Technology In Malaysia Research Articles

Direct Effect of Interactive Mobile Learning Approach towards Renewable Energy on Children in Malaysia

Renewable energy (RE) is getting more attention in solving the escalating global warming issue. However, the community has not been sufficiently educated about this fact. Exposure to renewable energy technology in Malaysia, especially for children, is still lacking, leading to a lack of awareness on the importance of renewable energy. Besides, children’s lack of knowledge about renewable energy and lack of interest in the field of science became problems in this study. Therefore, this study on effect of usefulness, user friendly, quality and user acceptance toward mobile application approach in introducing knowledge of renewable energy. The main software in developing the RE application consist of five components, i.e. introduction, video, game, quiz and news. Testing was carried out on selected children to evaluate children’s satisfaction in terms of using the application in learning RE. A pilot study was conducted on 30 children and the application model was validated by three experts and evaluated for its effectiveness through quantitative studies. Then, the mobile apps were tested on 77 9-year-old children with a quantitative research method to assess the level of knowledge acceptance and awareness of renewable energy. Results indicate that the children’s knowledge of RE increased with the use of this RE mobile application because RE information is delivered in the form of images, audios, and videos. More than 98% of the respondents agree that the application helps in understanding RE. The mobile application also successfully attracted the children’s interest in RE innovation and increased their awareness on the importance of RE.

Adapting Communication Technologies to Enhance Social Support and Lifelong Learning for Older Adults

This qualitative study, employing thematic analysis, aimed to examine the role of communication technologies in delivering social support and promoting lifelong learning among older adults in Malaysia. Social support is crucial for older adults, particularly those dealing with loneliness, depression, or physical and mental health challenges. With the advancement and widespread use of communication technologies, these supports can be enhanced. However, while older adults require such technological support, they must acquire the necessary skills to use these technologies independently. Lifelong learning becomes essential for older adults to stay updated with evolving technological developments. This article explores the social support needs of older adults in relation to communication technologies. Data were collected through focus group discussions (FGD) and semi-structured interviews with fifteen experts in relevant fields. Thematic Content Analysis (TCA), informed by social capital theory, was used to analyze the data. The study identifies eight forms of social support provided by communication technologies: four from social media and four from digital tools. The findings offer insights into the factors that shape the use and effectiveness of communication technologies in delivering social support and further lifelong learning among older adults. The results have both theoretical and practical implications for designing interventions aimed at improving social support and lifelong learning for older adults through communication technologies in Malaysia.

Biochar from agricultural wastes: Environmental sustainability, economic viability and the potential as a negative emissions technology in Malaysia

Biochar used for soil amendment is considered a viable negative emissions technology as it can be produced easily from a wide range of biomass feedstocks, while offering numerous potential agricultural benefits. This research is the first to present a comprehensive sustainability assessment of large-scale biochar production and application in Malaysia. The five feedstocks considered comprise the country's most abundant agricultural wastes from palm oil (empty fruit bunches, fibres, palm fronds and shells) and rice (straw) plantations. Combined with process simulation, life cycle assessment and life cycle costing are used to assess the sustainability of biochar production via slow pyrolysis at different temperatures (300–600 °C), considering two functional units: i) production and application of 1 t of biochar; and ii) removal of 1 t of CO2from the atmosphere. The cradle-to-grave system boundary comprises all life cycle stages from biomass acquisition to biochar use for soil amendment. The positive impacts of the latter, such as carbon sequestration, fertiliser avoidance and reduction in soil N2O emissions, are also included. The global warming potential (GWP) is net-negative in all scenarios, ranging from −436 to −2,085 kg CO2 eq./t biochar and −660 to −933 kg CO2 eq./t CO2 removed. Per t of biochar, the systems with shells have the lowest GWP and those with straw the highest, all showing better performance if produced at higher pyrolysis temperatures. However, the temperature trend is opposite for all other 17 impacts considered, with fibres being the best option and fronds the worst for most categories. Per t CO2 removed, fronds have the highest impact in eight categories, including GWP, and shells the lowest in most categories. All impacts are lower for biochar production at higher temperatures. The main hotspot is the pyrolysis process, influencing the majority of impact categories and contributing 66–75 % to the life cycle costs. The costs range from US$116–197/t biochar and US$60–204/t CO2 removed. The least expensive systems per t biochar are those with straws and per t CO2 removed those with shells, while fronds are the worst option economically for both functional units. Utilising all available feedstocks could remove 6–12.4 Mt of CO2 annually, reducing the national emissions from the agricultural sector by up to 54 % and saving US$36.05 M annually on fertilisers imports. These results will be of interest to policy makers in Malaysia and other regions with abundant agricultural wastes.

The Determinants of Consumer Acceptance of Feminine Technology: Conceptual Paper

This paper explores consumer acceptance and the consumer journey for feminine technology in Malaysia. The market for feminine technology, which encompasses products designed to address women’s specific health and wellness needs, is experiencing significant growth. Understanding consumer perceptions and buying behaviours in this market is crucial for businesses looking to gain a foothold. In this study, a sample of 315 respondents will be collected among the female students of Universiti Teknologi MARA, Universiti Utara Malaysia and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Types and sources of data in this investigation will be based on quantitative data, which is primary data obtained through close-ended questionnaires. The purposive sampling technique will be adopted for this research in identifying the respondents. The data collection method for this research is by disseminating the Google Forms link through the university’s official social platform and email.The gathered data will be statistically analysed using the PLS-SEM. The findings of this research will be beneficial for marketers in forming a strategy to spread awareness of the benefits of feminine technology. Additionally, the information gathered will assist marketers in devising strategies to sway consumers’ purchasing decisions.

A DEMATEL Analysis of The Complex Barriers Hindering Digitalization Technology Adoption In The Malaysia Agriculture Sector

This study investigates the challenges to the digitalization technology adoption in Malaysia agriculture sector by using the DEMATEL (Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) approach, which will give a complete knowledge of the interdependencies among the barriers. The research objectives are to determine the cause and effect of digital agriculture using DEMATEL and to recommend the best way to overcome the obstacles in using digital technology. The findings from this study reveals the cause and effect from the barriers which is lack of skills, lack of technology, high cost, infrastructure and connectivity, and resistance to change are in the cause group while limited locality, data privacy and security concerns, low level of education, market access and regulatory and policy are in the effect group. The research findings are utilized to give policymakers and stakeholders with practical recommendations aimed at addressing the identified barriers and promoting the adoption of digital technologies in Malaysian agriculture. Thus, this study offers recommendations for the most important obstacles found, which are an improvement in infrastructure and the implementation of financial assistance mechanisms. All things considered, this research makes a significant contribution to the subject of agriculture and sheds light on the difficulties associated with implementing new technologies in Malaysia's agriculture industry.

Editorial

Editorial

Exploration of a New Zakat Management System Empowered by Blockchain Technology in Malaysia

Purpose — This paper aims to examine the implementation of blockchain technology in zakat management and determine how it will work in the context of Malaysia. Although zakat institutions in Malaysia use technology, confidence in the efficiency of the zakat fund is still an ongoing issue. Therefore, the potential of blockchain technology for improving the zakat management system is examined. Design/Methodology/Approach — An exploratory study involving two informants with expertise in blockchain technology and Islamic finance was conducted to investigate how the application of blockchain in the zakat management system will accelerate the future implementation and potential of zakat management in Malaysia. Findings — This research finds an accord between the features of blockchain technology and the objectives of zakat. The features are transparency, traceability and security, which align closely with the goals of zakat. As such, a new model has been proposed for the zakat management system, one empowered by blockchain technology that harmonises with the existing system and enhances these elements. Originality/Value — This research can motivate zakat institutions in Malaysia to implement blockchain technology in their zakat management systems by using the proposed model. The research shows the synchronisation of blockchain principles with zakat, which would build trust and confidence. Practical Implications — The discussion on how blockchain can be embedded in the existing zakat management system will contribute towards enhancing zakat management in Malaysia and improve the performance of zakat institutions, enabling them to better serve the community. Given the scarce literature on blockchain adoption in zakat management, this study can spur further research and discussion within this area.

Standard Penetration Test in Malaysia: Safety Issues and Improvement Opportunities

Standard Penetration Test (SPT) is the most frequently used field test for site investigation where drilling work is performed in-situ to determine properties of geomaterials for a project. The SPT results can be affected by the ‘SPT System,’ which includes the operator of the drill rig, the specific model of the drill rig itself, the SPT equipment used to perform the test, and the procedures used in performing the overall test. The safety hazards associated with the system affect the SPT results. Although several countries are embracing innovative technologies in the SPT drilling works to enhance safety performance, the adoption of these technologies in Malaysia remains relatively sluggish. This study aims to analyse the current SPT practice in Malaysia from the lens of ‘the SPT System,’ technologies used in the SPT drilling works, and identify the best practice adopted locally in ensuring safety. This study collected 102 responses using a questionnaire survey validated by four construction professionals experienced in the SPT drilling works. The study revealed that the British Standards are the most used standards in Malaysia. The traditional methods are still being practiced as the “SPT System’ in Malaysia due to the difficulties in obtaining skilled operators for new technology adoption. Advanced technologies have not been adopted because construction professionals are complacent with the current technologies. Amongst innovative safety gear, smart equipment tags and smart wrist wearables are the most favourable. This study presents new findings and sheds light into the local practice of the construction professionals in Malaysia in the SPT drilling works. This study provides an insight for Malaysian construction industry to develop a strategy in improving the efficiency and safety of SPT drilling works through adoption of innovative technologies. Technology driven safety hazard mitigation may boost Malaysian Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) industry and in doing so will increase TVET operators to be trained and certified.

Study of intention to use renewable energy technology in Malaysia using TAM and TPB

Despite the increase in the usage of renewable energy in Malaysia, the proportion of renewable energy (RE) within the energy mix lags far behind satisfactory levels, at a mere 23% in 2020 compared to the 31% target by 2025 as per Malaysia's Energy Transition Roadmap. The public acceptance towards RE is one of the many obstacles that hinders the proliferation of RE in Malaysia. It is therefore imperative to determine the key factors which shape an individual's intention to utilize RE. In this study, three models are compared and assessed in terms of their efficacy in predicting such behavioural intention, namely the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and an extended model that combines the characteristics of the two prior theories. Partial-least-squares structural equation modelling, finite mixture partial least squares (FIMIX-PLS), and important-performance map analysis (IPMA) were performed on the collected survey dataset with 524 responses. Analyses revealed that attitude and perceived behavioural control are important factors of intention to adopt renewable energy technology, with perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness in turn being significant antecedents of attitude, whereas subjective norm did not influence intention. Among the three models, the extended model triumphs in terms of path significance and explanatory power, followed by TPB and then TAM. Results show that costs, ease of use and accessibility of RE remain limiting factors towards RE adoption in Malaysia, hence the need of appropriate policies/programmes, such as targeted incentive campaigns, to alleviate this issue.

Framework analysis on the adoption of digital healthcare services among senior citizens by using the extended technology acceptance model (ETAM)

Over the years, the digital healthcare sector has started taking shape across the world with the intention to deliver social benefits to all citizens. In Malaysia, a lot of effort has taken place to improve the healthcare system to be more efficient and accessible. SELangkah mobile application developed by Selgate Corporation for instance provided multi-step health features for users. Besides the proliferation of mobile technology, the aging population is one of the key drivers that cause healthcare-related stakeholders in Malaysia to start making considerable improvements toward digital healthcare services. Thus, senior citizens are considered one of the more important age-groups for service providers to focus on. However, the adoption of the health technology in Malaysia is relatively low and as of the year 2020, only 10.7% of Malaysia’s senior citizens aged 60 years and above have adopted digital healthcare services. This number may grow as the population of Malaysia’s senior citizen are expected to rise to 14.5% of the total population by 2040. Therefore, this study utilizes framework analysis in identifying potential challenges for senior citizens to adopt to technology alongside framework analysis method to assess framework models that uses the extended technology acceptance model (ETAM) to measure user adoption of digital healthcare services. The framework analysis consists of five stages which includes familiarization, identifying framework, indexing, charting, mapping and interpretation. The findings show the relationship between users’ acceptance model with senior citizens’ actual use of the digital healthcare system in addition to the main challenges being information quality, privacy and security, trust, and health literacy. This will contribute to the foundation for future research aimed at improving digital healthcare services and bridge the gap in technology access to be the opportunity to use digital means as a tool for a healthier life.

Telemedicine implementation framework for Malaysia: An integrated SWOT-MCDM approach

ObjectivesDespite the increase in the utilization of telemedicine worldwide, especially during the pandemic, its implementation in Malaysia's healthcare industry remains scarce. Hence, this study aims to understand the current state of telemedicine utilization by identifying the constraints and establishing the optimum telemedicine implementation strategy. MethodsThe study proposes an integrated methodology based on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis, analytical hierarchy process entropy (AHPE), and fuzzy technique for order performance by similarity to the ideal solution (FTOPSIS). The SWOT analysis is performed for the situational assessment of telemedicine technology in Malaysia. Each element of SWOT was assessed using AHPE to establish priorities, followed by the FTOPSIS approach to provide strategies for its successful adoption. ResultsThe findings show that continuous government support and encouragement for market acquisition, cost-cutting, profit-maximizing, and Internet of Things (IoT)-based adoption to establish a strong telemedicine network is the most important strategy for telemedicine technology implementation. While using a structured method to improve service quality, the implementation of a knowledge-sharing management program for telemedicine technology is ranked as the least preferred telemedicine technology implementation strategy. ConclusionsThe study suggests a systematic way of developing and evaluating telemedicine technology implementation strategies for further improving Malaysian healthcare patient experiences and policy endeavours. This study proposed alternative strategies to expand telemedicine technology implementation. It is hoped that this study could further enhance knowledge and serve as a guide for stakeholders in the healthcare industry to understand their business environment better.

Automotive Technology and Patent Assignee in Malaysia: An Exploratory Patent

The automotive industry in Malaysia has been established for over four decades, following the introduction of the Industrial Master Plan Malaysia (IMP) in 1985, and the subsequent launching of the National Automotive Policy (NAP) aimed at driving the growth of the automotive industry in Malaysia. A key focus of the NAP was industrial research and development to promote the leadership of Malaysian automotive companies in the region. Consequently, the alignment of university-industry research with the NAP is critical in fostering innovation and advancement in automotive technology. This study employs patent analysis to investigate the university-industry research and development of automotive technology in Malaysia. The objective is to identify patent trends in automotive technology developed by university-industry, which can provide crucial insight for researchers and inventors to incorporate the latest patented technology and support future inventions.

The impact of policy toward R&D and innovation on nuclear technology in Malaysia

Nuclear science and technology for peaceful uses successfully progressed in various areas such as industry, medicine and healthcare, food and agriculture, natural resources, energy, and nuclear safety and security, through research and development and innovation (RDI). Realizing the importance of RDI in nuclear technology as the driving force in addressing societal challenges, most countries, including Malaysia, are developing new policies to promote R&D and innovation in nuclear technology. This paper assesses the impact of the policy on the performance of R&D and innovation in nuclear technology in Malaysia from 2011-2021 using the data envelopment analysis (DEA) and Malmquist index (MI) analysis. The study used two inputs, namely RDC & Development budget (RM Million) and Operating budget (RM Million), and three outputs, namely revenue (RM Million), no. of R&D products and no. of publications. The result shows that the performance of R&D and innovation in nuclear technology is 96.70 per cent from 2011-2021. The study shows that the growth of R&D and innovation in nuclear technology decreased by 8.3 per cent for the entire study period. The technological changes decreased at 8.3 per cent, while the efficiency changes remain. The study also found that nuclear technology growth is mainly affected by technological changes due to policy changes compare to the resources provided since efficiency changes remain.

Do Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance Practices Enhance Malaysian Public-Listed Companies Performance?

This study examines whether there is a positive relationship between Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) disclosure and financial performance, as measured by Tobin’s Q. Using a sample of 59 listed firms under the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia (F4GBM) Index from 2014 to 2021, our panel regression analyses show: First, ESG has a significant positive impact on company performance. Second, Social Disclosure (SOC) positively impacts financial performance. As a policy suggestion, the government must have a complete mechanism to monitor and promote the ESG blueprint. In addition, the government should develop programmes that are pro-ESG by giving tax exemption to firms that implement ESG strategies, for example, increasing the publicity of the Green Investment Tax Credit (GITA) to promote the development of green technology in Malaysia.

Utilization of Green Materials and Technology for Sustainable Construction in Malaysia

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of the construction industry on the environment in Malaysia and propose strategies for mitigating its adverse effects through the adoption of sustainable building techniques. The study recognizes the importance of a healthy ecosystem in promoting health conditions, improving living standards, and ensuring a sustainable future for the nation. However, the recent population expansion has placed increased pressure on Malaysia's building industry and infrastructure, resulting in environmental degradation caused by the construction sector. To address this issue, the study examines the overall framework of ecological management implemented in Malaysia's construction industry. It evaluates key aspects of construction management, including the formulation and implementation of environmental policies, the involvement of stakeholders in decision-making processes, and the effective management of construction waste. Additionally, the study conducts a comprehensive assessment of specific regulations and guidelines pertaining to construction waste, water contamination, and air pollution, all of which are prevalent issues in Malaysia's construction activities. Furthermore, the study highlights the benefits of using green materials in construction to minimize environmental impact and enhance overall quality of life. It explores the implementation of green technologies in Malaysia, considering their advantages and disadvantages within the local context. By doing so, the study aims to provide insights into the challenges faced in the widespread adoption of green technologies, taking into account the perspectives of the government, economy, society, and available resources. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the need for collaboration among all stakeholders to address environmental damage effectively. It stresses the importance of an inclusive approach, ensuring that no one is left behind in the efforts to rectify the situation and prevent further deterioration of the environment. By taking proactive measures and implementing sustainable building techniques, it is hoped that the construction industry in Malaysia can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for the nation.

The Role of IoT Technologies in Malaysia During the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Mini-Revie

The Covid-19 global infection has significantly influenced people’s health, resulting in sudden changes in lifestyle through social exclusion and isolation. To break the transmission and terrifying health threat of Covid-19, the Malaysian Government imposed a Movement Control Order (MCO) starting March 18, 2020, by restricting movement and contact. The Covid-19 pandemic emphasized the importance of the digital inclusion agenda, and the application of Internet of Things (IoT) services has given tremendous benefits in various disciplines, as it helps maintain physical distance during the pandemic. Modern lifestyles are being transformed by the IoT revolution by embracing technological, economic, and social prospects. In fact, many sectors in Malaysia would be transformed through the application of IoT, particularly in productivity, and services. Thus, this review paper discusses IoT’s most recent breakthroughs and applications that are used in Malaysia during the Covid-19 crisis. Furthermore, it investigates current IoT implementation and discusses the potential impact of the pandemic on the application of IoT in terms of technology trends and economic impact. IoT is worth mentioning as one of the technologies demonstrating its importance and capabilities in mitigating the severity of the pandemic within the country. This article delves into the applications, social and economic impact, and barriers to the widespread adoption of IoT in the Covid-19 pandemic. This review paper will be useful to academic researchers, business professionals, organizations in various sectors, and anyone interested in determining IoT services’ impact on pandemics.

Municipal Wastewater Treatment Technologies in Malaysia: A Short Review

The aim of this study was to evaluate different municipal wastewater treatment technologies for commercial use and develop an optimized system for a case study plant and future plant designs. Municipal wastewater, classified as a low-strength waste stream, can be treated using aerobic and anaerobic reactor systems or a combination of both. Aerobic systems are suitable for low-strength wastewaters, while anaerobic systems are suitable for high-strength wastewaters. Malaysia has actively implemented various wastewater treatment technologies to address the increasing demand for clean water and reduce environmental pollution. Some commonly used technologies in Malaysia include Activated Sludge Process (ASP), Membrane Bioreactor (MBR), and Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR). These technologies show promise in removing emerging pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products, which are not effectively eliminated by conventional treatment methods. Additionally, Malaysia could consider investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind to power wastewater treatment plants, thereby reducing reliance on non-renewable energy and supporting sustainable development. It is also important to emphasize continued public awareness and education initiatives to promote responsible wastewater disposal practices and environmental stewardship.

EXAMINING PERCEPTION AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS SMART RETAIL TECHNOLOGIES IN THE RETAIL SECTOR

This study was carried out to investigate the relationships between perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and perceived novelty on attitudes toward using smart retail technologies. Smart retail technologies (SRT) presented a fresh opportunity to investigate the breadth and depth of retail knowledge, which has the potential to enhance the traditional shopping experience. Since there is still an incomplete landscape regarding the development of smart retail technologies in Malaysia, the researchers aimed to approach the shoppers in Penang, Malaysia who had experiences with using smart retail technologies. Using the mall intercept sampling technique, the study received a total of 115 respondents. SmartPLS 3.0 was the data analysis tool applied in this study. In the measurement model, the reliability analysis showed that each variable has 0.7 Alpha, indicating high reliability. Overall, the results indicated that perceived usefulness and perceived novelty have a relationship with shoppers’ attitudes toward smart retailing technologies. This study contributes important implications for both academicians and industry players.

A Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of Dry and Wet Anaerobic Digestion Technologies for Food Waste Management

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is especially useful in the treatment of organic waste sources, such as food waste (FW) since AD can support the generation of clean energy while preventing the hazards of uncontrolled GHG pollution originating from landfills. However, the potential environmental impacts of dry AD and integrated wet AD treatment are largely unknown, particularly in Malaysia. Thus, this study aimed to compare the potential environmental impacts of four FW treatment technologies in Malaysia: landfill (Sc0), dry anaerobic digestion (Sc1), wet anaerobic digestion combined with windrow composting (Sc2), and wet anaerobic digestion combined with windrow composting and landfill (Sc3). The scenario modelling was performed via GaBi v6.0 software using 1 ton of pre-treated FW as a functional unit, with the analysis of environmental impact scores being based on the ReCiPe (H) v1.07 characterization method. At the midpoint assessment, the Sc1 produced extensive improvements in 12 mid-point impact categories, being the most environmentally favoured FW treatment method compared to the other options in critical categories such as global warming, depletion of fossils and agricultural land occupation. The Sc1 mesophilic conducting reactor in this study used less energy for heating, without generating waste water while requiring a small operating area. Sc3 had the lowest environmental performance since the emissions into the air from windrow composting and landfill were discharged completely without any form of treatment like capturing or flaring. Finally, through the single score analysis, Sc1 was regarded as an appropriate FW treatment technology with the least damaging impact on resource depletion, human health, and ecosystems in comparison to all scenarios. This was accomplished through relatively low power demands for the operation, shorter road transport distances, and a substantial reduction in the amount of waste and electricity generation. These analyses provide a useful framework for understanding the important characteristics of anaerobic treatment despite the divergent challenges faced by the different processes.

The Impact of Social Media Usage on the Organisation’s Reputation Risk through its Cybersecurity

The utilisation of social media among organisations is growing tremendously and is seen to be moving forward in line with the rapidly evolving technology in Malaysia. It is inevitable that social media not only provides benefits to organisations but also exposes organisations to various risks. Local organisations often get public attention when an issue related to the organisation goes viral on social media, exposing them to reputation risk and eventually affecting their reputation. Changes in the reputation of organisations affect relationships with their stakeholders. Most organisations today are aware of the importance of using social media. Despite the beneficial usage of social media, organisations encounter social media risks that require attention and must be catered to wisely. Due to the vulnerability of social media, there is a high possibility of being attacked, which indicates the need for effective cybersecurity in organisations. The aim of this conceptual paper is to discuss the relationship between social media usage and organisation’s reputation risk, in which organisation’s cybersecurity is predictably act as a mediator in the relationship between the variables.