Industry Players Research Articles

Impact of Halal Supply Chain Management on Halal Integrity in Malaysia's TVET Food Industry

Ensuring the integrity of halal food is among the concerned issues of many Muslim consumers around the world especially on the authenticity of halal food products status. They are keen to know all the activities involved whether the products they purchase are genuinely halal along the supply chain. Although the issue of halal integrity is widely discussed within the halal food industry, the factors attract the attention of both the academic and halal practitioners remain ambiguous. Thus, this paper intends to assess the existing halal food supply chain management (HFSCM) and its influence on halal integrity assurance (HIA). Using quantitative approach, an industry pilots were empirically experimented to test the concepts and provide practical solutions for halal industry players to optimize their HIA in food and beverages (F&B) industries. The survey data was acquired from 121 halal F&B industries. Multiple linear regression technique was used to analyze the data. It was found that the HFSCM of F&B industries have a direct impact on HIA. The findings are set out to argue that new solutions are required to reduce the vulnerability for better optimization of HFSCM thus enhancing the HIA. Significantly, this study seen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is critical in ensuring the sustainability of HFSCMspecially to cater demands among Muslim population.

FUSING FAITH AND FINANCE VIA FATWA: THE FUTURE OF WAQF-TAKAFUL DEATH COMPENSATION PRODUCT AT FWD TAKAFUL BERHAD

The waqf-takaful concept involves channeling death compensation benefits from deceased takaful participants to selected religious institutions, thereby generating perpetual and sustainable waqf contributions. Despite recent challenges such as inconsistent implementation standards and management issues, some takaful operators in Malaysia have started to incorporate death compensation waqf into their offerings. Key players in this field, such as FWD Takaful Berhad, Waqaf An-Nur Corporation Berhad (WanCorp) and Yayasan Waqaf Malaysia (YWM), have significant potential for collaboration in advancing this product. This study aims to develop a waqf-takaful death compensation product for FWD Takaful Berhad, known as FATWA. This product integrates elements of death compensation waqf and takaful, combining the efforts of FWD Takaful with WanCorp and YWM to optimize takaful benefits. The study uses a qualitative approach, with data collected through focus group discussions involving academics in Islamic finance, waqf, law and marketing, as well as industry players from selected takaful companies in Malaysia, YWM and the Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA). The data were analysed using thematic analysis via ATLAS.ti software. The study found that waqf-takaful death compensation products, FATWA developed by FWD Takaful Berhad through WanCorp or YWM, have unique strengths. Both are competitive and capable of making significant contributions to the takaful and waqf industries, offering substantial benefits to the Muslim community as a whole.

QURANIC VERSES RELATED TO HALAL SCIENCE: A STUDY APPLYING THE TAFSIR AL-MAWDUIYMETHOD

To achieve success in the science and technology of halal, numerous kinds of stakeholders, including academics, industry players, and governmental entities, are making a major contribution. Simultaneously, there exists an interest in the discipline of philosophy that includes the discourse on epistemology, ontology, and axiology. This aims to inhibit the publics comprehension of halal science, which is fundamentally factual and scientific. As a result, the fundamental framework for comprehending halal science is through the study of the Quran. This paper analyzes the concept of halal science as presented in the Quran. This literature study employs a systematic approach of Tafsir al-Mawduiyto delineate and then examine the terminology of halal science in the Quran. The study identified three principal topics of halal science terminology in the Quran: first, the truth of the natural worlds creation second, revelation as the foundation of knowledge and third, human ethics and values. These three themes are the philosophy of Islamic science that are the basic paradigm in facing the theoretical issues of the halal science industry.

URGENSI PELESTARIAN LINGKUNGAN DI ERA REVORMASI 4.0

In the era of Industrial Revolution 4.0, environmental preservation has a very important urgency. The environmental paradigm in this era is the main concern in maintaining the sustainability and balance of the ecosystem. Environmental preservation is becoming increasingly important in this era. Industrial Revolution 4.0 brought major changes in various sectors, including industry, technology and transportation. However, these changes also have negative impacts on the environment, such as increased greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution and ecosystem damage. Environmental preservation in the era of Industrial Revolution 4.0 has high urgency. In facing the challenges of change brought by the Industrial Revolution 4.0, there needs to be awareness and collective action from all parties, both individuals and industry players, to preserve the environment. Therefore, researchers have taken this title with great hopes that it can become reference material for readers and increase our insight and knowledge so that the environment, especially around us, can be preserved.

ANALYSIS OF BRAND POSITIONING STRATEGIES: A STUDY ON PARLE COMPANY

The article examines the brand positioning strategies of Parle Company, a leading player in the Indian biscuit industry since its establishment in 1929. It explores the historical context of the biscuit market, highlighting Parle's evolution from a luxury item to a staple in Indian households. The study identifies key strategies employed by Parle, including targeting family values, utilizing diverse media platforms, emphasizing nutrition and value, and maintaining an extensive distribution network. Through a review of relevant literature and research methodologies, the article underscores how Parle has successfully navigated the competitive landscape, fostering consumer loyalty and brand equity. The findings illustrate the importance of adaptability and consumer-centric approaches in sustaining market relevance. KEYWORDS: Parle Company, Brand Positioning, Biscuit Industry, Consumer Behaviour, Marketing Strategies, Nutrition.

Bioinformatics Tools Assist in The Screening of Potential Porcine-Specific Peptide Biomarkers of Gelatin and Collagen For Halal Authentication

Gelatin and collagen are two animal-derived ingredients that are widely used in various industries. Both have distinctive physico-chemical characteristic that made them ingredients of interest for many industrial players to be applied as there are vast arrays of usage in the food, cosmetic and biomedical fields. However, the origin of gelatin and collagen poses ethical and religious concerns, especially for Muslims and Jews who have restrictions on food consumption. Porcine by-products are of concern for religious and health reasons, and there is a demand for precise and reliable detection techniques. The limitation of DNA detection is due to extreme environment in food processing which results in low extractability of DNA. Therefore, peptide-based detection using mass spectrometry is required. However, identify the suitable marker is like searching needle in haystacks. Hence, combination of bioinformatics and mass spectrometry is proposed. This study aims to identify the specific peptide biomarkers by employing bioinformatics technique which can be applied to identify gelatin and collagen sources with the aid of mass spectrometry. In these approach, combination of Petunia Trans-Proteomic Pipeline (TPP, version 5.2.0) and sequence alignment ClustalW were applied to facilitate the MS data (LC-QTOF-MS) and peptide identification. As a result, 69 fasta file of protein sequence from both UniProtKB and NCBInr have been collected, 81 collagen peptides sequence and 118 gelatine peptides has been attainable that have the potential to distinguish different species. In conclusion, in silico protein sequence approaches helps to enable rapid screening of proteotypic peptides that can serve as species biomarkers proficiently.

Fuzzy logic-based barcode scanning system for food products halal identification

Halal status in food products is fundamental for Muslims and may be crucial for those who are allergic to non-halal ingredients when choosing suitable foods for consumption. However, with the rising demand for food products and the advancement of science and technology, contamination with non-halal substances is likely to occur in food production. Furthermore, some irresponsible food industry players tend to replace halal with non-halal ingredients to reduce costs. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the contents of halal food products to ensure compliance with the guidelines outlined by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM). In this study, an integrated fuzzy logic barcode scanning system was developed to determine non-halal ingredients and traces in packaged food products. Although the information on food products can be easily accessed from the open-source web data bank, using the proposed fuzzy logic based-barcode scanning system to identify the authenticity of halal food products is an alternative option for providing accurate, reliable, and fast detection. The inputs for the fuzzy logic framework are halal logo, alcohol, animal fats, gelatin, ham, bacon, L-cysteine, lipase, mono-and diglycerides, pepsin, rennet, sodium stearoyl lactylate, vanilla extract, whey, and E-code of E120, E422, E441, E470, E542, and E904. On the other hand, the outputs are halal, uncertain, and non-halal. The fuzzy logic-based barcode system was able to identify the halal status for three different categories: samples with a halal logo, uncertain halal status samples, and non-halal samples.

Application Of FMEA Method In Halal Risk Determination On Halal Poultry Slaughtering Operations

The importance of halal slaughtered chicken has become crucial in the era of globalization and complex supply chains. The rising awareness among Muslim communities regarding the integrity of slaughtered chicken products has led to a focus on adhering to halal compliance standards and Islamic law. This study aims to qualitatively analyze the halal risk points in chicken slaughtering operations, by using the Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) method, in order to identify potential halal risks and ensure the integrity of halal chicken products. This qualitative study uses a analysis approach by examining secondary sources including journals, articles, guidelines and standards related to halal slaughtering process. In this study, seven Halal Risk Points (HRP) have been identified in the entire halal slaughtering process of broilers. Based on the results of the risk assessment through the FMEA method, each determined HRP will be assessed based on the severity, occurrence and detection rating scale. The final result of this study found that only six HRPs have a Risk Priority Number (RPN) value that exceeds 100. Therefore, corrective action recommendations are proposed to prevent any halal non-compliance from occurring on the process involved. Overall, the FMEA framework in this study is a new approach in guaranteeing the integrity of chicken slaughter products and is able to have a positive impact on the halal chicken slaughter industry players and also the implementers of the halal management system.

Evaluation of Blockchain Technology in the Context of Tourism Sector within the Framework of Diffusion of Innovation Theory: Challenges and Opportunities

Blockchain technology is one of the technologies emphasized both academically and practically due to the possibility of application integration in different fields. The tourism sector has an interest in blockchain technology due to its early and rapid adoption of technology. Today, blockchain technology is mainly used in finance. However, it is also preferred in tourism due to the opportunities it provides in data management, payment systems, identity management and loyalty programs. In this study, a literature review was first conducted to examine the use of blockchain technology in the tourism sector. Then, the first pioneer companies that emerged in the field of tourism were classified. The relationship between blockchain and tourism is evaluated within the scope of institutional analysis. Then, an analysis was carried out within the framework of the diffusion of innovation theory. As a result, it has been determined that blockchain technology is still developing. However, the promising and growing number of the first sectoral solutions increases the likelihood of acceptance. There is a lack of knowledge about blockchain among industry players and consumers. Integration of blockchain technology with tourism applications is ongoing, but no generally accepted standard has emerged. It has been determined that there are deficiencies regarding local and global legal regulations.

Non-communicable diseases prevention and control by government ministries in Guyana.

Countries of the Caribbean Community signed the Declaration of Port of Spain in 2007 with the vision to stop the epidemic of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The adoption of the Declaration by member states represented a regional effort, challenging governments, the private sector, and civil society to act together. Multisectoral actions in Guyana aimed at achieving this goal are the focus of this article, demonstrating the work of different actors in addressing the burden of NCDs in the country. To analyze multisectoral actions developed among five ministries for the implementation of the Declaration of Port of Spain 2007 in Guyana. This qualitative study was guided by the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist and conducted in five ministries (Agriculture, Education, Finance, Health, and Trade) in Georgetown, Guyana. The thematic analysis was guided by a framework consisting of four elements: context (why the policy is needed), content (what the policy is mainly about), process (how the policy was brought forward and implemented), and actors (who participates in and influences the formulation and implementation of the policy). The framework considers how these elements interconnect to shape policy development and implementation processes. Data analysis provided the researchers with insights into possible topic areas and codes for consideration during the analysis, hence a deductive approach to data analysis was used. The results highlighted the importance of coordination among government entities, national and international agencies, private actors, industry players, and civil society. Participants did not mention the use of responsibility metrics but cited mechanisms that facilitated collaboration. The results showed limitations in transforming multisectoral initiatives into intersectoral collaboration to achieve real integration among the different actors involved, considering the actual context and content. Actions could be more effectively implemented with significant outcomes for NCD control in Guyana.

Empowering the elderly: a cash waqf Takaful model for enhanced provision and protection in Malaysia

Purpose The primary objective of this research is to introduce a pioneering takaful model that provides both provision and protection to the aging population by combining the concept of cash waqf with takaful. This model is designed to align with Shariah principles, ensuring sustainability and enduring impact. Design/methodology/approach This research adopts a qualitative methodology, where a focus group discussion was conducted with six stakeholders. The participants consisted of takaful operators, legal experts and other industry players. The participants were presented with the proposed cash waqf takaful model and their feedback was recorded. Legal issues related to linking waqf with takaful were also identified and discussed. Findings The study highlights the need for innovative financial solutions to support Malaysia's aging population. It proposes a cash waqf takaful model, leveraging crowd funding for sustainability. Legal hurdles and recommendations for overcoming them are discussed, along with suggestions for future research on quantitative validation and regulatory frameworks. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the holistic approach of the proposed model in addressing the well-being of Malaysia's senior citizens. Practical implications The proposed takaful model presents opportunities for takaful operators to integrate Islamic social finance into their operations, enabling easier access to takaful for the elderly community. By eliminating financial barriers, it can transform the takaful landscape, ensuring inclusivity and financial security for aging populations. Moreover, policymakers see it as a blueprint for sustainable financial solutions and social welfare enhancement globally. Originality/value The study introduces a novel cash waqf takaful model to support Malaysia's aging population, leveraging crowdfunding for sustainability. It addresses legal challenges unique to Malaysia and proposes collaboration with State Islamic Religious Authorities. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for further research to validate the model's effectiveness and explores its potential global policy implications.

Status and prospects of lithium iron phosphate manufacturing in the lithium battery industry

AbstractLithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4, LFP) has long been a key player in the lithium battery industry for its exceptional stability, safety, and cost-effectiveness as a cathode material. Major car makers (e.g., Tesla, Volkswagen, Ford, Toyota) have either incorporated or are considering the use of LFP-based batteries in their latest electric vehicle (EV) models. Despite LFP’s well-researched status as a cathode material, it is expected to fulfill additional demands in electric vehicle applications, such as fast-charging capabilities, wide temperature range adaptability, and higher energy density. This perspective examines the LFP supply chain, synthetic approaches, manufacturing processes, market trends, recent advancements, and evolving demands to better understand its future role in the EV market. Graphical abstract

Empirical perspective of working capital management practices among large building construction firms in Ghana

Purpose This paper is a response to the failure of construction firms to use sufficient attention to their working capital management (WCM) practices, resulting in operational challenges, and leading to the collapse of firms in most developing countries. Hence, this study aims to explore the empirical perspective of WCM practices among large building construction firms (LBCFs) in Ghana, to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 9. Design/methodology/approach The study collected primary data through structured survey questionnaires from LBCFs in Ghana. The CEOs/Directors, General Managers and Accountant/Finance of LBCFs in Ghana formed the unit of analysis based on a simple random sampling technique. Mean score, standard deviation and one-sample t-test were used to perform the empirical analysis of the study. Findings According to this study's empirical results, LBCFs appear to have effective WCM practices in place. This was evidenced in the surveyed responses which indicate that the sector’s WCM practices sound good based on the mean scores and statistically significant as the t-values > 1.664. Notably, LBCFs in Ghana pay their suppliers early to reduce the fear of adverse effect of late payments on their credit history, making them conservative in their approach toward financial management. Originality/value This is a pioneering paper in a developing country like Ghana, highlighting the significance of gaining an in-depth understanding of WCM practices among LBCFs. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable information to industry players toward ensuring WCM efficiencies and can serve as a solid foundation for further empirical studies.

The Process of Ecosystem Emergence for an Enabling Technology: The 5G Case

This study aims to investigate how the process of ecosystem emergence occurs with the advent of 5G technology, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in the enterprise market. For this purpose, an exploratory and qualitative multiple-case study was conducted, involving key players in the Italian 5G industry. The research analyses the roles and interactions necessary for creating a 5G ecosystem, emphasising the importance of cooperation among numerous stakeholders due to the complexity and specificity of 5G applications. The results indicate that 5G can be defined as an Enabling Technology (ET), However, it is still lacking the pervasiveness in terms of wide applicability associated with General-Purpose Technologies (GPTs). The successful development of a 5G ecosystem requires dual co-orchestrators: MNOs and intermediaries. MNOs alone are unable to properly manage the ecosystem due to the diverse and specific nature of 5G applications. Intermediaries by their side, provide essential technical and business expertise, supporting MNOs in creating value across various sectors. The study provides insights into the evolution of business models for companies leveraging 5G technology. It emphasises the need for strategic collaboration among stakeholders to maximise the potential of 5G, offering guidance for businesses on how to adapt and thrive in this emerging ecosystem. The originality of this study lies in its integration of two literature streams, the ecosystem one and the enabling technologies one. This research contributes to both literature streams by highlighting the co-orchestration model necessary for 5G. It underscores the challenges and characteristics of orchestrating an ecosystem driven by enabling technology, offering valuable perspectives for both academia and industry practitioners.

Impact of over-the-top video providers on viewing satisfaction and its effect on watching a movie in cinema: Bridging preferences and challenges

Netflix, Disney Hotstar, Amazon Prime, and VIU are projected to abolish cinema due to fierce competition. Traditional cinema businessmen blame the COVID-19 pandemic for exacerbating cinema's collapse. Streaming services are more like websites than TV and movie theatres in terms of distribution and accessibility. Streaming platforms provide users more control over content selection and consumption, changing how they watch TV and films. This study compares OTT video provider viewing pleasure to cinema viewing satisfaction. Satisfaction is essential to understanding customer decisions and entertainment. Analysing and comparing both mediums' satisfaction levels will reveal what influences viewers' tastes and entertainment choices. This survey-based investigation was quantitative. OTT users and cinemagoers in Greater Jakarta (Jakarta-Bogor-Depok-Tangerang-Bekasi) were surveyed. June 2024's survey. This study compares OTT and cinema viewing satisfaction. 148 respondents were used in this investigation. This study sheds light on the changing dynamics between OTT video providers and traditional cinema experiences. The research will also help industry practitioners understand viewers' preferences and optimise their offers to increase satisfaction and competitiveness. This study compares OTT video providers' viewing satisfaction to cinema experiences to better understand viewers' leisure preferences. The findings will help industry players decide on content generation, distribution, and user experience improvements. This study contributes to the discussion over entertainment consumption's future and customer pleasure.

Implementation of Halal Industry Policy as A Support for Halal Tourism In Lombok

In recent years, Lombok has emerged as a leading halal tourist destination in Indonesia and globally, supported by halal policies aimed at attracting Muslim and local tourists. These policies, including the Regional Regulation of West Nusa Tenggara Province Number 2 of 2016 on Halal Tourism and Law Number 33 of 2014 on Halal Product Guarantee, have positively impacted the tourism industry. This study addresses three main questions: (1) How are halal industry policies implemented to support halal tourism in Lombok? (2) How has the halal industry developed to support this tourism? (3) What are the supporting and inhibiting factors in implementing these policies?. The research is descriptive with a qualitative approach, using primary data from interviews and secondary data from relevant documents. Purposive sampling was employed, targeting officials from the West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Tourism and Industry Offices, the Indonesian Ulema Council of West Nusa Tenggara, tourism business actors, MSMEs, foreign and domestic tourists, and local communities. Data collection involved interviews, observation, and documentation, with data analysis through reduction, collection, and summarization. The study finds that implementing halal industrial policies has increased Muslim tourist numbers and strengthened Lombok's image as a halal destination. However, challenges remain, such as developing specialized halal tourism areas according to regional regulations without disrupting conventional tourism, improving services, providing halal facilities, and offering education and training for industry players.

Evolving intellectual property landscape for AI-driven innovations in the biomedical sector: opportunities in stable IP regime for shared success.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the biomedical sector in advanced diagnosis, treatment, and personalized medicine. While these AI-driven innovations promise vast benefits for patients and service providers, they also raise complex intellectual property (IP) challenges due to the inherent nature of AI technology. In this review, we discussed the multifaceted impact of AI on IP within the biomedical sector, exploring implications in areas like drug research and discovery, personalized medicine, and medical diagnostics. We dissect critical issues surrounding AI inventorship, patent and copyright protection for AI-generated works, data ownership, and licensing. To provide context, we analyzed the current IP legislative landscape in the United States, EU, China, and India, highlighting convergences, divergences, and precedent-setting cases relevant to the biomedical sector. Recognizing the need for harmonization, we reviewed current developments and discussed a way forward. We advocate for a collaborative approach, convening policymakers, clinicians, researchers, industry players, legal professionals, and patient advocates to navigate this dynamic landscape. It will create a stable IP regime and unlock the full potential of AI for enhanced healthcare delivery and improved patient outcomes.

JAMINAN INDUSTRI HALAL DI NEGARA SINGAPURA DAN TAIWAN

Purpose: This study examines and compares the halal assurance processes in Indonesia, Taiwan, and Singapore. In addition, this study aims to assess the consequences of each system on the growth of the halal sector on a global and regional scale. Design/Methodology/Approach: This research utilises a comparative case study methodology with a qualitative approach. Through the investigation of official documents, data was collected. Regulations, certification requirements, and industry reports from each country were analyzed in the documents. Manufacturers, customers, and representatives from halal certification authorities were interviewed. To gain a first-hand understanding of the certification process and the application of regulations, field observations were also conducted. Findings: The findings show that Singapore, Taiwan, and Indonesia have different strategies for implementing halal assurance. Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS) in Singapore operates a rigorous and globally renowned certification program. Taiwan concentrates on food and cosmetic products through the Taiwan Halal Integrity Development Association (THIDA). With the support of the world's largest Muslim community, Indonesia, the Halal Product Guarantee Agency (BPJPH), has established a comprehensive and integrated system. These different strategies affect the efficacy of halal products and consumer confidence in each country. Research Implications: The results of this study show how harmonization of international halal certification and standards can improve consumer confidence and increase international trade in halal goods. In addition, by incorporating best practices from other countries, policymakers and industry players can improve their halal assurance systems with the help of this study. This harmonization can guarantee more reliable halal products to Muslim consumers around the world and improve the global halal market position.

Space Security and the Law of International Space Cooperation: The Need for Leadership and Coordination

In recent times space exploration and technological advancements hold prominent importance, the merger of space security and international collaboration must be paid attention too. Whereby, during the recent advancements in space technologies which include the proliferation of satellite and emergence of various space programs, the non-commercial and sustainable utilization of space must be taken care of. This paper explores and access the methodologies adopted and put into motion by nation having a well-established space program to address the difficulties faced while maintaining the space security along with ongoing space explorations. This research study will also pay emphasis towards analysing the already existing legal framework which directly governs various outer space activities, international organizations, role of governments and private industry players towards shaping of governance in outer space. In order to build trust and furthering the shared objectives in outer space and resolution of disputes among nation states, emphasis on how significant and valued international cooperation and diplomacy can prove to be. The various risks factors such as deliberate actions which are testing of anti-satellite weapons and dispersion of space debris in high volumes that the assets in space encounter are explored in this research. This study also discusses about case studies that have impacted the outer space and space explorations and other space missions positively as well as negatively in past instances. This study concludes the necessity of proactive leadership and teamwork in addressing the issue of space security and the legislation of international space cooperation. Roles of significant stakeholders, implementation of future course of actions with necessary changes to guide and provide policymakers in understanding the complexity of space reforms for peaceful utilization of outer space for both current and future human race.

Actuation Drones in Agriculture: Advancing Precision Pest Management through Biocontrol and Modern Techniques

As global food demand surges, agricultural technology is essential for addressing challenges like environmental degradation, pollution, and water scarcity. Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), present a promising solution for precision agriculture by providing real-time, accurate data that enhances decision-making in crop management. In pest control, drones offer targeted delivery of natural enemies and biopesticides, improving efficiency and reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. This precision can lead to increased crop yields, reduced environmental impact, and improved livelihoods for farmers by lowering operational costs and optimizing resource use. Despite their potential, adopting drone technology in agriculture faces regulatory challenges, such as the need for certifications, flight restrictions, and operational guidelines. Addressing these regulatory hurdles is crucial for broader implementation. Moreover, collaboration among stakeholders—including researchers, policymakers, agricultural extension workers, and industry players—is vital for advancing drone-assisted pest management and ensuring its practical adoption in diverse farming environments. As we navigate these challenges, actuation drones hold immense promise for transforming pest management practices globally, contributing to sustainable agriculture and enhanced food security. Further research, development, and stakeholder engagement are necessary to fully realize the potential of drones in integrated pest management (IPM) systems.