Public University In Malaysia Research Articles

Gender and sustainable entrepreneurship intention: Insights from Malaysian undergraduates

AbstractSustainable entrepreneurship is believed to be the solution to the detrimental impact of entrepreneurial activities. The concept underscores the necessity to discover, create and utilise business activities that positively contribute to environmental and societal sustainability. This article seeks evidence of which factors influence sustainable entrepreneurship intention (SEI) and how gender moderates the relationship among sustainability attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control and SEI. The survey was administered to 390 undergraduate students at Malaysian public universities. By performing structural equation modelling analysis, results showed that SEI is influenced by sustainability attitude and perceived behavioural control, whereas subjective norms do not have such an impact. The moderation analysis further discovered that gender only moderates the relationship between sustainable attitude and SEI; the strength of the relationship is stronger among female students. The results of this study offer practical guidance for policymakers and industry stakeholders. Policymakers can use these findings to craft focused initiatives and educational programmes to nurture sustainable entrepreneurship among students, cultivating a future workforce dedicated to ethical business conduct. Industry leaders can draw on the understanding of gender differences in the link between sustainability attitudes and SEI to formulate strategies for attracting and retaining talent inclined towards sustainable practices in their entrepreneurial pursuits.

A Conceptual Paper in Developing Model of Entrepreneurial Ecosystems to Boost Graduate Entrepreneurs Through Longitudinal Study

High unemployment among university graduates in Malaysia is concerning. Factors contributing to the university ecosystem that support the creation of student and graduate entrepreneurs remain debatable. The OCDC Entrepreneurial Ecosystems framework is the reference for most universities, and evaluating the weaknesses and strengths in the ecosystem pillars at the university level allows for clarity on relevant variables. The main objective of this study is to reconsider the model in the context of Malaysian universities that will enhance student entrepreneurial growth to create jobs and generate income while lowering unemployment and improving GDP. The study will use a longitudinal qualitative multiple-case study approach through a focus group using semi-structured questions with three groups of participants. Samples will be selected using a purposeful random sampling technique. Two top management, three students involved in business while studying, and three entrepreneur alumni from UiTM, UPM, and USM will be interviewed since these universities were awarded the MOHE Entrepreneurial Awards. Data will be analyzed using thematic analysis via NVivo software. This study will contribute to implementing an entrepreneurial ecosystem model according to Malaysia's public university setting. Recommendations to the university and MOHE will be provided based on the findings to enhance students’ involvement in entrepreneurship while still at university. The government can improve on appropriate regulations in providing resources and budget based on this research findings so that the university can serve as an ‘incubator’ for driving university students to become job creators.

Educational Tourism: A Behavioral and Perceptual Analysis of Chinese Students in Malaysian Public Universities

ABSTRACT This study embarks on an exhaustive exploration of these determinants, leveraging the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to decipher their interaction and overall impact on educational tourism. The research examines a variety of psychological variables, Attitudes, Subjective Norms, Perceived Behavioral Control, Resource Availability, Self-Esteem Motivation, Novelty Seeking, Perceived Value, and Opportunity Cost, focusing on their modulation by Resource Availability and Novelty Seeking. A structured closed-ended questionnaire serves as the research instrument, obtaining responses from 376 participants over a period of three months. The collected data is meticulously analyzed using the Smart PLS tool. The results illuminate considerable direct and indirect relationships between these factors and their consequent effect on educational tourism. Specifically, Attitudes, Subjective Norms, and Perceived Behavioral Control significantly influence Resource Availability, Self-Esteem Motivation, and Novelty Seeking. In turn, Resource Availability and Novelty Seeking exert a positive effect on educational tourism, while Self-Esteem Motivation shows a minor positive correlation. Perceived Value and Opportunity Cost also play an instrumental moderating role. Although perceived value positively modulates the influence of resource availability, counterintuitively, it exerts a negative moderating effect on novelty seeking. Opportunity Cost presents mixed moderation results. The study concludes by highlighting potential future research directions.

Exploring Religious Practices and Religious Identity Among Yemeni Postgraduate Students in Malaysia

Many Arab Muslim students come to predominantly Muslim countries to pursue their education because they are drawn to these nations for their Islamic identity, in which they can share the same religious beliefs and practices. Nevertheless, these students still need to adapt to the differing cultural and religious aspects of the host country. This study aims to delve into the dynamics of intercultural communication among groups with similar religious identities but originating from distinct cultures. By utilizing data collected from Yemeni postgraduate students in four public universities in Malaysia, this article explores how these students manifest their religious identity through religious practices and how they establish both in-group and out-group mentalities to navigate the challenges of living in a foreign country. The findings reveal that Yemeni postgraduate students in Malaysia maintain a strong connection to their religious and cultural practices, suggesting minimal shifts in their overall religious identity. The analysis also indicates that the students who are more devout and frequent religious centers tend to assimilate more fully into Malay Muslim society.

A Review of a Malaysian Public University Students’ Motivational Behaviour in Learning a Foreign Language

A Review of a Malaysian Public University Students’ Motivational Behaviour in Learning a Foreign Language

Malaysian Students’ Perceptions towards Using Peer Feedback to Cultivate Evaluative Judgement of Argumentative Writing

Although peer feedback is a prevailing practice to promote evaluative judgement, its influence on the development of this higher-order cognitive ability has not yet been adequately explored. Specifically, there is a dearth of research that examines the benefit of providing and receiving peer feedback in developing students’ understanding of assessment standards of writing. The purpose of this study is to explore students’ perceptions of how different feedback roles influenced their three types of evaluative judgement of ESL argumentative writing, namely hard, soft and dynamic evaluative judgement. During five weeks, 24 undergraduate students enrolled in an English argumentative writing course at a Malaysian public university were randomly assigned to three distinct peer feedback roles, namely feedback provider, feedback receiver, or feedback outsider, to participate in the peer feedback activities. Thematic analysis of pre- and post-intervention surveys indicated that different feedback roles varied in facilitating the development of evaluative judgement. Despite the limitation of domain-specific knowledge, strategically integrating peer feedback into writing course design afforded students opportunities to cultivate the three types of evaluative judgement. This study translates the theoretical framework of evaluative judgement into identifiable goals within the course of English argumentative writing and sheds light on the cognitive mechanisms inherent in different feedback roles, which enables educators and researchers to better dissect peer feedback curriculum design and student-centred assessment activity.

Factors Influencing Job Performance among Academic Staff in Malaysian Public University

Extensive research has been conducted on the factors that determine job performance. The current study was required by a lack of research relating to the factors of job performance among academic staff in Malaysian public universities. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of personality traits, motivation, leadership style, and learner autonomy on job performance. Data was collected from the academic staff of a public university in Malaysia. The probability technique, which is simple random sampling was used in this study. The study is guided by an adapted ten-point Likert Interval Scale structured questionnaire as the main instrument used in collecting the data. Furthermore, the analysis of data was undertaken by using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) procedures. Structural equation modeling (SEM), a multivariate approach, was used to empirically evaluate and estimate the hypothesized link between constructs using Analysis of Moment Structure (AMOS) software version 20.0. The findings indicate that job performance is significantly and positively related to personality traits, motivation, leadership style, and learner autonomy. Motivation is a significant predictor of job performance when compared to other variables. The study proves that the combination of personality traits, motivation, learner autonomy, and leadership style on job performance may contribute to the optimal service delivery to stakeholders within Malaysia's educational system. Therefore, the implications of the findings, potential limitations, and directions for future research are also discussed

Adult learners’ online distance learning experience in postgraduate business programme: a qualitative study in a public university in Malaysia

ABSTRACT Amidst the growing demand for lifelong learning, higher education institutions are dynamically navigating the realm of online education, prompted by technological advances and global influences like the COVID-19 pandemic. This research is particularly attuned to the experiences of adult learners within virtual postgraduate programmes, focusing on the implications for business education. Employing purposive sampling, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 active adult learners enrolled in a postgraduate online distance learning business programme at a Malaysian public university. Rooted in grounded theory principles, the qualitative data analysis involved open and axial coding, bolstered by participant quotations, to unveil emergent themes and relationships from their experiences. The study delves into adult learners’ motivations, emotional states, self-development, effectiveness factors, and institutional recommendations. These insights shed light on refining the design, delivery, and impact of virtual education for adult learners in postgraduate business programmes, offering valuable contributions to the evolving landscape of lifelong learning.

Knowledge, Awareness and Perception of Human Papillomavirus Testing Among Staff in a Public University in Malaysia

Knowledge, Awareness and Perception of Human Papillomavirus Testing Among Staff in a Public University in Malaysia

Exploring the Relationship Between Variables in Fear of ‎Learning a Foreign Language

Learning a foreign language is undoubtedly a challenging task for many people and is often accompanied by strong emotions. A predominant emotion is fear, which is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is rooted in various psychological, social, and cognitive factors. This study explores students' perspectives regarding their anxiety in learning a foreign language and addresses key inquiries such as the impact of communication apprehension, fear of negative evaluation, and test anxiety on language learning. Additionally, the research investigates the interconnections between various factors that contribute to the fear of acquiring a foreign language, with focus on Arabic language acquisition. The purpose of this study was to explore the motivation factors for learning among undergraduates at a Malaysian public university. A set of questionnaires was distributed to 260 students from various faculties at a public university in Malaysia who study Arabic as a third language. The questionnaire was systematically designed as a quantitative survey. The instrument used was a 5-point Likert-scale survey rooted in Horwitz et al.'s work (1986) to identify the variables. The survey consisted of four sections: Section A contained items on demographic profile, Section B included 11 items on motivation, and Section C comprised 33 items on fear of learning a foreign language. The findings of the study show that communication apprehension, fear of negative evaluation, and test anxiety that intersect in foreign language learning has complex emotional links. It is important to tackle these issues as conquering communication apprehension and fear of negative evaluation can increase motivation. Simultaneously, reducing test anxiety can enhance confidence and foster a more supportive environment for learning a new language. These findings emphasise the significance of addressing learners' emotional well-being to enhance their language learning journey.

Exploring Language Learning Strategies of TESL Practicum Students Through a Phenomenological Lens for Enhancing Language Competency

Proficiency in English as a second language (TESL) and effective cross-cultural communication skills are paramount for future educators. This study investigates the language proficiency learning strategies and motivations of TESL students in engaging with English communications beyond the classroom. This aspect is frequently underestimated in Malaysian educational contexts. Employing a phenomenological approach, qualitative interviews were conducted with 13 TESL practicum students at a Malaysian public university, selected through purposive sampling to ensure diversity in backgrounds and experiences. The study spanned from August 2021 to August 2023, totalling 2 years. The duration of each interview ranged from 45 minutes to 2 hours. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts using NVivo software unveiled significant themes such as using audio-visual materials, leisure reading, note-taking, self-speaking practice, music listening, teaching and learning, gamification, and football commentary. The implications of these findings extend to TESL students, academic researchers, English teachers, and higher education institutions, suggesting avenues for further research to enrich language proficiency and communication skills among TESL students. Integrating these strategies into language education curricula is essential for fostering effective communication skills among future educators, thereby contributing to the advancement of educational practices in Malaysia and beyond.

The Impacts of Democratic Learning Environment on Students’ Self-Enhancement: A Case Study in a Malaysian Public University

The Impacts of Democratic Learning Environment on Students’ Self-Enhancement: A Case Study in a Malaysian Public University

Beliefs on Second Language Learning among Pre-service Teachers in a Public University in Malaysia

The purpose of this research was to identify the Teaching of English as a Second Language (TESL) pre-service teachers’ beliefs about second language (L2) learning, to determine whether there is a significant difference in beliefs among the TESL pre-service teachers of different years of study and how these beliefs were formed. These are important as the pre-service teachers’ beliefs would have a direct influence on their practices as a teacher in future. This research was conducted with a sample size of 113 respondents using a mixed method design. Data collection is using the Belief About Language Learning Inventory, often known as BALLI approach to ensure a comprehensive understanding of individuals' beliefs. In addition, data was gathered using semi-structured interviews thus, guaranteeing a more in-depth understanding of the participants' experiences and beliefs. Descriptive statistics showed that the highest mean score was recorded for the “motivation and expectations” dimensions. The ANOVA results showed statistically significant difference in the mean scores amongst the different years of study. Interview results indicated that beliefs were dominantly influenced by social support and exposure to the L2, and intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Results of the study could inform course developers and lecturers as to which aspects of language learning and pedagogical knowledge need to be focused on in the pre-service teachers’ curriculum.

Exploring Malaysian ESL Pre-service Teachers' Perceptions on Knowledge of Learners, Digital Literacy and 21st Century Competency

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Goal 4 is centred on providing good and quality education for all. To achieve this goal, the supply of quality teachers, particularly in English as a second language (ESL), should be increased to align with the current globalisation in which individuals are well equipped with English language skills. Hence, teacher training programs play a significant role in producing quality teachers and taking notice of the knowledge needed by ESL pre-service teachers in the 21st century. However, there is a gap in previous studies in understanding the knowledge of ESL pre-service teachers, particularly on digital literacy, knowledge of learners and 21st-century competency. Thus, this study aims to explore the ESL pre-service teachers' perspectives towards knowledge of learners, digital literacy and 21st-century competency to be an effective teacher in the 21st century. This paper employed a full qualitative method with 10 ESL pre-service teachers at a public university in Malaysia. The data were collected through a focus group discussion and were analysed using thematic analysis. Based on the findings, the ESL pre-service teachers reported that it is pivotal for them to know and be able to implement 21st-century skills in their classrooms. Additionally, the ESL pre-service teachers mentioned that they should be able to have digital literacy and have awareness towards learners. This study contributes to teacher training programs in understanding the knowledge needed by a modern teacher. Future research could investigate the challenges ESL pre-service teachers face in the 21st century.

THE EFFECT OF PERCEIVED SUPPORT ON SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING OF ACADEMIC INSTITUTION STAFF

This study aimed to examine the effects of perceived support on subjective well-being (SWB) among university staff in the context of COVID-19. The research sample comprised of 522 employees from Malaysia public universities, which included both academicians and non-academicians. The respondents completed two online questionnaires. Statistical analyses used were descriptive statistics and regression. The results revealed that perceived support directly affects higher institution employees’ subjective well-being. The study confirmed the importance of perceived support for university employees’ subjective well-being.

Navigating Post-Graduation Crossroads: Seeking Employment or Continuing Education

Hasan Syamsuddin, a native Indonesian, a recent graduate of a public university in Malaysia, faced a pivotal juncture post-graduation: choosing between entering the workforce or pursuing further education. His journey encompassed profound introspection and exploration. Returning to Malaysia for convocation, Hasan reflected on his undergraduate years, contemplating the crossroads between political science and entrepreneurship. He navigates the complexities of dual aspirations – a global career in international relations or entrepreneurial pursuits aligned with his passion for arts and crafts. Amid burnout and rest, Hasan proactively sought opportunities, delving into internships, volunteers and entrepreneurial endeavors. The weight of responsibility as a firstborn intensified the pressure to decide on a path shaping his professional trajectory. Hasan's intricate preparations and scholarship applications for Romania, the US, and the UK showcased his unwavering commitment to learn about and contribute towards global change in international relations.

Changing a major

Pursuing a degree programme of one’s childhood dream and blessed by one’s parents could not guarantee that the person will be able to complete his studies. The case walks the readers through the experience of Hasan who completed his matriculation studies and enrolled into MBBS (medical) programme of a public university in Malaysia. Hasan realized that there was a misfit between his aptitude and the nature of medical studies when he was in his second year. The case chronicled Hasan’s actions and reactions in coping with his poor academic performance, fulfilment of his parents’ wish, his lack of concentration and inability to digest his courses, changing to another academic discipline with his current university, or withdrawing from his university and making a new application to other public and private universities. There are compelling lessons that students, instructors, university authorities and parents could generate and contemplate after going through Hassan academic adventure.

Load Profile Forecasting using a Time Series Model for Solar Rooftop and Integrated Carpark of a Public University in Malaysia

A precise and accurate load prediction is critical in a developing country like Malaysia to save the energy consumption. Power producers use load profile data and statistics to analyze and forecast the quantity of electricity required to be available at a given time. Load forecasting is the process of predicting future load requirements and this research focuses on the short-term load forecasting (STLF) for solar rooftop and integrated car park built at one of the public universities in Malaysia. Power system planners and demand controllers must ensure that there is enough generation to meet the increased demand. Load forecasting models that are accurate can lead to better budgeting, maintenance scheduling, and fuel management. This project seeks to anticipate the highest demand of power utilized by the consumer based on prior load profiles using a Multiple Regression Time Series model developed using MATLAB software. It consists of the following steps: data collection, clustering, series transformation using differentiation transform to remove trend and seasonal structure from the dataset, model identification using autocorrelation function (ACF) and partial correlation function (PCF), model estimation using ARIMA time series errors and maximum likelihood probability, and finally model forecasting using Auto Regression (AR), Moving Average. In this case, the goal is to ensure the power production equals electricity demand, and achieving the target will assure energy security, dependability, and the capacity to maximize profits while minimizing losses.

The evolution, challenges and prospects of implementing Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in Malaysian public universities

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have emerged as a promising educational innovation, aiming to democratize access to quality education on a global scale. In the context of Malaysian public universities, MOOCs have garnered significant interest in enhancing educational outreach, improving learning outcomes, and fostering lifelong learning opportunities. However, the implementation of MOOCs in this setting faces several challenges that impact their effectiveness and long-term sustainability. This review was written based on a careful analysis of the published MOOC literature (2008-2023) identified through journals, database searches, searching the Web, and chaining from known sources to form the base for this review. The review intends to understand how the evolution of MOOCs affects the prospects of MOOCs and how universities incorporate MOOCs into their educational frameworks. In addition, this paper aims to explore the current and anticipated future challenges that hinder the successful integration of MOOCs especially in public universities across Malaysia. The key challenges identified in the present implementation include limited faculty buy-in and engagement, lack of appropriate technological infrastructure, concerns over course quality and accreditation, and difficulties in assessing and recognizing learners’ achievements. Additionally, issues related to cultural barriers and language diversity within the Malaysian context are also found to influence the effective utilization of MOOCs. Looking into the future, this paper will also explore additional potential challenges that may arise in the continued implementation of MOOCs in public universities in Malaysia. Anticipated challenges include evolving pedagogical practices, ensuring equitable access for all learners, addressing the digital divide, and keeping pace with rapidly advancing technology. By shedding light on the current and future challenges faced by public universities in Malaysia in implementing MOOCs, this research aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers, administrators, and educators to enhance the efficacy of MOOCs and leverage their potential for advancing education in the country. Recommendations stemming from this research may include faculty training and development, investment in technological infrastructure, fostering collaborations with private sectors, and designing inclusive and culturally sensitive learning environments. Ultimately, understanding and addressing these challenges are crucial to ensuring the successful integration of MOOCs within the Malaysian higher education landscape, contributing to the nation’s efforts to provide accessible, high-quality education to a diverse and aspiring population.

Engineering Students’ Lifestyle in a Malaysian Public University during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Unhealthy lifestyle among university students is an apparent issue in their quality of life. The criticality of this issue is supplemented by reports that students’ lifestyle was severely impacted due to the pandemic and abrupt shift to online learning. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the lifestyle of engineering students at a Malaysian public university. This paper also seeks to determine gender differences in students’ lifestyles. Questionnaires were distributed to respondents via Google Forms to uncover their eating habits, physical activity, and sleeping habits. Data were collected for three months from four engineering programmes. Simple random sampling was employed, and 120 responses were obtained. The findings revealed that the students have been practising a moderately unhealthy lifestyle; possess average eating habits; are physically inactive, and do not attain sufficient sleep. This study also observed no significant differences between male and female students’ eating and sleeping habits. In contrast, a significant difference was reported between male and female students’ physical activities. The results also determined a moderate correlation between eating habits and sleeping habits and also between eating habits and physical activity. The findings recommend universities implement precautionary measures such as constructing relevant courses and health programmes to raise students’ awareness of the importance of a holistic lifestyle.