Information Management and Business Review

Unveiling the Trajectory of Board Diversity Research: A Bibliometric Study

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:16:47 -0500

This study aims to investigate board diversity using bibliometric analysis. This study examines publication sources, authorship, citations, distribution of publications, and other bibliometric indicators. This study focuses on 290 articles published from 2013 to 2022. Using an automated process, these articles were extracted from the Scopus database and analyzed using bibliometric indicator analysis, VOSviewer, Microsoft Excel, OpenRefine and Perish or Publish. A total of 290 research articles and reviews on board diversity were included in this study. The present study found that the United States was the most productive country (n = 61), followed by the United Kingdom (n = 42), Australia (n = 29), and China (n = 27). The Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), France (n = 8) was the most prominent institution. This study unveils relevant articles, authors, and journals that have discussed board diversity. This study's findings can inform practitioners of the state of the art and the particulars of the most prolific studies. In addition, this study aims to clarify the project themes and tools utilized most frequently in these works. The locations of influential articles and their authors are disclosed. In addition, a list of often-used terms aids in developing a research agenda that highlights pertinent themes, methods, and industries.

Emerging Trends in Sustainable Entrepreneurial Behavior: Bibliometric Data Insights

NURUL HAYANI ABD RAHMAN, ZURAIDAH MOHAMED ISA, AZYYATI ANUAR — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:18:47 -0500

The present study explores the current trends in sustainable entrepreneurial behavior to contribute fundamental knowledge for future academic research in the dynamic field of sustainable entrepreneurship. This study employs a bibliometric analysis using the Scopus database to identify significant changes and emerging topics in academic discourse about the selected keywords. By employing a systematic approach, one can attain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and establish a solid foundation for subsequent research. The analysis comprises a total of 666 articles obtained from Scopus. This study utilizes methodological tools like Microsoft Excel, Harzing’s Publish or Perish program, and VOS viewer. These tools were used to quantify and evaluate citation frequencies. This method enables the assessment of the academic output and influence exerted by document type, evolution of published studies, subject area, and prominent keywords. Nevertheless, there are several constraints associated with this study, including the omission of articles published after 2022 and a specific emphasis on English-language publications from 1991 to 2022. Notwithstanding these limitations, there has been a substantial and continuous academic emphasis on the study of sustainable entrepreneurial behavior. Future research should investigate sustainable behavior within the context of social entrepreneurship. The government and policymakers have the ability to significantly contribute to the creation of an ecosystem that promotes sustainable entrepreneurship and sustainable development.

Factors Influencing Job Performance among Academic Staff in Malaysian Public University

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:21:14 -0500

Extensive research has been conducted on the factors that determine job performance. The current study was required by a lack of research relating to the factors of job performance among academic staff in Malaysian public universities. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of personality traits, motivation, leadership style, and learner autonomy on job performance. Data was collected from the academic staff of a public university in Malaysia. The probability technique, which is simple random sampling was used in this study. The study is guided by an adapted ten-point Likert Interval Scale structured questionnaire as the main instrument used in collecting the data. Furthermore, the analysis of data was undertaken by using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) procedures. Structural equation modeling (SEM), a multivariate approach, was used to empirically evaluate and estimate the hypothesized link between constructs using Analysis of Moment Structure (AMOS) software version 20.0. The findings indicate that job performance is significantly and positively related to personality traits, motivation, leadership style, and learner autonomy. Motivation is a significant predictor of job performance when compared to other variables. The study proves that the combination of personality traits, motivation, learner autonomy, and leadership style on job performance may contribute to the optimal service delivery to stakeholders within Malaysia's educational system. Therefore, the implications of the findings, potential limitations, and directions for future research are also discussed

Investigating Factors Affecting Fans’ Intention to Attend Anime Events: Conceptual

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:23:30 -0500

This study proposes a conceptual framework to investigate the factors influencing anime fans' intention to attend anime events. As the popularity of Japanese animation (anime) proliferates globally, anime events have emerged as a distinct tourism market segment. However, academic research on anime event attendance factors is limited. This study aims to address this gap by developing a framework integrating three key factors frequently highlighted in the general event and fan culture literature: event image, travel motivations, and media information. Event image denotes attendees' holistic perceptions encompassing cognitive and affective dimensions. Travel motivations refer to internal and external drivers stimulating the intention to attend, such as escapism, socialization, and novelty-seeking. Media information represents sources informing attendees' perceptions and decisions through platforms like social media and websites. The framework posits that these three factors directly influence fans' intention to attend anime events. A quantitative methodology will be utilized to collect survey data from anime communities and analyse the model via PLS SEM techniques. The framework contributes a theoretical understanding of anime event attendance, validates linkages between factors, and provides practical implications for event organizers and marketers to enhance the appeal and competitiveness of anime events. Further research could extend the model’s generalizability, explore causal mechanisms between factors, examine additional variables, and conduct longitudinal studies on evolving attendee behaviour and preferences.

Entrepreneurial Specific Factors, Support Factors and Micro enterprises Performance: The Case of Malaysian Microcredit Program

Norlaila Ibrahim, Rosman Mahmood, Ahmad Suffian Mohd Zahari, Mulyana Mulyana — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:24:40 -0500

The study's objective is to analyze the influence of several elements related to entrepreneurial-specific factors and support factors on the performance of micro-enterprises. The study sample consisted of a total of 756 micro-entrepreneurs who were involved in two main microcredit programs in Malaysia, namely Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) and The Venture Group Economic Fund (TEKUN). The study’s findings, obtained through multiple regression analysis, revealed that factors such as personal entrepreneurial competencies, management practice, microcredit programs and government support exert a significant influence on the performance of micro-enterprises. This finding is consistent with the Resource Base View (RBV) theory which links the importance of internal and external resources as a catalyst for competitive advantage and the performance of a business. The influence of family and commitment to religious principles is less significant. It was associated with the attitude factor of micro-entrepreneurs, who frequently disregard the fundamental principles of religion while making judgments. The impact of family influence on micro enterprises' performance was determined to be negligible. Family members make minimal contributions in terms of finances, energy, or moral support. The formulation of policies is crucial for these insights, which highlight the importance of providing entrepreneurship training and implementing excellent management practices. Additionally, financial support is necessary to promote the growth of micro-enterprises in Malaysia. The government plays a crucial role in facilitating the growth of micro companies by implementing various support programs. An efficient distribution system can minimize the leakage of programs and maximize benefits for the recipients who are intended.

Predictors of Severe Anxiety Among Bumiputera Students

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:25:42 -0500

Despite widespread vaccination efforts, ongoing Covid-19 pandemic continues to affect population globally. In mitigating and exerting control over the spread of the virus, a variety of measures have been carried out by countries worldwide. As a result, this has detrimental effects on citizens’ mental health. University students are particularly among those significantly affected where they face challenges stemming from the pandemic and academic pressures. The purpose of this study was to explore anxiety along with the contributing factors of anxiety itself specifically among the students of Bumiputera at public university. The survey, conducted through a Google Docs Form, was distributed online from 13 Aug to 12 Sep 2021. Descriptive analysis was employed in assessing the anxiety levels of the Bumiputera students. To identify academic features, psychosocial attributes, Covid-19-related factors, socio-demographic characteristics, challenges in open and distance learning (ODL), previously achieved academic performance, current academic performance, and overall satisfaction with ODL that exhibit significant associations with anxiety, an independent-sample t-test or a one-way analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) was performed. Finally, in identifying protective and risk factors related to anxiety among significant socio-demographic characteristics, ODL challenges, academic characteristics, psychosocial characteristics, COVID-19-related factors and overall satisfaction towards ODL, multinomial logistic regression was conducted. Gender, sharing laptops/computers, difficulties in catching up with tough online courses, depressive thoughts and experience of quarantined because of close contact with positive COVID-19 individuals were identified as protective factors against anxiety symptoms while field of study and overall satisfaction towards ODL were risk factors of developing severe anxiety.

Exploring the Usability and Engagement of Students in an Educational Board Game on Personal Financial Planning

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:26:33 -0500

Traditional teaching approaches lack engagement, personalization, flexibility, and effective evaluation, thereby limiting learning outcomes. Consequently, these systems face challenges in engaging students, meeting their individual needs, adapting to diverse learning situations, and accurately assessing their competency. Educational board games (EBGs) offer a dynamic and engaging learning experience through play and personalized learning, promising optimal outcomes to overcome these obstacles. The objective of this study is to investigate how usability influences student engagement using the MEEGA+ evaluation approach during EBG play in a Personal Financial Planning course at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Melaka, Kampus Bandaraya Melaka. This quantitative study involved a self-administered questionnaire and a purposive sample of 200 bachelor’s degree students in the course. PLS-SEM was utilized to assess the model and hypothesized relationships. The operability and accessibility of educational games significantly enhanced student engagement, underscoring the utility of board games for learning through play. Usability, experience, and engagement should be integral considerations in instructional game design. The MEEGA+ assessment model can be applied to evaluate game-based learning across various EBGs. Board games have the potential to enhance educational outcomes, underscoring the necessity for further research in game-based learning. The study also suggests that the MEEGA assessment model can assist designers and educators in developing effective game-based learning experiences.

The Impact of Stock Market Development on Economic Growth a Case of Malaysia

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:27:30 -0500

The stock market is important among many financial markets. Stock Market Development is one of the enabling factors for Economic Growth. The recession crisis occurred a few times and badly affected Malaysia's Economic Growth (GDP) and Stock Market Development (SMD). Also, during the recent pandemic of COVID-19, there was a different reaction by investors and individuals overall towards the economy in Malaysia. There were inconsistent trends when the global recession in 2008 happened and COVID-19 started to spread in Malaysia for both SMD and GDP. This study aims to determine the relationship between SMD and GDP in Malaysia. Using Market Capitalization (MCAP) (as a proxy to (SMD)), Exchange Rate (EXC) and Trade Openness (TRADE) as independent variables and GDP as the dependent variable. Data from 1981 to 2020 is analyzed using Granger causality, and the ARDL method along with applying the Endogenous Growth theory. The findings of the ARDL long-run test suggested that SMD and TRADE have a positive and statistically insignificant relationship with GDP. EXC has a negative and statistically significant relationship with GDP. Granger causality test suggested a bidirectional relationship between EXC and TRADE with GDP. There is a unidirectional causality between SMD and GDP where GDP Granger causes SMD. To improve market regulation, The government should ensure the stock market is well-regulated and transparent, boost investor confidence, and increase market investment. Encouraging trade openness and exports can also help increase exchange rates and boost ringgit's demand.

Circular Supply Chain Management in Developing Countries: Challenges, Opportunities and Pathways to Sustainability

Fadhlur Rahim Azmi, Mastura Roni, Megawati Sa’at — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:28:24 -0500

This paper offers a comprehensive exploration of circular supply chain management (CSCM) in the context of developing countries, unveiling a multifaceted landscape of challenges, opportunities, strategies and future prospects. Challenges facing these nations in embracing CSCM include a lack of waste infrastructure, limited awareness and education, financial constraints, a shortage of technical expertise, barriers to accessing global markets, and a dearth of data and information. These challenges underscore the need for tailored, context-specific solutions to establish a robust foundation for CSCM. The study looks ahead and predicts that soon there will be more circular business models, less waste management and more resource optimization, more local circular ecosystems, and more streamlined circular supply chains. Technological advancements, such as blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT) and data analytics, are poised to revolutionize CSCM. Increased global awareness of environmental issues and sustainability will be a driving force for change, with academia, businesses, and governments playing pivotal roles in shaping this future. This paper emphasizes the pivotal role of CSCM in advancing sustainable development, both in developing countries and globally. It underscores the critical importance of a steadfast commitment to sustainability, circularity, and responsible resource management for the future of these nations and the entire planet

Successful Leadership Styles from the Lense of Qualitative Perspective: A Conceptual Visit

Nur Hidayah Hud, Ahmad Fadhly Arham, Zulkefli Muhamad Hanapiyah — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:29:17 -0500

This paper explores the relevancy of transformational and servant leadership styles in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia. The topic of leadership has been studied extensively throughout the years, with various leadership theories have been proposed. Previous studies have also highlighted on how leadership style is crucial in influencing the performance of an organization. Moreover, these two well-known leadership styles are believed to sit well with the concepts and strategies practiced among SMEs in this country. This study seeks to offer literature and practical insights into why these two styles of leadership are relevant and practical for the distinctive circumstances of Malaysian SMEs. Therefore, the researcher concluded with a rationale that applying the right and suitable leadership styles will influence the performance and success of Malaysian SMEs in the future.

Integrating Technology in Government Internal Audit: Catalysts and Challenges

Nor Syafiqah Ahmad Ramli, Nor Aishah Mohd Ali — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 02:30:14 -0500

In an era marked by digital transformation, various sectors, including government entities, are reevaluating their operational methodologies. This research delves into the pivotal elements influencing the adoption of Information Technology (IT) within the internal audit departments of governmental agencies. The study is grounded in detailed interviews conducted at three distinct government organizations, revealing the intricate dynamics of incentives, barriers, and the prospective benefits associated with IT integration. Preliminary results suggest that a myriad of factors critically shape the strategy toward IT implementation. These include the anticipated enhancements in audit efficiency and effectiveness due to IT adoption, the level of support from senior management, budgetary constraints, and the lack of specialized IT expertise. The findings offer insightful recommendations for government bodies, aiming to aid them in navigating the complexities of IT integration. This study not only highlights the significant role of supportive leadership and resource allocation in facilitating IT adoption but also underscores the need for skill development in this domain. Ultimately, it serves as a strategic guide for government agencies to optimize their auditing processes through effective IT integration.

The Impact of Social Trust, Social Network and Financial Innovation on the Financial Well-Being of Micro-Entrepreneurs in Malaysia: A Pilot Study

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:21:05 -0500

This study aims to assess the reliability and validity of a questionnaire designed to measure the impact of social trust, social networks, and financial innovation on the financial well-being of micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia. Employing a descriptive research design and a cross-sectional approach, data were collected from 140 micro-entrepreneurs, with the questionnaire serving as the primary research instrument. The findings reveal strong internal consistency within the factors under investigation, underscoring the robustness of the questionnaire. Additionally, insights into the demographic profile of micro-entrepreneurs offer a valuable understanding of their characteristics and operational dynamics. The implications of this study extend to policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers, providing actionable insights to support the sustainability and resilience of micro-entrepreneurs. Overall, this research contributes to advancing knowledge in the areas of social trust, social networks, and financial innovation concerning the financial well-being of micro-enterprises. It holds significant implications for fostering economic growth, reducing inequalities, and promoting inclusive development in Malaysia.

The Relationship Between Digital Technology and Business Innovation Model Among Asnafpreneurs in Malaysia

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 11:52:55 -0500

Businesses must continually adapt and innovate to stay competitive and maintain high market shares. This includes not only incorporating the latest technology but also creating innovations that aim to increase profitability and sustainability. However, this approach also involves significant risks, as changing the business model to incorporate technological and sustainable elements can be challenging. Digital technology has forced entrepreneurs to reconsider their business models, leading to a need for research on entrepreneurial intention and business models in this area. Thus, this paper seeks to identify the relationship between digital technology and the business innovation model among asnafpreneurs in Malaysia. The study will use a quantitative approach, with a structured survey conducted using Google Forms to gather data. The researcher will use purposive and judgmental sampling, based on recommendations from zakat officers, to select a sample of 299 respondents. Descriptive analysis will be used to examine the existing elements of digital technology, while correlation analysis will be used to examine the relationship between the dependent variable (business innovation model) and the independent variables (digital technology). The study's objective is to analyze the relationship between the business innovation model with digital technology and to propose the elements of digital technology in business innovation to asnafpreneur.

Perceived Organisational Support, Transformational Leadership and Organizational Performance: Perspectives of Hospitality Industry in Malaysia

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 12:10:59 -0500

Leadership studies within the field of business research in Malaysia and around the globe are expanding rapidly but remain divided and inconclusive. The hospitality industry provides significant contributions to Malaysia’s economy, reflecting its financial standing. Therefore, this paper intends to analyze the most recent research breakthroughs linked to transformational leadership and organizational performance in Malaysia’s hospitality industry, as well as to put forward recommendations for potential mediating or moderating variables. Past literature confirms that practicing and exhibiting transformational leadership qualities is relevant for hospitality leaders. Furthermore, it suggests that transformational leadership dimensions may significantly contribute to organizational performance. Finally, this study concludes that POS could bridge the gap in existing research on the relationship between transformational leadership towards organizational performance. This study strongly postulates that by examining the role of POS in different contextual studies, it is highly anticipated that the direct links between transformational leadership and the performance of an organization can be enhanced. Furthermore, implications and recommendations are also discussed.

A Conceptual Framework on Factors Influencing Nurses’ Job Performance

Rabiatul Adawiyah Ma'arof, Umi Kartini Rashid, Juzaimi Nasuredin — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 09:59:27 -0500

The nurses' job performance can be regarded as a reflection of healthcare organizations, given that they comprise the largest group of human resource professionals who are responsible for providing high-quality care to patients. However, previous studies have emphasized that nurses in Malaysia are underperformed because of shortages in the workforce and excessive workload. Hence, understanding factors influencing the job performance of nurses will empower decision-makers to develop effective strategies aimed at enhancing nurses' performance. In Malaysia, only a few research have been performed on job performance, especially among nurses. Furthermore, limited research has delved into the specific factors influencing nurses’ job performance in Malaysia’s public hospital system. This study contributes to the existing knowledge by investigating the impact of spirituality at work and HRM practices on the nurses’ job performance in Malaysian public hospitals. This study employs a quantitative survey method using self-administered questionnaires, and the data collected will be analyzed using SPSS software Version 26. A total of 375 nurses from a population of 12, 514 nurses who worked at public hospitals in Malaysia will be selected as a sample of the study. This study offers potential benefits to authorities in Malaysian healthcare organizations by providing valuable insights for the development of compelling effective spirituality at work values and human resource management strategies aimed at enhancing the job performance of nurses.

Policies Improving the Well-Being of Gig Workers in Malaysia

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 12:15:01 -0500

Very scarce research has assessed the extent of adverse effects on the well-being of gig workers, particularly in Malaysia. So, the study aims to examine the policies favoring the well-being of gig workers using qualitative methodology of secondary materials examination and semi-structured interviews with policymakers. One of the key findings is that the Malaysian government is very supportive in welcoming the new era of flexibility and freedom of work, such as gig workers. This is particularly relevant to the gig economy, which is characterized by a high degree of uncertainty and variability. The emergent issues significantly call for government and policymakers to design the right policies to enhance gig workers' welfare.

The Impact of Blockchain in Financial Industry: A Concept Paper

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 11:54:25 -0500

Blockchain is a cutting-edge technology gaining fast recognition as a transformative drive with the possibility to reform many sectors. This concept paper seeks to understand the influence of blockchain on the financial industry, shedding light on its key features, benefits, and challenges. Specifically, this paper explores whether blockchain technology promotes cost-saving in the financial industry. Additionally, this paper discusses the implications of blockchain, particularly regarding its security. It emphasizes the need for collaboration between industry stakeholders, regulators, and technologists to harness the blockchain's full potential while addressing the associated challenges. As blockchain continues to evolve and mature, its effect on the financial industry is expected to increase, reforming the way financial transactions are conducted and recorded in the digital age. This study contributes a holistic approach to expanding the transformative potential of blockchain in the financial sector.

Uncovering the Significance of Transformational Leadership in Islamic-Based Institutions: A Systematic Exploration

Jabran Jasni, Sharfizie Mohd Sharip, Dalila Daud — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 13:04:02 -0500

Studies on transformational leadership have shown to be beneficial for employees and organizations, particularly those with an Islamic foundation. Islamic elements present within Islamic institutions seem to have different viewpoints regarding the numerous implications of transformational leadership. To have a clear understanding of the transformational leadership presence in Islamic-based institutions, it is crucial to compile prior literature. Then will ensure the efficiency on effectiveness of transformational leadership in Islamic-based institutions for future reference. Regrettably, there has yet to be enough research that thoroughly reviews the body of knowledge on transformational leadership implications for employees in Islamic-based institutions. Therefore, a thorough literature assessment on the impact of transformational leadership on employees in Islamic-based institutions was conducted in this project. This study used the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) review approach to guarantee that the results were of high quality. Two eminent databases, Scopus and Web of Science, as well as one auxiliary database, Google Scholar, were used to retrieve the articles. Two key topics were found through thematic analysis, including 1) employee performance and effectiveness, and 2) employee ethical behavior. Six sub-themes were then created by combining these two primary themes. This research will add to the body of knowledge currently available in the fields of transformational leadership and practical application in institutions with an Islamic foundation. The following are the study's key contributions: 1) pinpointing the beneficial effects of transformational leadership towards employees in Islamic-based organizations, and 2) formulating recommendations for more research in this area.

The Trend of Halal Cosmetics Supply Chain Research in a Decade: A Systematic Review and Bibliometric Analysis

WAN MARHAINI WAN OMAR, NURZALIKHA AIMI MOHD SUBRI, MOHD HAFIZ ZULFAKAR — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 12:35:51 -0500

The Halal cosmetics sector has risen in recent years, and it has received attention from academics and practitioners. Prior works on halal studies have examined food and beverage, but not the supply chain of halal cosmetics. This study aims to explore the distributions and trends of the halal cosmetics supply chain and to identify the gap in this research domain. The integrated systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis were employed to gain insight and evaluate the literature of this study. Based on the reviewed articles, the number of published halal cosmetics supply chain studies is limited. Data were obtained from the Scopus database, resulting in a limited dataset of 58 articles published between 2012 and 2023. Several tools and software were utilized for data extraction and analysis, including Publish or Perish, Excel Spreadsheet, and VOS Viewer. Co-citations analysis and co-words analysis were used to map the trends of publications and distinguish current research potentials. The findings reported the top authors of this research area, the main sub-research areas, and the most cited articles. In addition, new research directions in the realm of halal cosmetics supply chains were offered. Future academics could investigate new study clusters of the halal cosmetics supply chain empirically.

Factors Influencing Knowledge-Sharing Behavior Among Academicians in Technical and Vocational Education and Training Institutions

WAN ZUHAILA WAN ABD. RAHMAN, Ahmad Suffian Mohd. Zahari, ZALINAWATI ABDULLAH — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 11:25:48 -0500

The key concern of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions is to generate graduates of high caliber. The TVET institutions endeavor to best serve the community and the nation. Being productive in their area of expertise will determine the extent to which TVET institutions can compete to provide the best education globally. Accordingly, academicians’ perceptions and personalities were assessed to identify the factors contributing to knowledge-sharing behavior (KSB). The academicians were selected from premier polytechnics in Malaysia through purposive sampling. Analysis was conducted with partial least square structural equation modelling. Resultantly, KSB reflected moderate variance whereas knowledge-sharing intention (KSI) had weak variance. The results suggested that KSI moderately influenced KSB. The academicians’ KSI positively influenced their KSB. Nevertheless, individual perception did not significantly affect academicians at KSB. The findings on Malaysian TVET academicians’ KSB can be a general benchmark for other technical and vocational institutions. Future researchers could focus on other individual factors that might influence KSB, such as religiosity.

Religious Practices Position in Firm Performance: A Case of the Malaysian Construction Industry

AHMAD SUFFIAN MOHD ZAHARI, ROSMAN MAHMOOD, ZURIYATI AHMAD, AZZRI FAZRIL ROSMAN — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 05:14:49 -0500

The construction sector is one of the main contributors to a country's economic growth and development. However, the sector is often associated with several issues. Among the factors that cause this failure is related to developer personality characteristics that impact project management efficiency. Therefore, the study's objective is to assess the influence of elements in religious values ??and entrepreneurial factors on the performance of firms in the construction sector. A total of 226 respondents from contractors of various registration grades were used as the study sample. The results of the multiple regression analysis found that the religious factor did not affect the firm's performance. This is linked to the attitude of contractors who often turn their backs on religious values ??and instead use common sense in making decisions and actions. However, all entrepreneurial factors (entrepreneurial competencies, management practice and innovation) show a significant positive influence on firm performance in the construction sector. From a policy perspective, this study highlighted to various stakeholders in the construction industry the existence of laxity in the practice of religious values ??among contractors which is an obstacle to achieving better performance in the implementation of a project. Concerning that, the emphasis on religious values ??needs to be applied thoroughly in every training program in addition to empowering entrepreneurial values ??based on innovation. All of these values ??are important elements in ensuring a firm's sustainable comparative advantage and performance in the construction sector.

A Conceptual Framework for the Individual Factors Fostering the Innovative Work Behaviour of STEM Teachers

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 09:58:16 -0500

This article explores the factors influencing innovative work behavior (IWB) among academics in the field of education, with a specific focus on STEM teachers. The inquiry adopts the conceptual framework of self-determination theory. A literature review methodology is employed, encompassing an examination of journals, conference papers, theses, and a conceptual approach. Variables in this analysis are delineated and measured in accordance with previous research and recommendations. The findings of this study highlight the significance of intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy, and job engagement as pivotal characteristics contributing to the cultivation of innovative work behavior among employees. The study's limitations stem from its reliance on a literature review and the analysis of prior research findings to construct a conceptual framework concerning STEM teachers' innovative work behavior. Future empirical research is recommended to comprehensively elucidate additional factors fostering innovative work behavior. The research findings corroborate earlier studies, suggesting that to bolster Malaysia's standing in the Global Innovation Index (GII) and, indirectly, to advance the goals of the NSTIP 2021-2030 aimed at cultivating a technologically proficient society, educational administrators in Malaysia should actively foster teachers' engagement in innovative work behavior activities, leveraging their competencies and strengths. This study provides valuable insights into the individual factors influencing teachers' propensity for innovative work behavior and their potential to enhance Malaysia's education system.

Unveiling the Nexus Between Intellectual Capital Efficiency and Financial Performance in Malaysia's Healthcare Sector Amidst the Covid-19 Crisis

Noor Sharida Badri Shah, Roslan Ja’afar — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 11:59:26 -0500

Intellectual capital is a vital element in strategic resources and enhances the productivity of companies in the knowledge-based economy. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the sectors in Malaysia are affected by staff and apply knowledge-based processes and procedures. The study aims to assess the influence of intellectual capital (IC) efficiency on financial performance in Malaysia's healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic. The VAIC technique was used in the study, as well as panel data analysis with STATA 14. The sample was drawn from three (3) years of healthcare annual reports, spanning 2019 to 2021. Eleven (11) healthcare companies were chosen because they have the capacity to develop public healthcare services and provide high-quality medical facilities. The findings for VAIC ranking show Hartalega, the main producer of disposable gloves marked as the highest ranking of efficiency and the least efficient is TMC Life. For panel data analysis, the results exhibit value-added human capital (VAHU) and value-added capital employed (VACA) are observed to have a significant and positive relationship with the dependent variable; Return on Equity (ROE). Human capital and capital employed are considered the most efficient resources to generate profit and the vital elements in the Malaysian healthcare sector to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. This study contributed to the body of knowledge in the Malaysian healthcare sector about intellectual capital literature. Malaysian healthcare organizations can benefit from incorporating more intellectual capital into their operations to preserve long-term development progress.

Microcredit Clients’ Financial Literacy Towards Financial Inclusion and Sustainability

Azlina Rahim, Vani Tanggamani, Hamidah Bani, Nor Ashikin Alias — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 03:03:59 -0500

According to the recent Malaysian MADANI Budget 2023 which has been declared by Prime Minister, it is notable that 7 billion was allocated to help micro-entrepreneurs, women and youth. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the clients have appropriate financial literacy to ensure that the loans can be repaid accordingly. For microcredit clients to have this ability, they should have sound financial literacy to be able to manage their money, make wise decisions, and maintain vigorous spending. Thus, to promote sustainable financial sustainability, the objective of this study is to assess the level of microcredit financial literacy of microcredit clients in enhancing their knowledge, skills and transparency that can lead to financial sustainability. Further, it will also test empirically whether microcredit financial literacy can integrate the cognitive comprehension of financial knowledge, skills and responsibility with respect to financial sustainability. This study will use an exploratory sequential mixed-method research design that combines quantitative (questionnaires) and qualitative (interviews) data. The data-gathering method then continues with concentrated group interviews on selected microcredit clients. This covers clients from TEKUN Nasional Melaka to deliberate on related problems. Data analysis in qualitative research focuses on the systematic search and arrangement of interview transcripts. Interviews are necessary to gain a thorough understanding of issues with financial knowledge and skills among clients. It is expected that the study will benefit the policy maker, microcredit clients and the government in enhancing financial inclusion and sustainability. Thus, the government's slogan "Developing Malaysia MADANI" can be achieved.

Elevating Financial Literacy Among Women Entrepreneurs: Cognitive Approach of Strong Financial Knowledge, Financial Skills and Financial Responsibility

Vani Tanggamani, Azlina Rahim, Hamidah Bani, Nor Ashikin Alias — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 10:15:13 -0500

A notable challenge for Malaysian women entrepreneurs is the lack of adequate financial literacy, which leads to a major setback in their business growth. However, it was discovered that women entrepreneurs have poor financial knowledge and a narrow-minded "just live for today" mindset when it comes to financial planning. The purpose of this study is to raise financial literacy among Malaysian women entrepreneurs to encourage accountable behavior and rational thinking to improve financial knowledge, financial skills and financial responsibility. Thus, this study is extremely referred to in the cognitive approach of strong financial knowledge, financial skills and financial responsibility of the group to be considered, giving importance to the development of the community economic activities and program. This study adopts the theory of resource-based view and uses a mixed-method design that combines the quantitative research methods of questionnaires and qualitative research method of semistructured in-depth interviews to improve the level of financial literacy that is anticipated to advance financially literate women entrepreneurs for sustainable economic wellbeing. The outcome of this study is expected to alleviate women entrepreneurs’ economic well-being since there is no specific benchmark of financial literacy for women-based entrepreneurship currently. Integrating the standpoints of women entrepreneurs is recognized as the mission of the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development to increase the number of participants and raise the status of women entrepreneurs in this country as well as towards "Developing Malaysia MADANI", support the principles of Shared Prosperity Vision and the mission of SDG2030.

Acceptance Factors Affecting the Intention to Use Mobile Payments: QR Code Applications

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 05:47:22 -0500

This study explores the intentional use of QR code applications in Malaysia through the lens of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT 2), focusing on five key constructs: which is performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), hedonic motivation (HM), habit (H), and trust (TR). An online survey was constructed and disseminated to a random sample of 215 respondents located in the Southeast region. The primary objective of this survey was to collect data regarding their intentions to utilize QR code applications. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), aiming to understand the relationship between the UTAUT 2 factors and behavioral intention towards QR code usage. The analysis revealed that all the UTAUT 2 factors which are performance expectancy, effort expectancy, hedonic motivation, habit, and trust have a positive significant relationship with the behavioral intention to use QR codes application. Among these, trust emerged as the most influential factor, underscoring its critical role in the adoption of QR code technology. This finding highlights the importance of addressing security and privacy concerns to foster trust among users, which is pivotal for the wider acceptance and use of QR codes in Malaysia. The study provides valuable insights for developers, marketers, and policymakers looking to enhance the adoption of QR code technology, emphasizing the need to build a trustworthy and user-friendly QR code ecosystem.