Kota Kinabalu Research Articles

Problem Based Learning A Pathway to Critical Thinking and Digital Literacy in Geography

21st-century skills, such as critical thinking and digital literacy, have become essential in modern learning. This study aims to examine the impact of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model on students' critical thinking and digital literacy skills in the topic of atmospheric dynamics at Sekolah Indonesia Kota Kinabalu, Sabah-Malaysia. The research design used a quasi-experimental approach with a nonequivalent control group design. The sample consisted of 34 students in the experimental group and 31 students in the control group. The experimental class implemented the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model, while the control class used conventional methods. The results showed a significant improvement in both variables in the experimental group, with N-Gain Scores categorized as effective. Problem Based Learning (PBL) helps students understand scientific concepts in-depth, identify real-world problems, and develop creative, technology-based solutions. These findings prove that Problem Based Learning (PBL) is an innovative teaching method that is effective in enhancing students' competencies, especially in preparing them to face global challenges and the digital era.

The Role of SWOT in Business Analysis for Enhancing Competitive Advantage at The Kundasang Aquafarm

This research focuses on developing agribusiness strategies for aquaponic systems. This research aims to provide recommendations for business strategies that drive improved performance and business development. The aquaponic agribusiness at Kundasang Aquafarm allows for significant growth. A business strategy provides a long-term plan to manage resources comprehensively, while identifying opportunities that support future business success and achieve optimal levels of profitability. This research was conducted at Kundasang Aquafarm, Kota Kinabalu, which was purposively selected because the aquaponics activity has room for potential development and encourages greater growth. This study used quantitative and qualitative data sourced from primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected through surveys and direct observation by the researcher, while secondary data was obtained from institutional reports, journals, books, news articles, and other literature sources. An internal (IFE) and external (EFE) environmental analysis was conducted to identify factors that could affect business success. The results of this analysis were used in the Internal-External (IE) Matrix which resulted in three main strategies: Growth, Stability, and Reduction strategies. These strategies form the basis of Kundasang Aquafarm's agribusiness development.

Geographic variation in stonefish (Synanceia spp.) venom.

Stonefish (Synanceia spp.) possess a medically significant venom and are widely distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific. Yet, little is known about how the ecology of these animals may influence their venom. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of species and geographic location on stonefish venom composition. We collected the venom of Synanceia horrida (Estuarine Stonefish) and Synanceia verrucosa (Reef Stonefish) from various locations across Australia (Cairns, Brisbane, Caloundra, and Onslow), and Southeast Asia (Kota Kinabalu, and Cebu) and analysed these samples using SDS-PAGE, FPLC, and HPLC. Stonefish have a complex venom comprised of numerous components. Stonefish venom exhibited both similarities and variations in composition within species between geographically isolated populations, as well as between species in a single location. We speculate that the observed geographic and interspecific trends may be driven by similarities and differences in the selective pressures faced by these animals, particularly those associated with predator dynamics. The findings of this study have furthered our understanding of the ecology of stonefish and their toxins.

Relationship between Personality and Foreign Language Anxiety among Public University Students in Sabah, Malaysia

Purpose - This study was conducted to identify the level of foreign language anxiety (FLA), as well as the relationship between personality and level of FLA among public university students in Sabah. The study was conducted at the Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) branch in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. I Methodology - A set of questionnaire was administered randomly to a total of i358 students, consisting of 104 males and 254 females. The respondents were approached at various places at both universities and after agreement sought in participating in this research, they were directed to a link to the survey. Upon completion of the survey they were given some tokens of appreciation. Data were then analysed using Pearson correlation method. Findings - The level of FLA among public university students in Sabah is moderate. Personality dimensions of extraversion (r=-.210), conscientiousness (r= -197), and openness to experience (r= -.209) correlated negatively with the students’ FLA. In addition, this study also revealed that there is a positive relationship between the neuroticism (r=.309) and FLA. Finally, no relationship was found between agreeableness (r= -.003) and students' FLA level. Novelty – Such correlational studies on foreign language anxiety and personality has not been addressed yet in the Borneo, specifically in Sabah. Significance - The findings of this study can provide a deeper understanding and clarity to the students, lecturers, and the university about the FLA issue that often occurs among students in the north part of Borneo.

Risk Assessment of Radiological Dispersal Device Terrorism in Malaysia Cities

Research has revealed that a terror attack in Malaysia, a developing nation, is a cause for alarm as it could create panic among its citizens. To address this, a study was conducted to investigate the dispersion of radionuclides after a hypothetical explosion, considering multiple cities in Malaysia as potential targets, including Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu. The primary aim of the research was to analyze the dose concentrations released from the RDD explosion over a 24-hour period and to assess the associated health risks in terms of morbidity and mortality per 100,000 people in these cities. The Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) software was employed to simulate the trajectory and dispersion of air particles, taking into account parameters such as time, altitude, and potential target cities, based on meteorological data from the Global Data Assimilation System (GDAS) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The research focused on the analysis of Cs-137 at 50 TBq and was conducted with simulations on December 22, 2020. Results from the simulations revealed that the dose concentration in the air within 24 hours was 3.3 mSv, 1.8 mSv, and 7.7 mSv for Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu, respectively, while the dose deposited on the ground was 150 mSv, 71 mSv, and 310 mSv for the same cities. Furthermore, it was found that the dose concentration was most significant within the first four hours after the release of Cs-137, peaking between 30 to 90 minutes at altitudes of 60 to 80 meters. In terms of risk assessment, the research indicated that, for individuals located at this altitude during the timeframe of 0045 hours to 0100 hours after the dispersion of Cs-137, there could be 88 fatalities and 128 injuries per 100,000 residents in the city. The simulation offers valuable insights and guidance for governmental efforts to improve radioactive waste management and formulating or enhancing protocols to address such incidents promptly. It is essential to take swift and effective actions in order to protect the lives of the population in the event of a radiological terrorist threat.

TEACHERS’ AND STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS TOWARDS THE USE OF CHATGPT TO IMPROVE WRITING IN THE MALAYSIAN SECONDARY SCHOOL CONTEXT

The use of artificial intelligence in education has gained traction among teachers as well as students in recent years. Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered language models such as ChatGPT have been widely used for various purposes, including to produce improved writing. This study sought to investigate the perceptions of secondary school students and English teachers in Malaysian public schools on the use of ChatGPT to enhance students’ English writing. Alongside that, this study also investigated how ChatGPT was used by both students and teachers and factors that influenced their use of ChatGPT. This study employed a qualitative research design. The participants in this study hail from six schools around Sabah: SMK Tansau, Penampang; SM St. Michael, Penampang; SMK Shan Tao, Kota Kinabalu; SMK Bongawan II; SMK Umas-Umas, Tawau; and SMK Desa Kencana, Lahad Datu. A total of 20 participants participated in this study. 12 of them were students, and the rest were English teachers. Data for this study was collected using an open-ended questionnaire designed based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The data were analyzed thematically. The findings of the study showed that both students and teachers generally believe ChatGPT to be an effective tool to enhance students’ English writing proficiency. Among the features of ChatGPT that were lauded by the participants were its ability to provide personalized feedback and perform tasks that are useful for writing, such as proofreading and idea generation. Several challenges were also pointed out, such as difficulties using ChatGPT due to lack of resources and digital literacy. The participants also expressed their concern about the possibility of overdependency on ChatGPT, which can hamper the development of the students ability to write independently. The findings of this study contributed to the current knowledge of the perceptions of the use of ChatGPT among secondary school students and English teachers in Malaysian public secondary schools. This knowledge can guide educators and policymakers on matters related to the integration of AI into English writing instruction.

ICT USAGE IN TESL EDUCATION: INSIGHTS AND OBSTACLES FACED BY TEACHER-TRAINEES IN KOTA KINABALU

This study explores the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in English language learning among TESL teacher-trainees in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Since English is a compulsory subject in Malaysian education, the government has been placing increasing focus on ICT use to improve language learning. In the past two decades, much has changed in policy and practice to create more positive perceptions of ICT as a possible solution; but while these shifts may now make sense on paper, several obstacles remain for making changes effectively simply by introducing yet another new technology. The main objectives are to find out TESL teacher-trainees’ perception towards usage of ICT in classroom and obstacles in using ICT faced by TESL teacher-trainees in classroom. Shortage of technological infrastructure, technology access, and trained teachers on the usage of ICT are some challenges. In addition, different perceptions among teacher-trainees indicate issues such as low self-confidence in ICT usage. This paper uses a mixed-methods approach, using both quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews to capture the trainee experience. Using a purposive sample of 88 TESL trainees, primarily practicum participants in Sabah, this study employed a mixed-methods approach with quantitative questionnaires and qualitative semi-structured interviews. Fifteen trainees were selected for interviews to provide in-depth insights. The significant finding concludes a strong and positive correlation between teacher perception towards ICT usage in the classroom. Nevertheless, lack of resources, and training may hinder the effectiveness of the ICT. The knowledge gained will help to direct policy and curriculum development-informed teacher training aimed at increasing the use of ICT in English instruction.

STUDENTS’ AND TEACHERS’ PERCEPTION ON USING VIDEO STREAMING PLATFORM TO ENHANCE LISTENING SKILLS

This study investigates the influence of video streaming platforms on effective listening proficiency among English teachers and secondary school students in SMKA Tun Ahmadshah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. The research utilized a qualitative approach, interviewing 5 experienced English teachers and five students from Form 3 to Form 5. Among the reasons, the integration of modern technological tools was provided in the school. The theories of cognitivism and content-based learning (CBL) within the book are employed. The research focuses on these theories to explore cognitive and instructional merits of using video streaming platforms. Based on the findings, the content of video streaming platforms significantly sustains students’ engagement and motivation. At the same time, teachers comment on the content being interesting, relevant, and in multimedia format. It combines visual and auditory sense for their engagement. Among the challenges for the students was that they rely on subtitles on the video. The issue of buffering was not mentioned by the students, but it is likely to reduce their engagement. Teachers suggested that the platform content is authentic similar to that on social media, and students can receive other messages beside the expected ones. For effective teaching, the use of some features could be of help considering that buffering poses a major challenge, and some students rely on subtitles. Nevertheless, they could make the process simpler and with motivation by their utilization on the students’ part. The medium is significantly used in distance learning where it is effective since students rely on the authentic content and are engaged. Thus, the platform should be used for effective proficiency in listening with assistance from its video features. They require the employing of the platform features and adequate motivation from the participants. Keyword(s): Listening Skills, Content Based Learning (CBL), Video Streaming Platform, Cognitivism.

Interaksi Sosial dalam Hubungan Muslim-Kristian di Kota Kinabalu dan Keningau, Sabah

The people of Sabah are known for their exceptional tolerance and ability to foster peaceful coexistence. Although socioreligious relations are deteriorating due to various factors, the situation in Sabah is quite different. This study explains how social interaction between Muslims and Christians in Sabah turns cultural understanding through family ties and neighbours/friends of other religions. A total of 234 respondents were involved in this quantitative case study in Kota Kinabalu and Keningau. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations and a chi-square test to describe the distribution of responses for variables of religions between Muslim and Christian respondents. The findings revealed that social interaction between Muslims and Christians in the studied areas was positive. Muslims and Christians practised cultural understanding during festivals and everyday activities. It might be argued that tolerance and mutual understanding across different religions are nurtured through the intertwining of contacts. The family bonding and local ties allow an unlimited connection, which helps to lessen religious gaps in understanding. This study concludes that religion should not be considered solely as a source of conflict but rather serves as a means of fostering a spirit of coexistence.

User Satisfaction of Accessibility to Public Transportation

This study evaluates user satisfaction with the bus in urban areas to improve public transportation services. Thus, bus facilities, bus accessibility, safety, and fare are critical dimensions for investigating user satisfaction when accessing buses in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. A total of 450 questionnaires were collected using a descriptive design and quantitative approach. The results show that the factors that need to be emphasized are bus accessibility and public transport facility factors. This study assists transportation authorities in addressing low-satisfaction areas to improve bus services and enhance overall public transportation use. Keywords: Urban Transportation, Bus Service, Accessibility, User Satisfaction

THE IMPACT OF INSTAGRAM-BASED E-PORTFOLIO ON STUDENTS’ MOTIVATION IN WRITING

This study aims to investigate the impact of utilizing Instagram as a platform for creating and sharing e-portfolio on students’ motivation in the context of writing. As the digital landscape continues to advance, teachers seek innovative approaches to engage students in English classroom and enhance their language skills. Instagram, a popular social media platform known for its visual-centric nature, serves as a unique medium for showcasing and sharing individual work. The research employs a qualitative research design, combining multi-method approach, incorporating open-ended questionnaire, classroom observation, content analysis of students' e-portfolios and students’ reflection essays, to assess the motivational effects of Instagram-based e-portfolios on students. The participants of this study include a sample of students in SM St. Peter Telipok, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. The study explores the impact of visual and interactive elements on students' motivation, self-efficacy, and overall writing performance. This study seeks to enrich and add to the existing literature on progressive teaching methods by shedding light on the motivational factors linked to the integration of Instagram-based e-portfolios. Ultimately, understanding the impact of such platforms on students' motivation in writing can inform educators and curriculum developers in designing effective and engaging strategies for enhancing writing skills in the digital age.

Coral diversity and abundance patterns at the West Coast of Sabah: a case study of Kota Kinabalu coral reefs

Coral diversity and abundance patterns at the West Coast of Sabah: a case study of Kota Kinabalu coral reefs

DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES FOR BACKPACKER TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN KOTA KINABALU, SABAH, MALAYSIA

This study investigates the development strategies aimed at enhancing backpacker tourism in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, with a focus on social, environmental, and economic dimensions. This study uses quantitative methods through the distribution of questionnaires to study the behaviour and opinions of backpackers in Kota Kinabalu. This study focuses on respondents at backpacker accommodation and tourist destinations in Kota Kinabalu. A total of 228 backpackers participated in this study. These strategies encompass social development, environmental development, and economic development, and encompass initiatives such as community engagement, environmental conservation, and collaboration with local businesses. Achieving a balance between economic growth and social and environmental sustainability is crucial in maximizing the potential of backpacker tourism. Successful implementation of these strategies necessitates the active involvement of various stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and the tourism industry. Integrating these strategies into destination management plans will elevate the backpacker tourism experience and facilitate sustainable growth. Further research and collaboration among stakeholders are imperative to effectively implement these strategies and harness the opportunities presented by backpacker tourism in the region.

Technology as a Threat to Local Values and Culture Among Students: A Case Study in Sabah, Malaysia

The technological and cultural revolution, driven by media manipulation and intensified by social media's cross-border communication, threatens local values and culture (LVC) in any society. In Malaysia, emerging lifestyles significantly challenge LVC, especially among students. Limited research has examined how educators in Sabah perceive the impact of technology on student behaviours related to LVC, leaving a gap in understanding the region's cultural and educational challenges. This study explores educators’ perspectives regarding technological influences in Sabah. Utilising a qualitative case study, nine educators from different educational levels were interviewed individually to explore students’ behaviours in reflecting the LVC in Sabah, Malaysia, particularly in Kota Kinabalu and Tawau. The thematic analysis resulted in four themes, i.e., (a) personality development, (b) technological weakness, (c) emotional intelligence, and (d) suggestions to address student development and digital literacy. The study presented an argument with the previous findings concerning personality disorders in defending LVC due to technological influences. The study suggests the importance of defending LVC in shaping a civilised society. It also contributes new findings on the students' abilities to overcome the challenges of technological influences.

PENGHAYATAN AKHLAK DALAM KALANGAN PELAJAR KAA DI KOTA KINABALU, SABAH: SUATU ANALISIS DESKRIPTIF

The appreciation of moral values among secondary school students in Malaysia is often associated with issues of discipline, social media influence, and a lack of guidance on core values. Does this also apply to students in Islamic Religious Stream Classes (KAA), who are already exposed to Islamic syaria? The lack of previous studies serves as a basis for conducting this research. A quantitative approach was employed in this study. Descriptive analysis was used to report the demographic characteristics and the level of moral appreciation among students. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed to 316 students from five schools offering KAA in the Kota Kinabalu area, Sabah. The questionnaire used was the Moral Appreciation Scale, consisting of 41 items with a 5-point Likert scale. The findings revealed that KAA students generally demonstrated a high level of moral appreciation, emphasizing values such as belief in the Pillars of Faith and the application of the Pillars of Islam. This study is expected to provide useful guidance for students and schools in strengthening moral education programs in the future.

Financial Capacity of Indonesian Schools and Community Learning Centers in Kota Kinabalu: A Comparative Analysis

This study aims to analyze the financial capacity of Indonesian Schools (SIKK) and Community Learning Centers (CLC) in Kota Kinabalu, focusing on the comparison of resources and financial management strategies. The research was motivated by the fundamental differences in access to and management of funds between these two types of educational institutions, which potentially impact the quality of education provided. A qualitative research approach was employed, with data collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and analysis of financial documents from SIKK and CLC. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis techniques to identify key patterns and differences in financial capacity between the two institutions. The findings reveal that SIKK has a more stable and structured financial capacity compared to CLC, which often faces uncertainties in funding. This instability is attributed to CLC's reliance on inconsistent funding sources, while SIKK benefits from greater government support. These findings highlight the need for a more sustainable and equitable funding model for CLCs to ensure their ability to provide quality education. The implications of this study suggest that improving financial capacity and better management in educational institutions can significantly impact the delivery of more equitable and high-quality education. Stakeholders, including the government and non-governmental organizations, should consider these recommendations in future educational policy planning.

PENILAIAN TAHAP PELAKSANAAN PENTAKSIRAN BILIK DARJAH DALAM KALANGAN GURU SEKOLAH MENENGAH KEBANGSAAN TEBOBON KOTA KINABALU SABAH

This study aims to assess the level of implementation of Classroom-Based Assessment (CBA) among teachers at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tebobon, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. A total of 92 out of 125 teachers were selected as respondents for this study. A quantitative cross-sectional survey approach was used, and data were collected through a questionnaire and analysed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 25.0. The results indicated that teachers' knowledge (M=3.90, SD=1.47), skills (M=4.33, SD=1.06), readiness (M=4.36, SD=0.99), and attitudes (M=3.40, SD=1.35) towards the implementation of CBA were high. Conversely, teachers’ perceptions of problems in implementing CBA were at a moderate level (M=2.86, SD=1.38). These findings suggest that teachers have a solid foundation for implementing CBA, but there are moderate issues that need to be addressed, particularly concerning teachers' perceptions of problems in its implementation. The implications of this study are that stakeholders need to focus on strategies that can ensure a smoother and more effective implementation of CBA.

HALAL RESTAURANTS AND PORK FREE CONCEPT AWARENESS AMONG YOUNG MUSLIMS IN KOTA KINABALU, SABAH

Halal is an Arabic term that means "permissible" or "lawful" in Islam. It is used to describe what is allowed or permitted according to Islamic dietary laws and other aspects of life. One of the issues in Sabah that seem endless is the halal issue of a restaurant and the issue of Muslims often going to restaurants that do not have a halal certificate and only have the label "Serve No Pork" or "Muslim Friendly". This has become a hot topic that is often discussed by the local community because they think there are still people who ignore the importance of eating at restaurants that are believed to be halal and toyyiban. This paper places its emphasis on young Muslims, as we hold the belief that the perspectives of youthful consumers, especially within the Muslim community, will shape the future of the Halal industry in our nation. Although there is not a single dataset that measures the awareness of pork-free versus halal concepts across Malaysia, but the general trend in Malaysia indicates a steady rise in both halal-certified businesses and consumer awareness. Data will be gathered through questionnaires sent to young Muslims in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. This study employs quantitative methods to analyse and ascertain the degree of awareness and knowledge among young Muslims regarding the concept and practices of Halal. The survey data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The statistical findings of this study aim to explain the level of awareness and knowledge of Muslim youth in Kota Kinabalu regarding the consumption of Halal products, especially in restaurants or eating places. The results showed a negative correlation between halal awareness, and other variables signals potential challenges or areas for improvement in halal perception, strategies, and education in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

Working Women’s Work Engagement and Life Satisfaction in Sabah, Malaysia: Marital Status as the Moderator

Work engagement is a vital practice that should be encouraged among employees and employers, particularly within large companies or organizations. This importance arises from the fact that such entities typically have multiple divisions and sub-divisions, including departments and sections. Work engagement plays a crucial role in fostering effective teamwork among employees and employers across these various departments. While the interplay between work engagement and life satisfaction has been explored in both Western and non-Western studies, there is limited research on this topic within the context of Sabah, Malaysia. Moreover, research focusing on the relationship between work engagement and life satisfaction in Sabah remains relatively sparse. This study aims to investigate the role of marital status as a moderator in the relationship between dimensions of work engagement and dimensions of life satisfaction. A total of 348 female government servants participated in this research, which employed a snowball sampling method. Data collection was concentrated in the district of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. Questionnaires, both online and physical, were distributed among the participants. The findings suggest that marital status moderates the relationship between work engagement and life satisfaction among female government servants in Kota Kinabalu. Furthermore, marital status partially moderates the relationship between their dedication to job responsibilities and their cognitive life satisfaction.

Retirement Planning Decisions: Analyzing Behavioral Influences on Pension Scheme Selection in Malaysian Statutory Bodies

Since gaining independence in 1957, Malaysia has classified employees in various public services as civil servants. Statutory bodies and local authorities were later established to provide specific public services, and their employees were placed under the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) contribution scheme instead of the government pension scheme due to the lack of constitutional amendments. Following the Harun Salary Commission’s recommendations in 1975, these employees were given the choice between the pension scheme and the EPF scheme, with most opting for the pension scheme. This preference has placed significant financial strain on the government's pension resources. To alleviate this burden, current efforts aim to encourage government servants to choose the EPF scheme and consider placing future recruits under this scheme. This study aims to identify the factors influencing statutory bodies and local authority employees to opt for the government pension scheme despite the availability of the EPF scheme. Utilizing the Life-Cycle Theory to understand general savings behavior and the Theory of Planned Behavior to examine decision-making processes, a quantitative approach was employed. Data were collected via a questionnaire survey with 176 respondents from statutory bodies and local authorities in Kota Kinabalu. The PLS-SEM model was used to analyze the data, testing validity and reliability against Common Method Bias. The results indicated that Subjective Norms and Perceived Behavioral Control positively influenced the choice of retirement scheme, while Attitude did not. These findings highlight the role of social influences and perceived control in retirement decision-making.