INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LAW, GOVERNMENT AND COMMUNICATION (IJLGC)

LYING FLAT IN MALAYSIA: UNDERSTANDING TANG PING AMONG CHINESE MALAYSIAN YOUTHS AS COUNTERCULTURE, DEFEATISM, AND SMART INDIVIDUALISM

Lee Jenn Yuan, Chin Yee Mun, Yong Xin Yi — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This study investigates the emergence of tǎng píng (躺平, “lying flat”) among Chinese Malaysian youths as a cultural repertoire of adaptation and resistance in late modernity. While the concept originated in mainland China as a critique of overwork and hyper-competition, its meanings and resonance in Malaysia remain underexplored. Drawing on survey data from 367 Chinese Malaysian respondents aged 16–30, this study examines awareness, interpretive frames, and domain-specific orientations toward tǎng píng. Findings reveal that although fewer than 10% of respondents explicitly identify with tǎng píng, more than half occupy ambivalent positions, treating it as a potential strategy rather than a fixed identity. Gendered differences are evident: women tend to associate tǎng píng with pressures surrounding marriage and family, while men more often connect it to workplace frustrations. Peer networks and social media emerge as the strongest influences, surpassing family or traditional institutions. Theoretically, the study situates tǎng píng along three interrelated axes—counterculture, defeatism, and smart individualism—arguing that it operates less as an organized movement than as a diffuse cultural repertoire of selective disengagement. By contextualizing tǎng píng within Malaysian diasporic dynamics, this research highlights how global youth idioms are localized, negotiated, and hybridized in response to structural precarity, intergenerational expectations, and digital circulation.

FROM SECURITY TO SUSTAINABILITY: HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT AND THE ECONOMIC FUTURE OF MALAYSIA'S DEFENCE INDUSTRY

Othman Asmanur, Nur Surayya Mohd Saudi, Rogis Baker, Mohd Haizam Mohd Saudi — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This study investigates the role of Human Capital Development (HCD) in advancing Malaysia’s defence industry and its contribution to economic growth. Using time series data from 1991 to 2023, the analysis found that employment, education expenditure, and exports significantly Granger-cause GDP, underscoring the importance of skilled labour and strategic investments in education. Conversely, military expenditure and arms imports show no short-run causal impact, indicating the current defence sector's limited economic integration and technological depth. The findings reveal a critical gap between national HCD efforts and defence sector needs, hindering innovation and self-reliance. To bridge this gap, the study recommends strengthening defence-focused training, increasing investment in dual-use R&D, enhancing defence export competitiveness, and reallocating spending toward capability development. A coordinated, defence aligned with HCD strategy is essential to position the sector as both a security asset and a driver of inclusive, long-term economic growth.

POETRY AS CULTURAL PRACTICE: MORAL VALUES AND SOCIAL MEANING IN MALAY PANTUN AND ARABIC QASIDA

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Traditional poetic forms have long functioned as vital cultural instruments through which societies articulate moral values, regulate social behaviour, and preserve collective memory. In both Malay and Arab cultures, poetry occupies a central position not merely as an aesthetic expression but as a socially embedded practice that mediates communal relationships and ethical norms. This study offers a comparative analytical examination of pantun in Malay literature and qasida in Arabic literature, focusing on their social and cultural functions within their respective societies. Drawing on qualitative textual analysis and informed by theories of literature as social practice and cultural memory, the study analyses selected pantun and qasida texts to identify patterns of moral instruction, social communication, and identity formation. The findings reveal that despite substantial differences in form, length, and stylistic convention, pantun and qasida perform analogous social roles as vehicles of ethical guidance, communal cohesion, and cultural continuity. While pantun conveys values through metaphorical and indirect expression rooted in Malay ideals of politeness and harmony, qasida articulates moral and cultural authority through rhetorical elaboration and explicit exhortation grounded in Arab historical and religious consciousness. By situating these poetic traditions within a shared analytical framework, the study contributes to comparative literature and cultural studies by demonstrating how culturally distinct literary forms respond to similar social needs and remain relevant in contemporary contexts.

PENGURUSAN HALAL MELALUI PENGADUAN AWAM: KAJIAN PIAGAM PELANGGAN DALAM ORGANISASI ISLAM

Madihatun Zainuddin, Sharifah Hayaati Syed Ismail al-Qudsy2 — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Pemprosesan Persijilan Halal merupakan salah satu tema yang terdapat di dalam salah satu Piagam Pelanggan di JAKIM di mana ia merupakan janji yang diberikan kepada pemohon dalam tempoh tertentu untuk menyiapkan Sijil Halal. Dalam merealisasikan sebuah pengurusan yang baik dalam sesebuah organisasi, amat penting untuk staf di dalam organisasi peka terhadap janji yang diutarakan seperti mana yang termaktub dalam Piagam Pelanggan mereka. Piagam Pelanggan ialah pernyataan secara bertulis oleh organisasi untuk memberikan perkhidmatan yang berkualiti kepada pelanggan bagi memenuhi keperluan masyarakat khususnya kepada pelanggan yang berurusan dalam mana-mana organisasi. Permasalahan atau isu yang yang timbul adalah apabila terdapat sesetengah organisasi mengabaikan janji yang diutarakan dalam Piagam Pelanggan mereka. Ini dapat dilihat melalui maklum balas Pengaduan Awam yang diberikan oleh masyarakat. Objektif kajian ini adalah untuk mengenal pasti pelbagai cabaran serta cadangan penambahbaikan yang dilakukan oleh JAKIM berdasarkan maklum balas Pengaduan Awam dalam menguruskan persijilan halal. Kajian berbentuk kualitatif ini menggunakan metode temu bual sebagai metode utama di mana tiga orang staf dari JAKIM akan diambil dan dijadikan responden untuk sesi temu bual yang dijalankan. Selain itu, metode dokumentasi turut digunakan seperti laporan Piagam Pelanggan, Laporan Manual Prosedur Persijilan Halal, dan lain-lain. Selain itu, laporan-laporan yang terdapat di dalam laman sesawang JAKIM turut dijadikan sebagai rujukan. Hasil dapatan mendapati bahawa terdapat beberapa cabaran yang perlu dihadapi semasa proses persijilan halal, iaitu; faktor masa dalam pengurusan persijilan halal JAKIM; faktor pemohon tidak memahami bermula tempoh 30 hari; serta faktor pemohon tidak meneliti atau memahami prosedur yang ditetapkan. Namun begitu, JAKIM telah berusaha menanganinya dengan melakukan penambahbaikan serta merangka beberapa pelan strategik seperti menambahbaik sistem muat naik dokumen (My Ingredients), penyelarasan yuran pendaftaran sijil halal online, inisiatif pembukaan lebih banyak kaunter-kaunter, memperkukuhkan sistem Fast Track, mengadakan persidangan bersama industri, training on halal serta penambahan kakitangan halal. Implikasi kajian dapat dilihat khususnya kepada penjawat awam serta hak pelanggan ketika berurusan di dalam organisasi. Perkara ini dapat dilihat dengan meneliti kepentingan perlaksanaan Piagam Pelanggan yang berkualiti, iaitu dengan menunaikan segala aspek janji dengan sebaik mungkin dan seterusnya mencapai kepuasan pelanggan melalui janji yang ditunaikan dengan bertanggungjawab dan amanah.

Halal Certification Processing is one of the themes found in one of the Client Charters in JAKIM which is a promise given to applicants within a certain period to complete the Halal Certificate. In realizing good management in an organization, the staff of the organization must be sensitive to the promises made as set out in their Client Charter. The Client's Charter is a written statement by the organization to provide quality services to customers to meet the needs of the community, especially to customers dealing with any organization. A problem or issue that arises is when some organization ignores the promises made in their Client Charter. This can be seen through the Public Complaints feedback provided by the community. The objective of this study is to identify various challenges and suggestions for improvements made by JAKIM based on the feedback of Public Complaints in managing halal certification. This qualitative study uses the interview method as the main method whereby three staff from JAKIM will be recruited and made into respondents for the interview session. In addition, documentation methods are also used such as the Client Charter report, Halal Certification Procedure Manual Report, etc. In addition, the reports available on JAKIM's website are also used as a reference. The findings found that there are some challenges to be faced during the halal certification process, namely; time factor in the management of JAKIM's halal certification; factors the applicant does not understand starting the 30-day period; as well as factors the applicant does not examine or understand the established procedures. However, JAKIM has tried to address this by making improvements and drawing up several strategic plans such as improving the document upload system (My Ingredients), coordinating online halal certificate registration fees, opening more counters, strengthening the Fast Track system, holding conferences with industry, training on halal as well as the addition of halal staff. The implications of the study can be seen especially to civil servants as well as the rights of customers when dealing with the organization. This can be seen by examining the importance of the implementation of a quality Client Charter, which is to fulfill all aspects of the promise as best as possible and thus achieve customer satisfaction through the promise of being fulfilled with responsibility and trust.

GOVERNMENT-LED INITIATIVES IN MALAYSIA-QATAR RELATIONS DURING MAHATHIR’S LEADERSHIP, 2018-2020

Norafidah Ismail, Nazariah Osman, Alhussein Nanaa — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The bilateral relationship between Malaysia and Qatar, established on strong economic foundations and a resilient policy of non-alignment, faced a critical juncture following the 2017 Gulf Crisis and subsequent Malaysian leadership change. This article examines the government-led initiatives undertaken by the Malaysian administration under Tun Mahathir Mohamad (2018–2020) to translate political commitment into tangible, institutionalised, and deepened bilateral relations. The study aims to detail the trajectory of close political and economic engagement, specifically focusing on high-level diplomacy and governmental efforts to formalise cooperation. This includes analysing reciprocal visits, such as Deputy Prime Minister Wan Azizah Wan Ismail’s 2018 visit to Qatar and the Emir of Qatar’s visit to Kuala Lumpur later that year, which featured the inauguration of an anti-corruption monument. Furthermore, the article assesses the institutionalisation of economic ties, notably the establishment of the Malaysia-Qatar Joint Business Council (MQJBC) in 2020 and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MIDA and IPAQ. The research uses desk research (secondary source research), involving collection of pre-existing data from various sources. The findings show the importance of state-led business diplomacy in positioning Malaysia as ASEAN's gateway for Qatari investors and improving trade, which grew significantly between 2017-2018. These findings are examined through the Middle Power concept.

YOUTH PERCEPTION ON NATIONAL SECURITY IN MALAYSIA

Safiah Suhaimi, Aini Fatihah Roslam — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This article examines Malaysian youth’s perception of national security within the context of contemporary threats and societal transformation. Youth represent a large and influential demographic in Malaysia, yet their role in security discourse remains underexplored. Using a qualitative approach supported by selected case studies, the study analyses the level of awareness, trust, and engagement of youth in national security matters. Findings indicate that while Malaysian youth demonstrate high concern regarding issues such as cyber threats, social cohesion, and political instability, their understanding of the national security structure and their roles within it remains limited. The study also finds that formal government programmes like the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) and the Police Undergraduate Voluntary Corps (SUKSIS) yield mixed outcomes in fostering security awareness. Meanwhile, informal initiatives—such as youth-led cyber defence movements—reflect the potential of youth as key stakeholders in non-traditional security domains. The article proposes several policy recommendations including the institutionalisation of security literacy, expanded youth participation in strategic communication, and the development of inclusive security policies that reflect the voice and needs of Malaysia’s younger generation.

BRIDGING THE GREY DIVIDE: A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK OF DIGITAL HEALTHCARE ADOPTION AMONG SENIOR CITIZENS IN MALAYSIA

Laila Suriya Ahmad Apandi, Suhaini Muda, Zarina Mat Saad — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Digital healthcare has transformed the conventional access to health and assisted living services. This practice was once considered as taboo or abnormal. However, it has since become a normal practice for Malaysia’s society. The normalisation of digital healthcare has not benefited senior citizens equally. Some senior citizens experience challenges in adopting digital healthcare services. This paper aims to address such challenges by proposing a framework of digital healthcare adoption among senior citizens in Malaysia. Senior citizens, referred in this paper, are the Malaysians aged 60 years old and beyond. Its conceptual framework consists of four components: availability, affordability, acceptability and usability. Examining availability enables the paper to determine the readiness of capacity of infrastructure related to digital healthcare, capabilities of medical practitioners, digital infrastructure, and digital health devices for senior citizens to use in Malaysia. An examination of affordability analyses financial accessibility of senior citizens when adopting digital healthcare services. Usability is meant to assess the interface quality of digital healthcare devices and experience of senior citizens as users. Lastly, an examination of acceptability determines whether digital healthcare service is trusted enough as to be willingly adopted and sustained by senior citizens and medical practitioners. The paper also examines five moderating factors: age groups of senior citizens, socio-economic status, educational level, residential areas, and living lifestyle of senior citizens. The framework contributes to a better understanding of digital healthcare adoption among senior citizens in Malaysia.

ADOLESCENT CYBERBULLYING AND DIGITAL HARM: ALIGNING GLOBAL EVIDENCE WITH MALAYSIA’S POLICY AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORKS (2013–2025)

Rosdi Safian, Haziah Sa'ari — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This semi-systematic review (2013–2025), guided by PRISMA 2020 and a systems-thinking lens, consolidates global and Malaysian scholarship on adolescent cyberbullying within the broader domain of digital harm governance. The review examines how evidence on mental health, gendered vulnerability, and cultural context aligns with Malaysia’s policy and regulatory instruments, including the Education Blueprint 2013–2025, the Mental Health Action Plan 2020–2025, and the Online Safety Act 2025. Internationally, research demonstrates conceptual maturity through longitudinal and intersectional designs that connect cyberbullying with depression, anxiety, and identity based harm. Malaysian studies are expanding but remain largely descriptive and under theorized, which limits translation into preventive and rights based interventions. Policy analysis indicates partial alignment: national strategies acknowledge digital harm but underutilize empirical insights on adolescent resilience, platform accountability, and gender responsive counselling. This paper contributes by (1) diagnosing methodological and theoretical gaps that weaken evidence informed policy; (2) positioning cyberbullying as a combined digital rights and public health concern requiring coordinated governance; and (3) proposing pathways to integrate global best practices into Malaysia’s policy and regulatory systems. Drawing on General Strain Theory and Triadic Reciprocal Determinism, the review advances a governance oriented synthesis that links emotional antecedents, behavioural roles, and gendered coping to concrete policy levers. The analysis situates Malaysia’s digital safety efforts within international legal and policy discourse on adolescent protection and online well-being, offering a roadmap for preventive regulation and research–policy convergence.

KEEPING IT REAL: DELIBERATE DISTORTION MECHANISM TO PRESERVE AUTHENTICITY AND DYNAMICS OF ORGANIZATIONAL COMMUNICATION MESSAGES IN AI-MEDIATED COMMUNICATION

Sharina Samsudin, Ezzul Hilman Dani — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The prevalence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the form of easy-to-use tools poses both opportunities and challenges towards organizational communication. The focus of this paper is on AI’s emerging role as a meta-medium, which is its capacity of transforming, generating, and integrating multiple media forms prior to their circulation through established channels. The analysis explores AI’s influence on message structure, stylistic choices, tone of voice, and the potential introduction of bias. In addition, this paper explores the theoretical implications of AI’s ever-increasing integration into the communicative environment. The discussion illustrates the potential for enhanced efficiency in message transmission while improving message clarity. However, it is hypothesized that this may also diminish message authenticity, reduce variability in daily conversations, and hinder personal expression. Drawing from McLuhan (1964) notion that “the medium is the message”, this paper integrates AI into the communication framework and proposed the Deliberate Distortion Mechanism (DDM) as a tool to enhance authenticity and individuality of AI-assisted communication. Parallels from past technological adoption suggest that mass AI adoption in the organizations is inevitable.

HORMAT SEBAGAI TERAS KEHARMONIAN: ANALISIS BUDAYA HORMAT MENGHORMATI DALAM KALANGAN BELIA MALAYSIA MADANI

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Nilai hormat merupakan salah satu tonggak penting dalam pembentukan masyarakat beretika dan harmoni, khususnya dalam konteks Malaysia yang rencam budaya dan agama. Kajian ini bertujuan menganalisis tren penyelidikan berkaitan nilai hormat dalam kalangan belia Malaysia dari tahun 2018 hingga 2024 berdasarkan empat tema utama: pemahaman konsep hormat, faktor-faktor pengaruh, kesan budaya hormat terhadap keharmonian sosial, dan strategi memupuk nilai hormat. Dapatan menunjukkan bahawa penyelidikan dalam tema strategi memupuk nilai hormat paling dominan, manakala kajian mengenai pemahaman konsep, faktor pengaruh, dan kesan sosial masih kurang mendapat perhatian. Hal ini mencerminkan kecenderungan semasa penyelidikan yang lebih menumpukan kepada penyelesaian praktikal, berbanding analisis asas konsep dan konteks sosiobudaya. Namun demikian, jurang kajian dalam aspek faktor dan kesan sosial menunjukkan perlunya penyelidikan lanjutan bagi memastikan intervensi yang dibina benar-benar efektif dan relevan dengan realiti semasa. Kajian ini menyarankan agar pendekatan penyelidikan nilai hormat dalam kalangan belia dikembangkan secara lebih seimbang dan holistik, selaras dengan prinsip Malaysia MADANI.

Respect is one of the fundamental pillars in shaping an ethical and harmonious society, particularly within the multicultural and multi-religious context of Malaysia. This study aims to analyse research trends related to the value of respect among Malaysian youth from 2018 to 2024, based on four key themes: youth’s understanding of the concept of respect, influencing factors, the impact of respectful culture on social harmony, and strategies for fostering respect. Findings reveal that research on strategies to cultivate respect is the most dominant theme, while studies on conceptual understanding, influencing factors, and social impact remain limited. This trend reflects a current research focus that leans more towards practical solutions rather than foundational conceptual analysis and sociocultural context. Nevertheless, gaps in the areas of influencing factors and social effects suggest the need for further research to ensure that interventions are truly effective and relevant to contemporary realities. This study recommends that research on the value of respect among youth be developed in a more balanced and holistic manner, in line with the principles of Malaysia MADANI.

DIGITAL DETOX MOTIVATION THROUGH NARRATIVE MEDIA AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN MALAYSIA

Syazwani Mahsal Khan, Aida Filzah Ramli, Merandee A/P Yawadi — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

University students' lives now revolve around social media, but excessive use can lead to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and addictive behaviours. Having digital detoxification as an approach of intentional abstention from social media, therefore, emerged as a self-regulation strategy. Guided by Expectancy–Value Theory (EVT), this study explores how narrative media can influence university students' motivation for digital detox. EVT offers a pertinent paradigm for comprehending students' willingness to disconnect from digital platforms by arguing that expectation beliefs, perceived value, and the cost of completing a task determine behavioural intention. Additionally, the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach is applied to explore how university students interpret their experiences after watching the narrative short video Unplugged: A Journey Back to Life. Five Malaysian university students aged 18–25 were selected through simple random sampling and participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was chosen to identify patterns of meaning across participants’ reflections. The findings showed that three major themes emerged from this study. Firstly, is Emotional Resonance, where participants relate strongly to the protagonist’s feelings of digital overload; secondly, the Visual Symbolism, where colour transitions from cold to warm tones were interpreted as psychological recovery; and finally, the Motivation for Detox, where behavioural intentions varied based on individual expectancy beliefs and perceived benefits. Findings show that while visual cues boost emotional engagement, narrative media can improve digital self-awareness by enhancing perceived value and relatability. According to the study's findings, university students can benefit from storytelling-based treatments that promote better social media practices and digital well-being.

INTEGRATING ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVES INTO MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR OLDER ADULTS: PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

As the global population ages, mental health challenges among older adults are becoming increasingly prevalent. Many elderly individuals experience issues such as loneliness, depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline, which can significantly affect their overall well-being. In this context, religion—particularly Islam—offers valuable resources for emotional and psychological support. This article explores the importance of integrating Islamic perspectives into mental health services, suggesting that incorporating spiritual values can enhance the effectiveness and acceptance of mental health interventions among Muslim elderly. Finally, the article addresses key barriers to providing effective Islamic mental health services, such as stigma, lack of culturally trained professionals, and limited awareness within both healthcare and religious communities. By reviewing relevant literature and drawing on religious sources, this study highlights the potential of Islam to serve as a supportive framework for improving mental health outcomes in later life. The findings suggest that mental health strategies that align with Islamic values can help create more inclusive and compassionate care for the aging Muslim population, while also addressing systemic gaps in current mental health service delivery.

MENEROKAI PENUBUHAN SYARIKAT BERHAD ANGGOTA TUNGGAL DALAM KERANGKA UNDANG-UNDANG MALAYSIA

Nor Hayati Abdul Samat, Nor Azlina Mohd Noor , Noor'Aza Ahmad — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Pengenalan Syarikat Berhad Anggota Tunggal menandakan satu perkembangan penting dalam landskap perniagaan di Malaysia, kerana ia menyediakan alternatif korporat yang lebih tersusun bagi usahawan individu dan Perusahaan Kecil dan Sederhana (PKS) yang sebelum ini terhad kepada milikan tunggal. Artikel ini meneliti implikasi undang-undang kewujudan dan kedudukan syarikat berhad anggota tunggal khususnya selepas pengenalan pembaharuan melalui Akta Syarikat 2016 sebagai instrumen untuk merangsang pertumbuhan keusahawanan, memperkukuh perlindungan liabiliti dan meningkatkan kesinambungan operasi bagi usahawan individu. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa penubuhan syarikat berhad anggota tunggal tidak mempunyai sebarang perbezaan dengan syarikat-syarikat lain, dari aspek proses pendaftaran dan kesan penubuhannya. Namun begitu, komunikasi pro aktif antara entiti ini dan setiausaha syarikatnya perlu berlangsung secara berterusan. Secara keseluruhannya, kewujudan entiti ini dilihat sebagai langkah penting dalam memperkukuh pembangunan perniagaan dan menyokong inovasi keusahawanan di Malaysia.

The introduction of the Single Member Company (SMC) marks a significant development in Malaysia’s business landscape, as it provides a more structured corporate alternative for individual entrepreneurs and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that were previously limited to sole proprietorships. This article examines the legal implications, existence, and status of Single Member Company (SMC), particularly following the reforms introduced under the Companies Act 2016, as a mechanism to stimulate entrepreneurial growth, strengthen liability protection, and enhance business continuity for individual entrepreneurs. The study’s findings indicate that the establishment of a Single Member Company (SMC) does not differ from other companies in terms of registration procedures and its legal effects. However, proactive communication between this entity and its company secretary needs to be maintained continuously. Overall, the existence of this entity is regarded as an important step in strengthening business development and supporting entrepreneurial innovation in Malaysia.

MEDIA SOSIAL SEBAGAI AGEN PENGUKUHAN PERPADUAN: ANALISIS KAJIAN LEPAS

Jammaluddin Abdul Rahman, Intan Soliha Ibrahim — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Media sosial muncul sebagai sebuah medium alternatif paling popular berbanding televisyen dan radio. Populariti tersebut telah menyebabkan media massa disalahguna oleh segelintir masyarakat sehingga boleh memberi impak kepada perpaduan dan keharmonian negara. Dari tragedi 13 Mei 1969 dan konfrontasi Malaysia-Indonesia, sejarah telah membuktikan bahawa media seperti radio, televisyen dan akhbar adalah penting dalam menyuntik doktrin perpaduan dan cintakan negara dalam kalangan masyarakat. Namun, apabila media sosial wujud dan digunakan secara meluas oleh masyarakat dunia, isu seperti melibatkan kematian Adib seorang pegawai Bomba, penghinaan terhadap institusi Diraja Malaysia dan ucapan berbaur kebencian muncul dan dimanipulasi dengan rancak oleh segelintir masyarakat. Analisis terhadap kajian lepas menunjukkan bahawa media sosial juga boleh digunakan bagi menyebarkan isu yang tidak tepat atau secara sengaja memutarbelit fakta mengenai agama, politik, dan etnik sehingga menggugat perpaduan antara etnik. Walaupun begitu, setiap lokaliti komuniti menunjukkan kehadiran Rukun Tetangga (RT). RT mempunyai fungsi yang jelas sebagai tonggak perpaduan komuniti. Namun, dengan adanya media sosial, bagaimana RT menggunakan medium tersebut bagi tujuan meningkatkan dan mengukuhkan semangat kejiranan, perpaduan dan kesejahteraan ekonomi dan kualiti hidup masyarakat setempat? Untuk itu, makalah ini menggunakan kaedah kualitatif dengan meneliti kajian lepas bagi memperlihatkan penggunaan media sosial dalam kalangan RT. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa penggunaan media sosial dalam kalangan RT adalah penting, bagaimanapun, di Sabah kajian lepas mengenai isu ini adalah terbatas. Untuk itu, pengkaji menggariskan strategi dan cabaran yang telah dikenalpasti dalam menggunakan media sosial dalam kalangan RT bagi tujuan perpaduan.

Social media has emerged as the most popular alternative medium compared to television and radio. This popularity has led to the misuse of mass media by specific segments of society to the point where it can impact national unity and harmony. From the tragedy of May 13, 1969, to the Malaysia-Indonesia confrontation, history has shown that media such as radio, television, and newspapers are vital in instilling the doctrine of unity and patriotism among the people. However, with the emergence and widespread use of social media globally, issues such as the death of firefighter Adib, insults towards the Malaysian Royal Institution, and hate speech have arisen and been actively manipulated by certain groups.Analysis of previous studies shows that social media can also spread inaccurate issues or deliberately distort facts related to religion, politics, and ethnicity, thereby threatening interethnic unity. Nevertheless, in every local community, the presence of Rukun Tetangga (RT) (Neighbourhood Watch) is evident. RT clearly functions as a pillar of community unity. However, with the existence of social media, how can RT utilize this medium to enhance and strengthen neighbourhood spirit, unity, economic well-being, and quality of life of the local community? To address this, the paper adopts a qualitative method by reviewing previous studies to explore the use of social media among RT. The findings show that the use of social media among RT is important; however, in Sabah, past studies on this issue are limited. Thus, the researchers outline strategies and challenges identified in using social media among RT to foster unity.

ANALISIS HIBAH DAN WASIAT SEBAGAI ALTERNATIF PERANCANGAN HARTA PUSAKA BAGI MUALAF

Siti Fadhilah Ghazali, Suharne Ismail , Naimah Abu Kasim — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Islam sebagai agama yang sempurna telah menentukan cara-cara pemilikan harta yang sah menurut hukum Syarak seperti pemilikan melalui hibah dan wasiat. Dalam konteks mualaf, wujud kekangan perundangan apabila benefisiari terdiri daripada bukan Islam, memandangkan sistem faraid menghalang pewarisan harta pusaka di antara orang Islam dan bukan Islam. Justeru, kajian ini meneliti hibah dan wasiat sebagai alternatif perancangan harta pusaka kepada benefisiari bukan Islam di Malaysia. Kajian ini menggunakan kaedah kualitatif dengan menganalisis peruntukan statut, enakmen pentadbiran Islam negeri, kes-kes Mahkamah Syariah, serta fokus terhadap pindaan terkini Akta Pembahagian Pusaka Kecil 1955 yang memperuntukkan kuasa kepada Majlis Agama Islam Negeri untuk bertindak sebagai pemohon bagi pihak benefisiari bukan Islam untuk kes pengesahan hibah bersyarat dan wasiat. Dapatan kajian terdapat keperluan pindaan terhadap enakmen pentadbiran agama Islam negeri selaras dengan peruntukan Akta Pembahagian Pusaka Kecil 1955. Pindaan enakmen pentadbiran Islam ini diyakini menjamin perancangan harta pusaka mualaf dan melindungi hak penerima yang dihasratkan khususnya penerima yang tergolong daripada ahli keluarga yang bukan beragama Islam.

Islam prescribes lawful methods of property ownership according to Shariah, including hibah (inter vivos gift) and wasiyyah. For Muslim converts (mualaf), legal constraints arise when beneficiaries are non-Muslims, as the faraid system prohibits inheritance between Muslims and non-Muslims. This study explores hibah and wasiyyah as alternative estate planning mechanisms for non-Muslim beneficiaries in Malaysia. Using a qualitative legal research approach, it analyses statutory provisions, state Islamic administration enactments, and Syariah court cases, with emphasis on recent amendments to the Small Estates (Distribution) Act 1955 granting State Islamic Religious Councils authority to act as petitioners on behalf of non-Muslim beneficiaries in validating conditional hibah and wasiyyah. The findings highlight the need to amend state Islamic administration enactments to align with the Act, thereby ensuring effective estate planning for mualaf and protecting the rights of intended non-Muslim recipients.

PERKEMBANGAN PERSATUAN MELAYU DI NEGERI-NEGERI MELAYU BERSEKUTU SEBELUM PERANG DUNIA KEDUA

Faezah Kassim, Mohd Rahimi Ramli, Noor Ain Mat Noor — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Kajian ini adalah mengenai perkembangan persatuan Melayu sebelum Perang Dunia Kedua. Tempoh antara tahun 1896, iaitu dengan penubuhan Negeri-negeri Melayu Bersekutu (NNMB) hingga tahun 1941 didapati bentuk masyarakat majmuk semakin ketara dan membesar. Salah satu kegiatan penting dan signifikan yang dilakukan oleh masyarakat di NNMB adalah menubuhkan persatuan berasaskan kaum terutamanya dalam kalangan orang Cina. Ini memberi kesan kepada orang Melayu kerana timbul kesedaran untuk menubuhkan persatuan seumpamanya. Sehubungan itu, satu kajian bagi memahami perkembangan awal persatuan Melayu perlu dilakukan dengan mengenal pasti faktor penubuhan dan menjelaskan cabaran yang dihadapi oleh persatuan orang Melayu. Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan analisis kualitatif bertema (thematic qualitative analysis) bagi meneliti perkembangan persatuan Melayu secara mendalam. Penelitian adalah berdasarkan kepada sumber primer dan sekunder. Sumber primer terdiri dari dokumen rasmi, surat rasmi dan akhbar. Sumber sekunder adalah dari buku dan jurnal. Kajian ini mendapati bahawa faktor pendidikan, peranan akhbar, agama Islam dan tindakan pemerintah Inggeris telah menggerakkan dan mendorong orang Melayu menubuhkan persatuan. Walaupun orang Melayu merupakan penduduk asal namun mereka tetap berhadapan dengan cabaran dalam berpersatuan, iaitu sikap orang Melayu yang terdiri daripada golongan elit Melayu tidak mahu menunjukkan penentangan mereka terhadap pemerintah. Perpecahan dalam kalangan orang Melayu juga memberi kesan kepada penyatuan antaranya ialah sikap kenegerian, perbezaan aliran pendidikan dan darah keturunan. Terdapat juga orang Melayu yang masih tidak menyedari perlunya untuk menjaga kepentingan kaum mereka kerana dikatakan terlalu gemar berhibur dan berseronok. Kajian mengenai perkembangan persatuan Melayu sebelum Perang Dunia Kedua adalah penting untuk mengenal pasti asas sebenar kebangkitan nasionalisme dan pembinaan identiti bangsa di Tanah Melayu.

This study examines the development of Malay associations before the Second World War. The period between 1896, marked by the formation of the Federated Malay States (FMS), and 1941 saw an increasingly evident and expanding plural society. One of the most significant activities among the communities in the FMS was the establishment of ethnic-based associations, particularly among the Chinese. This, in turn, influenced the Malays to develop a similar awareness and motivation to form their own associations. Accordingly, this research seeks to understand the early development of Malay associations by identifying the factors behind their establishment and explaining the challenges they faced. The study employs a qualitative thematic analysis approach based on both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources include official documents, correspondence, and newspapers, while secondary sources consist of books and academic journals. The study finds that education, the role of the press, Islam, and British colonial policies were among the main driving forces that encouraged Malays to establish associations. Although the Malays were the indigenous population, they nevertheless faced challenges in organizing themselves, notably the reluctance of the Malay elite to show open resistance to the colonial government. Internal division among the Malays, such as parochial loyalty, differences in education, and lineage distinctions, further hindered unity. Some Malays were also unaware of the need to safeguard their communal interests, as they were said to be overly fond of leisure and entertainment. Research on the development of Malay associations before the Second World War is crucial in identifying the fundamental basis of Malay nationalism and the formation of national identity in British Malaya.

PENGALAMAN HIDUP DAN CABARAN BEKAS BANDUAN DI LUAR PENJARA: KAJIAN KES KE ATAS BEKAS BANDUAN DI JALAN CHOW KIT

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Kehidupan selepas pembebasan dari penjara sering kali menjadi fasa yang paling mencabar bagi bekas banduan, khususnya bagi mereka yang tidak mempunyai sokongan keluarga, peluang pekerjaan atau jaringan sosial yang kukuh. Ketidakmampuan menyesuaikan diri dengan tuntutan hidup di luar tembok penjara menyebabkan ramai dalam kalangan mereka akhirnya hidup di jalanan dan terperangkap dalam kitaran sosial yang tidak stabil. Kajian ini dijalankan bagi memahami pengalaman hidup serta cabaran yang dihadapi oleh bekas banduan yang mengalami pengulangan kesalahan, khususnya mereka yang berada di sekitar kawasan Jalan Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur. Menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif, seramai tiga orang bekas banduan ditemu bual secara mendalam. Pemilihan informan dibuat melalui teknik persampelan purposif

berdasarkan kriteria tertentu, iaitu berstatus bekas banduan, mempunyai rekod jenayah berulang, warganegara Malaysia, dan tidak mengalami sebarang penyakit mental yang menghalang proses temu bual. Dapatan kajian ini mendedahkan tiga tema utama yang mempengaruhi kelangsungan hidup mereka selepas pembebasan. Tema pertama berkaitan hubungan kekeluargaan yang sering renggang dan dipenuhi rasa rindu, namun dalam masa yang sama menjadi sumber motivasi untuk berubah. Tema kedua menyentuh isu ketagihan dadah dan kitaran jenayah yang saling memperkukuh antara satu sama lain, menjadikan proses pemulihan lebih sukar. Tema ketiga pula merangkumi halangan integrasi semula ke dalam masyarakat, khususnya dari segi kesukaran mendapatkan pekerjaan akibat rekod jenayah serta stigma masyarakat terhadap bekas banduan. Kesemua faktor ini menunjukkan bahawa pembebasan dari penjara bukan jaminan kepada kehidupan yang lebih baik sekiranya tiada sokongan yang holistik. Oleh itu, hanya melalui gabungan strategi pencegahan, intervensi sosial, pemerkasaan ekonomi dan program pemulihan berterusan, kadar jenayah berulang dapat dikurangkan, sekali gus meningkatkan keselamatan dan kesejahteraan masyarakat secara keseluruhan.

Life after release from prison often represents the most challenging phase for former inmates, particularly for those without strong family support, employment opportunities, or stable social networks. The inability to reintegrate effectively into society leaves many homeless former prisoners and trapped in unstable social cycles. This study aims to explore the lived experiences and challenges faced by former prisoners, particularly those residing around the Chow Kit area in Kuala Lumpur. Using a qualitative research approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with three former prisoners. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on specific criteria: being a former prisoner, having repeated criminal offences, being a Malaysian citizen, and having no mental illness that would hinder participation in the interview. The findings reveal three major themes that shape their post-release experiences. The first theme relates to family relationships, which are often strained yet filled with deep longing, while still serving as an important source of emotional motivation. The second theme highlights the issues of drug addiction and the crime cycle, both of which reinforce each other and complicate the process of recovery. The third theme concerns barriers to reintegration, particularly difficulties in securing employment due to criminal records, as well as the stigma imposed by society on former offenders. These challenges demonstrate that release from prison alone does not guarantee improved life outcomes without comprehensive and sustained support. Therefore, reducing recidivism requires a holistic combination of prevention strategies, social interventions, economic empowerment, and continuous rehabilitation programmes. Such integrated approaches are essential to breaking the cycle of crime and addiction, ultimately contributing to greater public safety and community well-being.

TWO DECADES OF KPI RESEARCH: A BIBLIOMETRIC MAPPING AND TREND ANALYSIS

Nor Asiah Taib, Izlawanie Muhammad, Suhaila Abdul Hamid — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The growing need for transparency, responsibility, and data-driven decision-making has fueled global interest in Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) as key tools for assessing performance across industries. Despite the increasing use of KPIs in business and academia, the extant literature does not provide a thorough overview of their intellectual structure, topic development, or research trends. This study fills the gap by doing a bibliometric analysis of KPIs-related publications over the last two decades, resulting in a systematic map of worldwide scholarly output, collaboration patterns, and conceptual evolution. The dataset was retrieved from the Scopus database and covers the years 2005 to July 2025. A total of 724 documents were detected, cleaned, and standardised using OpenRefine, followed by performance analysis using Scopus Analyser and science mapping with VOSViewer. The analysis looked at publishing trends by year, author, country, and subject area, as well as keyword co-occurrence and international collaboration patterns. The findings show a consistent increase in publication output, with significant contributions from China, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Engineering, computer science, business, and medicine emerged as the most influential disciplines in KPIs research. International collaborative networks were especially prominent in developed economies, demonstrating the global and multidisciplinary importance of KPIs research. This study maps the current state of the KPIs literature and identifies prospects in technology-integrated performance measurement. The findings are an invaluable resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to understand the evolution of KPIs research and propose crucial topics for further exploration.

HISTORY TO LEGEND: CULTURAL MEMORY, MYTH, AND HEROIC RESISTANCE IN ARAB AND MALAY TRADITIONS

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Legendary heroes occupy a critical position at the intersection of history, literature, and cultural memory, functioning as symbolic figures through which societies articulate moral values, collective identity, and resistance to social or political domination. This article offers a comparative literary and cultural analysis of Antarah ibn Shaddad, a pre-Islamic Arab poet-warrior, and Mat Kilau, a Malay anti-colonial resistance figure, to examine how historical individuals are transformed into enduring legendary icons. Anchored in cultural memory theory and myth studies, the study approaches legend as a culturally meaningful mode of remembering rather than as historical distortion. Employing a qualitative comparative methodology, the research analyses literary texts, biographical narratives, historical accounts, and cultural representations associated with both figures. The findings demonstrate that legendary status in both traditions is constructed primarily through moral legitimacy, foregrounding values such as courage, resistance, loyalty, and ethical endurance rather than empirical completeness or military success. Antarah’s poetic self-representation and later sīrah traditions foreground the transformation of social marginality into heroic authority, while Mat Kilau’s resistance to colonial power is narratively elevated into a symbol of moral and communal justice. Across both cases, legend operates through selective narrative amplification, enabling heroic figures to function as stable moral exemplars within collective memory. By placing Arab and Malay heroic traditions in dialogue, this study contributes to comparative literature and cultural studies by revealing cross-cultural patterns in mythic hero-making and resistance narratives beyond Eurocentric frameworks.

DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDITY OF A SOCIOECONOMIC WELL-BEING INSTRUMENT FOR B40 HOUSEHOLDS IN MALAYSIA: EXPLORATORY FACTOR ANALYSIS (EFA)

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This study focuses on developing and assessing the construct validity of the B40 Socioeconomic Wellbeing instrument using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) involving 390 respondents from B40 households in urban (Klang Valley) and rural areas (Sik, Kedah). This instrument comprises three main constructs: Financial Well-being, Daily Spending Patterns, and Government Policy Effectiveness. The findings show that all constructs have KMO values above 0.70, and the Bartlett's test is significant (p < 0.001), indicating that the data are suitable for factor analysis. The Financial Wellbeing construct (KMO = 0.741) yielded three factors, retaining nine items and dropping one item (Q3). In contrast, the Daily Spending Patterns construct (KMO = 0.931) formed a single factor with 10 items retained, explaining 57.87% of the variance. In addition, the construct of Government Policy Effectiveness (KMO = 0.919) retained all 10 items, with two main factors identified: Direct Economic Assistance and Access and Information on Government Programs. Overall, the EFA results confirmed that all three constructs have a valid and stable factor structure, making this instrument suitable for use in assessing the socioeconomic well-being of B40 households in Malaysia.

LAW PREPAREDNESS AND ENFORCEMENT FOR AIRBORNE AND DROPLET-BORNE INFECTIOUS DISEASES IN INDUSTRIES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Airborne and droplet-borne infectious diseases are a significant risk to industrial workers, where they communicate and work in the same contained areas or share equipment. The workers’ interactions in industrial workplace settings may expose them to infectious diseases, such as influenza and COVID-19. This research aims to identify the laws and enforcement related to communicable diseases that involve airborne and droplet transmission, thereby enhancing preparedness. A systematic review was conducted via Scopus, four biomedical electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library), and three occupational safety and health electronic databases (OSHLINE, NIOSHTIC2 and HSELINE). A total of 25 studies were included, of which 17 studies focused on law preparedness, one study focused on law enforcement, whereas seven studies included both law preparedness and enforcement. The majority of the study designs employed cross-sectional studies (n = 15), with qualitative studies (n = 5), a mixed-methods study (n = 1), a cohort study (n = 2), a case-control study (n = 1), and a case study (n = 1). Studies on preparedness measures emphasise environmental interventions (e.g., traffic control, cleaning, and supply chain management), administrative actions (e.g., limiting visitors, regular disease screening, adequate personal protective equipment, training, and education), and comprehensive preparedness guidelines.

ROHINGYA COMMUNITY IN KELANTAN: NATIONAL SECURITY CONCERNS AND LOCAL PERCEPTIONS

Hairunnisa Zakaria — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The presence of the Rohingya ethnic community in local settlements, particularly in the eastern coastal states, has elicited a range of apprehensions among the local populace. Kampung Peringat, Melor and Kota Bharu are among the primary locations for the settlement of the Rohingya ethnic community in Kelantan. Initially consisting of just a few individuals, the Rohingya population has increased significantly, now numbering in the thousands as illegal immigrants in the region. This research uses a qualitative approach, employing data gathered from both primary and secondary sources. Data is collected through interviews and observations within relevant domains. Secondary data is drawn from empirical sources, including dissertations, academic journals, and online databases. This research encompasses three primary objectives: 1) to examine the implications of the influx of the Rohingya ethnic community in Kelantan; 2) to assess the management and security protocols in response to the arrival of Rohingya ethnic refugees in Kelantan; and 3) to evaluate the effectiveness of governmental policies aimed at managing and regulating the presence of the Rohingya ethnic community in Kelantan. The findings of this study indicate that 1) the presence of this community has given rise to a range of social, economic, and security challenges, such as increased competition in the job market, greater use of public facilities, and negative perceptions regarding national security; 2) the management and security measures necessitated by the influx of Rohingya refugees in Kelantan have not been effectively implemented; and 3) the current governmental strategies for managing Rohingya refugees are viewed as inadequate, with lax enforcement heightening the concerns of the local populace. This study advocates for the government to implement more effective actions in the management of Rohingya refugees, thus safeguarding the well-being and security of Malaysians.

TAHAP KESEDIAAN MURID DALAM PEMBANGUNAN KANDUNGAN TVPSS BERASASKAN TAM3

Aida Filzah Ramli, Sabrina Mohd. Rashid, Syazwani Mahsal Khan — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Kajian ini bertujuan menilai tahap kesediaan murid Sekolah Kebangsaan Malau dalam pembangunan kandungan Televisyen Pusat Sumber Sekolah (TVPSS) dengan menggunakan kerangka Model Penerimaan Teknologi 3 (TAM3). Perkembangan teknologi digital dalam pendidikan telah membuka ruang kepada penggunaan platform seperti YouTube sebagai medium pembelajaran dan penghasilan kandungan kreatif. Namun, tahap penerimaan dan kesediaan murid masih diperingkat awal, khususnya di kawasan luar bandar yang berhadapan kekangan akses peranti dan literasi digital. Kajian ini dijalankan untuk mengenal pasti faktor psikologi, teknikal dan persekitaran yang mempengaruhi penerimaan teknologi dalam kalangan murid apabila terlibat dalam penghasilan kandungan TVPSS. Kajian ini menggunakan reka bentuk tinjauan kuantitatif melibatkan 16 orang murid Tahun 4 hingga Tahun 6. Instrumen kajian terdiri daripada soal selidik berstruktur berdasarkan tiga belas konstruk utama TAM3 iaitu Kegunaan Teknologi, Kemudahan Penggunaan, Norma Subjektif, Pengalaman, Kecekapan Kendiri, Kesukarelaan, Keseronokan bermain, Kawalan Persekitaran, Kebimbangan Teknologi, Kualiti Hasil Kerja, Kejelasan Peningkatan, Imej dan Pekerjaan Berkaitan. Data dianalisis menggunakan statistik deskriptif bagi menilai tahap kesediaan murid secara menyeluruh sebelum pelaksanaan modul latihan TVPSS. Secara keseluruhan, kajian ini menyimpulkan bahawa murid menunjukkan potensi positif dalam pembelajaran berasaskan video, namun keberkesanan program TVPSS memerlukan latihan sistematik, bimbingan berterusan dan sokongan sosial yang kukuh. Dapatan kajian ini menyediakan asas penting untuk merangka intervensi latihan TVPSS yang lebih komprehensif bagi meningkatkan literasi digital dan keyakinan murid luar bandar.

This study aims to evaluate the level of readiness among pupils at Sekolah Kebangsaan Malau to develop content for the School Resource Centre Television (TVPSS) using the Technology Acceptance Model 3 (TAM3) framework. The rapid advancement of digital technology in education has expanded opportunities to use platforms such as YouTube as learning tools and channels for creative content production. However, students’ acceptance of and readiness for such technologies remain at an early stage, particularly in rural contexts where access to devices and digital literacy is limited. This study seeks to identify the psychological, technical, and environmental factors influencing technology acceptance among students involved in TVPSS content production. A quantitative survey design was employed, involving 16 students from Year 4 to Year 6. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire based on thirteen core TAM3 constructs: Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, Subjective Norm, Experience, Self-Efficacy, Voluntariness, Perceived Enjoyment, Environmental Control, Computer Anxiety, Output Quality, Result Demonstrability, Image, and Job Relevance. Descriptive statistics were used to assess students’ overall readiness before the implementation of the TVPSS training module. Overall, the findings indicate that students demonstrate positive potential towards video-based learning and digital content creation. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of TVPSS initiatives depends on the provision of systematic training, continuous guidance, and strong social support. The findings provide an essential foundation for designing more comprehensive TVPSS training interventions to enhance digital literacy and confidence among students in rural school settings.

THE RISING CONCERN ON WEAKENING SECULAR EDUCATION IN TÜRKIYE: THE REMOVAL OF EVOLUTIONARY THEORY

Mohammad Taib Mohd Ismail, Wan Norhasniah Wan Husin, Siti Juwairiah Zainurin — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This study investigates the factors contributing to the weakening of secular education in Türkiye, originally shaped by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. The weakening of secular education became particularly evident when evolutionary theory was removed from the high school curriculum in 2017. Some scholars argue that this decline was caused by politicians, religious groups, and segments of the public who oppose secular education since it encourages the young generation to keep religion separate from everyday life. To fulfil the objective of this study, qualitative methods were employed, with a particular focus on textual analysis of relevant primary and secondary materials. Additionally, this study employs a constructivist approach to gain a better understanding of how educational reforms impact knowledge construction in Türkiye. The findings reveal that political, religious, and social factors have played a significant role in the complex and controversial process of removing evolutionary theory from the curriculum. This decision is part of Türkiye’s political strategy to strengthen conservative and Islamic values in society, weaken the secular traditions of modern Türkiye, and integrate more religious perspectives into the national education system.

A DECADE OF PUBLICATION ON TRUST AND THE LAW: A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS

Mazita Mohamed, ‘Ain Husna Mohd Arshad — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This article presents a bibliometric analysis of trust and the law to understand how research in this area has expanded and changed during the past ten years. Data were collected through Scopus advanced search, resulting in a final dataset of 1,744 documents. These records were analysed using Scopus Analyzer for statistical trends, while OpenRefine was used to clean and harmonize key information. Visualisation of networks, including co-authorship, keyword co-occurrence and citation links, was produced through VOSviewer. The results show a steady growth of interest in trust and the law, marked by increasing attention to governance, transparency, digital technologies and institutional confidence. The analysis displays a rising trend in publications, dominance by jurisdictions such as the United States, the United Kingdom and China. Highly cited publications highlight concerns relating to artificial intelligence, ethical practices and the role of trust in public decision-making. Keyword mapping shows that trust has become strongly interdisciplinary, linking legal studies with policy analysis, ethics and emerging technological issues. The study offers a clear overview of existing knowledge and supports future work on the structure, application and challenges of trust within contemporary legal systems.

KEMISKINAN FEMINISME GELANDANGAN BEKAS BANDUAN MENERUSI LENSA SUKARELAWAN DI JALAN CHOW KIT

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Kajian ini meneliti fenomena kemiskinan feminisme dalam kalangan gelandangan wanita bekas banduan di kawasan Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur, menerusi lensa sukarelawan yang aktif membantu komuniti tersebut. Fenomena ini mencerminkan bentuk kemiskinan berasaskan gender yang kompleks, di mana faktor seperti jantina, status sosial, rekod jenayah, dan stigma masyarakat saling berinteraksi membentuk kitaran kemiskinan dan pengasingan sosial. Menggunakan reka bentuk kajian kualitatif, data diperoleh melalui temu bual mendalam dengan enam orang sukarelawan yang terlibat secara langsung dengan komuniti gelandangan. Analisis data dijalankan menggunakan kaedah analisis tematik, berpaksikan teori Intersectionality dan Feminist Standpoint Theory bagi meneliti bagaimana identiti berganda mempengaruhi pengalaman gelandangan residivis wanita. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa kemiskinan feminisme dalam kalangan gelandangan residivis wanita tidak hanya berpunca daripada kekurangan ekonomi, tetapi turut dipacu oleh diskriminasi berasaskan gender, stigma terhadap rekod jenayah, dan ketiadaan sistem sokongan sosial. Penemuan ini sejajar dengan dapatan antarabangsa yang menunjukkan bahawa gelandangan residivis wanita berdepan marginalisasi berlapis, termasuk sekatan terhadap pekerjaan formal, diskriminasi dalam akses kesihatan, dan eksploitasi ekonomi. Sukarelawan mendapati bahawa gelandangan residivis wanita sering menghadapi halangan dalam mendapatkan pekerjaan, tempat tinggal tetap, dan akses kepada perkhidmatan kesihatan. Pengalaman gelandangan residivis wanita di Chow Kit memperlihatkan bagaimana tekanan ekonomi, penolakan keluarga, dan stereotaip gender memperkukuh struktur patriarki yang menindas. Justeru, kajian ini menegaskan keperluan kepada dasar sosial dan intervensi awam yang lebih berkeadilan gender, inklusif, serta berpaksikan hak asasi manusia bagi membantu proses pemberdayaan, pemulihan dan integrasi semula gelandangan residivis wanita dalam masyarakat bandar Malaysia.

This study examines the feminization of poverty phenomenon among formerly incarcerated homeless women in the Chow Kit area of Kuala Lumpur, through the lens of volunteers who actively assist this community. This phenomenon reflects a complex form of gender-based poverty, where factors such as gender, social status, criminal record, and societal stigma interact to create a cycle of poverty and social exclusion. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through in-depth interviews with six volunteers directly involved with the homeless community. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis, guided by Intersectionality Theory and Feminist Standpoint Theory, to explore how multiple identities influence the experiences of homeless recidivist women. The findings reveal that feminization of poverty among homeless recidivist women is not solely caused by economic deprivation but is also driven by gender-based discrimination, stigma associated with criminal records, and the absence of social support systems. These findings are consistent with international studies showing that homeless recidivist women face multiple layers of marginalization, including barriers to formal employment, discrimination in accessing healthcare, and economic exploitation. Volunteers observed that homeless recidivist women often encounter significant obstacles in securing jobs, stable housing, and healthcare services. The experiences of homeless recidivist women in Chow Kit illustrate how economic pressures, family rejection, and gender stereotypes reinforce oppressive patriarchal structures. Therefore, this study emphasizes the need for more gender-sensitive, inclusive, and human rights–based social policies and public interventions to support the empowerment, rehabilitation, and reintegration of homeless recidivist women into urban Malaysian society.

SALAH LAKU SEKSUAL DI KELANTAN, 1960AN-1970AN

Haryati Hasan — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Di Kelantan salah laku seksual bukan merupakan fenomena baharu. Laporan Majlis Agama Islam dan Istiadat Melayu Kelantan menunjukkan kegiatan pelacuran dalam kalangan wanita Melayu berlaku sejak tahun 1916. Sementara khalwat dan bersekedudukan serta rogol dikesan berlaku pada tahun 1920an dan 1930an. Kertas kerja ini menganalisis mengenai kegiatan pelacuran yang berlaku dalam kalangan segelintir anggota masyarakat di Kelantan amnya dan di Kota Bharu khasnya pada tahun 1960an sehingga 1970an. Analisis mengenai tema berkenaan adalah berdasarkan laporan bertulis oleh pihak pejabat Polis Kuala Krai pada tahun 1960an dan pejabat Polis Kontinjen Kelantan pada tahun 1970an. Objektif kajian dibahagikan kepada tiga bahagian. Pertama memperkatakan mengenai distribusi dan populasi pelacur di Kota Bharu. Bahagian kedua pula menghuraikan mengenai lokasi dan bagaimana kegiatan pelacuran beroperasi Bahagian ketiga membincangkan tentang langkah pencegahan. Tindakan undang-undang dilaksanakan namun kegiatan ini masih berterusan. Ini menunjukkan kedinamikan masalah salah laku seksual dan kegiatan pelacuran di sana. Justeru itu, langkah menangani masalah berkenaan bukan menjadi tanggungjawab pihak polis semata-mata sebaliknya pihak kerajaan negeri dan majlis agama serta kalangan masyarakat perlu menangani bersama.

My aim in undertaking this article was to collect and assess information about prostitution in a Kelantanese Malay community, particularly in Kota Bharu. Writing within the perspective of social history, I focused on the period 1960s-1970s, because some primary sources such as the Kuala Krai Police office and the Kelantan Contingent Police office reports on this period have recently become available. The objectives of the study are divided into three parts. The first deals with the distribution and population of prostitutes in Kota Bharu. The second part describes the location and how prostitution activities operate. The third part discusses preventive measures. Legal action has been taken, but these activities still continue. This shows the dynamics of the problem of sexual misconduct and prostitution activities there. Therefore, steps to address the problem are not the responsibility of the police alone, but rather the state government, religious councils, and the community must address it together. Hopefully, my article will contribute to opening a new area in Malaysian Social history and gender studies.

THE IMPLICATION OF WINDING UP DEVELOPERS ON STRATA OWNERSHIP IN MALAYSIA: A CRITICAL REVIEW

Helmi Hariri Hishamuddin, Aminah Mohsin — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The process of obtaining strata titles in Malaysia involves four procedural stages, yet many purchasers remain without formal ownership, as their properties are still held under master titles. As of June 2020, over 440,000 parcels across 1,528 schemes in Peninsular Malaysia had not been issued individual strata titles. This issue is compounded when developers undergo winding-up proceedings, leaving purchasers in a legally uncertain position. With 296 recorded cases of developer insolvency since 1984, the implications for strata ownership are significant. This critical review examines the legal, financial, and administrative consequences of winding-up developers on strata title issuance. Using a systematic analysis of statutory provisions, regulatory frameworks, and existing literature, the study identifies five key implications: increased financial burden on purchasers, restrictions on property transactions, weakened management structures, unsecured creditor status, and inheritance complications. To address these challenges, the study recommends legislative reforms, including the establishment of dedicated guarantee funds, implementation of project account systems, and enhanced regulatory oversight. These measures aim to protect purchasers’ rights and ensure the continuity of strata title administration, even in cases of developer insolvency.