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Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology has become a significant factor in producing up-to-date and accurate topographic data in the current world. LiDAR technology has been used for years for many applications, including the efficient creation of digital model for large scale, high accuracy mapping. This technology offers fast, accurate, expedient and cost-effective ways of capturing wide area elevation information to produce highly detailed digital model of the earth. LiDAR is based on airborne laser scanners enables to acquire dense and accurate 3D data of the surveyed area, i.e., the Digital Surface Model (DSM). This paper presents an exploratory study to assess the accuracy of constructed DTM (Digital Terrain Model) and evaluating ground height without surface features using LiDAR Digital Surface Model (DSM). The study area comprised of an undulated area situated at Jinjang in the Klang Valley region, Malaysia covering an area of one kilometre square. LiDAR DSM and DTM constructed and derived from LiDAR were critically assessed with reference to the USGS Map Accuracy Standards. The accuracy of derived DSM and DTM were evaluated using ground control points derived from conventional surveying technique. The constructed models were accessed quantitatively and qualitatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This single-center study aimed to explore the factors associated with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) transmission in a hospital. All laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases among health care workers (HCWs) in a tertiary hospital in Malaysia were analyzed cross-sectionally from January 25, 2020, to September 10, 2021. A total of 897 HCWs in the hospital had laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 infection during the study period. Around 37.4% of HCWs were suspected to acquire COVID-19 infection from the hospital workplace. Factors associated with lower odds of workplace COVID-19 transmission were being females, ≥30 years old, fully vaccinated, and working as clinical support staff. Involvement in COVID-19 patient care was significantly associated with higher odds (adjusted odds ratio = 3.53) of workplace COVID-19 transmission as compared with non-workplace transmission. Most HCWs in the tertiary hospital acquired COVID-19 infection from non-workplace settings. During a pandemic, it is important to communicate with HCWs about the risk of both workplace and non-workplace COVID-19 transmission and to implement measures to reduce both workplace and non-workplace COVID-19 transmission.

The study aimed to determine the prevalence of continuity of illicit drug use and its associated factors among Malay opioid users receiving methadone treatment in Kelantan, Malaysia. This cross-sectional study involved a total of 150 respondents. Sociodemographic characteristic of participants, level of religiosity, and quality of life were collected using the self-administered questionnaires. The prevalence of continuity illicit drug use was 38.7% ( n  = 58) by self-report and 40.7% ( n  = 61) by positive urine test result for drugs. Positive hepatitis C status and high quality of life in the psychological health domain were associated with low continuity of illicit drug use by self-reported data and urine drug test results. In conclusion, the continuity of illicit drug use among methadone program users is still high, especially among those on methadone therapy for less than 2 years.

This solar radiation study was undertaken at Pekan campus (3.5°N, 103.4°E), Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University Malaysia Pahang. The study focused on the variation of daily global radiation in east coast Malaysia and the development of an empirical model to estimate the monthly average daily global solar radiation on a horizontal surface with Pekan meteorological station data. Solar radiation data were obtained using the weather station which was installed at the site from 2011 to 2013. The patterns were divided into five conditions: clear sky, partially cloudy, fully cloudy, afternoon rain, and northeast monsoon season. It was observed that on a clear sky day in Pekan, the maximum solar insolation was 939 W/m² and total solar energy received was 6.51 kWhr/m². In contrast, on a fully cloudy day the maximum solar insolation was only 30 W/m² and total solar energy received was 0.35 kWhr/m². Subsequently, the developed models were evaluated using statistical analysis. This paper describes an advanced understanding of the daily variation of global solar radiation in east coast Malaysia which may be significant for the design of a solar system. Lastly, use of the Angstrom modified linear models developed is highly recommended to estimate the monthly average daily global solar radiation in Pekan, Pahang and locations with similar solar radiation patterns in east coast Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examines the distribution of oil and grease and petroleum hydrocarbons in the Straits of Johor in Malaysia. The concentration of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons as measured by fluorescence spectroscopy is indicative of the concentrations of crude oils and oil products in seawater and sediments. It has been confirmed that the levels of petroleum hydrocarbons are attributed to marine-based sources, in particular those due to shipping activities. Thus, researchers concluded that the levels of oil contamination found in the present study clearly shows that the coastal waters and sediments in the Straits of Johor are polluted.

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) impacts language education, learning and evaluation in the European nations as well as in different nations around the world. The recently presented CEFR-aligned educational plan through the Malaysian English Language Roadmap (2013-2025) could set up a fundamental and reliable arrangement of learning guidance and evaluation in Malaysia. As the CEFR has been broadly embraced by numerous nations before its selection in Malaysia, there is a need to look at the issues faced by different nations to guarantee a superior arrangement of the CEFR in the Malaysian educational program. This paper aims to examine the executions of the CEFR in a few nations to satisfy their respective education policies in order to compare with the development and execution of the CEFR in Malaysian schools and universities. In this investigation, a review of 25 research papers published in journals from the year 2010 to 2019 related to the CEFR transformation and execution issues for English language from different nations all around the world, including Malaysia, was conducted. Utilising Google Scholar, these papers were selected with important keywords such as "CEFR" and the name of the chosen country. In view of the current writing, a few differences just as qualities and constraints of the CEFR-aligned executions were underscored, which propose required data to rethink the execution of the CEFR in the Malaysian education curriculum in order to accomplish the significant goal of refining English instructing, learning and assessment. The paper ends with proposals on the need to normalise academic practice to improve the CEFR-aligned educational program change endeavours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the state of migrants' cultural adaptation in Malaysia, and how such an adaptation can help build our understanding of migrants' life and employment experiences in the country. In doing so, this study has adopted a quantitative approach, with a completed survey towards 410 migrant respondents, living and working temporarily in Selangor, Malaysia. A multiple regression analysis finds that the three most significant predictors contributing to the respondents' cultural adaptation are "positive experiences" (β =.677, p =.000), "closeness" (β = −.107, p =.008), and "social relationships" (β =.095, p =.032). While "positive experiences" and "social relationships" influence the migrant workers' adaptation positively, the "closeness" predictor on the contrary (negative). Another predictor, "disconnection", is found to be not statistically significant. The one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) reveals significant differences in the respondents' cultural adaptation based on such demographic characteristics as age, gender, level of education, nationality, length of employment, and sector of employment. For instance, female migrants are strongly associated with a higher level of "positive experiences" [F(1, 408) = 6.321, p =.013] and "social relationships" [F(1, 408) = 5.634, p =.018], while male migrants tend to rely on cultural proximity (i.e., "closeness") [F(1, 408) = 6.828, p =.009]. The discussion section highlights attributes such as the gender factor in cultural adaptation, preservation of cultural identities, and creation of migrants' symbolic places to understand how cultural adaptation intersects with the migrant workers' daily lives and experiences. This study concludes that as Malaysia's economy continues to rely on migrant workers, it needs to better understand the workers' cultural adaptation and their far-reaching impact on their life experiences and employment conditions in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Malaysia, there is a demand and a promising market for cassava (Manihot esculanta, Crantz) leaves as a supplementary animal feed because of their nutritional value and availability throughout the year. However, cyanide accumulation has been a problem due to its toxicity in animal feed; therefore, finding the best variety with low cyanide, high protein, and phytochemical content can address this issue. The hydrocyanic (HCN) contents were analyzed for two local varieties, White and Pulut cassava, distinguished from leaf shapes and the color of the leaf petioles. Young leaves were identified from the plant's top leaves, while matured leaves were defined from the plant's bottom leaves. Two-way ANOVA was conducted to determine the interaction between the maturity and variety of cassava leaves for the cyanide and protein concentrations with Tukey's multiple ranges to observe the significant difference at p < 0.05. The findings indicated significant differences in the HCN content of cassava leaves between different maturities, while other varieties significantly affected protein concentration. The maturity and variety of cassava leaves showed significant interactions with the HCN content. The young Pulut variety had the highest protein concentration and low HCN content. Thus, it is the best option as an animal feed by reducing its HCN content and maintaining its total phenolic (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC). The results imply that variety, as well as maturity, have significant effects on the protein and cyanide concentration of cassava leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arabic language education is one of the foreign languages that must be learned in most schools in Malaysia. It focuses on four language skills, namely listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Several past studies found that students' Arabic language proficiency in Malaysia has not yet reached a satisfactory level. This is due to the learning atmosphere, students' attitudes, and teachers' teaching methods that have impacted students' motivation to learn. The gamification approach is a new initiative in technology-based Arabic education in Malaysia and based on the past researchers' findings, this approach has been proven to be effective. Therefore, this paper aims to build a framework for the implementation model of using gamification in Arabic teaching in Malaysia. Gamification is one of the methods dealing with the problem of Arabic language mastery based on the secondary sources. Past studies on gamification were about the problem of mastering the Arabic language among students in Malaysia, gamification approaches in the field of Arabic, the level of knowledge and acceptance of gamification among educators, and the factors driving the use of gamification. This paper will contribute to the knowledge of new innovative methods or approaches that are more effective and further give impact on pedagogical approach in teaching and learning Arabic to improve students' understanding, motivation, and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aims to review recent scientific publications and research output in the field of psychiatry, from a series of countries in the Asia-Pacific region (Australia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Lebanon, Malaysia, and Nepal), with a view to identify themes and similarities across regions, as well as to examine the barriers and challenges in mental health research faced by countries in the region., Methods: Seven psychiatrists from seven countries reviewed recent published and ongoing research in psychiatry in their respective nations, with respect to themes, as well as any barriers or challenges faced by mental health researchers., Results: While the seven nations included in this review vary in terms of research capabilities and economic development level, they share many similarities both in terms of research direction, and with regards to challenges faced. Limitations in the form of sociocultural differences from the West, and a lack of funding were some of the barriers identified., Discussion: Mental health research in the region has been progressing well. However, more varied research in the form of qualitative or economic studies are lacking, as are multi-center studies. The similar issues that nations face with regards to research could perhaps benefit from collaborative efforts and initiatives for the furtherance of research in the region., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.)

Banking industry is becoming more competitive due to escalating bank branches every year. It has been recorded that one of the industries with highest rate of turnover is financial service sector. Employee turnover is contributed by demanding working atmosphere and burdensome workloads. High turnover rate can adversely influence bank's performance and productivity. It has been exhibited in previous studies concerning association between human resource practices and turnover intention and the role of organisational commitment as a mediator between human resource practices and turnover intention. A total of 283 questionnaires were distributed to bank employees in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Data analysis disclosed that there is a negative relationship between human resource practices and turnover intention and organisational commitment mediates the associations. The results of the study revealed the importance of bank employers to improve its current human resource practices for boosting organisational commitment and lowering employee turnover intention. Originality/value of this research study lies on its contribution as the first field study to be performed in Sarawak, Malaysia in relations to human resource practices on turnover intention among bank employees with mediating role of organisational commitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the relationship between career planning and job satisfaction of Armed Forces personnel in Malaysia. It determines the mediating effect of career development on the relationship between career planning and job satisfaction. This study was conducted because there is negligible attention given to the effects of career planning and career development on job satisfaction, mainly in the Malaysian Armed Forces context. The IBM Social Science Statistical Package (IBM SPSS) application was used in the data analysis using descriptive and inferential analysis. The outcomes displayed three important findings: First, the significant relationship between career planning and job satisfaction. Second, the relationship between career development and job satisfaction was significant. Third, the result statistically confirms that the effect of career planning on job satisfaction is indirectly affected by career development in the organisational sample. Further, the study discusses the contributions and recommendations based on the significant findings. In conclusion, the career planning among Malaysian Armed Forces personnel should be explained and aligned with their career development since it will affect their job satisfaction and increase their work performance in national defence and security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Natural Fibers is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study attempted to explore attitudes and slants of Rural National Primary School English Language Teachers in Sarawak, Malaysia towards the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)-aligned Primary Curriculum Framework. This study used quantitative analysis to interpret data gathered through the questionnaire. A set of a questionnaire in the form of Google Form was prepared. The link to this questionnaire was shared with English language teachers from rural area national primary schools of 12 divisions in Sarawak, a state in Borneo Malaysia to serve the aim of this study. 749 English language teachers had responded to the questionnaire. Specifically, the analysis and discussion are organised in terms of teachers' attitudes and slants. Besides, the demographic profiles of English language teachers were taken into account in doing the analysis and discussion. The findings have shown that the teachers' attitudes and slants towards CEFR-aligned Primary Curriculum Framework for Primary School's English Language Education are positive. The chief findings of this study can be a source of references to the researchers, policymakers, teachers, academicians, or others who have intention on the similar focus of study to further improve English language education in Malaysia especially in teaching and learning, and assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For decades, Malaysia has been heavily dependent on unskilled and temporarily contracted migrant workers to fulfil labour gaps in the country. While Malaysia's economy continues to rely on migrant workers, the COVID-19 pandemic has further aggravated their precarious working and living conditions. In-depth interviews with Nepali migrant workers and community leaders in Malaysia and Nepal in 2021 revealed the incidence of labour rights violations, compounded by the lack of access to justice and effective remedies. Besides, workers are allegedly no longer benefiting from the competitive wages, subsequently limiting the value of their remittance to Nepal. We argue that these incidents serve as the drivers of the changing views of mobility, eventually influencing the emigration environment in which the social construction of migration exists in Nepal. This study examines the migratory realities in the Nepal–Malaysia migration corridor during the pandemic, subsequently contributing to current debate on the aspiration–ability model as a class of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The cash waqf has been practiced widely since the beginning of the 15th Century during the reign of the Ottoman Empire and The Fatwa Committee of the 77th National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs Malaysia announced its permissibility in Malaysia on 12 April 2007. Since that, the cash waqf is developed rapidly and most of the collection is focused on educational purposes. This study identifies the challenges and impacts of cash waqf in Malaysia specific for education. Purpose: This study identifies the challenges and impacts of cash waqf in Malaysia specific for education. Methodology: This study used a descriptive method based on previous studies, secondary data from the published book, and regulatory bodies' official portals. Findings: The findings showed four main challenges faced by the waqf authority; (1) lack of expertise by the waqf staff and manager in cash waqf management; (2) low level of public awareness and less understanding of the university's top management; (3) inconsistency of enactments because of the state's enactment; (4) Improper documentation and no publication on the latest annual report. Despite the challenges, the implementation of cash waqf contributed more good impacts on students and educational institutions such as (1) improve the facilities of schools and universities, (2) more university waqf centers had been established, (3) the welfare of disabled and poor students is guaranteed, and (4) enrich the quality of higher education through research grants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research in the globalization era has emphasized the importance of global competence and its integration into language teaching and learning. This article discussed the current focus of global education through the integration of global competence in English as a Second Language (ESL) in Malaysia. The country's global competence development among ESL teachers and students, along with its integration into English lessons, were identified, satisfying the need to achieve quality education. The global competence integration of ESL teachers will meet the fourth United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 4), which strives for quality education. The global education goals form a critical starting point of this article, which articulates the connection to the targets in SDG 4. Hence, this article investigated the significance of global competence in language teaching and learning in Malaysia. Overall, the integration of global competence among ESL teachers can provide life-long learning, enhancing the quality of education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of academic journals on special needs in Malaysia. Special needs indicate a limitation in a person's ability to engage in and benefit from education as a result of a long-term physical, sensory, mental health, learning disability, or any other condition that causes a person to learn differently than someone who does not have such condition. This study examined scholarly journal articles concerning special needs in Malaysia that were published during the last five years, from 2017 to 2021. This research aims to discover the demographics of journal articles on special needs and identify the research areas. The demographics of the journal point out the year, language, and sources. Meanwhile, the research areas focus on the field and category of special needs. 123 articles were founded and analyzed based on the particular characteristic mentioned. As a result, in the year 2021, a huge amount of articles were published with 43 articles (35%). When compared to the Malay language, a large number of the published articles are written in English as a medium, as well as the majority of the articles, were successfully retrieved from Google Scholar. Furthermore, the publisher and research areas are vast and diverse. This study also narrowed the articles regarding the category of special needs. In a nutshell, this paper will be presented as a road map to researchers out there in their writing and raise awareness about special needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is one of the major causes of liver cirrhosis and liver carcinoma. Studies have indicated that an imbalance of cytokine activities could contribute to the pathogenesis of chronic HCV infection. This study aimed to investigate serum levels and gene expression of cytokines (IL-6, TNF-a and TGF-β1) in chronic HCV infection among Malay male subjects. Methods: Thirty-nine subjects were enrolled from various health clinics in Kelantan, Malaysia, and divided into two groups: patients with chronic HCV infection (HP) and healthy control (HS). The serum cytokines IL-6, TNF-a—were measured using Luminex assay, and serum TGF-β1 was measured by ELISA. The mRNA gene expression for IL-6, TNF-a and TGF-β1 was measured by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: There were statistically significant differences in the mean serum levels of IL-6, and TGF-β1 in HP compared to HS group (p = 0.0180 and p = 0.0005, respectively). There was no significant difference in the mean serum level of TNF-a in HP compared to HS group. The gene expression for the studied cytokines showed no significant differences in HP compared to HS group. Conclusion: Serum IL-6 was significantly associated with chronic HCV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dengue is one of the public health concerns in developing and developed countries. Since the main control measure for dengue is health prevention and control activities, especially among children, it is essential to assess children's knowledge on dengue prevention activities in preventing the disease. This study aimed to develop an assessment tool (CAB-IHBR-Dengue-C-01) attempting to measure children's knowledge of dengue prevention activities in Malaysia. Twelve (12) pictorials with descriptions were developed to capture children's understanding of the correct method of dengue prevention activities. Cronbach' alpha test was used to assess the internal consistency of the items, and the test and retest reliability method was used to measure the consistency of the questionnaire. For test-retest reliability analysis, tests were conducted twice, with an interval of two (2) weeks from the first test. In total, 58 respondents comprising of Malay, Chinese, and Indian aged between 7 and 12 years old were included in this study. The results showed the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) score was 0.640; with moderate reliability; meanwhile, Cronbach's alpha score was 0.606. In conclusion, CAB-IHBR-Dengue-C-01 (Cognitive Affective Behaviour-Institute for Health Behavioural Research-Dengue-Children-Version 01) is reliable to be used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychosocial safety climate (PSC) is a facet‐specific climate for psychological health and safety which constitutes an important organizational resource for creating a conducive work environment. The process to regain/restore energy expended at work, known as "recovery," also plays a pivotal role for individuals; however, this process, together with PSC, remains largely underexplored. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the role of PSC in enhancing the moderating role of individuals' psychological detachment and relaxation during weekends on the relationship between daily job demands in Week 1 and daily emotional exhaustion in Week 2. Data from a shortitudinal study of 178 teachers (in total, 534 diaries) in Terengganu, Malaysia, over two consecutive weeks, were operationalized at the individual level and daily level using Hierarchical Linear Modeling (HLM) software. The analysis showed that the daily experience of job demands in the prior week led to an increment of emotional exhaustion in the following week. Interestingly, the interaction role of PSC*psychological detachment and PSC*relaxation moderated the relationship between daily job demands and daily emotional exhaustion. Overall, this study highlights the importance of individual off‐job recovery time and that building good PSC at work is fundamental in compensating for the adverse relationships between job demands and its consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Histamine is commonly present in food containing proteins, like in mackerel. Consuming fish is imperative for the improvement of human muscles. Nevertheless, some studies reported ingesting fish containing histamine more than 50 mg·kg-1 can cause toxicity. This study analyzed and determined the composition of histamine in mackerel and its products commonly consumed in Malaysia, especially on the East Coast of Malaysia. These included processed mackerel such as canned products, satay (skewed fish) and keropok lekor (fish cake/ cracker). Histamine analysis was performed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) equipped with a fluorescence detector. A derivatizing reaction was applied to increase the sensitivity of HPLC to histamine using 9-flourenilmethylchloroformate (FMOC-Cl). The chromatographic separation was achieved in 15 min. Method validation was in accordance to Commission Decision 657/2002/CE. The linear range was at 0.16 - 5.00 µg·mL-1 (histamine) with the LOD at 0.10 µg·mL-1 and LOQ at 0.30 µg·mL-1. Method applicability was checked on seven real samples involving raw, cooked, and dry products, yielding acceptable recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy, often referred to as clean energy is derived from natural resources and does not deplete when used. Malaysia targets to achieve 31 % renewable energy generation by 2025. The availability and reliability of renewable energy resources are highly vulnerable to climate conditions. Floods, which account for almost 40 % of natural disaster can adversely affect energy resources generation, transmission and infrastructure. Malaysia as a tropical country is especially prone to floods due to the high average rainfall it receives annually. Malaysia energy policy planning has placed more emphasis on efficiency of generation and emissions reductions. The need to adapt to flood disasters and other climatic change challenges has not been adequately addressed. Due to the flood risk in Malaysia, adaptation to climate change and disasters such as flood needs to be considered in Malaysia's energy policy planning. This paper reviews scholarly papers and news articles related to the flood phenomenon in Malaysia, and analyses the impact of flood disasters on renewable energy generation and energy policy planning in this country. The findings indicate that flood has an insignificant effect on Malaysia's renewable energy power generators as they are not located in flood-prone areas. The east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, which is exposed to flooding during the monsoon season, is the most vulnerable to flood disasters. Most renewable energy generation facilities including biomass power stations, hydropower, and solar panels are located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, and in Sabah and Sarawak. The potentially high risk of flash floods and unpredictable climate conditions in Malaysia should not be underestimated and must be duly considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most food poisoning outbreaks are caused by consumers' poor knowledge, attitude, perception, and behaviour in relation to food safety. A valid and reliable tool is thus needed to measure these factors among the consumers. A total of 79 respondents participated in this pilot survey using convenient sampling, and participants self-completed the questionnaire given. Item analysis was conducted to determine the difficulty and discrimination indices of 40 items involved in knowledge construction. Construct validity and reliability were performed on 33 items which measured attitudes, preventive practices, and perceptions. Item analysis showed that more than 80% of respondents answered 19 items correctly. The discrimination index revealed that 16 items scored below 0.20. The Average Variance Extraction for all latent constructs, namely attitude, practice, and perception met acceptable threshold values of 0.527, 0.517, and 0.535, respectively. The Fornell-Larcker criterion suggested that three latent constructs were acceptable for discriminant validity. The internal consistency and reliability for all scaled items in each construct were good, with Cronbach's alpha values of more than 0.7 (0.820, 0.809, and 0.799 for attitude, practice, and perception, respectively). In conclusion, the present work indicated that the knowledge, attitude, practice, and perception (KAP2) questionnaire used could be a valid and reliable measure to evaluate consumer's knowledge, attitude, preventive practice, and perception on food poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Labisia pumila (LP) is a traditional plant that is locally known as Kacip Fatimah, Selusuh Fatimah, or Pokok Ringgang by the Malaysian indigenous people. It is believed to facilitate their childbirth, treating their postchild birth and menstrual irregularities. The water extract of LP has shown to contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, ascorbic acid, β-carotene, anthocyanin, and phenolic acid, which contribute extensive antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal. The LP ethanolic extract exhibits significant estrogenic effects on human endomentrial adenocarcinoma cell in estrogen-free basal medium and promoting an increase in secretion of alkaline phosphate. Water based has been used for many generations, and studies had reported that it could displace in binding the antibodies and increase the estradiol production making it similar to esterone and estradiol hormone. LP extract poses a potential and beneficial aspect in medical and cosmeceutical applications. This is mainly due to its phytoestrogen properties of the LP. However, there is a specific functionality in the application of LP extract, due to specific functional group in phytoconstituent of LP. Apart from that, the extraction solvent is important in preparing the LP extract as it poses some significant and mild side effects towards consuming the LP extracts. The current situation of women reproductive disease such as postmenopausal syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome is increasing. Thus, it is important to find ways in alternative treatment for women reproductive disease that is less costly and low side effects. In conclusion, these studies proven that LP has the potential to be an alternative way in treating female reproductive related diseases such as in postmenopausal and polysystic ovarian syndrome women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While increasing numbers of women pursue careers in accounting in Malaysia, women remain under-represented in senior roles in Malaysian accounting firms. This paper explores women's career progression to senior roles in Malaysian small and medium-sized accounting firms. In the context of the wider literature on women's representation in paid work and accounting in western countries, and the limited research on women's accounting careers in Malaysia, qualitative data from 20 in-depth interviews were analysed to identify factors impacting women's careers in Malaysian SME accounting firms. We contribute to theory through revealing the multiple oppressions women experience through the interaction of gendered work practices, competitive pressures, stereotypical beliefs, ethnic influences and family business in this particular cultural context. We argue that intersectionality is a useful concept to understand how gender, ethnicity and religion are simultaneously implicated in workplace practices. For meaningful change to occur, an integrated approach which allows for change at the individual, organisational and national levels needs to be supported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various efforts have been made to boost the tourism sector in Malaysia including through public transport facilities provided such as sightseeing bus facilities or better known as hop on hop off buses which have now started operating in Kuala Lumpur and Penang. This transportation facility is an alternative to introduce the main tourist attractions in a relaxed and interesting way. However, this bus facility is still less popular among tourists. Therefore, this study was conducted to analyze the hop on hop of bus facilities to improve the existing operating system. Spatial analysis approach using geographic information system (GIS) is used for analysis and mapping purposes. Network analysis is used in this study to determine the suitability of the route and placement of existing hop on hop off bus stations. The results of this study show that tourist areas that are easily accessible, especially using public transport such as buses get the highest visits, especially from foreign tourists. Placing a hop on hop off bus station that is easily accessible to tourists is of great benefit to them. Nevertheless, the analysis shows that there are some bus stations that need relocation due to their proximity to each other. There are a number of stations that need to be placed near tourist areas that were previously not included in the list of hop on hop off routes. This amendment is needed to enable all potential and attractive tourist areas to be visited by tourists either from within or outside the country and further drive the development of tourism in Penang. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the beauty and wellness industries, the association between herbs, skin aging, hyperpigmentation, and cosmeceuticals is gaining significance. The process of skin aging occurs in the epidermal and dermal layers and is primarily associated with the deterioration of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Deterioration of ECM can be due to increased matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) or decreased transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Along with some pigment defects such as hypo or hyperpigmentation, this process can cause skin wrinkles, roughness, and dryness. There is a need to slow down the ECM degradation and inhibition of melanin formation. Herbs have a high potential due to their various biologically active compounds. Malaysia is one of the countries rich in tropical rainforests with its traditional medicinal herbs. However, the use of Malaysian herbs in skin aging and hyperpigmentation is still limited. Thus, this review focuses on selected Malaysian herbs that are traditionally used for various purposes and have potential as anti-aging and anti-hyperpigmentation properties. The information contained in the present review indicates that selected Malaysian herbs can be used in the treatment of skin aging and hyperpigmentation and will assist the cosmetics sectors in the development of herbal anti-aging and anti- hyperpigmentation formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of heavy metals in the manufacturing industry over the past few decades has eventually contributed to a rise in the flow of metallic compounds into wastewater and has raised significant ecological and health threats to living things. Adsorption is an excellent way to treat solid waste effluent, offering significant benefits such as affordability, profitability, ease of operation and efficiency. However, the price of commercial adsorbent namely activated carbon has soared due to its high demand. There is also a green improvement in this method by turning the commercial adsorbent into agricultural waste. In Malaysia, the oil palm waste is such suitable material that can be utilized for making activated carbon, since they are ample and easy to find. Additionally, part of them is agricultural waste that cannot be consumed (i.e. leaves and fronds). Hence, this study aimed to analyse the potential of activated carbon from agricultural waste, namely oil palm waste, in reducing the levels of heavy metals in industrial wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: People with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are best managed by a chronic care model that is associated with enhanced quality of care and improved patient outcome. Assessing patients' perceived quality of care is crucial in improving the healthcare delivery system. Hence, this study determined the perceived quality of care among people with T2DM and explored its associations with (i) sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and (ii) types of healthcare clinics to guide future planning.Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 20 primary healthcare clinics in the North East Region of Peninsular Malaysia and people with T2DM as the sampling unit was conducted from February to May 2019. The pro forma checklist, interview-guided Skala Kepuasan Interaksi Perubatan-11, and Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (Malay version; PACIC-M) questionnaire were used for data collection. Univariate analysis and linear regression were used to determine the status of perceived quality of care and the factors associated with the perceived quality of care, respectively.Results: Overall, data from 772 participants were analyzed. The majority was from the Malay ethnic group (95.6%) with a mean (standard deviation [SD]) glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level of 8.91% (2.30). The median (interquartile range [IQR]) of the number of medical officers available at each clinic was 6 (7), with Family Doctor Concept (FDC) clinics having a higher number of medical officers than non-FDC clinics (p = 0.001). The overall mean (SD) PACIC-M score was 2.65 (0.54) with no significant difference between scores of patients treated in the two clinic types (p = 0.806). Higher perceived quality of care was associated with lower number of medical officers (adjusted regression coefficient [Adj.β], - 0.021; p-value [p], 0.001), and greater doctor-patient interaction in all domains: distress relief (Adj.β, 0.033; p, < 0.001), rapport (Adj.β, 0.056; p, < 0.001), and interaction outcome (Adj.β, 0.022; p, 0.003).Conclusion: Although there was no significant difference found between clinic type, this study reflects that patients are comfortable when managed by the same doctor, which may support a better doctor-patient interaction. A larger specialized primary care workforce could improve diabetes care in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Language & Linguistics Studies is the property of Journal of Language & Linguistics Studies and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Adequate control of hypertension is a global challenge and is the key to reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors. This study evaluates management of hypertensive patients in primary care clinics in Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of 13 784 medical records from 20 selected public primary care clinics in Malaysia was performed for patients aged ≥30 years old who were diagnosed with hypertension and had at least one visit between 1st November 2016 and 30th June 2019. Multivariable logistic regression adjusted for complex survey design was used to determine the association between process of care and blood pressure (BP) control among the hypertensive patients. Results: Approximately 50% of hypertensive patients were obese, 38.4% of age ≥65 years old, 71.2% had at least one comorbidity and approximately one-third were on antihypertensive monotherapy. Approximately two-third of the hypertensive patients with diabetic proteinuria were prescribed with the appropriate choice of antihypertensive agents. Approximately half of the patients received at least 70% of the target indicated care and 42.8% had adequately controlled BP. After adjusting for covariates, patients who received counseling on exercise were positively associated with adequate BP control. Conversely, patients who were prescribed with two or more antihypertensive agents were negatively associated with good BP control. Conclusions: These findings indicated that BP control was suboptimal and deficient in the process of care with consequent gaps in guidelines and actual clinical practices. This warrants a re-evaluation of the current strategies and approaches to improve the quality of hypertension management and ultimately to improve outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaysia has committed to the global call to achieve universal health coverage, and with the adoption of Sustainable Development Goals, is further strengthening the health system through the primary health care services, particularly the family doctor concept. The Enhanced Primary Health Care (EnPHC) initiative was implemented to address the worrying upward trend of non-communicable disease prevalence, and incorporates the Family Health Team (FHT) concept. The aim of this paper is to describe the implementation of the FHT as part of the EnPHC intervention. Methods: In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with the intervention design team, healthcare providers and patients in two rounds during the implementation period. A total of 121 individuals in the two rounds, split into different groups, where some of the participants of the FGD were also interviewed individually. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis, with codes being organised into larger themes. Results: Themes that emerged from the data were around the process of FHT implementation and the advantages of the FHT, which included continuity of health care and improved quality of care. Patients and health care providers were receptive to the FHT concept, and took the effort to adapt the concept in the local settings. Conclusions: The FHT concept implemented at 20 public primary health clinics has benefits appreciated by health care providers and patients. Addressing the viable shortcomings would better prepare the current primary healthcare system to scale up the FHT concept nationwide and enhance its feasibility and sustainability. Trial registration: The study is registered with the National Medical Research Register, Ministry of Health Malaysia (NMRR-17-295-34711). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The Look East Policy Programme in Malaysia, that was rejuvenated recently by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, the seventh Prime Minister of Malaysia, focuses on a few key areas, namely, education, training and investment, consequently, making the learning of Japanese as a third language fundamental for Malaysian undergraduates as a key point to set them apart from others, especially in multicultural or intercultural competency atmospheres. On the global sphere, the emergence of Japan as a rising force in industrialisation has also made the learning of Japanese essential for non-native speakers. Hence, it has become relevant and necessary to pay more attention to the learning of the Japanese language in all corners of the globe. However, for many, it is a daunting task, mainly because of unfamiliarity with the Japanese script and the vast number of characters in the language. This paper outlines an initiative taken by the researchers in developing and testing a multimedia application for Japanese language learning using sensory learning and Tangible User Interface, adopting the five-step ADDIE model. The paper maps out the detailed step-by-step process in developing this application, named ATAMJHS for the learning of the Hiragana syllabary, using Malay language mnemonics as the learning guide, thus, making it a truly novel application for use by any Malayliterate learner in South East Asia and anywhere beyond, ensuring a more rewarding and sustainable partnership with Japan in the future, through quality education (SDG 2030: Goal 4), specifically in upholding and realising the Look East Policy in the Malaysian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research Aims - We examine the intellectual capital (IC) performance and its connection with firm value. We also investigate whether the adoption of an enhanced quality standard MFRS 139 that affect recognition and measurement of financial instrument's fair values, moderates the relationship between IC performance and firm value. Design/Methodology/Approach - We used panel data analysis of listed financial institutions' data for 2005 - 2015 period. Research Findings - A positive association between IC performance and firm value is found, proposing that IC is an important resource for firms. The results also show that MFRS 139 implementation strengthens the relationship between IC performance and firm value. This result proposes that the MFRS 139 adoption that reflects enhanced transparency could help investors in assessing firm value. Theoretical Contribution/Originality - This study introduces the effect of information asymmetry on the relation between resources (IC performance) and outcome (firm value) as described in the resources-based view. Thus far, not much is understood on the relationship between IC performance and firm value when transparency is enhanced by a new standard i.e. MFRS 139 adoption. Managerial Implications in the Southeast Asian Context - MFRS 139 adoption enhances managerial decision-making and control. The outcome suggests that mandatory adoption of MFRS 139 facilitates managers and investors to know the real value created by the firm and influence its share price. Research Limitations and Implications - The conclusion is limited to financial sector in Malaysia that experienced changes in the financial instruments standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Past research on healthy lifestyle behaviours has been primarily conducted within Western or Judeo-Christian contexts, while non-Western or Muslim contexts remain under-represented. This study examined predictors of healthy lifestyle behaviours (religiosity, goal-setting, impulse control, and subjective well-being) in Malaysian Muslims and explored the mechanisms underlying the relationship between religiosity and healthy lifestyle behaviours. Self-report survey responses from 183 healthy adults (Mage = 28.63 years, 18-50 years) were analysed using regression and multiple mediation analyses. The results indicated that subjective well-being emerged as the strongest predictor, followed by goal-setting. Furthermore, subjective well-being and goal-setting mediated the religiosity-healthy lifestyle behaviour relationship. The findings provide guidance for future health-promoting interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is believed to be caused by natural processes such as volcanic eruptions, which release ash into the atmosphere, and anthropogenic activities that increase the concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), which trap energy and cause intense warming. This article conducts a comprehensive review of existing literature relating to climate change and its impact on oil palm production in Malaysia. To enable analysis, articles were arranged, sorted, and categorized into various themes and associations based on the title of the article, abstract, and later the content. The findings reveal that climate change causes variability in the intensity and duration of rainfall, which ultimately affects the production of oil palm fresh fruit bunches (FFB) and the quality of crude palm oil (CPO). The decline in FFB increased the price of crude palm oil. The impacts of climate change on oil palm vary and are felt differently in different regions. Climate change increases the vulnerability and exposure of oil palms to various diseases, exposes them to water stress, and disrupts metabolic activities. The surface temperature in Malaysia is anticipated to rise by 1.5 to 2 °C, worsening the adaptation plans. Oil palm growers explore possible ways to adapt to and withstand the impacts of climate change by adopting the use of an improved variety of oil palm seedlings, soil management and fertility preservation, silt pit, mulching, intercropping, livelihood diversification, buying insurance, and best water conservation practices., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

Summary: The reproductive biology of cobia, Rachycentron canadum, from the coastal waters of Dungun, Malaysia was studied from June 2014 to May 2015. From commercial trawls, a total of 201 samples (combined sexes) were collected (fork lengths [FL] 37.5–124.0 cm; body weights 0.5–20.4 g). The overall sex ratio of females to males was 1:0.9, which was not significantly different (χ2 = 2.12, df = 1; p < .05). Estimations of length at 50% maturity (L50) showed that both sexes matured at approximately 75 cm FL; estimated spawning frequency was 6 days. Mean batch fecundity (BF) ranged from 0.55 to 4.32 million eggs. The average number of eggs per gram of ovary was from 2,100 to 5,400 eggs, and relative fecundity 147 eggs/g. There was a weak positive correlation (r2 = .48) between BF and female FL as well as BF with an ovary‐free body weight (r2 = .56), possibly due to females being in a continuous spawning condition and some possibly half‐spent, based on the histological examination of the female gonads. Despite cobia being asynchronous spawners, the gonadosomatic index in both males and females showed peaks in June, November, and particularly March. Based on histological examination, spawning‐capable males were encountered throughout the study period, whereas spawning‐capable females in the late developing subphase were found mostly in March and April. This is the first study on the reproductive aspects of cobia in Malaysian waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this paper is primarily to explore the extent of intangible assets and liabilities of large Malaysian companies. The authors also examine whether intangible assets and liabilities of a firm have similar or contrasting roles in firm performance.Design/methodology/approach Using a direct and straightforward measure of intangible assets and liabilities, the authors examine a large pool of data from large Malaysian companies over a six-year period spanning from 2008 to 2013.Findings The longitudinal analyses show a significant number of the sample companies, between 34 and 59.33 percent, have a consistent pattern of intangible liabilities. The authors also find firms with intangible liabilities have significantly underperformed financially than a control group of firms. In addition, the authors find that intangible liabilities have significant negative impact on firm performance whereas intangible assets have a contrasting positive impact on firm performance.Research limitations/implications One limitation of this study is that the authors have only used a single measure of intangible assets and liabilities. Albeit the measures used are straightforward and more objective, there could be other measures to capture intangibles.Practical implications The research findings have several theoretical as well as policy implications. Theoretically, the authors extend the resource-based view to the intangible asset-liability mix, affirming the crucial role of intangible resources in financial performance whilst introducing the unfavorable role of intangible liabilities in corporate financial performance. In terms of policy implications, the research findings provide initial empirical input to emerging calls for broader perspectives of intangibles, beyond intangible assets to include intangible liabilities, and therefore belong to an emerging paradigm toward the nature of intangibles.Originality/value This study documents a rare empirical account of the contrasting roles of intangible assets and liabilities in corporate financial performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the popular approaches of preventing youth sexual activity in Malaysia is using religion to promote premarital sexual abstinence. Despite this intervention, youth continue to practise premarital sex. Thus, the purpose of this exploratory mixed methods study was to understand the role of religion on sexual activity among college students in Klang Valley, Malaysia. A self-administered questionnaire survey to determine the relationship between religiosity and youth sexual activity was carried out on 1026 students recruited from 12 randomly selected colleges. Concurrently, face-to-face interviews were conducted on 15 students to explore how religiosity had influenced their decision on sexual activity. The survey data were analysed using logistic regression, while the qualitative data from the interviews were examined using thematic analysis with separate analysis for each gender. Both quantitative and qualitative results were then compared and integrated. Religious activity significantly reduced the risk of continuing sexual activity among female students (AOR = 0.67, CI = 0.47, 0.95, p = 0.02) but not male students. There was no significant relationship of religious affiliation and intrinsic religiosity (inner faith) to sexual activity by gender. Having faith in religion and strong sexual desire were the main themes that explained participants' sexual behaviour. Engaging in religious activity might be effective at preventing female students from being sexually active. However, when sexual urges and desires are beyond control, religiosity might not be effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emotional and behavioural problems among children have been increasing in many western as well as the eastern countries. Although the problem has been given attention and priority in terms of early detection, many children with early symptoms of emotional and behavioural problems has still not been detected at the early stages. This phenomenon is worrying as mental health problems were shown to be stable in the long run and if left undetected it may manifest into various problems in adulthood. This paper explores the issues on emotional and behavioural problems in terms of its definition, prevalence, aetiology, long term consequences and treatment. It also explores on mental health problems in a non-western country, i.e. Malaysia including its prevalence and intervention strategies which has been carried out in overcoming this worrying issue. Finally this review paper stresses the importance of providing a well-designed epidemiological study in Malaysia in assessing the current prevalence of emotional and behavioural problems in young children and adolescent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some Malaysian scholars believe that the theoretical basis and models of intervention in Islamic counseling practices in Malaysia are deficient and not eminently identified. This study investigated and describes the nature of current Islamic counseling practices including the theories and modules of Islamic counseling that are been practiced in Malaysia. This qualitative research has employed data that mainly consist of texts gathered from literatures and semi-structured interviews of 18 informants. It employed grounded theory analysis, and the result shows that most of the practitioners had applied integrated conventional counseling theories with Islamic rituals, references, interventions and ethics. Some had also applied Islamic theories and modules formulated in Malaysia such as iCBT, al-Ghazali counseling theories, Cognitive ad-Deen, KBJ, Prophetic Counseling and Asma Allah al-Husna Counseling Therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the development of a prediction model for the early identification of low employability graduates in Malaysia. A total of five proportional hazard models are estimated and using the criteria of percentage correctly and wrongly predicted, a prediction model is selected based on the percentage correctly predicted. The percentile of the predicted hazard rate is used as the employability index (EI). In the context of Malaysia, it is recommended that the 5th percentile graduates be considered as low employability graduates. With this early identification tool, specific intervention programs can be tailored for the right target groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the experiences of unwed teenage mothers in Malaysia in respect to the reactions of their parents and the fathers of their babies and how the reactions from significant others influence these unwed teenage mothers. The investigation was based on content analysis of interviews with 17 unwed teenage mothers, aged 12 to 18 years, during their probation or placement in shelter houses. The results show that most unwed teenage mothers became pregnant as a result of rape or statutory rape, and thus were at risk of developing mental health problems. Three themes were developed: secrecy, repression, and rejection. Four additional themes-feeling detached, trapped, unworthy, and ambiguous-were developed to describe the teenagers' experiences of pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of human capital reporting has increased in recent years. Stakeholders such as financial analysts and investors are calling for more transparency and fuelling interest in the value that employees bring into a company. To date, annual reports rarely provide quantitative data on human capital; the information provided is often general and of little value. This study examines the human capital disclosure practices of listed services companies in Malaysia. The study uses a qualitative approach of content analysis to analyze disclosure in the 2009 annual reports of companies. The findings reveal that human capital disclosure varies across industries. This study indicates that majority of firms (in trading and services, finance, and hotel industries) generally provide more information on the related attribute of "employees". Among the three industries, the finance industry provides the highest frequency. However, firms in the technology industry disclose more information on attributes related to "training and development". These findings indicate that the nature of work expectation leads to variance of disclosure on human capital attributes (HCA) among firms within the services industries. Technology firms disclose more information on training and development to indicate that these attributes will help their employees stay updated with new developments in the technology industry. This study also indicates that there is inconsistency in disclosing HCA among firms in the services industry. Firms in the finance, technology, and hotel industries disclose more information on "facilities and benefits provided" whereas firms in the trading and services industry disclose more on attributes related to "effort for human capital development". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]