Users In Malaysia Research Articles

Cybersecurity awareness and fear of cyberattacks among online banking users in Malaysia

PurposeDrawing on protection motivation theory (PMT), this study aims to explore the factors that enhance cybersecurity awareness among online banking users in Malaysia. More specifically, it investigates the influences of perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, technical knowledge, privacy intrusions and privacy awareness on perceived threats and then examines the effects of perceived threats, along with response efficacy and self-efficacy, on cybersecurity awareness, considering the moderating role of fear of cyberattacks.Design/methodology/approachA survey-based research approach was applied, and the hypotheses were tested using a sample of 324 respondents, employing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).FindingsThe results show that perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, privacy intrusions and privacy awareness significantly influence perceived threats, while technical knowledge does not influence perceived threats. Furthermore, it was found that response efficacy and self-efficacy both enhance cybersecurity awareness, while perceived threats have no influence on it. Finally, our research confirmed the moderating role of fear of cyberattacks in the relationship between self-efficacy and cybersecurity awareness.Practical implicationsFor individuals, the study highlights the significance of fear, privacy awareness and response efficacy in shaping cybersecurity perceptions, paving the way for enhanced and tailored awareness programs. Moreover, the understanding of relationships between perceived threats, response efficacy and self-efficacy empowers individuals to craft personalized risk mitigation strategies, fostering confidence in navigating the digital landscape. Businesses can leverage the insights for informed design of employee training programs and data-driven decision-making in cybersecurity investments. Government entities, recognizing the nuanced relationship between perceived threats and cybersecurity awareness, are encouraged to formulate context-specific policies and foster cross-sector collaboration for comprehensive cybersecurity initiatives.Originality/valueThis research extends PMT by incorporating additional antecedent variables – namely, technical knowledge, privacy intrusions and privacy awareness within the online banking context that have been overlooked thus far. Furthermore, it delves into the unique role of fear of cyberattack as a moderating variable, thereby enhancing our understanding of PMT.

The Impact of Health Communication Competence towards Electronic Word of Mouth (e-WOM) in Health Information Sharing among Internet Users in Malaysia

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered daily activities, with Malaysians increasingly relying on the internet for various tasks, such as e-commerce and booking health appointments. This descriptive study applied a cross-sectional approach to explore the relationship between health communication competence and electronic word of mouth (e-WOM) among internet users in Malaysia. A total of 400 respondents, selected through quota sampling from four regions, completed a questionnaire divided into three sections: demographic background, health communication competence, and e-WOM. The findings indicated that Malaysian internet users possess fair health communication competence. Correlational analysis showed significant relationships between health communication competence—specifically adherence, critical and participative communication, and active disease-related communication—and e-WOM. However, multiple regression analysis identified critical and participative communication as the strongest predictor of e-WOM in health information sharing. The research met its three objectives and supported all four hypotheses, contributing valuable insights to a previously under-researched area and offering a foundation for future exploration of these variables.

Conceptualizing the Implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools and Personalization Marketing on Consumer Purchase Intention: Insights from the Malaysian E-Commerce Market

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool, enabling online retailers to offer highly personalized shopping experiences tailored to individual preferences and behaviors. As e-commerce continues to grow in Malaysia, understanding the influence of AI and personalization marketing on consumer purchase intentions has become increasingly important for businesses seeking to remain competitive. However, the rapid adoption of AI also raises concerns about data privacy, ethical AI usage, and compliance with emerging data protection regulations, such as Malaysia’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA). This study aims to explore the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and personalization marketing on consumer purchase intention within the Malaysian e-commerce market. By reviewing previous literature and theoretical frameworks, the study explores how the use of AI tools including predictive analytics automation, and personalization experiences might influence consumer behavior in online shopping environments. The study adopts a quantitative approach, in which quota sampling will be used for the participant selection. A self-administered questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale will be employed to gather data from e-commerce users in Malaysia. The findings from this study have important implications for both e-commerce businesses and policymakers in Malaysia. For businesses, understanding which aspects of AI and personalization most influence consumer purchase intentions can help them strategically implement these technologies to enhance customer engagement and drive sales. For policymakers, the study highlights the need to consider ethical and legal issues, such as data privacy and policy issues, in the growing use of AI in the e-commerce market.

Modelling the Predictors of Social Media Marketing on Consumer Buying Behavior in Malaysia

Despite the rapid increase in internet and mobile users in Malaysia, the growth of online purchases through social media platforms has not kept pace with this broader digital trend. This study investigates the key predictors that influence consumer buying behavior through social media marketing, with a specific focus on the roles of Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU) and Perceived Usefulness (PU) of these platforms. Employing a quantitative cross-sectional research design, data were collected from 115 respondents in Malaysia who have experience making online purchases via mobile applications. The study also examines variations in consumer experiences based on demographic factors, including age, gender, education level, and geographic region. The findings indicate that both PEOU and PU are significant predictors that shape consumer buying behavior on social media platforms. This research provides valuable insights for marketers seeking to enhance the effectiveness of their social media marketing strategies. By better understanding the factors driving consumer behavior in the Malaysian market, businesses can design more targeted and personalized campaigns for specific consumer segments, ultimately improving their competitive advantage in this digital landscape.

Customers on the Move: Predicting Customer Satisfaction among Mobile Banking Users in Malaysia

In recent decades, the financial industry has seen rapid modernization of information technology and increased competition. Nevertheless, numerous past studies have shown that technological adoption in mobile banking is relatively low in certain Southeast Asian countries. Customers' opposition to mobile banking services is mostly attributed to a lack of knowledge, security worries, and technological difficulties. Therefore, financial service providers need to comprehend and meet customer expectations to enhance the mobile banking experience. This, the present research seeks to examine the determinants of customer satisfaction with mobile banking among Malaysian consumers. The findings demonstrate that perceived ease of use, efficiency, and responsiveness were significant in influencing customer satisfaction. However, interoperability, privacy and security, and reliability were not significant in affecting mobile banking satisfaction. The findings have implications for both theoretical and practical perspectives, highlighting the need for efficient mobile banking services, enhancing financial inclusion, and empowering individuals.

A web-based travel package management system integrated with QR code

The tourism industry is associated with people travelling either domestically or abroad, for business, social, or recreational reasons. This industry integrates numerous services and activities such as tourism organization, marketing, hotel industry, transportation services, food and beverage activities, retail stores and various other activities under one umbrella. In addition to generating income and jobs, tourism is the best way to promote the nation's image. As the economy and living conditions have improved, so too has the tourist sector, and more people are turning to vacations as a way to alleviate stress and unwind. Currently, travel agencies handle a lot of data with low efficiency and a lot of mistakes. Therefore, this study developed a comprehensive integration of QR code for package travel management system that caters to users in Malaysia, offering functionalities such as itinerary customization, QR code generation and access to essential travel information. The development of this project adopts the Waterfall Methodology, encompassing phases such as planning, requirement analysis, design, implementation and testing. The application is crafted using the Visual Studio Code. The study conducted a User Acceptance Testing (UAT) using questionnaires to evaluate the system's effectiveness and user-friendliness to thirty respondents including family members of frequent travellers and randomly selected community members. Positive feedbacks with Perceived Ease of Use (PEU) scoring 3.6, Attitude of Using (ATT) at 3.7, Perceived Usefulness (PU) scoring 3.4, and Intention to Use (IU) obtaining 3.9, were gathered from the analysis and findings that emphasizing the QR code system's potential as a cost-effective and efficient solution for travellers to monitor and optimize their travel experiences. Future work involves adding maps for easy navigation and implementing augmented reality (AR) for virtual destination previews.

Perceptions on Public Transportation Safety Among Female Users in Malaysia

Public transport in Malaysia has grown through government investment aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in urban areas. However, the safety of women using public transport is often viewed as less significant and is generally treated as a universal design issue. Ironically, past research strongly indicates that women face safety and security concerns in public spaces and while using public transportation services, traveling differently from men in terms of mobility and accessibility. These gendered and socio-economic inequalities affect women’s choice of transportation mode, negatively impacting their overall health, safety, and well-being. These elements must be planned thoroughly to achieve inclusive planning and gender equality in transportation. The main challenges to women's mobility in Malaysia include gender-based violence and issues related to the safety and access to public transportation. This paper is based on a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) regarding public transport safety attitudes and perceptions among female users aged 15 to 70 in Malaysia, focusing on variables such as safety, women-friendly facilities, and expectations vs. perceptions. The findings highlighted gender-based issues such as sexual assault, harassment, and child trafficking as major concerns impeding women's access to public transportation services in Malaysia. Participation by stakeholders in the provision of a holistic and inclusive public transport infrastructure remains a bureaucratic obstacle in Malaysia's planning and implementation of public transport services. Public transportation strategies need to be holistic, ensuring that the physical design and other strategies employed prevent security breaches and provide a sense of safety, especially for women and children. Post-incident support by designated and relevant agencies is also crucial. Infrastructure improvements need to be accompanied by awareness campaigns and advocacy to cultivate a more secure environment for everyone in public spaces.

Does personal innovativeness and personal anxiety matter? The predictors of continuance use intention of an e-wallet system

PurposeElectronic wallets (e-wallet) systems have revolutionized transactional activities, prompting individuals to adopt digital payment methods. This study investigates the determinants of the continuance intention of the e-wallet system Touch 'n Go in Malaysia. We propose a framework integrating the diffusion of innovation theory (DOI) and mental accounting theory, thereby assessing the impacts of product-related factors (convenience, compatibility, perceived risk and perceived compatibility) and the moderating role of personal-related factors [personal innovativeness (PI) and personal anxiety].Design/methodology/approachData were collected involving 381 Malaysian Touch 'n Go users. The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was applied as a data analysis technique.FindingsAs demonstrated by the results, convenience serves as a facilitator, while perceived risk acts as an inhibitor, influencing the continuance intention of the application. Compatibility and perceived complexity are found to be insignificant antecedents. However, neither PI nor personal anxiety was found as moderators.Originality/valueThis research brings contributions to the electronic commerce literature by extending the understanding of the predictors and moderators of the continuance intention of Touch 'n Go users in Malaysia. We discuss how these findings implicate the two theories and offer insights for service providers and policymakers to promote the post-adoption intentions of Touch 'n Go.

Determinant of Digital E-Payment Adoption among Ar-rahnu Co-operative Users in Malaysia

Determinant of Digital E-Payment Adoption among Ar-rahnu Co-operative Users in Malaysia

Do Food Deliveries Lead to More Plastic Waste? A Study on Consumers’ Intention to Reuse Food Delivery Containers

This study aims to examine the determinants of consumers’ intention to reuse food delivery containers (ITR). The hypotheses will be tested on 200 food delivery service users in Malaysia and will be analysed using the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Understanding consumers’ ITR could promote practical environmental sustainability. Practically, the study will provide insights to the food delivery service industry, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders to encourage consumer behaviour change by reusing food delivery containers in line with Sustainable Development Goal 12. This study aims to investigate the following variables that influence the intention to reuse food delivery containers namely government support, moral obligations, subjective norms, perceived control behaviour, attitude, and government support. The study enhances the existing literature by extending the government support - independent variable. In addition, this study could benefit food and beverage merchants, food delivery companies, and government agencies.

What financial topics do people search for? An analysis of search queries using text mining

Billions of web searches are recorded every day; however, little is known about the types of financial information that users search for. While many studies have investigated information exchanges in financial forums, this is the first study to identify the financial information needs of Internet users in Malaysia through an analysis of search queries. We identified financial topics and discovered subtopics of interest using text mining. We found that topics with high search volume were related to financial products and services, and very little was related to concepts and information that would increase financial knowledge. The results of this study can be used to develop more strategic online financial education content that not only meets users’ financial information needs but also increases their financial knowledge, especially when the financial knowledge of the global population has remained low over the years.

The nature of the relationship between service quality and customer satisfaction among mobile users: Experience from Malaysia

This paper aims to investigate the impact of service quality on customer satisfaction for mobile users in Malaysia. Specifically, this paper examined the impact of service quality dimensions (tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, empathy) on customer satisfaction in the post-COVID era. The data were collected by using a self-administered questionnaire to the sample of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor states mobile users. Overall, 117 responses were gathered and five hypotheses were tested using hierarchical regression analyses. The results are mixed. Out of five hypotheses, only two were accepted. Reliability and responsiveness were found significantly positive relation to customer satisfaction whereas tangibility, assurance, and empathy were shown otherwise. Lastly, the discussion part will deliberate on the conflicting results. The limitations and suggestions for future research are also presented.

Unveiling the Dynamics: An Empirical Study on the Adoption of Mobile Shopping Apps among Malaysian Consumers During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The growth of smartphone technology has facilitated the introduction of mobile shopping apps. These apps have revolutionized how people shop by providing convenient and accessible platforms for browsing, comparing, and purchasing products from the comfort of their mobile devices. This study aims to determine and understand factors that influence the adoption of mobile shopping apps among Malaysian consumers. Data were gathered via an online survey involving a sample of 319 mobile shopping app users in Malaysia. The data were then analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26.0 software. Findings indicate that perceived ease of use, and value consciousness have a significant positive effect on the adoption of mobile shopping apps but perceived usefulness did not have any significant influence. The findings can serve as a guideline for online retailers and marketers when formulating an effective marketing strategy to enhance the adoption of mobile shopping apps among Malaysian consumers.

Key Factors that Influence Post Pandemic Online Purchase Intention of Generation Y and Z in Malaysia

As the Movement Control Order (MCO) was imposed in Malaysia in March 2020, many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have engaged in online platforms to sustain their business. However, there have been significant changes in consumer trends and spending patterns accompanied by rapid digital adoption since MCO. Consumers’ shopping habits have changed as a result of MCO, and they maintained this habit even after MCO. Therefore, this research examined the key factors that influence post-pandemic online purchase intention in Malaysia, which include influencer marketing, live streaming commerce, loyalty programs, and online shopping experience. The theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) model was used to explain consumer behaviour. 30 sets of surveys were used to carry out the pilot test. Purposive sampling was used to collect 384 sets of data from 5 states with the most e-commerce users in Malaysia which included Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Pulau Pinang, and Perak. Cronbach’s Alpha was used to determine the reliability of the variables. Pearson Correlation Analysis was used to measure how 2 sets of data were related. Multiple Regression Analysis was used to describe relationships between variables. The result showed that loyalty programs and online shopping experience have a significant relationship with online purchase intention while influencer marketing and live-streaming commerce have no significant relationship with online purchase intention. The online shopping experience has the strongest influence on online purchase intention. In this regard, this study will provide profound insights to online purchase intention of generation Y and Z in Malaysia.

Development of a Safe Driver’s Attitude Intervention Module Based on the SaringSikap Screening Method

The human factors are consistently the leading cause of road crashes in Malaysia and worldwide. This study would like to support the government's effort to reduce road crashes by proposing a comprehensive driver's intervention module based on the SaringSikap/ASDS46 screening method. A total of 240 volunteers had undergone the screening process. Domain 1 (D1) scored the highest high-risk attitude score, and Domain 2 (D2) was the lowest. This intervention will benefit all groups of road users in Malaysia. It also will assist the government in reducing road crashes in the future through education and empowerment programs.

Factors Influencing Consumers' Online Shopping Behaviour: A Study of Shopee in Malaysia

Shopee is one of the top-notch companies in the e-commerce field. It recorded 343 million visitors per month and its gross merchandise value was even aggregated to USD 19 billion in the second quarter of 2022. Shopee also expanded its business operations aggressively to new regions, namely Europe, Latin America, and South Korea. This study intends to examine the variables that influence customers’ online shopping behaviour in Shopee. A survey questionnaire is conducted to collect data from 150 Shopee’s users in Malaysia. The findings depicted that perceived trust and security, perceived service quality and perceived ease of use had influenced the customers’ online shopping behaviour towards Shopee in Malaysia. Perceived usefulness and perceived convenience did not greatly impact the customers’ online buying intention on Shopee in Malaysia. This study can provide Shopee with useful business insights about customers’ online shopping behaviour. It is recommended for Shopee Malaysia to prioritize the enhancement of three variables that exhibit a favorable correlation with customers' online shopping behavior, thereby ensuring business growth and expansion.

The Role of Education and Demographic Factors in Condom Use among Male Drug Users in Malaysia

Introduction: The rising prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among people who inject drugs is a major public health issue. This study intends to explore education and demographic correlates of use of condoms among male drug users in Malaysia. Methods: Data were extracted from the Integrated Biological and Behavioral Surveillance Survey 2017. Pearson’s chi-square tests and a logistic regression were used to examine the associations between condom use and education, and demographic factors. Results: Only a small proportion of drug users used condoms (25.7%). Educational backgrounds, age, ethnicity and marital status were associated with condom use. The likelihood of using condoms was lower among less educated drug users (aOR: 0.308–0.339). There was an interaction effect of education and age on condom use (aOR: 0.116–0.308). Chinese (aOR: 3.117) and those of other ethnicities (aOR: 2.934) were more likely to use condoms when compared with Malays. Being married (aOR: 0.291) or divorced/widowed (aOR: 0.346) was associated with reduced odds of using condoms. Conclusion: Education and demographic factors play an important role in influencing the decisions of Malaysian drug users to use condoms. Therefore, HIV-preventive measures targeting drug users could benefit by paying special attention to these factors.

Navigating the Hazards: Assessing the Consumer Risks of Fintech in Malaysia: A Conceptual Study

Fintech has come to be known as there is an increasing rate of users in Malaysia. The Covid-19 pandemic hastened the uptake of fintech and digital services in Malaysia, reflecting global patterns. According to the Fintech News Malaysia 2023, Malaysia remains the top-ranked country on the Global Islamic Fintech (GIFT) Index, reflecting its robust environment for Islamic fintech growth. Moreover, online and mobile banking maintained strong growth in 2022 and 2023, with electronic transactions via connected mobile devices and DuitNow QR codes becoming more widely adopted. This significant increase in fintech usage could expose consumers to potential risks. Users, particularly customers and bank employees, may have their rights violated because of cyber security issues such as identity theft and data breaches. This conceptual study utilizes a simple Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach to explore and assess consumer risks within the Malaysian fintech industry. The main potential risks were identified as: (1) cybersecurity threats, (2) confidentiality, and (3) data protection. Moreover, this study addresses the awareness and acceptance of fintech goods and services by Malaysian consumers. Given the potential risks posed by fintech, it is essential for users to be aware and take protective measures. The government should work towards establishing clear guidelines that mandate fintech companies to implement robust security protocols, ensuring that consumer data is adequately protected against breaches and misuse. Additionally, the government could enhance collaboration with industry stakeholders to create a more unified approach to risk management in the fintech sector

How Loyal are You? Factors Influencing Consumer Brand Loyalty among Smartphone Users in Malaysia

Smartphones have become a vital aspect of people every day. The technology development enables people to contact with one another from anywhere at any time. In competitive market, the variety of smartphones cause companies are challenging to retain brand loyalty. This study wants to identify the factor that influence brand loyalty among smartphone users. Brand reputation, brand competence, price, advertising, brand image, and design are all under investigation. This study’s sample consisted of students from the Universiti of Utara Malaysia. 400 questionnaires were distributing to respondents, with 390 collected and usable. The entire dataset was analyzed using SPSS to assess the correlation and regression effect of each variable. The study discovered that brand reputation, brand competence, price, advertising, brand image, and design has strong correlation with brand loyalty. Regression analysis also indicate that brand competence is the most critical factor impacting brand loyalty. The findings serve as a reference for businesses to develop the best plan for maintaining brand loyalty.

Exploring the Social and Cultural Implications of Hate Speech on Facebook in Malaysia

The study provides insights into the prevalence of hate speech on Facebook among Malaysian users and highlights the need for greater efforts to counteract hate speech in Malaysia. Effective policies and interventions could be developed to address this issue based on the findings. This study examines hate speech trends among Facebook users in Malaysia and their attitudes towards regulating such speech. The study employs a four-part survey questionnaire: Part A covers demographics (gender, age, education); Part B examines social media engagement (platform choice, Facebook usage); Part C explores Facebook hate speech (locations, types, frequency); and Part D investigates responses (experiences, emotions, actions, perspectives). It was conducted with 225 respondents. The study found that race-related content is not the most commonly observed form of hate speech on Facebook in Malaysia; instead, users commonly encounter other types of hate speech. Additionally, users' level of awareness regarding hate speech is influenced by their level of activity on the platform. Notably, the duration of time spent on Facebook is not correlated with the frequency of exposure to hate speech. Experiences of being victimized by hate speech do not necessarily lead to support for regulating hate speech on Facebook. These findings provide valuable insights into the prevalence of hate speech on Facebook among Malaysian users and underscore the need for greater efforts to counteract hate speech in Malaysia. The study suggests the importance of developing effective policies and interventions to address this issue based on the findings.