State Of Selangor Research Articles

Resistance towards Critically Important Antimicrobials among Enterococcus faecalis and E. faecium in Poultry Farm Environments in Selangor, Malaysia.

Multidrug resistant (MDR) enterococci pose significant public health challenges. However, the extent of resistance in the environment is less explored. This study aimed to determine the antibiotic resistance in a poultry farm environment. Eighty enterococcal isolates recovered from the soil and effluent water of 28 poultry farms in Selangor state were included in the study for further bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing using a VITEK 2 system. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 27. The resistance rate and MDR of enterococcal isolates were reported. Out of 80 isolates recovered, 72 (90%) exhibited resistance to at least one antibiotic, with 50 isolates (62.5%) being found to be MDR. All linezolid-resistant enterococci (LRE) exhibit MDR, which constituted 40% of resistance among all the isolates recovered from poultry environment. Since linezolid is listed as critically important antibiotics for clinical use by the World Health Organization (WHO), the higher resistance towards it and other critically important antibiotic for human use is a serious concern. Hence, relevant agencies need to investigate the use of clinically important antimicrobials in poultry farms paying special attention towards linezolid or any other antibiotics that can facilitate the development of LRE.

Women's health beliefs and uptake of breast cancer screening in Malaysia.

This study investigated women's health beliefs, the use of breast cancer (BC) screening services, and the factors that potentially influence uptake of screening. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with a randomly selected community sample of 992 women (>40 years old) in Selangor State, Malaysia. Approximately 35% of women received a clinical breast examination (CBE) and 27% had a mammogram within the last 1 to 2 years. The regression analyses indicated that Chinese ethnicity has higher perceived susceptibility to BC compared to Malay ethnicity (mean 7.74, SD: 2.75; 95% CI 0.09, 1.03) whilst a lower perceived susceptibility was observed in women aged ≥70 years (mean 6.67, SD: 3.01; 95% CI -1.66, -0.24) compared to women aged 40-49 years. Indian Malaysian women (mean 16.87, SD: 2.59; 95% CI 0.12, 1.01) and women who had received a CBE (mean 16.10, SD:2.35; 95% CI 0.18, 0.89) were more likely to have higher perceived benefits scoring. Indian ethnicity, secondary education and tertiary education, top 20% income group, past history of CBE and mammogram uptake were significantly associated with lower barriers scoring. There is a need to target BC screening uptake improvement programmes towards communities in which women experience disadvantages related to income, education, employment, and, in particular, to tailor programmes to take into consideration differences between ethnic groups regarding their beliefs about cancer screening.

Prediction Model of the Coring Asphalt Pavement Performance through Response Surface Methodology

Pavement evaluations provide crucial information regarding the performance and service life of asphalt concrete (HMA). They examine the structure of an existing pavement before deciding on different maintenance alternatives. The Klang Valley, as part of one of the developing areas in the state of Selangor, generates a high volume of traffic every day due to the increasing number of vehicles crossing the area. Every day, the impact of axle loads caused by vehicles has a negative impact on flexible pavement, resulting in road deterioration due to extreme distress. Pothole failures are one of the most common causes of distress. Five research areas in the Klang Valley area that have deteriorated owing to pothole failures were chosen as case studies. The objective of the study is to investigate the existing flexible pavement conditions by means of laboratory testing consisting of physical, volumetric, and performance tests using collected core samples. As a result, the data collected was compared to the Malaysian Public Work Department’s (PWD) standard. Data from laboratory tests was analyzed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) to determine correlations with parameters influencing distress. Historical data design was carried out between test components and responses, which consisted of laboratory parameters. Axial strain, tensile strength ratio, and stability were the responses measured in the RSM. The created models between the independent variables and responses revealed a high level of correlation. The binder content, degree of compaction, and stiffness were the most significant operating parameters from the 3D plots. Optimized performance due to asphaltic pavement failure was observed at binder content (5.1%), degree of compaction (97%), and stiffness (3.1 kN/mm) to achieve ultimate axial strain (5000 microstrains), tensile strength ratio (80%), and stability (9.2 kN). The study showed that the response surface methodology (RSM) is an effective statistical method for providing an appropriate empirical model for relating parameters and predicting the best performance of an asphaltic mixture to reduce flexible pavement failure.

Attitudes and acceptance of information and communication technology (ICT) among urban and rural teachers in teaching and facilitation

The purpose of the study was to find out the attitudes and acceptance of information and communication technology (ICT) among urban and rural teachers in Teaching and Facilitation (TnF). The use of ICT helps in improving the effectiveness of all areas including education. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) introduced by Fred Davis was used to identify the relationship between teacher attitudes and differences in ICT acceptance between urban and rural areas teachers’ behavior in TnF. This was to determine the actual influencing factors among the Tamil language teachers on the use of information and communication technology in Tamil language TnF. There are several other works carried out in this field including computer teaching and learning, challenges of ICT, teachers' perceptions of ICT, and many more, but the present study is based among urban and rural teachers of Malaysia. Other works done in this field do not focus on students and teachers of Tamil schools. This study is a quantitative study involving a questionnaire. The study involved 96 Tamil schools in the state of Selangor and a total of 260 Tamil language teachers participated in this study. 167 urban schools and 93 rural schools were involved in this study. Data obtained through questionnaires were evaluated using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, hence documented in chronology relevant to the objectives of the study. The findings of the study showed that there is a significant relationship between teachers in urban and rural areas in the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the Tamil language TnF. Through this study, a strong culture of ICT use is applied in the Tamil language TnF process in urban and rural SJK (T) which can be practiced by various stakeholders.

PENGIMARAHAN MASJID KARIAH DI NEGERI SELANGOR MELALUI AKTIVITI MASJID

History has proven that Islam spread widely through the preaching done by the sahabah who have strong faith to Allah SWT. This approach is further strengthened through the construction of mosques as a social and community activities. The basis in the need for the maintenance of the mosque must be based on religious activities through the concept of revival the mosque with the purpose of amar ma'ruf nahi mungkar, which is to ask for people to do good deeds and forbid them from committing any evil. In relation to that, this study was conducted to study the revival of kariah mosques in the state of Selangor through mosque activities. The methodology of this study was quantitative in nature that uses the questionnaires distribution to obtain the main data. The study was conducted on 200 respondents consisting of Nazir Masjid Kariah in the State of Selangor. Next, the data obtained were then analyzed using SPSS Version 23.0 (Statistical Package for Social Science) and explained in the form of descriptive statistics. The findings of the study showed that the mean value for the entertainment of the kariah mosque in the state of Selangor through mosque activities was at a very high level with overall mean value of 4.24. This implies that the revival of kariah mosque in the state of Selangor through mosque activities was defined as very good and satisfactory.

The Use of Knowledge Management Technology Among Selangor State Government Agencies

Knowledge management is one of the important things for the success of an organization. The state of Selangor, which is the first developed state in Malaysia since 2005, often being used as a benchmark by other states, including in terms of information technology implementation. This study has been conducted to identify the use of knowledge management technology among Selangor State government agencies. For this purpose, a quantitative study has been conducted by distributing questionnaire to the respondents from 10 Selangor State government agencies. Studies conducted show that knowledge management technology is part of the instruments used to assist governance in the government agencies of Selangor State. Besides, encouragement from management, related policies and even IT infrastructure are also available and support all information life cycle processes to run well in Selangor State government agencies.

GAYA KEPIMPINAN NAZIR MASJID KARIAH DI NEGERI SELANGOR ASPEK MOTIVASI BERINSPIRASI

The Nazir leadership style is the mainstay in mosque development. It also serves as a symbol of the integrity and strength of Muslims throughout the ages. In discussing issues related to the mosque institution which has various functions, then among the most important issues is the effort towards empowering in the enliven of the mosque through the wisdom of the mosque leadership style. In this regard, this study was conducted to examine the Nazir’s leadership style from the aspect of inspiring motivation. Data were obtained through a quantitative research through the issuance of a set of questionnaires and a total of 200 respondents who answered the questionnaire among Nazir in Selangor. The data obtained were analysed using SPSS Version 23.0 (Statistical Package for Social Science) and explained in the form of descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings of the study show that the mean value for the leadership style of the Nazir of Masjid Kariah is at a very high level which is the mean value of 4.06. This implies that the leadership style of Nazir’s Masjid Kariah in the State of Selangor in terms of motivation is very good and high.

The Current Development of Marriage Age Provisions in Indonesia and Malaysia: A Socio-Historical Approach

This paper discusses how the current social history of Islamic law in the Southeast Asian region relates to the minimum age of marriage. Then also, it will be examined how socio-cultural and socio-political influences surround the change in the provisions of the minimum age of marriage in the two countries. This normative legal research focused on studying legal history using the social history approach of Islamic law. Data is analyzed with qualitative methods. The results showed a change in the age of marriage in Indonesia, from 19 years for men and 16 years for women to 19 years for both men and women. While in Malaysia, most states have not changed the minimum age of marriage, remaining at 18 years old for men and 16 years for women. The change in the age of marriage occurs in the state of Selangor alone, which determines the marriage age limit is 18 years for men and women. The difference in terms of the marriage age limit in these two countries is strongly influenced by the socio-cultural and socio-political dynamics in society. The aspirations of some groups of people towa  rds changing the marriage age limit in both countries have also strengthened due to the growing number of cases of child marriage, extramarital pregnancy, and the practice of abortion in both countries.

MOBILE FATWA OF SELANGOR STATE DEPARTMENT OF MUFTI FROM THE ASPECT OF USER FRIENDLY

Fatwa is a reference for Muslims instead of Al-Quran, Hadith, ijma, and qiyas related to Fiqh that are not clearly described. It is issued by a group of scholars or those who have authority in the science of jurisprudence in Islam. In Malaysia, fatwas can only be gazetted by muftis appointed by king in each state or by ‘Yang Dipertuan Agung’ (king of the country). However, the gazetted fatwa was not utilized by the community for their guidance and reference. This application initiative called M-Fatwa that facilitate information on fatwas to be reached to the public. The content of the fatwa included in this application is taken from the Selangor State Mufti Department. It was developed using a smartphone platform and tested on users from various backgrounds to evaluate the effectiveness and usability of the app. There are about 350 respondents were involved in the study which consisted of users of the M-Fatwa application. The findings show that the application developed meets the needs of users and is suitable for reference.

Pelaksanaan Pendekatan Dakwah Guru Pembimbing Kelas Fardu Ain Muallaf (KFAM) Di Selangor

Teachers teaching Islamic basic education for new Muslim converts (KFAM) have important role to educate them to be pious servants of Allah, strong believers who are beneficial to the ummah. Thus, the da’wah method used by these KFAM teachers should be guided by the exemplary da’wah approaches of Rasulullah (peace be upon him). Nowadays, the state of Selangor has the highest registered number of new Muslim converts in Malaysia. This article discusses the approaches of KFAM practised by these teachers in Selangor. It also analyses the implementation of the FKAM da’wah approaches used in four districts of Selangor, namely Petaling, Gombak, Kuala Selangor and Klang. The study applied qualitative framework and the data collection method used is library research from primary and secondary sources from academic journal articles, books, working papers books which are relevant to the research's focus. Semi-structured interviews with KFAM teachers for new Muslim converts are used, while documentary analysis is applied in the study's data analysis method. The findings of the study indicate that the implementation of the da’wah approaches by the KFAM teachers for new Muslim converts are in accordance with the da’wah of Rasulullah (peace be upon him) which is suitable with the COVID-19 era. Some of these teachers applied creative and effective techniques to train new Muslim converts to be successful Muslims. In fact, this study becomes significant reference to Selangor Zakat Institution as guidance for the teachers for asnaf (zakat beneficiaries) of new Muslim converts in Selangor.

ISSUES AND CHALLENGES IN MANAGING LAND INHERITANCE: A STUDY AMONG SYARIE LAWYERS IN SELANGOR

The high trend of unclaimed Islamic land inheritance properties has become a protracted and growing issue in the life of the community in Malaysia. Most of the problems of inheritance land management stem from the confusion or scramble of the heirs over the assets as well as the failure of the property owner to manage his property efficiently during his lifetime. The problem of estate management must be addressed immediately to improve the economy of Muslims in various aspects by liquidating and utilising the value of frozen assets that have not been claimed by the heirs of the deceased for a long time. Therefore, the issues and challenges related to the management of land inheritance property in Islam need to be put to an end. This research has three main objectives namely the first, to understand the concept of inheritance land in Islam. Second, to identify issues and challenges in the management of land inheritance property in Islam and the third is to analyse the best methods in managing Islamic land inheritance. The data obtained in this research is from in-depth interviews that have been conducted online to several syarie lawyers in the state of Selangor. The data that has been analysed is to evaluate and study the problematic factors of Islamic land inheritance management and the best management methods based on the experience of syarie lawyers in solving problems related to Islamic land inheritance property. Therefore, the results of this study can answer all the objectives that I have given to the respondents related to issues and challenges in managing Islamic land inheritance among syarie lawyers in Selangor.

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN MATRIMONIAL PROPERTY: A CASE STUDY IN SELANGOR

The passage of time and era has greatly changed the role of women in the family institution. In Malaysia, women's rights are empowered in matrimonial property as recognized by the Islamic Family Law in every state including the State of Selangor where it can be claimed by reason of divorce, polygamy or death. However, cases of matrimonial property claims are confusing to women due to several problematic factors such as lack of information, lack of awareness and lack of knowledge of their procedures and rights, thus causing them to feel persecuted by the implementation of this law. The matrimonial property claim is important because it can prove and guarantee the ownership of a woman's property during the marriage period. The purpose of this research is first, to understand women's rights in matrimonial property according to sharia, second to identify women's issues and problems in matrimonial property claims and the third objective is to analyse women's awareness of matrimonial property. This research method is based on the distribution of questionnaires through the Google Form link that has been shared and answered by women respondents in Selangor according to the level of likert scale. The findings of the data are described in a descriptive analysis of their level of awareness, knowledge and understanding in matrimonial property claims. The results of the study on the empowerment of women in matrimonial property in Selangor have shown achievements at a positive level due to good background factors and high understanding from them.

CLASH OF LEGISLATIVE COMPETENCY ON MATTERS OF OFFENCES RELATING TO DECENCY

The Legislative Assembly of the state of Selangor has criminalized sexual intercourse against the order of nature by virtue of S. 28 of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Selangor) Enactment 1995. The power to enforce such law is vested on Jabatan Agama Islam Selangor (“JAIS”). However, the Federal Court’s decision in Iki Putra bin Mubarak v. Kerajaan Negeri Selangor & Anor [2021] MLJU 213 has garnered the attention of the public when the apex court ruled that the Selangor State Legislative Assembly had no power to create the offence of sexual intercourse against the order of nature. The impact of this judgment is immense as it is taking away the power of prosecution of such offence by the Syarie Prosecutor in Selangor. Furthermore, the Federal Court’s judgment also points out that the Penal Code has a similar offence (Section 377A), hence excluding the legislative competence of the state of Selangor to regulate the same. The Iki Putra judgment has become the impetus of this research that aims at identifying and examining the provisions in the Penal Code and Syariah Criminal Offences (Selangor) Enactment 1995 that are considered redundant, with specific reference to offences relating to decency only. In doing so, the research employs qualitative research design. Since this is a doctrinal and library-based research, the research adopts a content analysis method on the primary and secondary materials which include the study into legislation, case law, textbooks and journal articles. The research also applies a comparative approach to determine similarities and differences (if any) between the Penal Code and 1995 Enactment. The finding shows that some offences in both legislations are redundant which will lead to conflict of jurisdiction between civil and Syariah courts. These redundancies will ultimately cause difficulties in the future with the enforcement of Syariah criminal offences.

Visual Awareness Among Industrial Workers in Selangor

Background and Aims: Among all the types of injuries in the industrial sector, eye injuries are one of the most common with moderate severity that occur in the workplace. The aim of this study is to determine the level of knowledge and awareness of eye health and safety among industrial workers. This study also evaluates the vision problems faced by workers as well as the relationship between their knowledge and awareness of eye health and safety. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the level of knowledge and awareness of eye health and safety among industrial workers in the Selangor state. Data was collected using online self-administered questionnaire VPQ consisting of demographic information, vision problems experienced and awareness of eye health and safety in the workplace. Results: Data was entered on IBM SPSS. An analysis of collected data using descriptive statistics indicated that 82.6% have sufficient knowledge about eye health but only 43.5% are aware of eye health and safety policies in their workplace. Regardless of levels of knowledge and awareness all workers experience at least one vision problem while performing their tasks. Conclusion: Industrial workers have some knowledge on vision problems, but awareness is still lacking and organizations should take measures to improve on eye health and safety awareness

Application of graph-based indices to map and develop a connectivity importance index for large mammal conservation in a tropical region: A case study in Selangor State, Peninsular Malaysia

Land use changes are driving the fragmentation of natural habitats in Peninsular Malaysia, even within protected areas, which results in a loss of habitat connections. This process directly affects wildlife species, many of which are threatened with extinction, especially large mammals. To better conserve wildlife, these natural habitats must be linked both structurally and functionally. However, sparse data exists for this geographic region with regards to landscape connectivity and the connectivity importance of habitat patches, and this lack may hinder conservation efforts. To close this knowledge gap, we measured landscape connectivity and the connectivity importance of habitat patches in Selangor State of Peninsular Malaysia, and within its protected area system. We used two large mammals as focal species and graph-based connectivity indices (i.e., probability of connectivity) to map and develop a connectivity importance index (CII). Selangor has poor landscape connectivity for large mammals. CII showed only the two largest habitat patches in the study area have a high connectivity importance. All protected areas situated at hilly sites and those with less human interference yielded a high connectivity importance. However, large parts of habitat patches with a high connectivity importance are located outside the protected areas. These findings demonstrate the importance of considering connectivity indices for large mammals when planning protected area placement. Our study provides an approach to evaluate and plan for land conservation targeting wildlife, but also inform wise land use development.

An online survey on knowledge, attitude and practice among primary healthcare providers towards smoking cessation in Selangor, Malaysia

ObjectiveWe assessed knowledge about the health effects of smoking, attitude, and intention to practice smoking cessation advice. MethodsA cross-sectional online survey was done among 524 healthcare providers in 30 primary care clinics in Selangor State, Malaysia. Association of HCPs’ smoking cessation practices with demographics, service-related and smoking-related factors were tested by Poisson regression. ResultsOverall current smoking prevalence was 3.1 (95%CI 1.6, 4.5), significantly higher among males (14.4 vs 0.2, p < 0.001). Knowledge score was higher (mean 10.8, SD 1.5, maximum 13) than attitude (mean 43.5, SD 13.2, maximum 65) and practice (mean 33.0, SD 9.2, maximum 45) towards smoking cessation. Practice score was associated with female sex [Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR) 1.1, 95%CI 1.09, 1.2], being a nurse (IRR 1.08, 95%Cl 1.04, 1.12), knowledge (IRR 1.02, 95%CI 1.01,1.03), attitude (IRR 0.997, 95%Cl 0.99–1.00) and smoke-free homes (IRR 0.89, 95%CI 0.85,0.94). ConclusionInvolvement of female HCPs (nurses) could improve cessation practices in primary care.

Factors Associated with Handgrip Strength Among Older Adults in Malaysia.

PurposeHandgrip strength (HGS) is indicative of overall physical health among older adults. A decrease in HGS may be associated with an increased risk of disease. The aim of this study is to determine the factors associated with HGS among older adults in Malaysia.Patients and MethodsOne thousand two hundred four (1204) participants from urban and rural areas in Selangor state, Malaysia, were recruited. Sociodemographic and health-related conditions were gathered through a comprehensive face-to-face interview, followed by HGS assessments by a handgrip dynamometer. Subsequently, multiple linear regression was used to test the main association with the HGS.ResultsA total of 691 participants (57.4%) were male, and 513 (42.6%) were female. Males had a mean HGS of 30.0 (SD 7.53) kg, and females had a mean HGS of 19.4 (SD 5.28) kg. Males’ handgrip strength was significantly reduced with increasing age, physically inactive, and diabetes (all at the level p<0.001) after adjusting for social-demographic characteristics and health-related variables. Meanwhile, for females, the HGS was significantly decreased with age (p<0.001), physically inactive (p<0.001) and hypertension (p=0.03). However, female HGS was positively related to BMI (p<0.001).ConclusionThe study contributed to a better understanding of factors associated with HGS, and thus, the HGS is recommended as a section in the health evaluation among high-risk older adults as the strategy of disease control and prevention.

Stigmatomyces aff. limnophorae on dipteran hosts in Peninsular Malaysia

Flies parasitized by Laboulbeniales, captured in Selangor state, were examined and identified as Boettcherisca javanica, Boettcherisca sp ., and Hypopygiopsis violacea. The fungus was identified as Stigmatomyces aff. limnophorae based on morphology and phylogenetic analysis of sequences of the partial nuclear small and large subunit ribosomal RNA genes. This fungus represents a new record for Malaysia; and these are the first reports of Boettcherisca and Hypopygiopsis as hosts for any laboulbenialean species.

Determinants of delayed tuberculosis treatment among patients in Selangor: A study protocol.

The high prevalence rate and ever-increasing incidence of tuberculosis (TB) worldwide remain a significant issue in healthcare. In Malaysia, the incidence and mortality rate of TB is increasing due to the delayed presentation of TB patients to healthcare facilities. However, there is a lack of local studies on the contributing factors of delayed presentation of TB patients in Malaysia. This study aims to establish a social epidemiology framework by analysing social factors including socio-epidemiological, socio-cultural, and health-seeking behaviours associated with the delay in seeking TB treatment among patients in Selangor, Malaysia. A sequential exploratory mixed-method study design that combines qualitative and quantitative research methods will be employed. This study will recruit adult patients who have been diagnosed with TB using chest X-ray and sputum smear microscopy. Four districts with the highest recorded cases in the state of Selangor will be selected as study locations. The qualitative study will involve a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to explore six components, namely demographic, socio-cultural, health-seeking behaviours, social support and resources, previous knowledge and experience with illness, and treatment pathway. Meanwhile, the quantitative study will incorporate a structured survey that will be developed based on the themes identified in the qualitative phase and a review of several studies in the literature. Several quality control measures will be taken while ensuring that the survey questionnaires are anonymised and participants’ confidentiality is maintained. The data obtained from both qualitative and quantitative approaches will be combined to provide a more robust assessment of the study. Given that this study will focus on districts with high recorded cases of TB in Selangor, the findings might assist to address TB-related issues such as the increasing incidence and mortality rates, which are mainly attributed to the delayed presentation of TB patients to healthcare facilities.

Supply chain quality performance (SCQM) and quality performance

The purpose of this study is to investigate the practises on the quality performance impact toward supply chain quality management (SCQM). The study applies quantitative approach, and the questionnaire as a primary data to collect the information. A total of 30 questionnaires were collected from poultry farm owner in the state of Selangor. The descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and multi-regression analysis are used to test the relationship between the independent variable with dependent variable. The results of the finding shows that supply chain integration, customer focus, supplier focus and quality leadership have no relationship toward quality performance. Only employee involvement have relationship with quality performance. The results of this study will help to encourage managers to give the high priority on both inter-firm and intra-firm relationships as a ways to achieve the superior quality performance. The results provide the managers with guidance on effective management to the upstream and downstream of supply chain networks and help to create awareness on the potential synergies that keep arise from the combinations effects of SCQM practices that could bring about desired quality performance outcomes across the whole supply chain network.