Malaysian Experience Research Articles

Public Private Partnership and Financial Implication to Government: A Case Study from Malaysia

The implementation of infrastructure projects through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) that involve investments from the private sector has greatly benefited the country. Apart from being an alternative to conventional public infrastructure projects, PPP is also said to be a more efficient method as the risk of project implementation is transferred to the private partner. Even with these advantages, it cannot escape criticism, especially the implementation of PPP projects which involve financial implications to the government. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the Malaysian government's experience in the implementation of PPP projects especially regarding its financial implication issue and how the Malaysian government addresses the issue. A total of 29 officers from several government agencies were interviewed. The interview transcripts were analyzed using ATLAS. Ti application. Apart from contributing a theory regarding PPP, the results of this study have provided new knowledge on PPP, especially Malaysia's experience in dealing with financial commitment issues arising from the implementation of PPP projects. Although the context of development in other countries may differ, this Malaysian experience can be used as an example for PPP practitioners in planning PPP projects elsewhere.

A Perioperative Prospective Study of WALANT in Open Reduction Internal Fixation of Ankle Fractures: A Malaysian Experience

A Perioperative Prospective Study of WALANT in Open Reduction Internal Fixation of Ankle Fractures: A Malaysian Experience

FINITE ELEMENT SIMULATION OF LOW-RISE SCHOOL BUILDING MODEL WITH SEISMIC LOADS INPUT

Earthquake impacts on buildings have garnered increased attention as Malaysia experiences seismic activities, notably from nearby regions like Sumatra and within areas such as Sabah. Despite this, current Malaysian design guidelines, such as BS 8110, do not fully incorporate seismic loads. This study addresses this gap by examining the structural performance of a scaled 1:8 model of a three-storey, low-rise school building under various peak ground accelerations (PGA) from 0.1g to 1.0g. Utilizing ABAQUS finite element simulation and time-history analysis, we evaluated the seismic responses, including local deformations, von Mises stress, and principal stresses. Key findings reveal a maximum structural displacement of 10.22 mm at 1.0g PGA, with significant stress concentrations observed at the column footings, highlighting critical areas for design improvement in seismic resilience.

Examining Public Administration Through the Islamic Lens: A Glimpse of the Malaysian Experience

Examining Public Administration Through the Islamic Lens: A Glimpse of the Malaysian Experience

The Needs and Readiness of the Islamic Banks to Adopt the Comprehensive Islamic Accounting Standards: The Malaysian Experience

The Islamic finance sector in Malaysia has seen substantial growth over the past few decades, becoming one of the leading markets for Islamic financial products and services. This growth has brought about significant challenges in financial reporting, primarily due to the limitations of conventional International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in addressing the unique characteristics of Islamic financial transactions. The shari’ah transactions are governed by Shariah principles, which prohibit interest (riba) and emphasize on risk-sharing, ethical investments, and social justice. The study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current issues and debates surrounding the need for comprehensive Islamic accounting standards in Malaysia. It will review recent literature, regulatory developments, and the experiences of practitioners in the particular field. Furthermore, the report seeks to highlight the readiness of Bank Negara Malaysia and all Islamic Banks to adopt Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institution (AAOIFI) standards and explore the feasibility of integrating these standards within the International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) framework. Additionally, this report aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on Islamic accounting by offering critical insights and recommendations for policymakers, regulators, and financial institutions. The ultimate goal is to enhance the transparency, comparability, and reliability of financial reporting in the Islamic finance sector, thereby promoting its sustainable growth and integration into the global financial system.

Performance of TF-IDF for text classification reviews on Google Play Store: Shopee

TF-IDF is a technique used to extract features in the field of text classification. The TF-IDF approach extracts feature by considering the frequencies of terms and their inverse document frequencies. The performance of various feature extraction methods varies, and it is necessary to determine the most appropriate approach for accurately classifying Shopee's application user reviews to enhance the user experience in Malaysia. This study aims to assess the efficacy of TF-IDF in text classification tasks, analyze their advantages and disadvantages, and identify the specific conditions in TF-IDF. The study employs a dataset of Shopee customer reviews acquired from the Google Play Store as the main data source. The methodology entails pre-processing the text data by applying a text normalization procedure that includes several processes, such as eliminating stop words, Unicode characters, and lemmatizing. The Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machine, and Decision Tree classifiers are trained and graded using both feature extraction approaches. The research notes that the efficacy of feature extraction approaches may differ based on the specific data set and task being considered. Subsequent studies might examine alternative methods of extracting features and assess their efficacy across various domains and datasets.

Semiconductor and Electron Devices Awareness via EDS-ETC, STEM, and Humanitarian Programs: The Malaysian Experience 2015–2023

Semiconductor and Electron Devices Awareness via EDS-ETC, STEM, and Humanitarian Programs: The Malaysian Experience 2015–2023

Beyond Hopes, Beyond Cures: A Proposed Malaysian Regulatory Framework for Somatic Gene Therapy in Human

After serious side effects 20 years ago, somatic gene therapy (SGT) is gaining traction again. The pipeline for somatic gene therapy has expanded rapidly. Although SGT has shown remarkable efficacy for cancer and genetic diseases, it also carries risks, ethical challenges, and legal concerns. This study intends to (i) present Malaysia's experience with SGT clinical trials (ii) evaluate the adequacy of existing regulatory frameworks and (iii) propose future legislation. The study employs a qualitative approach by utilizing both primary and secondary data. Statutory provisions are referred to for doctrinal legal analysis. Primary data was collected through a purposeful sampling of experts. Interviews were conducted with government representatives, medical experts with experience in SGT, and Shariah experts. The findings indicate that in establishing Malaysian law on SGT, customary beliefs, especially Shariah perspective, must be taken into account, as well as adopting best practices from other developed countries and improving Malaysia's existing law.

THE GLOBAL PREVALENCE AND DIAGNOSIS OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD) AMONG YOUNG CHILDREN

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) refers to a group of developmental disorders. Although the global prevalence of ASD is reported to be between 3-6 children per 1000, there is difficulty in comparing the prevalence of ASD across countries because of the variation in methodology, age group of population and the sample size studied. The prevalence of ASD shows an increasing trend and factors attributing to the rise in prevalence include the increase in awareness on the signs and symptoms of ASD, the increase in access to services, the changes in the definition of autism over time and the broadening of the diagnostic criteria. Among the administrative factors also linked to the increase in prevalence were changed in reporting practices and availability of records. Before1990’s diagnosis of ASD was more often after the entrance to the school. Currently, there are diagnostic tools available and the diagnosis can be made among toddlers. However, for those on the milder end of the spectrum with average or above-average language and cognitive abilities, the diagnosis is still made after school entry. Early detection, diagnosis, and intervention are important in promoting better long-term outcomes and as such screening programs need to be in place. Sustainability of the program requires training of primary care providers, the use of specially designed tools for screening and protocols for referral, and a multidisciplinary diagnostic team. This paper shares the Malaysian experience in implementing a screening program since 2011 and the outcomes of the screening program for ASD in primary care.

Implications of an Aging Population on Government Expenditure in Malaysia

This study investigates the implications of an aging population on government spending in Malaysia using the Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) method. Employing data spanning from 1992 to 2022, the study examines the relationship between the dependent variable, Government Expenditure, and the independent variable, Aging Population, while controlling for Gross Domestic Product and Unemployment as additional factors. The results reveal a positive connection between the aging population and government expenditure. As Malaysia experiences demographic shifts characterized by increased life expectancy and declining fertility rates, the findings suggest that addressing the needs of an aging population contributes to higher government spending. This study underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing the fiscal implications of demographic changes, providing valuable insights for policymakers in formulating strategies to navigate the challenges posed by an aging society in Malaysia.

Ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic on construction operations in developing countries: Malaysian experience

PurposeThis study explored the ramifications of COVID-19 on construction operations in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a detailed literature review, 37 ramifications are identified and divided into nine aspects. A self-designed survey is then employed to seek the perceptions of construction practitioners around the Klang Valley region regarding the significance of the ramifications. A total of 203 valid responses are subjected to statistical analyses to prioritise the ramifications.FindingsAll the potential ramifications are perceived to be significant, with the five utmost critical ramifications being rescheduling the project timeline, compliance with government SOP, delay in the handover project, compulsory COVID-19 test for all workers and the extra cost incurred to provide COVID-19 test for workers.Practical implicationsThis study highlights the ramifications of COVID-19 on construction operations and deliberately informs construction organizations regarding the shortcomings of recent construction management. Besides, the insights suggested that industry practitioners devise corresponding strategies for project sustainability in future similar crises.Originality/valueThe findings serve as a valuable reference and are benign to industry professionals and researchers from developing nations, especially nations that share similar characteristics to Malaysia.

Islamic finance principles and performance of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Makindye Division Kampala District Central Uganda

PurposeMicro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are vital for economic growth in developing countries. Yet, little research has explored the link between Islamic principles and MSME performance, especially in Uganda. This study aims to investigate the relationship between Islamic financial principles and MSMEs’ performance in Makindye Division Kampala – Uganda.Design/methodology/approachThis study used a correlational research design involving 86 respondents from 30 MSMEs between January and May 2023. Data collected through questionnaires was analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences, examining three independent variables: ethicality, Halal investment and prohibition of riba, in relation to MSME performance.FindingsThe results revealed significant relationships between these variables and MSME performance. Prohibition of riba (r = 0.296, n = 86, p = 0.006), Halal investments (r = 0.308, n = 86, p = 0.004) and ethical principles (r = 0.283, n = 86, p = 0.008) all exhibited a statistically significant relationship. Regression analysis with R = 0.405, R2 = 0.164 and adjusted R2 = 0.134 indicated that all hypothesized variables were significant predictors of MSME performance. Based on findings, this study rejected the null hypothesis, confirming a moderately positive and significant relationship between Islamic financial principles and MSME performance.Originality/valueThis study underscores the importance of active involvement from key stakeholders such as the Uganda Halal Bureau, Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, Islamic financial institutions and government agencies in integrating robust support mechanisms for MSMEs into their strategic frameworks. Such efforts could enhance Uganda’s economic landscape, aligning with the experiences of Malaysia and Indonesia in leveraging Islamic principles for economic growth.

Skill Development Journey through Hospitality: An In-Depth Study of Trainee Experiences in Malaysia

Skill Development Journey through Hospitality: An In-Depth Study of Trainee Experiences in Malaysia

Evaluation of Instrument Design to Explore Supervision Experience of International Chinese Doctoral Students in a Malaysian University

This study assessed the feasibility of an interview protocol to examine international Chinese doctorate students' supervision in Malaysia. It is carried out from a larger study that seeks to address gaps in the literature on these students' problems, supervision dynamics, and coping methods, given their importance in academic and cultural interchange. The initial design involved a comprehensive literature review, interview procedure development, and field expert and target student input. The respondents evaluated the interview protocol's clarity, relevance, cultural sensitivity, and linguistic ease indicated a need for revisions to improve understanding and application. Half of participants assessed the procedure as straightforward, however cultural sensitivity and language limitations were recognized as areas for improvement. On the other hand, five experts recommended simplifying technical language, including open-ended questions, and adjusting for cultural and educational variation to make the procedure useful for future study. The findings revealed that although the interview protocol's basic design is strong, adding the proposed improvements would improve its relevance, clarity, and cultural appropriateness. These upgrades should make data gathering easier, help us understand the international doctorate student experience in Malaysia, and shape future educational policy. Academicians and politicians might use the revised methodology to correctly capture Chinese PhD students' complex experiences to improve supervisory and academic assistance in Malaysian institutions.

The Marginalised Tamil Indians and Their Lived Experience in Multicultural Malaysia

The study aims to explore the Tamil Indians’ lived experience during the country’s economic progress under Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad’s premiership as the fourth Prime Minister of Malaysia. The period was chosen to reflect on the nation’s economic success since independence. The study adopts the Acculturation Model to analyse the living conditions of minority groups, particularly in the multiracial context of Malaysia. Using in-depth interviews with 23 informants, ranging from political leaders, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), academics, media organisations and youths, qualitative data was collected. Data for the study were analysed using the NVIVO 12 software and a thematic analysis approach was adopted for analysis. Two broad themes derived from the findings of this study are the responses to marginalisation issues and aspirations of Malaysian Tamil Indians. Findings from this study highlight the existence of the acculturation model, which Malaysian Tamil Indians encounter as one of the minority groups in Malaysia. The study suggests a need for improvement to the system to avoid institutional failure within multicultural Malaysia in the long term.

A Policy Examination of Covid-19 Impact on the Radiology Department Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): The Malaysian Experience

The purpose of this paper is to review the new management policy in medical imaging of the Covid-19 post-pandemic transition. This paper discussed the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) introduced by the Ministry of Health (MoH) Malaysia to prevent and control intrahospital transmissions of Covid-19. A conceptual framework is proposed to highlight the key areas in the national SOP for preventing Covid-19 intrahospital transmissions in the radiology department. The key areas were classified into four categories: planned requests (patient appointments), (ii) open-access management (walk-in patient workflow and the triage system), (iii) direct contact (during radiology procedures), and (iv) exit policy and disinfection (post imaging conduct). The paper ends with a summary of diagnostic imaging classifications based on chest radiographs (CXR) and Computed Tomography (CT) images of suspected and confirmed Covid-19 patients. The Covid-19 SOP for the radiology department by the MoH was found to retain most of the patient quarantine and isolation guidelines by the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and incorporated several international policies on patient triage and disinfection of radiological equipment. The majority of the SOP is also sustained, like the SOP during the pandemic, except for the SOP that has been proven to be insignificant by recent research. The Covid-19 SOP for the radiology department plays an important role in reducing the intrahospital spread of Covid-19, with some areas needing improvement. Health workers in the radiology department should continue implementing the Covid-19 SOP and increase their knowledge in identifying Covid-19 signs on radiographic images to help safeguard themselves and the patients from intrahospital transmissions.

Secondary Education in Sudan Between Vision and Implementation: The Possibility of Sudan Benefits from Malaysian Experience

Education plays a pivotal role in the progress of any nation. The research aims to investigate the vision of secondary education, its implementation between Sudan and Malaysia and how Sudan benefits from the Malaysian experience. The research problem addressed the challenges and obstacles that face the implementation of educational vision. These challenges are a lack of finance, poor educational technologies, and a shortage of technical and administrative staff. The methods of data collection involved library research, government and non-government reports. The technique of analysis used was in-depth descriptive analysis. Descriptive data related to the study were analysed using percentages. The study discovered that 1) it is necessary to connect educational vision, finance and implementation; 2) there should be a connection between education and development in Sudan and a separation of party policies from education; 3) the establishment of an educational strategy in Sudan that includes national identity; 4) raise the salary of school teachers and give them financial and moral motivation to keep their social status; 5) increase the annual budget for education, 6) investment in education to nurture today’s students and tomorrow's leaders through training for Sudan to benefit from Malaysian experiences.

Out of Shadow: Tan Twan Eng in the Malaysian Literary Context

In Malaysian literature, few contemporary writers have emerged as prominently and poignantly as Tan Twan Eng. His works not only explore the complexities of cultural identity, shed light on the historical, social, and political realities of the Chinese Malaysian experience, but also incorporate postcolonial ecocritical perspectives and elements of cross-cultural fusion. Through his narratives, he offers a unique perspective that resonates with readers and contributes to the broader discourse on postcolonialism, identity, and cross-cultural interactions. This paper embarks on a nuanced reading of Eng’s novels, endeavors to position his works within the larger framework of Malaysian literature, exploring their role in shaping and redefining the nation’s literary canon. It delves into specific aspects of Tan Twan Eng’s literary contributions, paying particular attention to his treatment of historical narratives, the exploration of cultural identities, and the integration of ecological elements. Through this analysis, we seek to unravel the unique qualities that distinguish Tan Twan Eng’s novels and their significance in the Malaysian literary context.

Experiences of occupational balance following retirement: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

ABSTRACT Achieving occupational balance is crucial for promoting retirees’ health and well-being, but little is known about how retirees in Malaysia experience occupational balance after retirement. This study explored the experiences of occupational balance among 12 retirees in Malaysia, aged 60 years and above, using interpretative phenomenological analysis of online one-to-one in-depth interviews. The essence of occupational balance experiences was described in four superordinate themes: satisfaction through occupation, occupational proportion, achieving occupational balance, and challenges towards occupational balance. Retirees reported experiencing occupational balance through engaging in satisfying occupations and balancing the proportions of their occupations. To achieve occupational balance, they desired to socialise with friends and family members and remained active, but faced challenges related to health, finances, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings of the current study have implications for retirees, their families, and policymakers seeking to promote successful ageing and quality of life. By focusing on Malaysian retirees, the study contributes to the understanding of occupational balance in a non-Western context, thereby enriching the cultural diversity of research within occupational science. However, it also highlights the need for future occupational science research on how occupational satisfaction, proportions, participation, health status, financial status, and COVID-19 impact occupational balance in the retiree population.

Performance monitoring as fault detection approach on AC power output of monocrystalline grid-connected photovoltaics system

As per the Malaysian sustainable energy development authority (SEDA), Malaysia has seen a significant growth in renewable energy thanks to the feed-in tariff (FiT) program. However, photovoltaic (PV) systems in tropical countries like Malaysia experience degradation due to technological factors and operating conditions. The effectiveness of PV systems is influenced by geographical location and weather conditions. This research study conducted a comparative analysis between the actual power output PAC_actual and the predicted power output PAC_expected, referred to as the acceptance ratio (AR). The study also assessed the yield and performance ratio (PR) of a PV system situated at the green energy research center (GERC) in Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia. The actual monocrystalline grid-connected photovoltaic (GCPV) system versus predicted AC power and AR were monitored over a year, with MATLAB software used for simulating output power based on real data. According to the Malaysian Standard MS2692:2020, an AR value of 0.9 or higher is required for approval in testing and commissioning tests. The findings indicate that most AR graphs fall below this threshold, and the PR value for each month is below 0.75, suggesting a need for significant system overhaul.