East Coast Of Peninsular Malaysia Research Articles

Four new species of Marphysa (Annelida, Eunicida, Eunicidae) from the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia.

Four new species of Marphysa are described from Terengganu state on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, using morphological and molecular (cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene) data. These species belong to different groups of Marphysa: Marphysakertehensis sp. nov. belongs to Group A (Mossambica), Marphysamerchangensis sp. nov. and Marphysasetiuense sp. nov. belong to Group B (Sanguinea) and Marphysaibaiensis sp. nov. belongs to Group E (Gravelyi). Marphysakertehensis sp. nov. is characterised by having only limbate chaetae, absence of subacicular hooks, three types of pectinate chaetae including wide, thick isodont with short and slender inner teeth, and pectinate branchiae with up to nine branchial filaments. Marphysamerchangensis sp. nov. is characterised by the presence of eyes, unidentate subacicular hooks, four types of pectinate chaetae including wide, thick anodont pectinate chaetae with five long and thick inner teeth, and pectinate branchiae with up to six branchial filaments. Marphysasetiuense sp. nov. has mostly unidentate subacicular hooks (bidentate on several posterior chaetigers), four types of pectinate chaetae including wide, thick anodont pectinate chaetae with seven thick and long inner teeth, and pectinate branchiae with up to five branchial filaments. Marphysaibaiensis sp. nov. has bidentate subacicular hooks throughout, five types of pectinate chaetae, including a heterodont with 12 short and slender inner teeth, and pectinate branchiae with up to eight branchial filaments. The designation of these new species based on morphology is fully supported by molecular data. Habitat descriptions of each species are also included.

Flood Prediction Using Artificial Neural Networks: A Case Study in Temerloh, Pahang

Floods in Malaysia happen every year, especially in East Coast Peninsular Malaysia, due to the Northeast Monsoon and climate change, which may lead to heavy rainfall throughout the end of the year. Temerloh is one of the districts in Pahang that frequently encounters flood events, especially between November and January every year. The study used a dataset from the National Hydrological Network Management System (SPRHiN), which consists of hydrological data, and weather underground for the meteorological data in the location. The correlation analysis found that stream flow and water level are highly correlated to floods, with correlation coefficients (r values) of 0.83 and 0.76, respectively, while the temperature is inversely related to floods with a -0.28 correlation value. A lower temperature has a higher chance of rain and subsequent flooding. The results show that the model, by using an artificial neural network (ANN), has produced an accuracy of 0.9909 and a good performance of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) curve (AUC) at 0.888. The model also shows a low error with the mean squared error (MSE) of 0.009 and the root-mean-squared error (RMSE) of 0.096. The R2 value of 0.768 and F1 value of 0.875 indicate that the model has high precision and recall. Besides predictive modeling, a flood monitoring dashboard was created to visualize the data interactively. This research is vital in understanding the flood factors in Pahang and would offer academic insight for future research in floods.

Storm surge induced by 2019 Tropical Storm Pabuk and impact on the shoreline in Kuala Nerus Terengganu, east coast of Peninsular Malaysia

This study investigates the one-year shoreline impacts of 2019 Tropical Storm Pabuk and the morphological changes of beaches in the study area of Kuala Nerus in Malaysia mediated by the hydrodynamic conditions. The study used a numerical model that utilised the two-way coupling of the wave and hydrodynamic model of MIKE 21 to simulate the event. The impact of the event was determined by employing the Digital Shoreline Analysis System, along with regular in-situ measurements of beach profiles carried out monthly. The results show a significant retreat rate of −58 m/year at Tok Jembal, highlighting the significant erosive impact, particularly on the northwest side of the airport. Despite a storm surge height below the extreme thresholds (>1 m), the beach morphology and the presence of coastal protection structures exerted a significant modulating influence. Batu Rakit, which is characterised by a wide beach, exhibited increased wave run-up and erosion resulting from the combined effect of a tidal surge of 0.64 m and significant wave heights of more than 1.12 m. UMT and Teluk Ketapang, on the other hand, which are shielded by coastal structures and influenced by longshore currents, experienced beach accretion. The intensification of the recirculation current with the surge is postulated to have contributed to the pronounced erosion at Pengakalan Maras. Although the overall magnitude of the storm surge was not exceptional, this study emphasises the importance of studying the effects of storm surges on monsoonal coasts. The intricate interplay between waves and currents, elucidated by coupled hydrodynamic and wave modelling, is crucial for understanding the consequences of storms and for proactive coastal management strategies. This study emphasises the crucial role of detailed hydrodynamic modelling in developing effective erosion control measures, which is an ongoing challenge for coastal communities.

Socio-demographic factors and parental feeding practices predicted body mass index of Malaysian children with learning disabilities

Introduction: Overweight and obesity have emerged as significant global health concerns among children. Previous studies have provided evidence that children with intellectual and learning disabilities (LD) are at a higher risk of obesity compared to their peers without disabilities. Methods: This study aimed to predict body weight status of children with LD who attended Special Education Integration Program in Kelantan, located on East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Parents completed a self-administered questionnaire in Malay language, which included “Screening Tool of Feeding Problems” children’s version (STEP-CHILD) and Comprehensive Feeding Practice Questionnaire (CFPQ). The children’s body weight and height were measured to determine body mass index (BMI). Research hypothesis was tested through stepwise multiple linear regression analysis. Results: This study recruited 245 subjects with mean age of 10.5±1.7 years and mean BMI of 18.5±4.9 kg/m2. Prevalence of underweight, thinness and severe thinness was 12.2%, while overweight and obesity was 29.0%. Male children with LD (β=0.109, p<0.044), older age (β=0.226, p<0.001), higher child birth weight (β=0.119, p<0.029), lack of parental modelling (β=-0.170, p=0.004), lower parental pressure (β=-0.266, p<0.001), and higher restriction for weight control (β=0.361, p<0.001) were found to predict higher BMI values. Conclusion: Positive parental feeding practices during mealtime are crucial for addressing the poor nutritional status of children with LD.

Flood Prediction Using Artificial Neural Networks: A Case Study in Temerloh, Pahang

Flood is one of the natural disasters that causes damage to properties, and sometimes loss of lives. Floods in Malaysia happen every year, especially in East Coast Peninsular Malaysia, due to the Northeast Monsoon and climate change, which may lead to heavy rainfall throughout the end of the year. Temerloh is one of the districts in Pahang that frequently encounters flood events, especially between November and January every year. Even though there are multiple efforts in flood mitigation and preparation, the damage to citizens and properties every year has cost thousands of Ringgits and the time taken to clean the damages caused by floods. Despite this, research on flood prediction in the state needs to be done using machine learning techniques. Due to this, this research explored the hydrological and meteorological factors that caused the flood in Temerloh and developed a machine-learning model capable of predicting the flood occurrence. The study used a dataset from the National Hydrological Network Management System (SPRHiN), which consists of hydrological data, and weather underground for the meteorological data in the location. The correlation analysis found that stream flow and water level are highly correlated to floods, with correlation coefficients (r values) of 0.83 and 0.76, respectively, while the temperature is inversely related to floods with a -0.28 correlation value. A lower temperature has a higher chance of rain and subsequent flooding. The results show that the model, by using an artificial neural network (ANN), has produced an accuracy of 0.9909 and a good performance of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) curve (AUC) at 0.888. The model also shows a low error with the mean squared error (MSE) of 0.009 and the root-mean-squared error (RMSE) of 0.096. The R2 value of 0.768 and F1 value of 0.875 indicate that the model has high precision and recall. Afterwards, a flood monitoring dashboard was created to visualize the data interactively. This research is vital in understanding the flood factors in Pahang and would offer academic insight for future research in floods. In addition, the flood monitoring dashboard will significantly assist governments and authorities in focusing the flood management efforts in areas at high risk of flood and be used to aid the state's future development.

Gymnothorax longinquus (Whitley, 1948) (Anguilliformes, Muraenidae), Long Moray: a first record from Malaysia

We report the first record of Gymnothorax longinquus (Whitley, 1948), Long Moray, (Anguilliformes, Muraenidae), from the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. A single specimen was collected during a bottom-trawl survey in the exclusive economic zone off Malaysia in the South China Sea. Gymnothorax longinquus was previously recorded from populations in Australia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. We present detailed morphometric and meristic data, along with brief diagnostic characters.

Augmenting Effect of Inclusive and Ambidextrous Leadership on Public University Academic Staffs’ Innovative Performance: The Mediating Role of Innovative Work Behavior

This study aims to address a gap in research by examining the relationship between leadership styles, innovative work behavior, and innovative performance among academic staff at public universities. Specifically, the study seeks to identify the extent to which inclusive and ambidextrous leadership styles can facilitate innovative performance, examine whether innovative work behavior enhances innovative performance, and discover whether innovative work behavior mediates the relationship between inclusive and ambidextrous leadership styles and innovative performance among academic staff at public universities. A critical survey was conducted using a questionnaire among academic staff at two public universities located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, generating 300 responses. The study used SPSS 27.0 and SEM with AMOS 24.0 to analyze the results. The findings of this study show that inclusive and ambidextrous leadership are positively associated with innovative work behavior. The study also found that innovative work behavior facilitates innovative performance. The study highlights the mediating effect of innovative work behavior on the relationship between leadership styles and academic staff’s innovative performance, offering important insights into how public universities can improve their academic staff’s innovative performance through effective leadership and work behavior strategies.

Traditional Ecological Knowledge of Wild Tubers Used by The Orang Asli Bateq Tribe on The East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia

Indigenous tribes and rural communities around the world are known to rely on various plant parts for their livelihood and nutrition, most notably for food. This research aimed to examine and document the traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) of wild tuber food plants used by the Orang Asli Bateq tribe of Peninsular Malaysia. The findings of this study are critical to scientifically identify and document food sources from the forest that contribute to the tribe's livelihood and, possibly, future food security. In the Bateq villages, information was gathered via semi-structured surveys, field trips, group discussions, and key informant interviews. The results show that TEK influenced the use of wild tubers inherited from their ancestors. The Bateq ate at least 11 different types of wild tubers, including Dioscorea orbiculata, Dioscorea prainiana, and Dioscorea hispida. Most of these wild tubers are from the Dioscoreaceae plant family and must be properly processed before being consumed. The elements related to the traditional knowledge of the wild tubers are the harvesting skills and the practice in the utilization of the plant. The survey also suggests that the selection to use plant tubers is prompted by its delicious taste and nutritional value while being natural and unpolluted food. In terms of plant sustainability, the majority of the Bateq will follow certain conservation techniques to maintain the plants' availability. Understanding what underlies TEK and the tribe's practices in using wild plant resources will preserve the natural legacy of forest resources and biodiversity, and possibly contribute to future food security.

A Review: Modern Coral Characterization Studies in Malaysia

Coral reefs are highly diverse and productive ecosystem in the ocean that provides various goods services to human and environment. Located within the renowned ‘Coral Triangle’ region, Malaysia is one the thriving countries in Southeast Asia that possess rich marine resources and coral reefs. Like other coral reef around the world, coral reefs in Malaysia are exposed to multiple threat that jeopardize their well-being. Those relying on these ecosystems may face severe consequences if they are lost. In recent decades, research on characterizing modern coral reefs has increased in Malaysia, including identifying key species and their distribution, understanding the factors that control coral growth and assessing the impacts of environmental stressors on reef health. This study is aimed to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge of modern coral characterization studies conducted in Malaysia. It presents the distribution maps of these coral reef studies conducted throughout Malaysia and discusses the techniques employed to characterize them. Most of the studies was conducted in South China Sea, particularly in East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia with Tioman Island, Pahang being identified as having the greatest number of studies. And, visual assessment have the higher frequency of use in characterizing Malaysia coral reef. Going forward, future studies in Malaysia should continue to explore others Malaysia reef, and techniques for characterizing coral reefs, while also conduct more studies in locations with limited research. These studies could have served as foundation resource for future conservation efforts in the face of ongoing threat and challenges.

Mapping Palliative Care Availability and Accessibility: A First Step to Eradicating Access Deserts in the Low- and Middle-Income Settings.

Palliative care is unavailable and/or inaccessible for the majority of people in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). This study aims to determine the availability and accessibility of palliative care services in Malaysia, a middle-income country that has made good progress toward universal health coverage (UHC). Publicly available data, and databases of registered palliative care services were obtained from governmental and nongovernmental sources. Google Maps and Rome2Rio web-based applications were used to assess geographical disparities by estimating the median distance, travel time, and travel costs from every Malaysian district to the closest palliative care service. Substantial variations in availability, components, and accessibility (distance, time, and cost to access care) of palliative care services were observed. In the highly developed Central Region of Peninsular Malaysia, specialty care was available within 4 km whereas in the less-developed East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, patients had to travel approximately 46 km. In the predominantly rural East Malaysia, basic palliative care services were 82 km away and, in some instances, where land connectivity was scarce, it took 2.5 h to access care via boat. The corresponding median travel costs were USD2 (RM9) and USD23 (RM114) in Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. The stark urban-rural divide in the availability and accessibility of palliative care services even in a setting that has made good progress toward UHC highlights the urgent need for decentralization of palliative care in the LMICs. This may be achieved by capacity building and task shifting in primary care and community settings.

Physicochemical homogeneity of stingless bee honey (Heterotrigona itama) produced in the west coast, east coast and inland area of Peninsular Malaysia.

The nutritional composition of stingless bee honey (SBH) can be affected by different climates and soil composition across different geographical areas. However, the range of attributes set for a honey quality standard should be inclusive. This study analysed the sugar profile's physiochemical properties, including quantifying the rare sugar trehalulose, organic acid and mineral composition of SBH collected from inland, and west and east coasts of Peninsular Malaysia. Forty-three SBH (Heterotrigona itama) samples were collected and labelled as <20 and <40 West Coast (<20WC, <40WC), <20 and <40 East Coast (<20EC, <40EC) and Inland, according to their distance from the coasts. The moisture, pH and sugar composition of all SBH samples adhered to the Malaysian Kelulut Honey Standard (MS2683:2017) but not to the International Codex Standard (CODEX) for honey. Trehalulose presence in all samples, regardless of geographical area, was predominant alongside fructose and glucose. Only hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) content and electrical conductivity (EC) results complied with both standards. The principal component analysis biplot showed that the discrimination of SBH according to the five different areas was not feasible, indicating sample homogeneity. The physicochemical evaluation of SBH from Peninsular Malaysia shows mainly homogeneous attributes of samples across geographical locations. These findings demonstrated that the current MS2683:2017 is relevant and accommodates all SBH of H. itama species produced in Peninsular Malaysia. Furthermore, the trehalulose range calculated in this study can be implemented as a new benchmark for the indicator of SBH honey quality standard by national and international food standard committees. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Future changes in mean and extreme precipitation over Peninsular Malaysia using CORDEX-SEA 5 km simulations

The Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX) Southeast Asia further downscaled three of its 25 km products, i.e. EC-Earth, HadGEM2-ES and MPI-ESM-MR forced regional climate simulations to a higher resolution of 5 km. A newer RegCM4.7 model was used for this exercise. For the simulations over Peninsular Malaysia, analysis shows that these simulations have much smaller precipitation biases. They can correctly predict the annual precipitation cycle over the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia compared to the 25 km simulations. The ensemble of these 5 km simulations indicates that Peninsular Malaysia is expected to experience a decrease in its seasonal mean precipitation, regardless of the RCP 4.5 or RCP 8.5 scenarios. Aside from the reduction of seasonal mean precipitation, consecutive dry and wet days are expected to increase and decrease, respectively. This indicates that Peninsular Malaysia will experience a long dry spell in the future. At the same time, it is suggested that Peninsular Malaysia will have fewer days with very heavy precipitation. Overall, the findings from this study suggest that the 5 km downscaled climate simulations improve significantly over 25 km and that the Peninsular Malaysia region can expect a drier future climate and extremes.

CHANGING EXTREME SEA LEVELS ALONG THE COAST OF MALAYSIA

This study examined extreme sea level (ESL) variations along the Malaysian coast using hourly sea level data from 17 tide gauge stations. The maximum observed ESLs varied from 1.26 m at Bintulu to 2.92 m at Port Klang, with tides playing a significant role in ESLs, especially along the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The spatial variation of seasonal ESLs showed a higher maximum of non-tidal residuals (0.8-1.1 m) along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia during the northeast monsoon. This can be mainly attributed to the influence of the monsoon wind. Moreover, significant increases in ESLs were observed at 14 stations, largely due to rises in mean sea level. The interannual variability of ESL could be associated with the El Niño-Southern Oscillation at most sites except the northeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Interestingly, the interannual variability of the non-tidal residuals could be linked to the monsoon at sites located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. These findings provide valuable insights to relevant authorities for coastal planning, especially regarding flood risk management and the formulation of effective mitigation strategies.

EROSION RATE ESTIMATION IN KUALA TERENGGANU COASTLINE FOR SUSTAINABLE COASTAL COMMUNITY

Kuala Terengganu is located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia and its coastline has been attracting various economic activities such as tourism, agriculture, and food industries. However, studies regarding erosion management for the populated sustainable community in Terengganu remain lacking. The purpose of this study was to quantify coastal erosion using geospatial and statistical approaches. It involved the utilisation of high-resolution SPOT-5 satellite imagery and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to monitor the coastline changes along Kampung Batu Rakit to Pantai Tok Jembal in Kuala Terengganu. This study proves that the geospatial technique based on high-resolution UAV and SPOT-5 images is suitable for the determination and analysis of coastline erosion.

Assessing the sustainability of the homestay industry for the East Coast of Malaysia using the Delphi approach

Homestay ecotourism in Malaysia has been extensively examined in terms of its concepts, approaches, activities, and community engagement. However, a comprehensive assessment of the sustainability factors pertaining to host families remains a critical area awaiting exploration. This is paramount for ensuring the long-term viability of homestays and fostering economic benefits within rural communities. The present study seeks to establish direct subjective measurements for evaluating the interplay between local communities, tourism, and resources in safeguarding sustainable homestays. Utilizing the Delphi approach, this research conducted interviews with 51 experts who were actively involved in six homestays located on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The objective was to identify key evaluation indicators pertinent to the homestay industry. The findings underscored the pivotal roles played by community resources and tourism in the sustainability of homestays. Additionally, environmental, economic, and social factors emerged as crucial components for maintaining the industry's sustainability. This innovative assessment methodology offers a valuable instrument for enhancing the sustainability of the homestay sector, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. By embracing this approach, homestay operators can fortify their sustainable management practices and prepare themselves for future pandemics. This study represents a significant contribution to the field of homestay ecotourism, emphasizing the imperative for continued research in this dynamic domain.

Stunting and Its Associated Factors among Children Below 5 Years Old on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia: Evidence from the National Health and Morbidity Survey

Background: Child malnutrition problems still occur in Malaysia, particularly stunting. This study aimed to determine the proportion of stunting among children below 5 years old and investigate the factors associated with stunting on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Methods: This study utilised data from the 2016 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS). Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the factors associated with malnutrition among non-stunted and stunted children. Results: The proportion of stunting among children below 5 years old in this East Coast region was 26.2%. When divided by state, Kelantan had the highest proportion of stunting, followed by Pahang and Terengganu, at 28.8%, 26.2% and 23.4%, respectively. In this study, the factors associated with stunting were children aged 24 months old–59 months old (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.26, 1.83; P &lt; 0.001), male children (aOR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.23, 1.76; P &lt; 0.001), Orang Asli children (aOR: 2.84; 95% CI: 1.86, 4.32; P &lt; 0.001), children with low birth weight from 1,500 g to 2,499 g (aOR: 1.86; 95% CI: 1.36, 2.55; P &lt; 0.001) and children from households that practice unsanitary waste disposal (aOR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.16, 1.74; P = 0.001). Conclusion: Stunting among children under the age of 5 years old on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia remains a public health problem. To reduce the prevalence of stunting in this region, intervention programmes should be intensified. Emphasis should be placed on public health programmes that target the associated factors, such as dietary habits, Orang Asli children, low birth weight and unsanitary waste disposal.

Mapping harmful microalgal species by eDNA monitoring: A large-scale survey across the southwestern South China Sea

A large-scale sampling was undertaken during a research cruise across the South China Sea in August 2016, covering an area of about 100,000 km2 to investigate the molecular diversity and distributions of micro-eukaryotic protists, with a focus on the potentially harmful microalgal (HAB) species along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Environmental DNAs from 30 stations were extracted and DNA metabarcoding targeting the V4 and V9 markers in the 18S rDNA was performed. Many protistan molecular units, including previously unreported HAB taxa, were discovered for the first time in the water. Our findings also revealed interesting spatial distribution patterns, with a marked signal of compositional turnover between latitudinal regimes of water masses, where dinophytes and diatom compositions were among the most strongly enhanced at the fronts, leading to distinct niches. Our results further confirmed the widespread distribution of HAB species, such as the toxigenic Alexandrium tamiyavaichii and Pseudo-nitzschia species, and the fish-killing Margalefidinium polykrikoides and Karlodinium veneficum. The molecular information obtained from this study provides an updated HAB species inventory and a toolset that could facilitate existing HAB monitoring schemes in the region to better inform management decisions.

Sustainable Fishery Management and Controlling Overcapacity in Kelantan State Commercial Fishery, East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia

Trawlers and purse seines are two main fishing nets used by the commercial fishing industry in Malaysia, and assessing their profitability is crucial for managing the fisheries to achieve sustainable fishing. The study's objective is to identify the variations in accounting profit levels in the commercial fishing sector in Kelantan State, east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Based on an in-depth study of fishing capacity and other economic considerations, a comparison of accounting profits between the trawler and purse seine fisheries by using a revenue and profit approach. Trawlers incurred higher profit than Sein net and causing overcapacity by the trawlers.

First evidence of microplastic ingestion by crescent perch (Terapon jarbua) in Malaysia

Microplastics are plastic debris smaller than 5 mm in size. In recent decades, the issue of microplastics contamination in marine organisms from the marine environment has gained more attention. This study focuses on the occurrence of microplastics in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of the crescent perch (Terapon jarbua). Sixty-two crescent perch were collected from four locations in Malaysia: Sungai Besar and Kuala Selangor on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Kuantan on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, and Mukah in East Malaysia. Microplastics were found in the GIT in 82% of the samples with a mean value ranging from 1.46 ± 0.60 to 2.25 ± 1.26 particles/ind. Microplastics contamination in samples from Mukah was significantly higher than in samples from Kuala Selangor. The increased number of ingested microplastics could be attributed to the higher levels of microplastics contamination present in the coastal waters of Mukah due to the anthropogenic activities taking place there. The extracted particles were predominantly fibres, followed by fragment, and film. The microplastics ingested by crescent perch were primarily blue and black. μ-FTIR tests showed that the most common polymers found in crescent perch were rayon, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene. The findings from this study provide initial evidence that microplastic contamination is emerging as a threat to crescent perch and the Malaysian water ecosystem. Further investigations into microplastics contamination in fish in Malaysia are required, as microplastics exposure to fish can induce adverse effects on the species and the food web.

Identification and Antimicrobial Activity of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Tualang Bee Honey

Malaysia tualang honey usually collected from the combs of Asia rock bees (Apis dorsata), which build their hives high up in the tualang tree (Koompassia excelsa). Tualang honey is used commonly as a medicinal product and as food in Malaysia. LAB strains have been discovered to exhibit antimicrobial properties even though especially in Malaysia, the research on LAB found from honey are still scarce. The study was conducted to isolate and identify lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from Tualang honey bee from East Coast Peninsular Malaysia. The Tualang honey identified LAB strains were further tested against several pathogenic bacteria by using well-diffusion method. The LAB were primarily identified by colony morphology, microscopy of Gram`s stain, biochemical tests and 16s rRNA sequencing method. 10 isolates LAB that has been identified as Leuconostoc mesenteroides (5 isolates), Lactobacillus kunkeei (4 isolates), and Lactobacillus farraginis (1 isolates) were selected for the characterization of antimicrobial agents produced by LAB. It was found that from 10 isolates, 5 isolates exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa results in excellent inhibition zones diameters larger than 15 mm. This study indicated that lactic acid bacteria isolated from Tualang honey has potential antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria and can be further characterized for health benefits and potential use in food industry at Malaysia.&#x0D; Keywords: Tualang Honey, LAB, pathogen, 16s rRNA sequencing, antimicrobial activity.