Showing papers in "Pertanika journal of social science and humanities in 2021"

Online Learning during COVID-19 Pandemic. Are Malaysian High School Students Ready?

Abstract: The online learning environment is an integral part of activities conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic in schools. This study explored the Malaysian high school students' online learning perspectives using a mixed-methods study. The quantitative findings reported that students are not ready to go online. The qualitative analysis revealed several emerging themes related to students' dissatisfaction with the online learning environment. The issues are related to repository-based teaching, cognitive overload, social presence, technology comfort, and discipline. Students suggested that teachers should implement the use of standardised applications, fixed schedules, and interactive sessions. The study concluded that interactions are lacking during the online learning environment. However, the researcher hopes that once teachers are back from the COVID-19 pandemic, they will have a comprehensive understanding of technology tools to consider in their pedagogical practices. It is hoped that the post-pandemic will change the way schools and teachers perceive online learning. The sudden teaching practices during the COVID-19 pandemic will undoubtedly drive improvements in the use of technology in schools.

A thematic Review on Industrialised Building System (IBS) Publications from 2015-2019: Analysis of Patterns and Trends for Future Studies of IBS in Malaysia

Abstract: IBS has been theoretically and practically proven to improve the construction delivery apart from reducing the lead of time and cost throughout its supply chain Under the Malaysian Construction Industry Transformation Programme (CITP) 2016-2020, it is stated that the government is accelerating the adoption of IBS through mechanisation and modern practices Despite the government’s initiative, there have been relatively small amounts of materials published discussing the patterns in IBS publications in Malaysia and what the future holds for IBS This paper explores a thematic review of the literature regarding new definitions and patterns that juxtaposes IBS in the construction industry in Malaysia from 2015 till 2019 by using the thematic review The findings from the code-to-document analysis using ATLASti 8 found that the patterns and trends on IBS from the year 2015 to 2019 This paper contributes to analysing the patterns and trends of IBS by identifying the thematic code within IBS publications for recommendations of future studies on IBS in Malaysia

Weathering the Economic Impact of COVID-19: Challenges Faced by Microentrepreneurs and Their Coping Strategies during Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic is a global crisis that has caused a punishing economic impact on businesses, particularly due to many countries adopting measures such as the Movement Control Order (MCO) to curb the spread of the COVID-19 disease. The impact hits the most on microentrepreneurs since they are not able to operate their businesses, of which the margins of profit and resources are relatively small. The purpose of this research was to explore the challenges faced by microentrepreneurs during MCO and their coping strategies used to overcome these challenges. This study utilized the qualitative case study approach and collected interview data among the identified microentrepreneurs that met the criterion sampling. The findings uncover that these microentrepreneurs typically faced challenges related to restricted cash flows, lack of customers and supplies shortage issues which impacted their income and business operations during MCO. These challenges were addressed using coping strategies, namely having the ability to control stress, developing a strong spiritual relationship with God, applying problem solving thinking skills, utilizing social capital (offline and online), and optimizing digital marketing. It is recommended that government agencies, NGOs, and social movement bodies contribute to microentrepreneurs by organising and engaging in digital empowerment programs to enable rural entrepreneurs to leverage on their access to digital commerce, internet marketing and alike.

Workplace Skills and Teacher Competency from Culinary Arts Students’ Perspectives

Abstract: Workplace skills are essential skills needed by graduates today to fulfill the demands of employers. Employers in the hospitality industry are looking for well-prepared Culinary Arts graduates that possess adequate training and are equipped with workplace skills to fill up positions in the job market. Apart from skills, teacher competency impacts the acquisition of knowledge and workplace skills among Culinary Arts students and contributes to the issue of unemployment. This study aims to differentiate workplace skills and teacher competency based on gender, socio-economic status, as well as academic and vocational achievements of Culinary Arts students. Furthermore, the relationship between workplace skills and teacher competency is assessed. This correlational study was conducted at Malaysian vocational colleges offering 2-year Culinary Arts programs involving 198 final year students. A 5-point Likert-scale questionnaire was used for data collection. The findings demonstrated that the students’ workplace skills and perception of teacher competency were at a moderate level. No significant differences were noted based on gender, socioeconomic status, as well as academic and vocational achievements. Teacher competency and workplace skills were correlated moderately and positively. This study provides a basis and serves as a reference to the Technical and Vocational Education and Training practitioners to design a curriculum for vocational college students in improving the acquisition of students’ workplace skills. Teachers are recommended to play an active role in efficiently integrating workplace skills in the learning process to enhance their competencies.

Information Regulation: A Measure of Consumer Protection

Abstract: Consumers have been identified as one of the drivers of economic development in Malaysia. They come from different educational levels, age, geographical area and economic status. All of those discrepancies pose several problems, and the most significant issue is the possible information vulnerability where it affects consumer decision-making. Consequently, when wrong decisions are made, they can incur substantial financial and emotional losses. It is therefore necessary to analyse the most appropriate mechanism for safeguarding Malaysian consumers from any potential knowledge vulnerabilities that could compromise their interests. Accordingly, this paper will scrutinize the theory of information regulation as a mechanism to mitigate consumer disadvantage and fix Malaysian consumers’ knowledge vulnerability by analysing the existing academic literature on the theory of information regulation as a specific tool to protect consumers’ interests in Malaysia. This specific approach of regulation which requires all the essential information concerning a particular product to be provided by the sellers, traders, producers and manufacturers at the pre-purchase phase is hoped to be the best protection measure for consumers in Malaysia.

Ideological Manipulation of Translation through Translator’s Comments: A Case Study of Barks’ Translation of Rumi’s Poetry

Abstract: As purposefully crafted information around a text, paratext is a critical platform for ideological manipulation in translation. Translators’ comments as a form of paratext can cause ideological deviations between source and target texts that diminish the ideological context of the source text. On this ground, this study aimed to explore translators’ comments and how they can subtly recontextualize the ideology of texts and reframe them in new ideological contexts. Thus, choosing Coleman Barks’ translations of Rumi’s poetry as a case study. It aimed to probe the congruency of Rumi’s ideology with the ideology embedded in the translator’s comments on the verses. The study employed critical discourse analysis as its analytical methodology and explored the collected controversial examples of the translator’s comments. The findings illustrated a high level of ideological deviation between the source and target texts. Moreover, the findings implied the translator’s dominant approach toward a text from an inferior language comparing the superior English language. It has shown that ideological fidelity in translation is not only confined to texts but includes paratexts as well. The present study can be considered significant as it revealed the de-Islamization trend of a Middle Eastern text in the light of the relationship of the unequal languages. The study suggests that paratexts as an empowering platform for translators effectively direct the readers’ perception about the source text and its author. This study hopes to make the translator trainees more cautious in their comments on the original authors’ voices and ideology.

Consumer Adoption of Alipay in Malaysia: The Mediation Effect of Perceived Ease of Use and Perceived Usefulness

Abstract: Despite a growing trend in m-wallet services in Malaysia, the actual level of usage is considered low among all of the non-cash payment methods. The Malaysian government has taken a serious initiative in spurring the use of m-wallets by providing a one-off RM30 incentive to all eligible Malaysians. As such, it is important to understand the motivations behind m-wallet usage by examining Alipay, which is favoured in the international, as well as Malaysian markets. This research investigates the effects of mobile payment knowledge, personal innovativeness, self-efficacy, convenience, and compatibility on the actual adoption of Alipay in Malaysia with perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, as the mediators. Using importance-performance map analysis (IPMA) and Variance Accounted For (VAF), based on Partial Least Squares - Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) on 260 respondents, it was discovered that compatibility and perceived usefulness demonstrated high importance in improving the performance of Alipay adoption. The results also showed a direct effect between compatibility and mobile payment knowledge. Additionally, perceived usefulness was shown to be an essential mediator in influencing the impact of compatibility and convenience on the actual adoption of Alipay. This study has produced essential policy recommendations for both mobile wallet providers and policymakers on how to further promote the adoption of mobile wallets in Malaysia.

Factors that Influence High School Female Students’ Intentions to Pursue Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education in Malaysia

Abstract: Despite the increase in the number of female students in education indicating a reversal in the gender gap, their participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in Malaysia is still a matter of concern. This study extends empirical explanations for this gender gap and identifies factors influencing high school students’ intentions to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education in Malaysia. The present study aims to develop a framework of female intention to pursue STEM education by examining the impact of five independent variables on STEM self-efficacy and in turn the impact of self-efficacy on intention. The independent variables include attitude towards STEM, self-concept, gender stereotype, motivation, and teacher stereotypes. The study also examines the independent and moderating impact of career outcome expectancy on the relationship between self-efficacy and intention. Data was collected from 211 secondary school female students in Forms 4 and 5, studying at eight secondary schools in two states in Malaysia. The data was analyzed using SmartPLS. The results of the study show that attitude, motivation, and career outcome expectancy are positive and are significant predictors of STEM self-efficacy, whereas gender and teacher stereotypes are the negative predictors. The results of the study also highlight that self-efficacy is a strong predictor of intention to pursue STEM education. These findings of the study would assist policymakers to develop suitable strategies to improve female participation in STEM education in Malaysia.

Which Consumers are Least Likely to Have a Balanced Diet in Japan

Abstract: There have been only a few large-scale nationwide studies regarding the frequency of eating a balanced diet consisting of staple food, the main dish, and side dishes in Japan. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify factors affecting the frequency of eating a balanced meal that consists of staple food, the main dish, and side dishes twice a day. We analyzed the secondary data of 13,772 responses from the 7-year pooled cross-sectional data of the nationwide Surveys of Attitudes toward Shokuiku (Food and Nutrition Education) by the Cabinet Office and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan. Ordered logit regression was used to find factors affecting the frequency of having a balanced diet. Our estimation results suggested that gender, age, cohabitation, eating meals with family, subjective economic status, and residential area could be factors affecting the probability of having balanced meals every day. In conclusion, single men in their 20s-50s, single men in their 80s, older male adults living but not eating together with family, single women in their 20s-30s, and individuals with low economic status were identified as high-risk groups who did not have a balanced diet in Japan. Moreover, we found that the government health promotion program called Kenko Nippon 2013 (Health Japan 21, the second term) did not improve the dietary behavior of the consumer in Japan.

A Meta-analysis of Integrated Internal Audit Management Effectiveness towards Business Sustainability

Abstract: This paper classifies the internal and external factors that influence the effectiveness of integrated internal audit management (IIAM) and how IIAM effectiveness affects business sustainability performance. This paper presents a meta-analysis and systematic literature review of previous academic research papers. This study used a comprehensive review of literature and content analysis to obtain information using the electronic databases, specifically ProQuest, Emerald and Scopus from the year of 2003 until 2020. The paper reviewed recently published articles on the integration of at least two out of three management systems (MSs), such as ISO 9001, OHSAS 18001 and ISO 14001. The findings from the research papers are presented according to the factors and outcomes examined. Many studies undertaken on the integration audit of management systems show that there are several internal factors (human resource capability, technological capability and quality capability) and external factors (regulator, customer and supplier) that affect the effectiveness of the integrated internal audit management. It is concluded that the use of integrated management system (IMS) has a positive impact on the firm’s performance specifically on business sustainability. The findings indicated of internal and external factors, which are grounded on the identified theories (dynamic capabilities theory, stakeholder theory and contingency theory), having to consider and to understand the effectiveness and implications of integrated internal audit. Thus, based on the findings from previous research carried out and the requirement of IMS, this paper gives directions for the effective way to integrate internal audits in manufacturing firms to achieve business sustainability.

Legal Literacy for Muslim Converts in Malaysia

Abstract: Many Muslim converts in Malaysia are not well-informed of their rights and the legal implications of conversion to Islam. Implementing legal pluralism, particularly the different sets of personal laws that apply to Muslims and non-Muslims, sends the converts, their non-Muslim families, and the religious authorities into bitter legal battles whenever an individual converts to Islam. Furthermore, as religious institutions currently offer no legal literacy program, some Muslim converts are unclear regarding the course of action they should take whenever legal issues are involved, especially from the aspects of identity change; civil marriage dissolution; matrimonial properties distribution; child custody and guardianship; determination of child’s and the deceased’s religion; and inheritance and derivative pension distribution. Therefore, this research explores Muslim converts’ perspectives on the need for and development of legal literacy regarding rights and legal implications of conversion to Islam. This study employed in-depth semi-structured interviews with 9 participants who were all Muslim converts. Each interview was transcribed verbatim, and the data were analysed with NVIVO software based on a thematic approach. The research found that all participants unanimously agreed to empower Muslim converts with legal literacy, considering many are not well-informed of the legal implications of conversion to Islam, despite it directly affecting their personal lives, family dynamic, and the multicultural society in Malaysia.

Exploring the Impact of Pandemic on Global Economy: Perspective from Literature Review

Abstract: The pandemic has caused several health issues and deaths and numerous severe devastations to the global economy. Due to the extreme impacts of the epidemics, it is crucial to investigate the pandemics and their pessimistically hidden influences to devise proper strategies. However, although this topic gains enormous recognition from scholars and researchers, there is still an inadequacy of a comprehensive literature review on the issues, and in-depth research on individual aspects of the world economy. Accordingly, the objective of this paper is to contribute a literature review that synthesises and evaluates prior research, to examine the current state of the pandemic impacts on the global economy, as well as become the requisite foundation for the practitioners to perceive how to respond to a pandemic in the future. A literature review is conducted, with 254 most relevant articles are analysed and classified based on the proposed framework. Thus, the findings of this study contribute diverse theoretical and practical insights concerning pandemics and the global economy. The results of this paper indicate the current status of the literature review and discover future research directions. Additionally, this paper proposes an integrated framework of the most influenced industries, followed by some emerging solutions to the most suffering sectors. Future research directions arc further suggested based on the identified research gaps and the analysis results.

Digital disinformation and the need for internet co-regulation in malaysia

Abstract: The spread of fake news on Covid19 is causing public unrest and suspicion among citizens which is a challenge for countries facing the pandemic. The misinformation or disinformation which stems from uncertainties, unrest, and anxiety because of movement control order procedures, financial and economic hardship caused wrong information to spread like fire. Called as 'info-demic', it becomes a second source of virulent information that requires arresting just like the pandemic itself. Controlling fake news in the time of pandemic is a daunting problem that slaps Internet regulation at its face. On the Internet, lies spreads faster than truth and correcting misinformation means tonnes of work. This paper examines Internet self- and co-regulatory approaches in selected jurisdictions to reduce the impact of fake news on governments, industry, and private actors. In applying content analysis as a qualitative research method, the first section analysed specific legislations enacted by parliaments to criminalise the acts of disseminating and publishing fake news. The second section examines legislative and administrative efforts to impose civil and criminal liability on platform providers to monitor online content. The final section analysed self-regulatory efforts to introduce online fact-checking portals and awareness campaigns. This paper argues that Internet self-regulation scheme in Malaysia is not bringing the desired result in the scope of maintaining peace and security of the nation. Considering how dangerous disinformation can cause to the society, more so in global emergency like the present Covid19 pandemic, it is submitted that Internet co-regulation is more suitable if the social, moral and cultural fabric of the society is to be maintained. © 2021 Universiti Putra Malaysia. All rights reserved.

An Econometric Model for Nigeria’s Rice Market

Abstract: A dynamic econometric model of Nigeria’s rice market was designed to serve as a base for future policy analyses. Using time-series data spanning 38 years, the model contains four structural equations representing paddy area harvested, paddy yield, per capita demand, and producer price variables. Estimates for these equations were obtained using the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) cointegration approach. Results of the paddy production and yield sub-models showed that paddy area harvested, and paddy yield was price inelastic. Furthermore, the paddy area harvested responded favourably to technological advancement. For the demand sub-model, estimated own price and cross-price elasticities showed that rice has an inelastic demand response, with wheat being a substitute. A series of validation tests strengthened the reliability of the model for use as an empirical framework for forecasting and analysing the effects of changes in policies such as rice import tariff reforms on production, consumption, retail price, and imports.

Using Online Platforms for Political Communication in Bahrain Election Campaigns

Abstract: The rise of SNS facilitated politicians with new opportunities to communicate directly with voters. Especially during election campaigns. Twitter provides female politicians with a space to exercise their political tasks beyond traditional media, especially in some Arab countries. Based on the framing theory, this study aims to identify how the female politicians in Bahrain utilised Twitter to present themselves for Parliamentary election campaigns in 2018. The researchers scrutinised the phenomenon using a thematic analysis of n = 263 tweets posted by two Bahraini female candidates. Results revealed that although politicians largely preferred Twitter in election campaigns to reinforce support and mobilisation for political engagement, two selected candidates lacked interaction with their supporters. Thus, the researchers concluded that the Bahraini female politicians have a long way to represent themselves in digital media politics as men widely benefit from personalisation more than females.

Self-efficacy and Critical Thinking of Novice and Experienced EFL Teachers: A Sequential Mixed Methods Study

Abstract: Self-efficacy and critical thinking (CT) contribute to teachers’ successful performance in their profession and can ultimately develop the education system of society. The researcher designed a sequential explanatory mixed methods study to follow three objectives in exploring practical opportunities for EFL teacher development. First, it examined the relationship between SE and CT of novice and experienced teachers. Next, it investigated whether the two groups differed in the two variables. Third, it explored whether an instruction on CT skills could promote teachers’ thinking skills and self-efficacy. The results of Pearson’s r showed a positive correlation between the two dispositions. However, no statistically significant differences were found between the CT and self-efficacy of the groups. In the second phase, a quantitative study with a static group comparison design was followed by a qualitative study that investigated participants’ improvement after receiving training on thinking skills. The results of the Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) indicated statistically significant differences between the groups’ self-efficacy and CT. At the final step, volunteers from the experimental group were interviewed to clarify the results obtained from the quantitative phase. The study has implications for teachers and teacher trainers.

The Arab Spring and the Egypt-United States of America’s Relations in Post-Revolution Era

Abstract: Egypt has experienced drastic changes in government recently. Studying these changes can lead to more understanding of the revolutions caused by the Arab Spring in other countries and can also explain the hegemonic conduct of the United States. This qualitative study was conducted through 1) reviewing scholarly published documents and other relevant official news resources that were published on the relationship between Egypt and the United States after the 2011 revolution, and 2) interviewing 12 key informants (ethnic, academic, and administrative elites). Qualitative content analysis was the main approach to data analysis. The results with a focus on both Obama’s administration and Trumps’ administration revealed that Egypt and the United States relations were affected due to Egypt’s anti-western agenda. Later, the United States’ main strategies in maintaining its hegemony in Egypt were discussed. Among these factors, 1) the United States’ aid policy, 2) the United States’ tolerance policy, 3) aborting FJP, 4) imposing the western culture, and 4) the United States’ support of street protests can be mentioned. Areas for further research are discussed at the end of the study.

A Systematic Analysis on the Admissibility of Digital Documents as Evidence in Malaysian Syariah Courts

Abstract: Digital document is a relatively new form of evidence, particularly for use in the Malaysian Syariah courts. This scenario contrasts with civil courts, which started using digital documents in court proceedings as early as the 1950s. The use of the digital document as evidence is intended to strengthen other methods of proof further. However, the Syariah courts are still less exposed to a new proofing method because there are no specific provisions according to Islamic law to allow it. Not only that, but Syariah law practitioners are also rarely exposed to cases related to the use of digital documents. Therefore, this qualitative study will analyse the admissibility of the digital document as evidence under Islamic law through a systematic analysis. This study uses the PRISMA methodology with the range of data stored on the web at www.scopus.com and http://myjurnal.my, which brings together thousands of scientific writings worldwide. The final screening results found a total of 21 articles that discussed the practice of digital documents as evidence under Islamic law. Furthermore, from the final filter, the researchers found several works of literature that previously discussed the usage of digital documents as evidence in a trial proceeding, which indirectly shows that the Syariah court has begun to accept this type of evidence. It is expected that the results of this study will assist legal practitioners in the Syariah court and become a reference point for researchers, academics and the public in Malaysia.

Consumer Perceived Value of Organic Vegetables: Does Ethnic Group Matter?

Abstract: This study examined the role of ethnic groups on factors influencing the perceived value of organic vegetables among consumers in Malaysia. An online survey questionnaire collected 385 responses. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to assess the validity, reliability, hypothesis testing, importance-performance map analysis (IPMA) of the study constructs. Partial least squares-multi-group analysis (PLS-MGA) was employed to examine whether there are significant differences among various ethnic groups. The findings revealed that food safety concerns, health concerns, and trust in organic food claim significantly influenced the consumer perceived value of organic vegetables. This study offers new findings regarding the role of ethnic groups in explaining significant differences among consumers toward the perceived value of organic vegetables. It also provides essential information to the ministry of agriculture, organic farmers, dealers, and retailers in developing marketing strategies and expansion plans to achieve higher household expenditures on organic vegetables.

Filipino families in slum communities and their tales of survival in times of pandemic: An exploration of wellness dimensions

Abstract: In this time of pandemic where the balance of wellness dimensions is disrupted, neglecting any dimension can impact adversely on the people's life most especially those who are deprived including their coping strategies and ultimately their survival. A key factor is to ensure that services and policies are in synched with the state of wellness dimensions. This study examined the state of wellness of the thirty purposively selected families in five slum communities in Cebu, Philippines in times of pandemic. One-on-one semi-structured interview was used in order to gather significant data. Discourse analysis was applied which brought about their tales of survival in synched with their eight wellness dimensions. The findings elaborated that the pandemic and the different mitigation measures to curb it, had taken a heavy toll on the wellness of Filipino families in slum communities. However, this did not topple their resiliency and survivability as the social services and other crisis mitigation policies and strategies afforded by the national government and private sectors, albeit insufficient, including the peculiar Filipino attributes and individual initiatives they manifested and done were instrumental. Furthermore, noting that the essential support and services provided for the families in the slum communities were not holistic enough to address the multi-faceted issues hounding their different wellness dimensions, hence, stemming some non-conforming behaviors despite strict quarantine measures. This study recommends that pandemic mitigation measures including essential support and services be reviewed and enhanced in high consideration of human wellness dimensions for them to be more inclusive and holistic. © Universiti Putra Malaysia Press.

Gender Stereotyping in TV Drama in Pakistan: A Longitudinal Study

Abstract: The research was aimed at analysing gender portrayal in TV drama in Pakistan over a period of five decades from its very inception in the late 1960’s till 2017. The research explored what types of gender stereotypes were being propagated in the prime time drama serials on the State owned TV channel, PTV which was the only platform available for most part of this duration. The methodology adopted for the research was quantitative in nature and involved a content analysis of the most popular Urdu serials aired between 1968 and 2017. The research focused on the three main characters in each drama and the total sample comprised 72 characters. These characters were analysed in a total of 4834 scenes to observe the display of gender stereotypes. The findings indicated that although overall both the genders were displaying their gender specific stereotypes yet some stereotypes such as bravery and aggressiveness were not being displayed by males and passivity, victimization and fearfulness were not being displayed by females. Later the 50 year time period was sub-divided into five decades to observe whether there had been a change over the years keeping in view the massive changes which had taken place in society. Findings indicated that although there were differences in gender depiction between the five decades for both the genders yet the changes were not linear which pointed to the role of other factors such as government policies which could have contributed to the increasing and decreasing stereotyping over the years.

Building Social Resilience after the 2014 Flood Disaster

Abstract: The 2014 flood disaster has brought physical destruction, damage as well as social disruption that caused normal life to become less stable. A state of social equilibrium needs to be restored through effective restoration solutions to normalise life after the disaster. This qualitative research aims to identify two main issues, namely social disruption and social resilience, by utilising a case study of the 2014 flood disaster in Hulu Dungun, Terengganu. A total of 15 victims were selected using the purposive sampling method based on a set of defined criteria–the data collection method comprised of in-depth interviews and non-participant observation. The data were analysed through thematic analysis techniques. The results showed that the disruption suffered by the victims included disruption of social roles, the uncertainty of employment, instability of social routine, and collective trauma. However, the availability of social resilience had enabled the victims to rebuild their lives after flood disasters and restore the ‘normal’ or ‘stable’ situations of social equilibrium. The research is expected to contribute to environmental sociology that has yet to receive widespread attention from sociological researchers in Malaysia. This research is a meaningful effort towards promoting and increasing the environmental sociology study, which to date, remains disoriented.

The Cold War, Old and New: A Preliminary Comparative Study of Polarity, Polarisation, and Elements of (In)stability

Abstract: Recently, the term ‘new Cold War’ has become popular among the media and in academia as a description of contemporary world politics, in general, and major-power relations. Despite the connotations of its name, the Cold War period, sometimes referred to as the long peace, was associated with stability and the avoidance of an all-out world war. This study offers a preliminary examination of the extent to which 21st-century world politics reflects the features of the old Cold War. The findings show that the polarity and polarisation inherent in the current international system are similar to conditions of the early Cold War period (1947–1962), which can be classified as both power bipolar and cluster bipolar. Theoretically, this systemic condition is neither most nor least prone to war. However, similar to the pre-1962 Cold War period, when the implicit rules of the major-power game had yet reached maturity, little consensus on the proper conduct of American–Chinese relations has been reached at present, making current major-power politics highly uncertain and prone to conflict that may lead to war.

Mapping the Use of Boosters in Academic Writing by Malaysian First-Year Doctoral Students

Abstract: This article details an attempt to understand better how first-year doctoral students construct persuasive arguments in academic writing by exploring the patterns of boosters in drafts of doctoral research proposals. Eight Malaysian first-year ESL doctoral students produced 43 drafts of doctoral research proposals across four areas of study in education during their first year of doctoral studies. These drafts were analysed by coding the various linguistic items used to persuade readers of a text, and the analysis was based on Hyland’s (2005) model of metadiscourse. Results show that the (i) overall frequency of booster markers used is relatively low (n=158), reinforcing the argument that first-year doctoral students lack understanding about the interaction between booster markers and the context in a more complicated discussion in academic writing such as the doctoral research proposal. Then, the (ii) further analysis of booster marker sub-categories indicates that Malaysian first-year doctoral students struggle to make appropriate booster markers with different meanings and strengths in academic writing when used in context. Therefore, our study suggests that direct and explicit teaching of using various booster markers categories should be implemented in postgraduate writing courses to heightened the students’ perceptiveness regarding semantic features associated with creating convincing arguments in academic writing.

Socioeconomic Status and Mental Health among Low-income Employees: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract: Low-income employees are among the focus individuals whose socioeconomic status plays a major role in determining positive or negative mental health status. Mental health among low-income employees is a global issue that requires a comprehensive understanding of its determinant. The objective of this study is to systematically review scientific evidence on the impact of socioeconomic status on mental health among low-income employees. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, and data retrieval was done on 7th October 2020 using Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria of this study, a total of 19 studies were included. Results indicate that the majority of the included studies revealed that socioeconomic status influences mental health, while two studies showed no influence. In conclusion, the findings from the review can provide guidelines to promote better mental health among low-income employees.

Psychometric evaluation of the Malay version of the multidimensional Beck Youth Inventories-2 (BYI-2 Malay): measuring self-concept, anxiety, depression, anger, and disruptive behaviour among adolescents in sheltered homes

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Malay version of the Beck Youth Inventories-Second Edition (BYI-2 Malay) in a sample of adolescents living in the nongovernment-run sheltered homes. In this study, 300 adolescents completed the BYI-2 Malay, the Beck Depression Inventory-Malay (BDI-Malay), the Beck Anxiety Inventory-Malay (BAI-Malay), the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire-Malay (ATQMalay), and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale-Malay (RSES-Malay). The internal consistency estimates for the BYI-2 Malay scales, as measured by Cronbach’s alpha, were excellent: .86 for self-concept, .89 for anxiety, .92 for depression, .92 for anger, and .92 for disruptive behaviours. The five-factor model of the BYI-2 Malay (i.e., Self-Concept, Anxiety, Depression, Anger, and Disruptive Behaviour) showed a good fit to the data. Evidence for concurrent validity was established between the BYI-2 Malay Self-Concept scale and the RSES-Malay (r = .41), between the BYI-2 Malay Anxiety scale and the BAI-Malay (r = .60), and between the BYI-2 Malay Depression scale and the BDI-Malay (r = .69). The evidence for convergent validity was established between the BYI-2 Malay Anger scale and the ATQ-Malay (r = .71), and between BYI2 Malay Disruptive Behaviour scale and the ATQ Malay (r =.52). The present findings shed light on the utility of the BYI-2 Malay in aiding clinicians as well as therapists for identifying multiple symptoms of social and emotional problems in adolescents.

Legal exploration of right to health

Abstract: The right to health is recognised as a fundamental human right in the World Health Organisation (WHO) Constitution. In Malaysia, the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health is a fundamental human right without discrimination for every human being. Consequently, the principle of the "right to health," regardless of the legal status of an individual, is the driving force in creating acceptable standards of health care for all citizens. Even for individual who suffers from Covid-19, he still has a fundamental right to health. The issue of the right to health is whether the patients have any rights of their health? If they do have the right to health, the next issue is whether the hospitals are legally bound to follow such right, i.e. the right to health of the patients. Therefore, this paper aims to analyse and discuss the issues regarding the rights to health of the patients. Without the legal mechanism in recognising the right to health, it pointed out that is no such right. The method employed in this paper is qualitative based. The paper finds that although Malaysia does not have any specific legal framework about the right to health, the application of international legal mechanism can be referred to a guideline. Thus, it is important to have a specific legal framework by applying international legal mechanism in order to address this issue. © 2021 Universiti Putra Malaysia. All rights reserved.

Leadership Attitude and Clan-Structure: Lessons for Leadership Practices in Contemporary Post-Conflict Nation Building in Somalia

Abstract: The study analyses the implication of the relationship between leader attitude and Somali Clan-Structure in post-conflict nation-building. The research questions were drawn from a review of relevant literature. Ten subjects were interviewed as a sample to achieve the study objective. Data were thematically analysed using a combination of social identity and reification theories. The results show that clan structure significantly influences Somali leadership attitude in nation-building. The paper argues that since it is clear that the reified clan system exerts a strong unfavourable influence on the future attitudes of Somali leaders towards nation building, the clan structure must be repositioned. Notably, the study discovered that the rise and fall of Siad Barre’s efforts in nation-building relate to the adverse influence of Clan-Structure on the leader’s attitude. As glaringly made clear by this study, attitudes that adversely affected nation-building in Somalia, as depicted by Siad Barre, were dictatorial, nepotistic, egoistic and survivalist. The consequence has been the fragmentation of the Somali political system into clan particularism resulting in a survivalist race and determination of leadership attitude. The study concludes that despite the centrality of Clan-Structure in shaping Somali leaders’ attitudes, there is the necessity for a radical departure towards more constitutional-democratic practice for success in post-conflict nation-building. The study presented some recommendations on reforms in relation to clan structure and leadership attitude towards a more constitutionally relevant PCR.

Bibliometric Analysis of Research on Peer Feedback in Teaching and Learning

Abstract: A growing body of literature has highlighted the pivotal role of peer feedback in teaching and learning. However, a paucity of studies explore the trend of literature in this research area, particularly using a bibliometric approach. Therefore, this study was conducted to reveal the major trends in the research area and construct an intellectual landscape of the relevant studies in the field. Bibliometric details of a total of 276 research articles, published from 1985 to 2020 (August), were retrieved from the Scopus database for further analysis. In particular, the publication trend, the most productive countries, the most productive authors, the top ten source titles, and keyword used in the research area, were explored using bibliometric indicators. The rapid growth of publications on peer feedback was observed since 2010, with a sharp peak noted in 2019. Furthermore, writing context was found as the central focus of peer feedback research. Among others, three key themes that surfaced out of term-occurrence analysis included: impacts/effects of using peer feedback approach, sub-themes concerning peer feedback implementation, and peer feedback in writing context. Additionally, from the review of 30 top-cited publications, 3 prominent themes: effects of using peer feedback approach, effective or ineffective peer feedback, and potential challenges or issues in peer feedback implementation emerged. Based on the findings, this paper concludes with some recommended avenues for future research.

Investigating Agropreneurial Intention among Students in Higher Learning Institution using the Theory of Planned Behaviour

Abstract: This study uses the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to determine the factors influencing the intention of agriculture students in Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) to be involved in agribusiness. To meet the aim of this study, a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was held among students from the Faculty of Agriculture, UPM. This method of qualitative data collection was utilized in order to gain an in-depth understanding of youth participation rates within the agriculture sector in Malaysia. A total of 20 students from UPM were involved in this study, most have had some amount of experience in entrepreneurship either formally or informally. Apart from personal factors and social norms, this study found that institutional factors, more specifically the way in which agricultural studies programs are set up, play an imperative role in influencing agropreneurial intention among students. A well-rounded, quality agropreneurship education that goes beyond theory-based learning, can in different ways positively influence the other determinants of agropreneurial intention thereby increasing agropreneurial intention. Efforts should be intensified to align agriculture education and training. Beyond trade-based learning, it should also focus on providing knowledge, technical skills, and attributes that young farmers need for their agropreneurship careers. At the tertiary level, learning should be multidisciplinary so that students can grasp and incorporate concepts pertaining to, for example, food sciences, risk management, or data analytics - that can help them be dynamic in navigating the growth of their agribusiness and potential pitfalls.