate under a linear “take-make-dispose” model. Consequently, contributes substantially to greenhouse gas emissions through material and energy consumption. This conceptual article draws from the underpinning theories, the Resource-Based View (RBV) and the Dynamic Capabilities View (DCV). The green resources encompassing eco-friendly materials, waste recovery, water and energy conservation, green technology, and skilled personnel represent valuable, rare, inimitable, and non-substitutable (VRIN) characteristics. However, their potential to enhance firm performance remains partially absent without suitable activation mechanisms. We argue that digital technology capabilities (sensing, learning, integrating, and coordinating) serve as a mediating enabler that transforms static green resources into dynamic performance outcomes. A framework and four testable hypotheses are developed and contribute to the sustainability literature by bridging the RBV and DCV in an emerging economy context. This study offers practical insights for managers and policymakers seeking to align digital transformation with circular economy goals.