Government Infrastructure Research Articles

Evaluating fiscal supports on the public–private partnerships: a hidden risk for contract survival

Abstract While public–private partnerships (PPPs) have the potential of bridging infrastructure gaps in developing countries, frequent contract renegotiations and terminations pose significant fiscal challenges. This article investigates whether government fiscal risk-taking—through guarantees or subsidies—along with the strength of underlying fiscal institutions can explain the high incidence of contract distress. Employing matching and a control function method, the analysis reveals that the contract hazard ratio increases by a factor of 3 when government guarantees are issued for PPPs. Furthermore, using a causal survival forest model, it assesses treatment effect heterogeneity of the fiscal supports. The results show that the risk of contract disputes is most pronounced in developing countries at the bottom quintile of public investment management capacity. These findings underscore the critical role of robust infrastructure governance as a prerequisite for effectively leveraging the benefits of PPPs.

WHAT PREDICTS THE TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY IN MALAYSIA’S FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY?

The present study focuses on the technical efficiency of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Large-scale enterprises (LSEs) in Malaysia's food processing industry by adopting Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Tobit regression. The empirical results provide that the SMEs technical efficiency score in constant return to scale (CRS) and variable return to scale (VRS) are 0.940 and 0.986 respectively which indicates the SMEs can enhance the level of output by 6 per cent for CRS and 1.4 per cent for VRS by using the given level of inputs. Moreover, the technical efficiency level of LSE is 0.673 and 0.942 from CRS and VRS respectively. The finding also suggests that the training cost, research and development, and foreign direct investment positively affect technical efficiency while information and technology, public infrastructure, and trade openness negatively affect the technical efficiency in SMEs. On the other hand, government infrastructure and trade openness have a positive connection with the technical efficiency of LSEs in Malaysia's food processing industry. Contradiction, research and development, and world oil price are negatively affecting the technical efficiency in LSEs which means the higher of these variables, the higher the efficiency in LSEs.

Overview of Singapore’s One Health Strategy

The One Health approach integrates human, animal, and environmental health to address complex challenges like emerging zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Singapore’s dense urban environment, biodiversity, and role as a global hub make it vulnerable to these health threats, necessitating a robust and coordinated One Health framework. This paper reviews Singapore’s One Health strategy, focusing on governance, surveillance, cross-sector partnerships, and public health infrastructure. A structured literature review, including peer-reviewed articles and grey literature, identified key strengths and gaps. Strengths include interagency coordination through the One Health Coordinating Committee, advanced surveillance systems like CDLENS and SIDPIC, and key institutions such as the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID) and the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL). However, gaps remain in multi-sector engagement, data-sharing mechanisms, and public awareness of One Health principles. To address these challenges, this paper recommends enhancing multi-sector collaboration, strengthening data-sharing networks, and increasing public education on One Health. Investments in preventive medicine, cross-border capacity-building, and leveraging artificial intelligence for predictive analytics are essential for bolstering Singapore’s health security. By addressing these gaps, Singapore can enhance its preparedness and serve as a global leader in One Health implementation.

Analysis of the Ecological and Economic Benefits of Electric Buses in Sustainable Urban Transportation

This study focuses on the importance of sustainable urban transportation, particularly the key role of electric buses in addressing global challenges such as air pollution and climate change. By selecting a metropolitan area with a population of at least 500,000 as a case study, we constructed a mathematical model to assist cities in understanding the ecological impact of transitioning to a fully electric bus fleet. The model takes into account various factors, including reduced exhaust emissions, improved air quality, reduced carbon emissions, and the operating costs and charging infrastructure development costs associated with electric buses. On the financial side, the model also analyzes the economic impact of transitioning from traditional fuel-powered buses to electric buses, considering potential external funding sources such as government subsidies and infrastructure investments to alleviate the citys financial burden. Ultimately, we developed a 10-year road-map to assist city transportation authorities in planning the renewal and expansion of their electric bus fleets. Through this letter, we emphasize the environmental and economic advantages of electric buses and encourage city transportation officials to actively consider electric buses as part of sustainable urban transportation, providing our research findings as a basis for decision-making.

Digital entrepreneurial ecosystem: the role of the sharing economy in driving innovation

ABSTRACT This study examines the role of the sharing economy within digital entrepreneurial ecosystems (DEEs) and its influence on fostering opportunities for digital entrepreneurs. By exploring the complex interactions among businesses, technologies, and markets, the paper highlights how DEEs facilitate the adoption of sharing economy-related digital business practices. Using a qualitative exploratory approach, we conducted open-ended interviews with 88 business managers actively engaged in the sharing economy across various sectors. Thematic analysis was employed to uncover the key challenges and opportunities businesses face in integrating digital transformation processes (DTP) into their strategies. The research introduces key frameworks, including Sharing Economy Digital Infrastructure Governance (SEDIG), Sharing Economy Digital User Citizenship (SEDUC), and Sharing Economy Digital Marketplace (SEDM), to categorize ecosystem players and analyse their collaborative efforts in supporting digital entrepreneurship. Findings emphasize the need for greater consistency in SEDIG approaches across regulatory bodies, as regional disparities in governance create uncertainty for entrepreneurs. The study also underscores the long-term benefits of responsible operations and technological investments, despite initial costs, and calls for policy interventions to address ongoing entrepreneurial ecosystem challenges.

The Evolution of Electric Bikes: A Systematic Review of Technological Advancements and Market Adoption

Electric bicycles (e-bikes) have become a transformative force in sustainable transportation, offering an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional vehicles. This systematic literature review (SLR) explores the evolution of e-bikes, focusing on technological advancements and market adoption. The study synthesizes findings from 20 international journals, identifying innovations such as high-capacity lithium-ion batteries and IoT-enabled features that have enhanced e-bike performance and user experience. Market adoption patterns reveal regional disparities influenced by government policies, infrastructure, and consumer behavior. Despite promising growth, challenges such as high costs, inadequate charging infrastructure, and safety concerns persist. This review highlights existing research gaps and proposes future directions, including the integration of e-bikes into smart city ecosystems and the development of sustainable battery technologies. The findings aim to provide comprehensive insights for researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to optimize the adoption and development of e-bikes as a cornerstone of modern transportation. Keywords: Electric bicycles, technological advancements, market adoption, sustainable transportation, systematic literature review

Analisis Keterkaitan Neoliberalisme dalam Pembangunan "Smart" Forest City di Indonesia: Peluang dan Tantangan bagi Pembangunan Ibu Kota Negara

The relocation of Indonesia's capital city from Jakarta to IKN Nusantara has become a hot topic of discussion among local and international communities. Polemics from all fields continue to be material, especially the environmental sector. In explaining the resolution of this polemic, the theory of neoliberalism is one of our analytical frameworks which will become our basis for argumentation. In this article we discuss infrastructure governance, governance, green areas, technology, land rehabilitation, deforestation control, and agro forest re-development. We collected some accurate data from various sources and made the IKN masterplan designed by bappenas the main topic of our article. In the end, the Indonesian people will be able to assess the importance of this issue and have a broad insight into the environmental sector in the IKN Nusantara.

Sistem Deteksi Intrusi Hybrid dan Mitigasi Kerentanan Infrastruktur Jaringan Menggunakan Teknik Active Response (XDR) Wazuh dan Suricata

The complexity of cyber threats against the network infrastructure of companies, educational institutions, and government makes protecting network infrastructure a top priority. Router and server devices are highly vulnerable to various types of cyber threats, requiring comprehensive detection and response solutions. This research will implement an intrusion detection system by integrating SIEM technology and Wazuh XDR (Extended Detection and Response). This system analyzes index pattern data from Wazuh agent devices to detect and respond to attacks using the XDR active response firewall. The testing was conducted MikroTik RouterOS, Ubuntu Server 20.04 as Wazuh agent to test reconnaissance attacks, brute force and DoS attacks. The results of the research show Nmap and brute force attacks were successfully detected by Wazuh manager and blocked the attacker IP malicious through active response. Detection of brute force attacks showed an increase in traffic of up to 60 Kbps and CPU usage reached 100%, then decreased after the active response firewall was activated. Authentication failure reached 2198 times in the first hour of the brute force attack. CPU usage increased from 20% to 85% during the attack and decreased to 15% after the active response firewall was activated. DoS attacks, on MikroTik experienced an increase in CPU usage of up to 61% and memory of 67%. After activating the active response firewall, CPU usage decreased to 3%. Traffic on the MikroTik interface increased to 3.3 Mbps during the attack, then decreased to 1 Kbps after the firewall was activated

Dynamics of Land Governance, Extractivism, Urban Tech and Waste Infrastructures, and the Everyday State in Contemporary Africa

In the development discourse, there has been a tendency to frame the Global South, especially Africa, as a perpetual recipient of ideas from the Global North. This has led to the implementing of “development” initiatives based on the unsuccessful modernization paradigm and the associated Washington Consensus. Despite the emergence of counter theories such as dependency and underdevelopment theories, they share similar assumptions with the modernization paradigm. These assumptions include the belief that historical change brings development or progress, the sidelining of noneconomic factors like ethnicity, race, and gender, and the sole emphasis on economic growth as a measure of development. Both models assume that the state should primarily drive advancement. To address the weaknesses of these development models, alternative perspectives such as women and development, women in development, and gender and development were introduced. However, these perspectives would be integrated into the mainstream development discourse, diluting their impact.

The Contribution of Biomass Energy on Urban Sustainable Development: Opportunities and Challenges

This paper examines the biomass energy issue, particularly its potential and problems in urban sustainability development. With the increase in demand for energy worldwide and sources of traditional fossil fuels gradually dwindling, biomass and other new and sustainable sources become more critical. A qualitative approach is taken to develop the framework, considering literature reviews and content analysis as the techniques employed. The results highlight the potential of biomass in meeting energy demands at the global scale but simultaneously stress the need for would-be expertise management to leverage the potential. The advantages of biomass energy include but are not limited to the enhancement of economic development, environmental upgrading, and boosting energy security by decreasing the dependence on fossil fuels. Land allocation disputes and negative energy balance issues complicate the situation, but recent technologies have eliminated such helpless considerations. The policy and planning implications show that such biomass energy potential cannot be fully exploited without government policy support, infrastructure investment, and international cooperation. This research tries to show above all that, despite the limitations, biomass energy provides significant benefits for city sustainability through the diversification of energy supply, intending to achieve goals compatible with global sustainable development. Areas for future research are provided, leaning toward more quantitative and empirical research to solve problems and verify theories. In fact, cities need to use biomass energy with ecological and equitable perspectives in mind.

Militarized Governance and Counterrevolutionary Infrastructure in Egypt

Since seizing power in a 2013 military coup, the regime of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has imposed a form of militarized governance in Egypt. The military controls much of the economy, while tightening domestic security to suppress dissent and prevent a recurrence of street protests. In an effort to stamp out lingering public support for (and emotional attachment to) the 2011 revolution, the state has pursued urban restructuring in Cairo, razing working-class districts and relocating their inhabitants—as it builds a new capital outside the city, at a safe remove from the population.

CAUSES AND EFFECT OF COMMUNITY INSTABILITY ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES OF THE PEOPLES OF BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

This paper examines the causes and implications of Boko Haram insurgency on socio-economic activities of the people’s of Borno State, Nigeria. Available factors advanced in the process of the study helped understand what motivating people to join the Boko Haram sect in Borno State and other states of the North-eastern region of Nigeria. It is no longer a news that Boko Haram in the waves of their insurgency in Borno State recorded a killing of thousands of innocent’s people, while destroyed and burnt down government and public properties and infrastructures worth Billions of Naira. Besides, the Boko Haram continued indiscriminate attacks pushed millions of people to internally displaced persons camps and forced thousands of business men and women to abandon their businesses thereby created an unprecedented joblessness, hunger and abject poverty in Maiduguri Borno State. However, it is evident that schools of all level were temporarily closed in the mid of the insurgency for certain period, while public health centres were equally closed in some local government areas due to the pressure of the Boko Haram indiscriminate attacks and killings. All efforts by the security agents to cease the Boko Haram insurgency activities failed to yield positive result. However, little or no attention has been given to the negative consequences of the Boko Haram insurgency on socio-economic activities of the people of Borno State. Its against this backdrop, this paper is intended to study the implications of the Boko Haram insurgency activities on socio-economic activities of the peoples of Borno State. Five objectives, two hypotheses were raised to answer the study questions to comprehend the work. A qualitative research design is adopted using primary and secondary sources of data collection method to generates and adequate information on what influenced the peoples to pledges allegiance to Boko Haram sect, and to what extent the Boko Haram insurgency activities affected the peoples socio-economic activities. A purposive sampling technique is used to select the study respondents. The study target population was drawn from two senatorial districts of Borno State. Borno Central Senatorial District and Northern Borno Senatorial District respectively. Four local government areas were chosen from the two senatorial zones, two each, these are Maiduguri Metropolis, Bama LGA, Kukawa LGA and Mobbar LGA. A sampling size of 379 respondents were selected, 95 respondents from each of the four local government areas chosen. A descriptive statistic, mean and standard deviation as adopted using upper and lower limits of decision rate of 3.0 mean coupled with 5 Likert scale method were utilized to analyze the data and interpret the results. The results of the study revealed that the community instability caused by Boko Haram insurgency in Borno State has posed a serious threat to all sectors of human endeavors, includes, education, healthcare, agriculture and specifically paralyzed the socio-economic activities of the peoples of Borno State. The paper concluded that the damages have been done to almost all the sectors of human endeavors by the activities of Boko Haram insurgency hence the need for investing efforts to revive the areas affected, such as education, healthcare delivery, agriculture and so on. However, this paper is equally recommended that the local governments, state and federal government as well as national and international non-governmental organization and philanthropist should as a matter of urgency join hands together and assist the victims of the Boko Haram insurgency displaced from their business activities and ensuring that all affected sectors of human endeavor are effectively functioning. It is also recommended that government should come up with plan to regulates the affairs of both Islamic and Christianity to avoid radicalization of our growing youth in the future.

Foresight for SOE Companies in Indonesia’s Construction Industry: Recognizing Future Opportunities

As part of the “Indonesia Emas 2045” framework, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in the construction industry are expected to dominate government infrastructure projects. This research conducts an industrial foresight analysis of Indonesia’s SOE construction industry to identify future trends and opportunities. The study employs a three-level analysis: macro (using the Political, Economic, Social, Technology, Legal, Environmental/PESTLE framework), meso (applying Porter’s Five Forces), and micro (focusing on organizational scope). Data were collected from seven industry experts from both SOEs and the private sector, supplemented by secondary sources. The qualitative findings were gathered using the Delphi method, while expert voting provided the quantitative assessment. The results highlight that focusing on macro-level targets like net zero emissions (NZE) and sustainable development goals (SDGs) is crucial in implementing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Adoption of advanced technologies such as Construction 4.0 emerges as a top priority, with digital innovations such as predictive analytics, digital control towers, light detection and ranging (LiDAR), and building information modeling (BIM) enhancing efficiency and risk management. Achieving sustainability and technological advancement requires regulatory certainty, serving as the third pillar at the macro level. At the micro level, strengthening the SOE construction industry’s core competencies, resources, and capabilities is essential to accelerate future trends. Competitiveness at the meso level is not a significant concern, as the industry operates with moderate competition.

Создание универсального алгоритма принятия решения о целесообразности организации выделенной полосы для наземного городского пассажирского транспорта на базе подразделений ЦОДД

This article examines the methodology for determining the viability of implementing dedicated lanes for public transport in urban settings from the perspectives of management and economics. The criteria for effective in-frastructure are delineated, and the management process associated with the algorithm and relevant divisions is represented. An economic assessment of the efficiency of dedicated lanes was conducted, and this particu-lar method of traffic management has been analyzed as a separate approach to urban infrastructure govern-ance. Various instances showcasing the application of specific elements of the algorithm have been reviewed in Moscow, as the largest city, and in Belgorod, recognized as one of the major cities in the country. It is em-phasized that the implementation of the algorithm is feasible throughout the territory of the Russian Federation, as its fundamental stages adhere to the principles of universality and the capacity for adaptation to specific local conditions. The conclusion drawn is that the realization of the proposed algorithm, executed by specially established departments within traffic management and operating in an integrative manner, has the potential to maximize the manifestation of its benefits.

Transformative technologies: A global Bibliometrci review of artificial intelligence in infrastructure governance and economic outcomes (2000–2024)

Transformative technologies: A global Bibliometrci review of artificial intelligence in infrastructure governance and economic outcomes (2000–2024)

Food Safety in Developing Countries: Common Foodborne and Waterborne Illnesses, Regulations, Organizational Structure, and Challenges of Food Safety in the Context of Nepal

ABSTRACTFood safety presents a global challenge, contributing to 600 million cases of foodborne diseases and 420,000 fatalities annually worldwide. In developing countries, such as Nepal, addressing food safety is particularly intricate and arduous because of the prevalent issues of food insecurity, poverty, illiteracy, and regulatory hurdles. The objectives of this comprehensive review are to evaluate the prevalent foodborne and waterborne illnesses, examine the existing regulations and institutional frameworks, and identify the challenges associated with food safety in Nepal. Additionally, this review aims to propose strategies to enhance food safety measures in the country. An electronic search was conducted using relevant keywords to include articles and literature pertinent to the topic. Common foodborne illnesses in Nepal include cholera, typhoid fever, hepatitis, worm infections, and poisoning from mushrooms, heavy metals, and pesticides. While existing rules, regulations, and government infrastructure exist, they often face limitations in effectively addressing these multifaceted challenges. Food safety in developing countries, such as Nepal, faces several challenges, including inadequate regulatory frameworks, limited surveillance and monitoring, rural–urban disparities, and high incidences of foodborne illness. Additional issues stem from weak law enforcement, poor food safety practices, limited infrastructure, informal sector challenges, cross‐border trade, limited access to clean water, and the impacts of climate change. A multisectoral One Health approach involving collaboration among government agencies, food industry stakeholders, consumers, and civil society organizations is imperative to enhance food safety in developing countries such as Nepal.

Recycling Behavior amid Disruptions

This study highlights key variables affecting Lebanese recycling behavior while revealing the mediation role of intention, and the moderation role that government and appropriate infrastructure might play in encouraging eco-friendly behaviors. Quantitative data collected from 317 respondents were analyzed with the structural equation modeling, using SPSS/AMOS. Findings reveal that attitude, social norms, and awareness affect behavior directly and indirectly through intention, leading to active recycling behaviors, thus highlighting the intention’s partial mediation role. This is not the case for perceived behavioral control. The moderators’ roles are also found insignificant on the intentions/behaviors relationship. Since findings did not fully support the theory of planned behavior adopted for recycling behaviors, the theory’s validation seems to be contingent on the context in which it is being tested, especially in a developing, financially collapsed country. Findings imply that the waste management market should be liberalized, anytime trust in a corrupted government is lost.

Coastal urban flood risk management: Challenges and opportunities − A systematic review

Generational mechanisms and spatio-temporal evolution patterns of coastal urban flood risk involve complex interactions between climate change, sea level rise and human-induced factors, necessitating integrated adaptive flood management strategies to mitigate evolving vulnerabilities. This systematic review offers a thorough assessment of the challenges and strategic opportunities for sustainable adaptation in managing flood risk in coastal urban areas. It integrates emerging innovative technologies and financial solutions to identify promising approaches to implement mitigation strategies and improve coastal urban flood resilience. Enhancing governance and policy frameworks is crucial for the successful implementation of coastal urban flood risk management (CUFRM) plans. An innovative participatory planning framework is developed to promote flood management practices which are socially inclusive and equitable. Funding for green infrastructure and nature-based solutions and the strategic use of public-private partnerships are effective methods for advancing sustainable flood risk management (FRM). The advancements in emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), social media and digital twin technologies, provide dynamic and collaborative platforms for simulating flood scenarios and have potential to significantly improve CUFRM practices. In the end, a cross-country comparison of current practices in Australia, China, the Netherlands, the UK and the USA reveals a diverse range of approaches and valuable insights derived from regional experiences. The review provides a comprehensive analysis for researchers, policymakers and practitioners aiming to improve flood resilience in coastal metropolitan regions by learning from effective UFRM approaches that enhance governance structures, infrastructure resilience and funding mechanisms.

Challenges And Strategies For Implementing Performance-Based Capitation In Indonesian Community Health Center : A Scoping Review

This study examines the implementation and challenges of performance-based capitation (KBK) at Community Health Centers (Puskesmas) in Indonesia, as a part of the National Health Insurance Program, aiming to improve the efficiency and quality of primary health services. Despite its potential, the implementation of KBK faces various challenges including inadequate human resources, limited infrastructure, and insufficient monitoring systems. The study uses a scoping review framework based on the Public Health Care Monitoring Conceptual Framework by WHO, analyzing 11 selected studies from 2021 to 2024. Findings indicate that internal factors such as management capacity, health worker competence, and organizational culture significantly impact the effectiveness of KBK. External factors like local government support, funding policies, and infrastructure availability also play crucial roles. Technological barriers, particularly in remote areas, hinder optimal policy implementation. The study emphasizes the need for clear regulations, consistent policy dissemination, and effective monitoring to ensure successful KBK implementation. Recommendations include strengthening leadership, training health workers, improving infrastructure, and enhancing digital health technology utilization. These strategies aim to optimize resource allocation, enhance service access, and improve patient satisfaction in Indonesia’s primary health care system.

ICE to EV Conversion in Thailand: Evaluating Feasibility, Benefits, and Challenges

Abstract: The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is vital for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, but Thailand faces challenges in adopting new EVs due to high costs and limited infrastructure. This study investigates the feasibility of converting internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to EVs over the next decade, examining the economic, environmental, and social impacts. Findings show that EV conversions can reduce operational costs by 40-50% and lower GHG emissions by up to 70%, even when accounting for electricity-related emissions. In addition, the transition could significantly improve air quality, leading to public health benefits. However, barriers such as high upfront conversion costs, limited access to conversion kits, and the need for skilled labor remain. Addressing these challenges through government incentives, infrastructure development, and workforce training will be essential for scaling up EV conversions, enabling Thailand to accelerate its shift toward sustainable transportation and meet its climate goals.