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One method for disposing of old, damaged, or misprinted Qur’an pages is to burn them. Recently, there have been cases of al-Quran mushaf disposal management that do not comply with the maqasid of al-Quran text disposal as stipulated in established guidelines. Furthermore, the number of damaged al-Quran manuscripts is growing, making the collection site increasingly limited in capacity. To save money and space, it was discovered that some institutions in charge of disposal have delegated this task to unauthorized parties, such as non-Muslim parties, which disposed of al-Quran text at paper mills. Therefore, this article discusses the perspectives and evaluations of religious scholars on the methods used by Malaysian institutions to dispose of al-Quran text. Document analysis and interviews with the State Muftis of Selangor, Kelantan and Terengganu were used to collect data. It was done through semi-structured interviews and descriptive analysis. According to findings, the Malaysian government has implemented several methods. One method used is to burn it to ashes, bury it, and then wash it into the sea. Many authorised institutions carry out disposal in accordance with the established guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservatism is a political philosophy that tends to preserve traditions and reject drastic change. Türkiye has a long experience of political conservatism due to the Kemalists’ radical secularization. The Justice and Development Party (Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi-AK PARTİ) is an entity that recently champions political conservatism in Türkiye. Despite having many differences, Türkiye and Malaysia share similarities as progressive, modern, and democratic Muslim countries. This paper aims to discuss AK PARTİ’s political conservatism and analyze to what extent it can be made as an example for the sustainability of Islam in Malaysia. To fulfill this objective, primary and secondary sources related to AK PARTİ’s conservatism discourse have been referred to be used as the basis of analysis of lessons that can be taken for the sustainability of Islam in Malaysia. The comparative analysis method has also been used to compare the context of Türkiye and Malaysia to understand the limitations of lessons that Malaysia can learn based on the experience of conservatism in Türkiye. As a party with a conservative democratic ideology, AK PARTİ manages to uphold political conservatism within the context of modern democracy. This success results from a synthesis between the demands of conservatism and democracy. The political conservatism in Türkiye can be made as an example for Malaysia, especially in preserving Islam as the federal religion, the existence of the king institution, the Malay-Muslim identity, and the true essence of Islam as a societal-unifying force. This paper argues that in the Malaysia context, conservatism is an important political philosophy to be upheld in order to preserve the harmony and stability of the plural society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the tendency of new voters to vote for the first time in the 15th General Election (GE15). Based on the statistics released by the Election Commission (SPR), the number of new voters who voted for the first time is around 6.2 million, of which 1.3 million are between 18 and 20 years old. Since they are a group of first-time voters, the tendency of their political support could be unclearer. Many parties wonder where their political support is headed, especially in the manycornered competition involving extensive political cooperation such as Perikatan Nasional, Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional, and Gerakan Tanah Air. Accordingly, this paper aims to examine the tendency of new voters during the last GE15 campaign period through an online survey. The survey was conducted openly with the target of eligible voters, and 1438 respondents have given feedback. The study results show that 91 percent of the total number of respondents will go out to vote, and they tend to choose elected representatives who have integrity and are free of corruption, do not break promises, and are highly educated. Most of the group of respondents also tend to support national political trends. From that, new voters who vote for the first time have a good intensity of political literacy. Therefore, they become the determinants of changes in the current political support unrelated to political patronage elements like previous generations. They can also be catalysts for change in society in general and the country's leadership in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the governance implemented to resolve Shariah-related issues in the development of waqf in Malaysia. The study adopts a qualitative research approach employing a collective case study design. Four states were selected as study samples, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with officers from the State Islamic Religious Council (SIRC) or its subsidiaries appointed as mutawalli, officers from the State Mufti Department, as well as Muftis, Deputy Muftis, or members of the State Fatwa Committee. Thematic analysis is employed to highlight themes related to the governance of resolving Shariah issues in the development of waqf in Malaysia. The findings indicate that the development of waqf in Malaysia is subject to governance at the state rather than federal level. Consequently, in the context of Shariah governance for waqf development, two institutions in each state are involved, namely the waqf institution as mutawalli managing waqf assets and the Fatwa Committee. Additionally, the Fatwa Committee plays an advisory role for the waqf institution in ensuring Shariah compliance of products and waqf development management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The teacher's record book is a very important document. This record book contains daily lesson plans and annual lesson plans prepared by a teacher according to the approved syllabus. Therefore, a teacher is responsible for preparing, keeping and maintaining his record book in accordance with the requirements and regulations of the law. Accordingly, this paper will analyze the legal position related to the preparation, storage and maintenance of teacher record books in Malaysia. This writing begins by explaining the meaning of a teacher's record book and its importance in the teaching profession. Further, this paper will evaluate the relevant legal provisions on the obligations of a teacher in the aspects of preparation, storage and maintenance of teacher record books. Finally, this paper will analyze the liability that will be imposed on a teacher for not preparing, keeping and maintaining a teacher's record book. To achieve the objectives outlined, this writing uses a qualitative approach with descriptive as well as analytical and critical methods. Content analysis methods are also used in examining relevant laws. This paper finds that teachers have a duty to prepare, keep and maintain teacher record books in accordance with Regulation 8 of the Education (National Curriculum) Regulations 1997. Teachers who violate this Regulation 8 are considered to have committed an offense and may be fined under Regulation 11 (2) Education (National Curriculum) Regulations 1997. The existence of penalties for breaches of this obligation shows the importance of teacher record books. Consequently, this writing suggests that teachers be given knowledge of the duties and liabilities related to teacher record books so that they are not subject to any legal action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Malaysian society, the taboo topic pregnancy out of wedlock is believed as an immoral action. As the unwed mothers' situation could bring shame and disgrace to the family; thus, they tend to send them to the shelter homes to hide their pregnancy from others. This paper aims to explore the situation that cause circumstances of conception pregnancy out of wedlock and the family reactions among the unwed mothers living in the shelter homes. The investigation was based on the interviews with 31 informants selected through purposive sampling. The verbatim of the interviews had been analyzed according to Cresswell 's phenomenology approach with influenced by open and axial coding. In addition, it involved the combination mixed and matched between descriptive coding, emotion coding and values coding. The result shows there are four types of situations that cause pregnancy out of wedlock: raped, sexual abuse, false pretenses and love. Whilst there were three ways of families got to know about the pregnancy by themselves, professional and outsider. Family reactions were varying; lodge a police report, accepted the pregnancy and did not plan to get the unwed mothers married, a spur-of-the-moment marriage, sad, abusive behavior and isolation. Some families continue the support the unwed mothers via phone calls, visit and sending them food and daily use items, whilst some families refusing to give support at all. The findings are crucial for the family and professional helping profession such as social worker to improvise the interventions to fulfill the needs of unwed mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Management of the South China Sea disputes must consider the "hedging" behavior of the claimant and non-claimant countries. This behavior is characterized by an insistence on not aligning with any of the competing powers, through intentionally contradictory actions to offset multiple risks, or through a continuous effort to maintain a fallback position. Indeed, in the face of China's increasingly assertive actions and U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy, nearly all the states in the region have avoided "balancing" (fully aligning with the U.S. to check China) and none of them have adopted "bandwagoning" (fully aligning with China for economic reasons but at the expense of autonomy and other national interests). Instead the Southeast Asian states have insisted on hedging. This paper argues that this proclivity to hedge is a result of both structural and domestic factors. Structurally, the high uncertainties surrounding China's intentions, U.S. commitment, and future U.S.-China ties have compelled the smaller states to avoid putting all their eggs in either power's basket. Domestically, for their political legitimation, the ruling elites in the states hedge to offset multiple risks and pursue mixed policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concomitantly, with the increase of the Muslim population in the world, halal awareness has been on the rise. A lot of halalindustries have emerged nowadays, and among them are halal pharmaceuticals. However, with the advancement of technology, gelatin-based products have been widely developed and are being used in the pharmaceutical industry. Its halal status can thus be questionable (mashbooh). This paper aims to study the Islamic perspective on gelatin-based products in pharmaceuticals. The study uses a qualitative method which involves literature review from al-Quran, as-Sunnah, articles in journals, and other references from the internet that can be trusted as credible data sources. In addition, the methodology of this study includes researching the istihalah method and fatwa in Malaysia to determine the halal status of gelatin in pharmaceutical products. This paper also focuses on the Malaysian Standard of Halal Pharmaceuticals-General Requirements (MS 2424:2019) and the Malaysian Halal Certification Procedure Manual- Domestic 2020 (MPPHM 2020). The findings of this study show that gelatin mostly originate from animal sources. Therefore, its halal status can be questionable even if it comes from permitted animals such as cows or chickens. This is because the animals are only considered halal if they are slaughtered according to the precepts of Islamic law. In order to address such religious concerns, there have been a lot of research on the alternatives to animal gelatin such as from marine sources and plant-based sources. From the Islamic perspective, the use of gelatin from marine sources and animals that have been slaughtered according to Islamic rules is halal. However, gelatin which are sourced from pork and its derivatives are still haram after going the process of istihalah because its chemical substances remain the same and unchanged even after istihalah. Nevertheless, during an emergency, it may be permissible to consume medication containing pork gelatin if there is no replacement or alternative for pork gelatin even if it is from haram sources.

The Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA) is a recent trade agreement after negotiated for decades. TPPA was very sensation due to the new world trade movement lead by the United States. TPPA also seen as the greatest trade agreement in the 21st century that will bring major changes to TPP Member States in various sectors, mostly on economic, trade and investment fronts. Issues arising from the TPPA are not only in the domain of trade, but also intervenes other important aspects such as labour standards, the environment and intellectual property rights. In turn, this will have implications for our current standards and legal framework of TPP member states. A significant problem, and the focus of this paper, is the the impact of the TPPA on existing Malaysian labour laws. Whether Malaysia could maintain the existing framework for labour or does this agreement will require for necessary amendments need to be done in realizing the effectiveness of the TPPA? This article discusses the implications of Chapter No. 19 of TPPA (Labour Chapter) onto Malaysian labour laws resulting from the signed TPPA with other 11 Member States. Methodology used in this article is theoretical analysis based on primary and secondary sources. The interim review found that several sets of labour laws in Malaysia must be amended and the Government of Malaysia should aware with facing of any possible constraints and challenges to comply with international labour standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term of"religious pluralism" in Malay Languange often creates controversy among thinkers and politicians. Some say it is a translation of religious plurality which the meaning as religious diversity. While some say it is a translation of the term religious pluralism that leads to recognise of the unity of religious truth. Understanding the diversity of religion and unity of religious truth religious creates confusion to the Muslim community in particular related to the position of Islam that has real truth. This paper aims to discuss the basic guidelines in finding the limitation between recognition of religious diversity or recognition of the unity of religious truth. The preliminary findings found that there are four fundamental questions that can be used to be the basis for differentiate the thoughts that lead to religious divergence or recognition of the unity of religious truth ie their views on the cause of religion, the role and position of other religions, readiness of living harmoniously and most importantly the views on need of preaching to other religions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to explore the different perspectives and strategies evidenced in the evolving knowledge clusters in Malaysia and in Brunei Darussalam. It is based on empirical research carried out in Malaysia during 2009-2010, and in Brunei Darussalam during 2013 and pays particular attention to the spatial distribution of manpower in Penang and in Cyberjaya and the scientific networks of Universiti Sains Malaysia. Learning from the experience of the development of the Northern Corridor and Multi Media Corridor in Malaysia, our analysis shows differing trends in the construction of knowledge clusters in Peninsular Malaysia. The Cyberjaya knowledge cluster reveals the dominant role of the state and elite in its development. The Penang knowledge cluster however shows a historical trajectory and the intervention of diverse companies, alongside the involvement of state government. The Brunei-Muara district knowledge cluster in Brunei Darussalam is different again with its growing corporeal clustering of organizations including private companies and government agencies, yet has a distinct lack of knowledge sharing. This study is thus based on the empirical data and case studies of three significant knowledge clusters in Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam but also deals with wider macro issues relevant to both countries. By focusing on knowledge governance strategies in Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, this paper answers a question central to this paper: how can a country avoid the 'knowledge trap'? We intend to contribute to the growing literature on the study of knowledge clusters and knowledge governance by presenting new theories and original comparative data based on field research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses diaspora and the media, in particular how a diasporic society uses citizen journalism when discussing the practice of democracy in their native country. Recent studies have revealed the significance of citizen journalism compared to mainstream and traditional media and this paper aims to consider the phenomenon by comparing African diasporic citizen journalism with that of Malaysia. Both countries have high levels of active citizen journalism which has been found to be influential. However, current statistics suggest that Malaysia has overtaken Africa in numbers of citizen journalists and output and uniquely, tends to be practiced by resident Malaysians. This paper suggests that a more in-depth study of the practice in Malaysia could lead to the development of a positive citizen journalism culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to provide insights into the learners’ Mathematics anxiety level, gender differences in the anxiety level, and the relationship between Mathematics anxiety and Additional Mathematics achievement. Random systematic sampling method was used to recruit 69 form four students in Malaysia who took Additional Mathematics Course as the respondents for this study. This study employed correlational method and it used questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. More specifically, Mathematics self-efficacy and anxiety questionnaire (MSEAQ) was used in this study. Mathematics anxiety level was measured using descriptive statistics and t-test was used to compute the mean differences between male and female students’ Mathematics anxiety level. The relationship between Mathematics anxiety and Additional Mathematics achievement was determined by applying Pearson correlational test. The findings reveal that most respondents perceived themselves to have moderate Mathematics anxiety level. Besides, the male students had higher Mathematics anxiety level compared to female students. This study also shows that there was a positive relationship between Mathematics anxiety and Additional Mathematics performance. It is hoped that the findings revealed by this study are useful for policymakers in designing their intervention plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Home-based childcare (HBCC) services are among the childcare services available in Malaysia, as ensconsced in the Child Care Centre Act 1984. In Malaysia, HBCC providers are only allowed to care for a minimum of four and a maximum of 10 children. However, this definition does not include small home-based childcare services or childminders who care for less than four children. Employing the qualitative method of content analysis, this study discusses the laws and regulations governing HBCC in Malaysia, particularly the legal requirements that need to be fulfilled. This is further supported by interviews conducted with childcare providers who look after children at their home to examine their level of understanding of the legal requirements under Malaysian childcare laws and regulations. Findings indicate, among others, that the HBCC operators are unaware of the need to register with the Social Welfare Department. The adherence to the legal requirements for this HBCC should not be taken lightly, as it is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of children. Consequently, greater efforts are required to ensure the children's health and safety because the current procedures rely solely on the experience and expertise of the childcare providers. This paper contributes to the extent of knowledge of HBCC in Malaysia especially towards policy makers, child care operators and parents by exploring the experiences of HBCC childcare providers. It is proposed that continuous improvements need to be made to the laws and regulations on HBCC in ensuring high quality services of HBCC.

The Malaysian government has developed significant disability provision, policies and legislations since the period of colonialism but disabled people still encounter major barriers in education and training. Research involving Malaysian disabled women in terms of education and training is very limited although disability is argued to have some relation to gender and culture. This paper therefore sets to explore how Malaysian women with physical impairment experience their opportunity for education and training. This study used a full qualitative research approach in which the data was collected from in-depth interviews with 33 Malaysian women with physical (mobility) impairment. Over a period of 6 months, 17 Malays, 8 Chinese and 8 Indian women were interviewed twice in Peninsular Malaysia. The majority of women came from low-income and rural families. The findings demonstrated that many of the women had limited access to education and training due to structural and attitudinal barriers. Hence, their situation was exacerbated by complex interactions between individual, familial, sociocultural and gender factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since independence, Malaysia has been facing various security threats such as the Communist threat, the Indonesia confrontation against Malaysia, the Philippine's claim on Sabah and so on. However, the post-Cold War era have changed the way of understanding national security because most of the security threats are emanated from the non-state actors, such as terrorists group. Therefore, this paper discusses the intrusion by a group called the Royal Sulu Army (RSA) in Tanduo in 2013. This incidence proved that the non-state actors are also posing huge security threat to Malaysia's national security. Meanwhile, this intrusion also demonstrates that the threat emanated from the non-state actor is more threatening than the traditional security elements that emphasises the importance of the state and the use of the military by other countries. In explaining the seriousness and securities of the threat posed by the RSA, this article employs several variables; first, the way the government responds to the threat; second, the number of death during the intrusion; third, panic and fear among the security forces and also the public; and fourth, the amount of money allocated to deal with the threat. This article argues that the threat by the non-state actors provides major implications in understanding the issue of national security in Malaysia. Therefore, a holistic approach is needed to tackle this threat. In preparing this article, in addition to the library research and also newspapers, the authors employ some other methods such as observation, interviews, field work and so on in order to understand the seriousness of the threat by the non-state actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a large volume of published studies describing the adverse relationship between treatment non-adherence with tuberculosis treatment outcome. Non-adherence could result in increased risks of prolonged infectiousness, drug resistance, relapse cases and poor survival among tuberculosis patients. Nevertheless, few studies are to be found providing detailed on the reason of defaulting treatment among tuberculosis patients in Malaysia. Hence the goal of this paper is to find out the barriers and motivations factors that affect patients' treatment compliance among our local tuberculosis patients. This is a qualitative study which included 12 in-depth interviews with tuberculosis non-compliance patients who were treated at Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Kuala Lumpur. All the conversations were recorded, transcribed and analysed by using thematic analysis. It was found that low knowledge, self-negative attitudes, traditional believes, negative perceptions towards health caregiver, drug side effects, stigma, financial problems, less family support and work commitments are the barriers that prevent the patients from religiously taking their anti-tuberculosis treatment. Meanwhile, factors that encourage them to continue their treatment were the believes of bad effects of the disease onto their lives and health, good relationship between patient and health caregiver and social support from people around them. In conclusion, non-adherence involved a dynamic influence of individual, socio-economic and treatment-related factors on the patients. The results presented here may facilitate improvement in the activities in promoting compliance among tuberculosis patients in the future which tailored to the patients' specific needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the concept of 'checks and balances' in accordance with Islam and its application in the Islamic Judicial System in Malaysia. As the main objective of establishing the court is to uphold justice between disputing parties, 'checks and balances' are perceived as a mechanism in assisting our Islamic judiciary towards achieve this objective. Despite the ambiguity in understanding this concept in Islam, it has been widely used in Western nations, whether in administration or law. Yet, this does not mean that Islam does not have a specific mechanism in forming or managing a government. Islam has actually practised this concept long prior, consistent with the contents of the al Qur'ān and Sunnah; especially in both administrative and judicial aspects. Thus, the objective of this paper is to study the concept of 'checks and balances' in Islam. For the purpose of this study, the researcher used a qualitative research methodology involving a content analysis study through primary and secondary sources including semi-structured interviews. The finding of this study discovers that the word 'Hudūd Allāh' is widely used in Islam rather than the 'checks and balances' term which was introduced by Western legal system. The principles contained in the 'Hudūd Allāh' cover both the external and internal aspects of each individual, which later produces the most trustworthy and fair creatures of Allah in every aspects of their lives. This would then be the differentiation between the 'Hudūd Allāh' and the concept of 'checks and balances', in which the 'checks and balances' concept only focuses on the external aspects of governance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taxation research has received considerable attention from many scholars, practitioners and policymakers across the globe. Many scholars have also conducted research on taxation in the Malaysian context. However, papers that track the trends of such research are scanty in the existing literature. The aim of this study is to review the trend and frequencies of published literature on taxation in Malaysia based on the Scopus database using the search term “Malaysia and taxâ€. The design of the study is bibliometric analysis. As of 23rd September 2020, a total of 88 documents were retrieved and analysed using Excel, Hazing’s Publish or Perish and VOSviewer software. Based on the standard bibliometric indicators, this paper reports the research papers and source types, years and language of publications, subject area, most active institutions, most active sources’ titles, keywords, authorship, abstract, title analysis and citation analysis. Findings revealed that there is an increase in growth rate of literature on studies related to taxation in the Malaysian context from 1977 to 2020 published in the Scopos database. The publications reached an all-time peak in 2016 to 2017 but significantly dropped in 2018 and 2019 based on the data retrieved from the Scopus database. The findings further show that Universiti Teknologi MARA is the most influential institution with 18.18% of the total documents retrieved, followed by Universiti Utara Malaysia with 9.1% respectively. Additional findings of the study show that Advance Science Letters is the highest source title with 14.71% of the published documents. The finding also indicates that Adhikari, Derashid and Zhang (2006) are the most influential authors with 187 citations as at 23rd September 2020. The research is limited to the literatures published in Scopus database, other database were not covered in this study. Malaysian policymakers should provide more research grants to tax practitioners and academicians to increase the level of publications in this field.

Homosexuality as a lifestyle has become practice in Malaysian society as well as in other societies of the world. This lifestyle has become prominent due to the role of mass media, and also the cultural globalization, which increase the chances for people to expose and experience this way of life. Nevertheless, there are differences in opinion and perception given by the society towards evaluating the lifestyle adopted by homosexuals. The objective of this paper is to explore the understanding of Malaysian professionals on the definition of homosexual, and also the specific characteristics of Malaysian homosexuals based on the professionals' observation, experience and view towards this group. This study facilitates qualitative research design using in-depth interviews on eight (8) professional respondents, which are chosen using purposive sampling. They are professionals that serve for the governmental and non-governmental bodies, and have experience in dealing with homosexual cases in their daily life, of which some are their closest friends and family members. The study sites are Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory, Putrajaya Federal Territory and Selangor Darul Ehsan. The results, which are analyzed using content analysis that involve providing respondents verbatim words, show the respondents' understanding on the definition and characteristics of homosexuality, as well as being able to describe the physical and psychological aspects of a homosexual. This study contributes to the enrichment of knowledge on homosexual issues, making it a guide for efforts towards prevention and treatment as well as a guide for future gender research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Islamic community is presently confronted by several concerns pertaining to matters of faith and beliefs. The Malaysian government is increasingly concerned about various issues, including deviant teachings, apostasy, demands for human rights from specific groups and religious extremism. These can potentially lead towards the disruption of national security and the sanctity of the Islamic religion. As a result, the government is taking measures to curb and contain the development of these issues. This article investigates three distinct categories of behaviours that present substantial risks to the faith of the Muslim community. These include deviations in beliefs and ideas, issues on human rights, and the existence of extremist or radical groups that pose a threat to peace in Malaysia. Data for this study were obtained through library research and the application of content analysis involving thematic examination of issues relevant to subject matter. The study demonstrates that the current development of Islamic legislation in Malaysia is a continuous process of change aimed at upholding national security and unity through the framework of Islamic law. Moreover, there are multiple risks both domestically and internationally, encompassing concerns pertaining to the faith and beliefs of the Muslim community in Malaysia. These factors could potentially to create ambiguity and jeopardise the overall security and stability of society, particularly within the Muslim community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we reviewed previous studies on factors contributing to zakāh (alms) compliance behavior among business entities. We first summarized the most relevant studies on zakāh compliance and identified the possible determinant factors from 24 studies. Our analysis revealed 24 factors significantly associated with zakāh payment. Then, we grouped and combined these factors into three major categories- organizational factors, governmental factors and internal factors. The organizational factor consists of four supporting elements: services provided; dakwah and marketing activities; effectiveness of zakāh distribution; and good governance, including transparency. The governmental factor comprises another four elements: allocation of law, tax incentives, whether in the form of allowable expenses or rebate; fatwa and encouragements. The internal factor consists of three elements: internal quality of decision makers, board directors' composition, and financial strength. Based on this review, we proposed actions to be taken, especially by the zakāh authority, to increase zakāh collection from corporate entities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to formulate a curriculum design framework, to test it and learn through pilot implementation, in order to systematically embed the graduate capabilities in the curricula, leveraging on Biggs’ constructive alignment framework. This paper aims to report the outcome of a study lasts for one year supporting a university’s curriculum transformation project. Methodology – Guided by the research objectives of this study, the research approach is action research. More specifically, benchmarking visit was used for the first phase, the design phase, to propose a suitable curriculum design framework. Pilot implementation was used during the second phase. Two programmes from two faculties were selected. Data was collected through observation, interview and document analysis. Data was analysed through on-going analysis and final reflection. Findings – This study presents a more detailed and practical curriculum design framework to support the development of graduate capabilities leveraging on Biggs’ constructive alignment framework. The key challenges faced and proposed strategies are consistent with existing studies. However, this paper argues for stronger emphasis on communicating compelling reason for change. This study reinforces that the process of constructive alignment remains challenging due to the iterative process of alignment at programme and module levels. Significance – This paper has expanded Biggs’ constructive alignment operational framework by offering more detailed and practical steps to ensure curriculum design effectively supports the development of graduate capabilities. The insights are especially useful for young universities with limited experience and yet have the ambition to transform its curriculum to develop institution-wide graduate capabilities leveraging on Biggs’ constructive alignment framework. The insights are useful for improving countries’ policy and implementation strategies too.

Topic on landslide hazard vulnerability (LHV) in Malaysia is relatively new and received little attention from geoscientists and engineers. Vulnerability is defined as the potential degree of loss (damage) to a given element or risk elements resulting from the occurrence of a natural phenomenon of a given magnitude. Although there are some guidelines and policies regarding hillside development to prevent landslide, the number of disastrous landslide events is steadily increases nationwide. This paper reviews and formulates the concept of LHV by taking into account the socio-economic and science aspects. New approach in vulnerability concept in landslide risk management (LRM) in Malaysia is also introduced. To achieve this goal, a framework was designed for assessing the LHV. The framework was formulated semiquantitatively through the development of a database for the risk elements (human & properties) based on secondary data, review of literature and field observations. The vulnerability parameters include in assessing LHV are 1) physical implication (building structures, internal materials, property damage, infrastructural facilities and stabilization actions), social status (injury, fatalities, safety, loss of accommodation and public awareness) and interference on the environment (affected period, daily operation & diversity). Each parameters in the vulnerability assessment is allocated with a certain index value ranges from 0 (0 % damage/victims/period), 0.25 (1-25 % damage/victims/period), 0.50 (26-50 % damage/ victims/period), 0.75 (51-75 % damage/victims/period) and 1.00 (75-100 % damage/victims/period). All the data products from LHV observation were reanalysed based on standardization method to evaluate their significance in developing an acceptable and practical model for landslide risk management (LRM) that will suit best to the local conditions. The next step is to establish the index value for each ideal vulnerability parameters. Finally, the total average of index value for the three types of physical, human and environment vulnerabilities is classified into five classes of vulnerabilities, namely class 1 (< 0.20) (very low vulnerability), class 2 (0.21-0.40) (low vulnerability), class 3 ( 0.41-0.60) (medium vulnerability), class 4 (0.61-0.80) (high vulnerability) and class 5 (> 0.81) (very high vulnerability). Results from this study indicate that the index value for the vulnerability on landslide hazard in Malaysia is generally higher than those of the developed countries. This is mainly due to poor awareness, knowledge and exposure amongst the public, as well as poor building codes and lack of consideration on the hazard triggering factors (intense rainfall and earthquake). It is also noted that the index value of vulnerability cannot be simply determined quantitatively because it requires data from field observations supported by the relative secondary data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses bilateral relations between Malaysia and Singapore in the context of the water dispute. The dispute began when Malaysia proposed to review the sale price of water to Singapore before continuing with signing a new water agreement. However, Singapore rejected the Malaysian claim because the latter did not doing it in 1987 as stipulated. Malaysia protested against the Singapore's attitude because it felt that the review of the sale price of water can be carried out any time after the 25 years, while Singapore argued that the review should be done every 25 years. The different interpretations by the two countries on clauses 17 and 14 of the 1961 and 1962 Water Agreements caused the emergence of the strained bilateral relations. This tension heightened due to the roles of factors outside the 1961 and 1962 water agreement such as rights of mutual agreement, water pricing formula, the determination of the quantity of water, the component package system, the setting of the water price review period, the attitude of the leaders and role of the media. Therefore, to determine the extent to which relations between Malaysia and Singapore is affected by the water dispute issue, the paper discusses the role of the 1961 and 1962 Water Agreements in the bilateral relations of both counties. The main argument of this article is that the refusal of both countries to compromise in the the water agreement dispute causes the problem to be difficult to resolve, thus creating tension bilateral relations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Malaysian economy has undergone sound growth over the past three decades. During the 1990s, the government designed a vision to become a high-income developed nation by 2020. Strengthening aggregate demand within a developing economy such as Malaysia’s is critical for achieving this target. In quantifying the impact of such measures economists have employed the social accounting matrix as an analytical tool. The challenge associated with the construction of a social accounting matrix for Malaysia, especially when up-to-date databases are not readily available, is the main issue addressed by this paper. The constructed matrix can provide an updated country-wide data source for use in policy analysis and as a database for macroeconomic modelling purposes. The applied database investigates the key economic sectors contributing to Malaysia’s economic growth and income distribution between three household types. This paper presents the first attempt in this direction employing recently published input-output tables and complemented with updated data from different sources. Keywords: Social Accounting Matrix, Government expenditure, Income distribution, Multiplier analysis, Malaysia.

The purpose of Islam is to develop exceptional human beings based on aqidah. Those with faith will have good life and will, in turn, have a positive influence on people around them. In Malaysia, aqidah forms the basis of Islamic education. Its main objective is to produce students who have God-consciousness in all aspects of life. This survey was carried out by way of questionnaire among secondary school students. The interview method was also used with selected students, teachers and officers from the Ministry of Education. The paper will discuss the influence of aqidah on students in three parts. First is the extent of knowledge of aqidah among the students, second is the relationship between the knowledge of aqidah and students’ social life, and finally, the impact of aqidah on students’ behaviour. This paper concludes that aqidah has a great impact upon students’ social activities.

This paper investigates research agenda by the Malaysian real estate researchers (MRERs). This study adopts a deskwork approach by examining research papers published in leading real estate journals, both international and local and papers presented in main real estate conferences from 1997 to 2010. In addition, the number of research papers published and presented were also assessed from several main real estate research journals in the US, UK, Asia/Australia and Malaysia and conferences such as American Real Estate Society (ARES), European Real Estate Society (ERES), Pacific Rim Real Estate Society (PRRES), Asian Real Estate Society (AsRES) and local conference; International Real Estate Research Symposium (IRERS). The study indicates that the Malaysian real estate researchers (MRERs) have made a positive contribution to the global real estate research. Nevertheless, there is still more effort needed in order to compete in the global real estate research agenda. It is anticipated that this trend will change since the Malaysian government has emphasised on improving the quality of higher learning institutions' for which research and publication will be the main agenda. The contribution from MRERs will significantly improve Malaysian universities standing in global ranking.

Body shaming is an issue that often sees as unimportant by the society. Body shaming is believed effected on mental and psychological wellbeing of an individual. The victims of body shaming has high risks of depression, low in motivation, low self-confidence, isolation and prone to serious mental disorders like eating disorders and risk of suicidal ideation especially among teenagers. This article is aims to explore the experiences of body shaming victims among teenagers in Selangor. The study opted to qualitative approach with semi-structured in-depth interviews. A total of six informants were selecting used purposive and snowballing sampling. The verbatim of the interviews were analysed by using thematic analysis. Two themes emerged to illustrate the experiences of body shaming victims; 1.Various self-acceptance; negative selfacceptance and imperfection is perfect; and 2. Reciprocal relationships; disrespect from significant others and two-sides of relationship in social media. This study proposed to increase the awareness on the impact of body shaming among individuals. The relevant parties also should provide support holistically for helping to increase the well-being of teenagers by providing proper interventions to intervene the issues of body shaming and related issues of body image. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The competition between the United States and China is now more complex compared to the era of the Cold War. This is evident from the Trade War, the issue of 5G technology, megaproject initiatives, the South China Sea issue and most recently the Covid-19 issue. Malaysia has taken a pragmatic approach and has been careful not to get caught up in the competition between the two powers. During the Pakatan Harapan (PH) era, Malaysia decided to cancel the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high-speed rail (HSR) mega project, renegotiate the construction cost of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) as well as the grey zone issue in the South China Sea. These decisions created tension in the Kuala Lumpur-Beijing bilateral relations. In response, China delayed any form of cooperation to re-evaluate Kuala Lumpur's foreign policy towards Beijing under the new Pakatan Harapan government. However, Mahathir successfully renegotiated with China to proceed with the projects. This event is expected to leave a significant impact on why Malaysia is increasing its confidence and cooperation with China despite facing national security threats. By utilizing library research and interviews this study analyzes the factors influencing the improvement of bilateral diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China from 1971 until 2018. The study applies the theory of neoclassical realism and the concept of threat balance to argue that Malaysia's response and stance towards China are based on threat, risk, and opportunity factors. First, it finds that the trend in Malaysia-China bilateral cooperation is influenced by the perception of trust. Second, the factor of leadership in identifying threats and opportunities also influences bilateral relations. Third, economic, political, and diplomatic harmony requires a relationship of mutual trust and interdependence in line with the international order. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Late marriage phenomenon has contributed to the infertility and imbalance of age structure in the population of Malaysia. This country will become an aged country by 2030 if the number of elderly populations is not offset by childbirth. The Millennial Generation who represents 40 percent of the population is the upholder of the country's development and prosperity. Therefore, this study is conducted to identify the probability of late marriageand to analyse the factors affecting the probability of late marriage among the Millennial Generation. A total of 285 undergraduate students under Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Malaysian, single and aged 24 years and below were analyse in this study. The multinomial logistic regression test is used to determine factors that influence the probability of late marriage among the Millennial Generation consisted of individual and family background, socioeconomic factors, cultural factors and characters of the Millennial Generation. The results show that majority of respondents were unsure about the probability of late marriage. The multinomial logistic regression analysis shows that socioeconomic factors and cultural factors have influenced the probability of late marriage among the Millennial Generation. Whereas cultural factors and father's education level which is up to the primary school and below have influenced higher probability of unsure to late marriage compared to the probability of early marriage among the Millennial Generation. The implications of this study require the government and stakeholders to increase the awareness of the millennial generation on the importance of marriage in order to ensure the sustainability of the country's human resources. Particular attention should be paid to the factors that increase the probability of late marriage, and appropriate action should also be taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between corporate competitive capabilities, which consists of cost leadership, differentiation, innovative marketing and customer service; and business performance. The paper is a quantitative-based approach using data obtained from the manufacturing sector of small to medium enterprises in Malaysia. Empirical results from structural equation modeling (SEM) demonstrate that corporate competitive capabilities had significant influence on its business performance. The paper has limitations due to a small response rate, would show short of a firmer conclusion from the analysis. This paper will contribute to the literature on strategic management, SMEs and resource-based view theory. This study is particularly new in the context of the Malaysian SMEs manufacturing industry. The findings provide useful guidance to Malaysian SMES’ practitioners and policy-makers, by understanding the unique capabilities of their firms.

Tropical rainforest in Peninsular Malaysia is home to a highly diverse flora and fauna. The biodiversity and sustainability of the forest are highly potential to mitigate climate change and its adverse consequences. Although Malaysia is committed to preserve the forest in recognition of the important services, the threat against the forest of degradation and even deforestation for demand of other prevailing interests remain. Bio banking scheme has been one of market-oriented mechanisms which have been suggested to fund towards ensuring the sustainability of the biodiversity in Malaysia. By examining the experience of biobank for forest or environmental conservation, this paper considers issues and challenges in the creation of such biobank in Peninsular Malaysia as proposed in a study. For this, it considers two existing schemes of biobanking, one is implemented in the New South Wales, Australia, and the other is in Sabah, Malaysia, the Malua Biobank. The main features of these two schemes are examined and the issues faced are considered in the context of the Peninsular Malaysia. Creation of such biobank is significant to promote for further efforts in finding alternatives in forest conservation.

Food aid programmes constitute one of the strategies to address the problem of hunger and food insecurity among the poor and the needy. In Malaysia, the provision of food aid involves various parties, whether channelled through formal or informal institutions. Other than government bodies, it also involves non-governmental organizations (NGOs), corporate bodies, mosques and by individuals. However, the food aid programmes like soup kitchens are mostly undertaken by the NGOs. This paper examines the implementation of food aid programmes conducted by the NGOs in Malaysia, by focusing on PERTIWI Soup Kitchen and Free Food Centre, BELAMISKIN. In this article, the authors used field studies by observation and interview. The observation method was used while conducting research at the Free Food Centre BELAMISKIN. The interviews were conducted with the implementers of the food aid programmes in Malaysia. Data were analysed using content analysis based on themes using inductive, deductive and comparative methods. The findings indicate that food aid programmes are very helpful for the poor and needy, and, indirectly, could increase the level of food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaysia’s counter-terrorism strategy has its roots within the 12-year campaign against the communist insurgency between 1948 and 1960. During the emergency period, the government relied heavily on executive-based measures, which operated as a primary instrument to execute the “Winning Hearts and Minds” agenda. The state executive body and its agents had a wide range of powers at its disposal, including indefinite detention without trial and the restriction of residence against terrorist suspects. A similar approach was maintained through various legislations, even after the country gained independence in 1957. However, recent developments indicate a significant change in the attitude of the government. The criminal justice approach begins to gain greater prominence, this being evident from the growing number of prosecutions against terror suspects and the creation of new terrorism-related offences. This paper first examines whether the apparent change is genuine and sustainable in the long term. This concern is connected with the nature and limits of the criminal law and justice system, along with other challenges derived from the existing structure, culture, and practices within the country. By adopting a socio-legal approach, this research also investigates the factors favouring and hindering the criminal justice approach empirically and theoretically as a primary legal response to countering terrorism in Malaysia. The ultimate aim is to contextualise an effective and fair legal response to terrorism that is able to operate within multifaceted counter-terrorism arrangements involving different stakeholders.

The current debates on Malaysian federalism often constrained to structural and institutional discussions such as in the division of powers, fiscal federalism and the relation of centre-state governments. This article, however, attempts to add a new layer to the intellectual corpus by exploring the subject matter from a normative perspective, that is federal political culture - as a set of behavioural rules and mechanisms in managing ethnic diversity and political stability. This perspective focuses on three issues in managing an ethnically divided society, namely federalism as a morally binding agreement, federalism as social solidarity and federalism as a decentralisation of power. Using primary source through interviews and secondary sources such as scholarly works and newspapers which are qualitatively analysed, this article argues that federal political culture is central in a federal state such as Malaysia due to its compatibility with the core principles in federalism such as unity in diversity, separation of powers, autonomy and political co-operation. In the end, this article concludes that federal political culture can provide a way of thinking, actions and political cultures that meet the values of federalism and thus promotes social cohesion, territorial integrity and political stability in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared COVID-19 as a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. The spread of COVID-19 is increasingly worrying, and it has brought significant challenges to the implementation of remand proceedings in every country, especially Malaysia and India, which are the subjects of discussion in this article. According to the law, a remand application must be made to the Magistrate if the investigation cannot be completed within 24 hours so that the suspect can be further detained for a certain period of time ordered by the Magistrate to complete the investigation. These unprecedented challenges have also caused difficulties in carrying out the remand proceedings in accordance with the existing laws. This article adopts the library method fully concerning the reading materials such as books, articles and reported cases. This article analyses the implementation of remand proceedings in Malaysia and India in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. This article further compares the implementation of remand proceedings in Malaysia and India during the COVID-19 pandemic. This current study suggests improvements to the existing implementation of remand proceedings in Malaysia in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. This article found that Malaysia and India have taken steps in overcoming the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic that hit the prisons where the remand prisoners are located. There are similarities and differences in the implementation of remand proceedings between Malaysia and India during the COVID-19 pandemic. This article also suggests various steps taken by Malaysia to improve the remand proceedings in Malaysia in this era of COVID-19 pandemic on the opinion that the existing actions taken are still insufficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reading habits are often associated with an increased cognitive level. However, book genre can also affect the cognitive level. This is because different book genres can be attributed to different types of knowledge and tendency towards a specific book genre can be viewed as a preference towards a specific type of knowledge. Research on Malaysians' interest and the tendency towards book genre and type of knowledge can be investigated using the publication data of each book genre and its prices. The objective of this research is to analyse and compare the book publications and the average price of each book's genre in Malaysia with those of Japan. Comparison was done based on book categorisation genre strategy to 12 book genres. Based on Monte Carlo simulation method data, Malaysians are attracted to book genres on language, literature and science. While the Japanese are more interested in the book genres of social sciences and hobbies/art. The similarity between Malaysian and Japanese societies are that both societies also favour book genre of literature. However, it is possible that the themes of literary genre in Japan and Malaysia are very different. The result of this study can be used to identify the differences between Malaysian and Japanese reading habits as well as for formulating strategies to change Malaysian reading habits towards the style of Japanese reading habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waqf is a form of ibadah that aims to bring closer to Allah SWT. However, not many are aware of the importance of waqf, thus wakaf funds fail to play a significant role in the development of the ummah. Hence, this paper is intended to explain the theory of waqf and its importance in Islam. The author also wishes to explain the waqf diversity wisdom to reflect the value of the uniqueness of waqf in Islam. Finally, it seeks to introduce about several contemporary wakaf practices in Malaysia. In order to achieve this objective, the author conducts a library research to obtain detailed information from an authentic and right source. The study shows that waqf is a pure practice introduced by Islam far ahead of the endowment and philanthropy practice of the West. Yet there is still much to do so that today's Muslims understand the laws of waqf and realize the need for waqf as it is recommended in Islam. It is hoped that this writing will achieve the goal of creating a “waqf literate” community who will donate more funds for the needs of the ummah throughout the times.

This article analyses the changes in Malaysia's foreign policy towards China during the Abdul Razak era from animosity to the normalisation of relations. Three questions are highlighted in this research; first, what are the factors that influence the changes in Malaysia's foreign policy towards China; second, how the three levels of analysis structure Malaysia's foreign policy towards China and third, to what extent the established relationship has an impact on the national interests of the two countries. The arguments of these three factors are analysed through three stages namely the international structure, domestic changes and the role of leaders. The neoclassical realism theory is applied in analyzing the structuring of Malaysia's foreign policy towards China during the Abdul Razak era. This research applies a qualitative method of obtaining primary data through structured interviews with key informants; an analytical method based on chronology; and supported with empirical evidence from the secondary data. Overall, this research concludes that harmony interest and pingpong diplomacy influenced the changes in Malaysia's foreign policy towards China. Although the two countries are suspicious of one another in diplomatic relations, there was an increase in comprehensive cooperation through trade and political aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article analyzes diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China during the Post-Cold War era from 1989 to 1996. The Post-Cold War era had seen the anomalies in diplomatic relations between Malaysia and the United States and China. Furthermore, during the Cold War era, a closer relation between Malaysia and the United States could be seen in balancing China’s power. However, the post-Cold War era had seen an increase in diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China and was cold towards the United States. The anomalies of bilateral diplomatic relations are argued through international political changes, domestic interests and the perception of leaders. The research also employs neoclassical realisme theory in analyzing Malaysia's foreign policy anomalies towards China during the Mahathir Mohamad era. This research applies a qualitative method of obtaining primary data through structured interviews with key informants from Malaysia and China; an analytical method based on chronology; and uses supportive empirical evidence from secondary data. Findings show that the anomalies of Malaysia's foreign policy change towards China is influenced by the U.S. pressure on Malaysia and from China's foreign policy change; economic slowdown and political elite crisis; and changes in Mahathir's perceptions and actions towards China. Analysis also found that there was an increase of Malaysia's trust towards China in the Post-Cold War despite the relations normalization have been established since 1974. Although Malaysia can enjoy China's booming economy in terms of trade and investment which did not occur in the previous era, Kuala Lumpur never compromises with Beijing on the issue in the South China Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the size of the public sector (based on percentage of public sector expenditures to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and percentage of public sector revenues to GDP) of Malaysia and compare it with other Associations of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries. This study utilised a descriptive approach to compare the size of Malaysian public sector with other ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam). The data were retrieved from 2000 to 2014 (15 years) that involved examination of documents from Key Indicators of Developing Asian and Pacific Countries Reports. Findings revealed that Malaysia ranks number three in terms of the size of public sector among ASEAN countries. Findings also indicated that the Malaysian percentage of public sector expenditure to GDP is around 20% to 30% which is considered as optimal size for the public sector. Malaysia also shows a deficit budget for 2000 to 2014, and similar trends were reported for other ASEAN countries. Meanwhile, the limitations of this study are that it is descriptive in nature and does not test any relationships between variables. Hence, future research may take into account other factors such as economic growth and government efficiency, and test relationships with the size of the public sector.

During the confrontation era between Malaysia and Indonesia, President Sukarno had carried out political and economic confrontations against Malaysia. This situation has caused economic activity between Malaysia and Indonesia to stop especially in the trading sector. The effect of economic confrontation, Malaysia and Indonesia's trade declined as Indonesia stopped exporting raw materials such as rubber and tin to Penang to be processed. Likewise, Indonesia too had to pay high costs to export tin and rubber to Europe. After the fall of President Sukarno, the emergence of a new order under President Suharto's era. President Suharto has re-established the diplomatic and economic cooperation between Malaysia and Indonesia through the Basic Arrangement on Trade and Economic Relations Malaysia and Indonesia in 1967. The study will examine the impact of the Economic and Trade Relations Basic Arrangement in Malaysia and Indonesia on the economic cooperation of Malaysia and Indonesia in trade. The study found that the Basic Arrangement on Trade and Economic Relations Malaysia and Indonesia was an era of more active economic recovery. Many areas of cooperation in the economy are renewed by the two countries especially in dealing with economic issues related to smuggling of goods, fishery issues and marine delineation, and land and sea trade cooperation which are the basic relationships of the Malaysian and Indonesian economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing expansion of the global Islamic finance industry beyond its traditional strongholds, there is a gradual increase in the global franchising opportunities in Islamic finance. As one of the pioneering studies on franchise in Islamic finance, this paper examines the Malaysian legal framework on franchising within the Islamic finance industry. Over the years, there has been tremendous growth in the franchise industry in Malaysia and the Islamic financial institutions are not left out in this welcome development. While the franchise industry contributed RM24.6 billion or 2.8% to the Malaysian GDP in 2013, it has been projected that such contribution will reach RM25.4 billion by the end of 2014. The study adopts a qualitative legal method in analyzing the relevant legislations, as they are applicable to Sharī‘ah-compliant business of Islamic financial institutions. The study finds that there is no specific framework for Sharī‘ah-complaint business in Malaysia, including Islamic finance business. Malaysia has vast opportunities in expanding its franchise industry through the amendment of the relevant legal framework to cater for Islamic finance business. This is expected to project Malaysia as a global hub for Islamic finance products and a destination for Sharī‘ah-complaint franchise businesses at the global level.

The MS 1900 is an Islamic Quality Management System (QMS) which was launched by the Government of Malaysia in 2005. It is a structured system to assist organisations to deliver products and services that meet customer’s requirements, as well as the regulatory requirements and dictates of the Shari’ah (Islamic commandments). The Shari’ah requirements are additional to the requirements of ISO 9001, and aim to close the gap between the ISO 9001 standard and the Islamic perspective. MS 1900 has attracted considerable attention from Malaysian organizations but only a number of empirical studies have analysed the process of its implementation. Additionally, organisations that have successfully obtained QMS certification are still plagued with problems. Therefore, there is a need to study how MS 1900 is being implemented in certified organisations. The objective of this study is to examine activities conducted within the MS 1900 implementation process at the Department of Hajj (Muslim pilgrimage), Waqf and Zakah (DHWZ) in Malaysia and explore the benefits accrued from its implementation. A qualitative approach and case study strategy were used to investigate MS 1900’s implementation at the DHWZ. Semi-structured interviews were employed as the main data collection method to obtain in-depth information on the subject. Interviews were then triangulated with information from documents. The study found six main activities that were undertaken in MS 1900 implementation at the DHWZ, namely gap analysis, preparing the documentation, creating quality groups, implementing work procedures, as well as internal and external audits. The study also identified three benefits accrued from MS 1900 implementation; these are achieving the client’s charter, the listing of being an outstanding religious department, and systematic job management. The MS 1900 implementation has also helped managers implement strategic planning at the DHWZ. This study adds to knowledge of the emergence and development of the Islamic QMS MS 1900 and contributes particular insights into its implementation within Malaysian Islamic institutions. Findings from this paper could be used by managers in government or private institutions as a guideline in their endeavours to implement the MS 1900 effectively.

Competency can be defined as generic skills, basic skills, key skills, and personal skills referring to the knowledge, skills and attitudes that are the basis of tasks or job performance being accounted across all fields. In Malaysia's education scenario, the first wave of the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025, focuses on improving teacher professionalism standards, based on Standard Teachers Malaysia (SGM). In the context of Arabic teachers, the most important competence is the mastery of language. Therefore, the objective of this pilot study is to identify the level of competence of Arabic language teachers, and to assess the competency of Arabic teachers in SABK Peninsular Malaysia. Qualitative study through the instrument of a set of Arabic language competence test questions developed with reference to criteria Arabic teacher who has been issued and adopted by the National Center for Assessment in Higher Education, Saudi Arabia as a construct of competency test questions. Competency domain assessed is the knowledge of teachers in grammatical mastery. for the improvement and purification of Arabic Language teachers' competency in SABK as the implementer of the Dini Integrated Curriculum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The struggle for independence in the Patani conflict remains ongoing until today. Incidents of shooting, bombing, school arsons, and guerrilla raids are still occurring on daily basis. The Thai government has been working to overcome this problem with various approaches and yet, it remains unresolved. Nonetheless, the reconciliation process between 2004 and 2015 had experienced discernible changes when the Patani Liberation Movement (GPP) and the Thai government were willing to negotiate and dialogue. Moreover, Malaysia is perceived to have successfully played its role as a facilitator in driving both parties to participate in the reconciliation process. This study examines research data which focused on the transformation of issue championed by the GPP from its previous demand for independence to the issue of identity of Malay Patani that has been awhile subjected to assimilation and discrimination. Identity issue (soft) has been the main factor behind the willingness of both parties to negotiate in comparison to the issue of claiming independence (hard). Qualitative-based data were analysed using theories and variables involving conflict triangle approach, symmetric and asymmetric relationships and conflict transformation. The findings of this study found that the unbalanced structure of relationships (asymmetric) is the cause behind the assimilation of the identity of Malay Muslim Patani (OMIP). This asymmetric relationship has led to a domination policy over OMIP by the Thai government which eventually triggered the rise of the GPP's spirit to demand independence for the Patani. Nevertheless, in the years following the January 4, 2004 event, GPP has opted diplomatic approach when consigning the issue of identity as its main demand than its previous struggle for independence. Hence, the prioritization on the issue of identity is seen as one of the transformation process that unfolded within GPP that eventually resulted a series of dialogue and negotiation. Thus, the transformation of the issue of independence to identity is perceived as opening up the space for both parties to negotiate. Asymmetric conflict is difficult to resolve because the Thai government has a greater power than OMIP for which the latter is reluctant to negotiate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]