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There is still a part of Malaysia that still does not have the privilege to access all the healthcare benefits offered by the Malaysia government. Therefore, there is a demanding need to find alternative model that could help in funding to build the health facilities in East Malaysia. This study will propose a framework using an innovative sukuk model that could help in financing the development of health facilities. This research is using a secondary research method, which adopts desk research. Literature from the past research on the issue of financing health services and accessibility to health facilities in rural areas especially in East Malaysia are critically analyzed to establish the new proposed framework. This paper is developing an Ijarah- Sustainable and Responsible Investment Sukuk (I-SRIS) Framework as a source to financing the development of health infrastructure and facilities in East Malaysia. This study will provide some insights for the government, regulators, health administrators, corporations and policymakers about the alternatives to fund and develop health facilities.

Purpose This study aims to examine the factors that affect individuals’ intention of participating in donation crowdfunding in the context of Oman. Design/methodology/approach This study used the self-determination theory. A total of 250 respondents from Oman participated. The data is collected by online survey and analyses by using the partial least squares technique. Findings The results illustrate that sense of self-worth, perceived donor effectiveness and moral obligation positively affect donation intention (DI) towards crowdfunding projects. Furthermore, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control positively impact individuals’ intention to contribute to donation crowdfunding. Originality/value The results contribute to the literature on donation crowdfunding by identifying the driving forces of individuals’ DI to crowdfunding projects in Oman.

Purpose The sources of collagens and gelatins are recently being questioned because it sourced from porcine or non-halal slaughtered animals. There are also concerns regarding the transfer of diseases from animal sources of collagen to human users. This study aims to propose an alternative source of collagen using recombinant collagen-like protein (halal-based) and to analyze factors contribute to the probability of using this alternative source of collagen among consumers in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach Survey data collected are tested empirically using statistical tools and logistic regression. Findings This study finds two important inferences. First, the probability consumers opt for the alternative source of collagen is significantly determined by age of consumers and the level of their incomes. The likelihood of the consumers to opt for this alternative source of collagen is higher among elderly and lower income consumers. Second, the probability of using this alternative source of collagen with the purpose to protect the marine life is higher among young and lower income consumers. Thus, marketing variations of a product using this alternative source of collagen that is targeted to high age bracket and low income group of consumers often sees as a good strategy as compared with a more generalized marketing strategy. The younger consumers are also among potential consumers whose concern is more on health without endangering marine species or biodiversity. Research limitations/implications The scope of areas in this study is limited to Klang Valley (Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia). The respondents are those staying and working in these areas regardless of citizenship and ethnicity. Originality/value This study is proposing a new and promising way for mass production of collagen using recombinant collagen-like protein. Collagen-like protein was found in bacteria, and it may represent an alternative biosynthetic collagen material which is expected to be an alternative of the existing sources which are non-halal and endanger biodiversity and ecosystem.

Purpose This study aims to investigate the behavioural intention and adoption of internet banking (IB) among clients of local and foreign Islamic banks in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach Survey questionnaires were distributed among the Islamic banks’ clients at two main states, namely, Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. The number of clients involved is 319 (n = 319). The data was analysed using the partial least square (PLS) and theoretically, the research framework in this study is guided by the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2 (UTAUT2). Findings The smart PLS analysis yielded three main outcomes, namely, the variables such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, price value, facilitating conditions and habit have a positive influence over the behavioural intention and subsequently lead to the adoption of IB. The other two variables, namely, social influence and hedonic motivation were negatively-related and insignificant for behavioural intention. Third, this paper also noticed that facilitating conditions and habits have a direct relationship with the adoption of IB. Practical implications Based on the findings, Islamic banks can take necessary action to design a better policy to further accelerate the usage of IB among their client. By identifying those factors, this, perhaps, can allow Islamic banks to invest more ideas on those significant factors that influence their interest, and subsequently leads to good business to Islamic banks as the clients nowadays are looking for simplicity and convenience factors when using IB. Originality/value This research is expected to enhance existing literature on internet banking, especially in Islamic banking research on the technological edge. Limited research has been done in Malaysia, particularly on the intention and continuous adoption of IB in Islamic banks using the UTAUT2 framework. This would be breakthrough research in identifying factors that influence customers’ continuous adoption of IB.

Purpose The present paper aims to propose a viable alternative model for human capital development (HCD), termed as the integrated cash waqf micro enterprises investment (ICWME-I) model, which is expected to contribute to the development of micro enterprises in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach This is a conceptual paper for the development of the ICWME-I model. It is purely qualitative in nature, using content analysis. It comprehensively reviews the literature related to HCD issues faced by micro enterprises and existing studies related to cash waqf (Islamic endowment) to construct the ICWME-I model. Findings The proposed ICWME-I model is specially designed for HCD of micro enterprises. It is an appropriate initiative to upgrade micro enterprises through HCD programmes by ensuring proper utilization of cash waqf funds to build modern training centres at subsidized costs with state-of-the-art facilities. The training centres would subsidize the participation fees of micro enterprises and provide them with facilities to undertake education and training programmes, as well as other kinds of activities for upgrading, improving and enhancing human capital capacity and skills of micro enterprises. The potential challenges of the ICWME-I model are also highlighted in this study. Research limitations/implications This paper attempts to construct the ICWME-I model based on an extensive review of literature related to micro enterprises, cash waqf and HCD. Among its major limitations is the fact that the ICWME-I model is not empirically validated and tested in this research. This can be carried out in future studies. Practical implications The present study could have an enormous impact on micro entrepreneurs via HCD programmes. The most important impact would be on government budgets, as this ICWME-I model is expected to generate its own funds from cash waqf for micro enterprises’ HCD. Originality/value This paper brings forward an original and viable model to develop human capital for micro enterprises development. This model involves the building of training centres using cash waqf raised from donors.

One of the critical hurdles for universities in the next decade will be financial sustainability. Only those institutions that have stable economic structures and steady income flows will be able to accomplish their numerous undertakings and counter any current and upcoming challenges. This article is proposing the model of cash Waqf by income percentage within the higher education context. The proposed model was shown to an expert to develop a greater understanding of the Waqf Percentage Model (WPM) as well as appraise its applicability, suitability and prospects in the market. The discoveries from the interviews have supported theappropriateness of the Waqf Percentage Model in providing significant financial amenities. Consequently, the model is thought to be extremely beneficial in providing financial amenities by providing a substitute for conventional monetary establishments. The government should consider it carefully as this model could help them to reduce expenses on Waqf development. Finally, the Waqf Percentage Model can also be adopted by the Waqf institutions of other Muslim countries. Abstrak Salah satu rintangan kritikal bagi universiti dalam dekad akan datang adalah kelestarian kewangan. Hanya institusi-institusi yang mempunyai struktur ekonomi yang stabil dan aliran pendapatan yang stabil yang dapat memenuhi banyak usaha mereka dan menghadapi segala cabaran semasa dan yang akan datang. Artikel ini mencadangkan model wakaf tunai mengikut peratusan pendapatan dalam konteks pendidikan tinggi. Model yang diusulkan ditunjukkan kepada seorang pakar untuk mengembangkan pemahaman yang lebih besar tentang Model Peratus Wakaf (WPM) serta menilai kesesuaian, kesesuaian dan prospeknya di pasar. Penemuan dari wawancara telah menyokong kesesuaian Model Peratus Wakaf dalam menyediakan kemudahan kewangan yang besar. Oleh itu, model ini dianggap sangat bermanfaat dalam menyediakan kemudahan kewangan dengan memberikan pengganti kepada institusi kewangan konvensional. Pemerintah harus mempertimbangkannya dengan teliti kerana model ini dapat menolong mereka untuk mengurangkan perbelanjaan pembangunan Wakaf. Akhirnya, Model Peratus Wakaf juga dapat diterima pakai oleh institusi Wakaf negara-negara Islam yang lain.

Purpose Crowdfunding has become one of the preferred mechanisms to raise funds by startups and small entrepreneurs. As such, this paper aims to develop an appropriate framework for Sharīʿah-compliant equity-based crowdfunding (SEC) for entrepreneurship development in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach The research begins by analyzing the intention of 200 entrepreneurs in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor regarding the use of crowdfunding to raise capital. The analysis is based on the theory of reasoned action (TRA), which is also associated with the technology acceptance model (TAM) and is effected by using structural equation modeling (SEM). Findings The entrepreneurs agree on the ease of use of crowdfunding in raising capital, although it appeared that they are quite reluctant to share their business ideas online. Subsequently, an SEC framework is proposed, to further enhance entrepreneurship development in Malaysia particularly in meeting the need for raising funds in line with Sharīʿah (Islamic law) principles. Practical implications This paper aims to contribute more to the development of a blueprint for an SEC platform for market players and regulators in Malaysia. Social implications This paper also aims to highlight the growing needs of entrepreneurs, particularly in Malaysia to have a Sharīʿah-compliant alternative to raise funds via crowdfunding. Originality/value This paper makes two main contributions. First, it provides evidence on Malaysian entrepreneurs’ intention to use crowdfunding for fundraising through TAM and SEM analysis. Second, it proposes an SEC framework for the development of entrepreneurs in Malaysia.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the factor persuading the acceptance of Islamic pawn broking (Ar-Rahnu) among Islamic bank customers. Design/methodology/approach The authors collected the data using a self-administered questionnaire design and analysed using SPSS Statistics and smart partial least square. The study is restricted to only respondents who are based in the area of Klang Valley (Selangor and Kuala Lumpur), as these two areas have a larger number of Islamic banks and a decent number of Islamic banks’ clients. A total of 381 respondents’ responses are used for this study, and the constructs involved for analysis purpose are affect, social factor, facilitating conditions, perceived financial benefits and perceived risk constructs. Findings The finding suggests a significant positive association for social factor and perceived risk, while negative association learnt for affect on acceptance of Ar-Rahnu financing. On the same note, the facilitating condition and perceived financial benefit are found insignificantly related. Practical implications The findings generated from this study are expected to enrich the literature on the body of knowledge, as it has served to broaden the understanding of the Ar-Rahnu acceptance level in Malaysia. As mentioned, there is limited literature available using this type of financing. Existing studies focus too much on conventional financing products such as personal financing, credit card, short-term loan and many others. Less attention is given to Ar-Rahnu financing. Thus, this study expected to add value to the literature available in the context of Islamic pawn broking business. Moreover, the findings of this study will be very helpful for the Islamic financial institutions to find the best way to retain Ar-Rahnu clients and encourage more client to choose Ar-Rahnu as a mode of financing. Originality/value This study owns greater potential to assist Islamic financial institutions to discover the best techniques to retain and encourage the grander number of clients for Ar-Rahnu as a mode of financing.

Purpose This paper aims to attempt to investigate and test the factors related to social media advertisement that could forecast the intention to subscribe to Islamic banking products in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach The research framework used in this study is guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The questionnaire method was used to collect data from 360 social media users and partial least square (PLS) analysis was carried out for the model’s validation. Findings The analytical results showed that perceived relevance, informativeness and perceived expectancy were found to have a statistical relationship with the purchase intention of Islamic banking products via a social media platform. Practical implications The study offers a practical implication in which the findings prove as helpful means for Islamic financial institutions to discover paramount techniques to retain existing customers and at the same time encourage potential new customers to subscribe to their products. Originality/value Deficiency of research focusing on social media marketing, especially the incorporation of the UTAUT model was observed in the literature. Thus, this paper offers additional literature on social media marketing and elucidates their role in Islamic banking industry, particularly from the Malaysian context. This research is considered to be among the primary attempts to examine the drivers of social media marketing and customers’ intention to subscribe to Islamic banking products in Malaysia.

The study aims to assess the prospect of using recombinant collagen-like protein (RCLP) from producers’ point of view. Using cross-sectional data from a survey, the study attempts to validate the proposed hypothesis within Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by using the Partial Least Square (PLS) path modeling approach (a variance-based SEM technique). Results show a direct positive and significant relations between ‘perceive ease of use’ and ‘attitude toward’, ‘perceived ease of use’ and ‘perceived usefulness’, ‘attitude toward’ and ‘behavioural intention’, and ‘perceived usefulness’ and ‘behavioural intention’ of producing collagen products sourced from recombinant collagen-like protein among firms. The results imply the high potential end collagen products to be marketed using this alternative source of collagen which is environmentally friendly and promotes sustainable development.

Purpose The growth of Islamic banking seems to be tremendous and significant in the context of Malaysia. Moreover, together with Muslim loyalty towards Islamic banking, non-Muslims are also showing positive acceptance towards Islamic banking in Malaysia. Thus, this paper aims to examine the drivers of loyalty among non-Muslim in their adoption of Islamic banking products in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach The primary data are collected from the survey administered to non-Muslim clients in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. The total number of respondents involved are n = 300. The analysis of data is conducted by using a partial least square analysis. Findings This study documented that loyalty among non-Muslim Islamic banking customers in Malaysia was mainly driven by convenience, product pricing, reliability and responsiveness, operational risk and security and value added services. Only one variable was found to be insignificant, which was accessibility. Practical implications The results from this research is expected to provide important inputs on the critical factors for consideration by Islamic banks in maintaining further loyalty among their non-Muslim customers, thus enhancing the development of Islamic banking in Malaysia. Originality/value This paper provides further literature evidence on the factors contributes to loyalty by considering non-Muslims patronization of Islamic banking in Malaysia.

PurposeThis paper aims to test the factors that can influence the adoption of Islamic mobile banking services among the current users in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachA sample of 250 current users of Islamic mobile banking services provided opinions about their intention to adopt Islamic mobile banking services. Later, the data are analysed using partial least squares approach.FindingsPerceived usefulness and risk are the factors that influence the intention to adopt Islamic mobile banking services among the existing users.Research limitations/implicationsThere are some limitations of the current study. The sample size and area of study becomes the obvious limitations. Thus, there is a need for caution in the interpretation of the results and the conclusion cannot be as generalised. Besides, the use of current factors might limit the ability to explore other potentially important determinants of the users. Thus, future research can be conducted by incorporating new factors and provide new insights for Islamic mobile banking services. In addition, the sample is biased towards people who are currently using mobile banking services.Practical implicationsBy understanding these factors among the customers, it would help the industry player, particularly Islamic financial institutions to plan and strategise appropriate policies and support necessary programme on diversifying and promoting financial transaction using mobile banking services among their existing and potential customers.Originality/valueThis paper offers an additional literature on Islamic mobile banking, especially from the Malaysian context. There is a lack of study that focusses on Islamic mobile banking services. The paper is considered to be the first attempt to examine factors that influence Malaysian Islamic banking customers to adopt Islamic mobile banking services, which is not often considered in previous studies.

Purpose The sustainable development of Islamic banking services has motivated a significant number of depositors to choose Islamic bank services instead of the conventional bank. There are various factors that can persuade the depositors’ choice to choose an Islamic bank. This paper aims to examine the factors that persuade individuals’ behavioral intention to choose Islamic bank services. Design/methodology/approach To achieve this objective, this study uses the theory of planned behavior (TPB) as the underlying theory to measure the factors that persuade the depositors’ behavioral intention to choose Islamic bank services. A total of 300 questionnaires were distributed to the Malaysian Islamic Bank’s depositors in Peninsular Malaysia. The data from the questionnaires were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Findings The result showed the three variables that predicted behavioral intentions of the depositors, namely, attitude (ATT), subjective norms (SN) and perceived behavioral control (PBC), were found to be significant in persuading depositors’ behavioral intention to choose Islamic bank services. Furthermore, the findings of the study also confirmed the relevance of using TPB to measure the depositors’ behavioral intention. The results could advance knowledge in the area of Islamic finance and also have positive implications for practitioners. Originality/value The study offers an insight into the present environment involving Islamic banking services which was established in Malaysia 30 years ago. In the context of the current study, the present environment refers to the depositors’ intention to opt for the service and the factors that influence the depositors to choose Islamic banking services apart from the religious factor which has been well acknowledged by a significant number of previous studies.

The present study has proposed Integrated Islamic Crowdfunding-Micro Enterprise (IICME) model to assist micro enterprises in meeting their need to access external financial services in East Java, Indonesia. Upon the proposed model, this study examines the behavioural intention of micro enterprises to use IICME model. The primary data are collected from the survey administered to micro enterprises in the East Java (Pasuruan, Malang, Kediri, Ponorogo, and Gresik) and the analysis is conducted using Partial Least Squares (SmartPLS). Furthermore, the model has been validated its acceptance in the field by adopting the extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). This study has revealed that the perceived usefulness, perceived easy to use and perceived benefit are found to have a positive impact on the intention of micro enterprises to use IICME model, which later assist them to access to financial services in Indonesia. Furthermore, perceived easy to use has a positive relationship and direct effect with perceived usefulness of micro enterprises to use the IICME model. The findings of this study can be used to develop a specific framework in which to examine other components of using the IICME model’s behavior and to plan appropriate intervention strategies to increase financial accessibility by micro enterprises. JEL: G23; M10

Youth entrepreneurs in Malaysia are getting very little financial assistance despite the various funding options available for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). While financial institutions are the main sourceof external finance to SMEs, this financingoption is often not readily accessible to youth entrepreneurs due to the latter's high-risk profile. Islamic crowdfunding, which offers access to financing that conforms to Shari'ah principles, has the potential to significantly change the financing landscape for youth entrepreneurs. To enable this, it is crucial to examine factors influencing an entrepreneur's intention to accept the Islamic crowdfunding as an alternative financing mechanism. This research aims to identify factors influencing the intention to accept Islamic crowdfunding among youth entrepreneurs in Malaysia. The data were collected based on a sample of 260 youth entrepreneurs in Malaysia through adoptedquestionnaires. The data were analysed using the Partial Least Squares-based StructuralEquation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The results revealed that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, self-efficacy, Islamic platform, and financial accessibility have positive influences on youth entrepreneurs' intention to accept the Islamic crowdfunding, but it was not the case for social influence. The findings for perceived risk, however, show a positive influence on intention instead of negative influence. Perceived usefulness significantly mediates the relationship between perceived ease of use and intention as suggested by the Technology of Acceptance Model (TAM). The findings of this study will help crowdfunding platform providers and policymakers have a better understanding of Islamic crowdfunding acceptance by youth entrepreneurs thus enhancing the growth of the crowdfunding sector in Malaysia.

Purpose This study aims to find important factors of Malaysian Islamic banking customers’ loyalty or continuance intention to use Islamic mobile banking services. Design/methodology/approach The primary data are collected from the survey administered to 250 customers in the Klang Valley and the analysis is conducted using partial least squares (PLS). Findings Based on the findings, continuance intention of using Islamic mobile banking services was found to be depended on the usability of mobile banking services, customer service provided by Islamic banks towards mobile banking services, customer satisfaction on mobile banking services and trust of customers towards mobile banking services. In addition, the mediating effect of Islamic mobile banking services continuance adoption is significantly influenced by customer satisfaction and trust. Research limitations/implications The sample size and area of study become the obvious limitations, and interpretation of the results and conclusion cannot be as generalised. In addition, as the respondents of this study are existing customers who have used Islamic mobile banking services at least once, relying on the perception of one key informant might imply cognitive biases. Besides, the use of current factors might limit the ability to explore other potentially important determinants of the customers’ continuance intention in using Islamic mobile banking services. Practical implications By understanding these continuance intention factors amongst the customers, it would help the industry player particularly Islamic banking to plan and strategise appropriate policies and support necessary programmes on diversifying and promoting financial transaction using mobile banking services amongst their existing and potential customers. Originality/value This paper offers an additional literature on Islamic mobile banking, especially from the Malaysian context. There is a lack of study that focuses on loyalty towards Islamic mobile banking services. The paper is considered to be the first attempt to examine the factors that influence Malaysian Islamic banking customers’ loyalty or continuance intention to use Islamic mobile banking services.

Purpose Waqf (Islamic endowment) in the form of cash is important to address the problem of developing idle waqf lands. Although there are various existing models of cash waqf, there is still a need for innovative cash waqf models. This paper aims to offer an alternative mode of financing for developing idle waqf lands using the concepts of cooperatives and waqf. Design/methodology/approach The present study first evaluates relevant literature on financing issues faced by waqf institutions in developing idle waqf lands as well as existing models of cash waqf. Based on the prevailing gap in cash waqf models, the study proposes a hybrid model of cooperative-waqf to finance idle waqf lands in Malaysia. Findings The proposed model is unique owing to the new dimension of membership being embedded into the waqf project. It considers donors as members of the waqf project, which is funded through the cash waqf collected, and thus, donors are given the privilege to receive benefits from the commercialised projects that are developed on the waqf lands. The existing models of cash waqf use traditional methods in which donors merely contribute cash waqf without any awareness of how the contributions are utilised. Usually, this problem occurs due to the lack of reciprocal communication between cash waqf donors and waqf institutions. Research limitations/implications The present study examines the case of waqf land development in the context of Malaysia only. Secondly, the paper does not contain any empirical analysis, and the development of the paper is based on existing literature that discusses various models of cash waqf practised in Muslim-majority and -minority countries. Future research can conduct surveys of donors and other stakeholders on the practicality of the model. Practical implications It is expected that the proposed cooperative-waqf model will be able to create a synchronised relationship between cash waqf donors and waqf institutions and hence boost participation in developing waqf lands. Originality/value The present study adds to the existing literature in the area of waqf and cash waqf models, especially the application of this instrument in the context of Malaysia. It also offers a new hybrid model to the State Islamic Religious Councils (SIRCs) – Malaysia’s sole trustee of waqf assets management – such that the implementation of the proposed model could boost the collection of cash waqf in developing commercial projects on idle waqf lands.

Purpose This paper aims to examine the behavioural intention of donors or crowd funders to use crowdfunding-waqf model (CWM), as this model is proposed to address the liquidity problem faced by waqf institution in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach The primary data are collected from the survey administered to donors or crowd funders in Klang Valley and the analysis is conducted using Partial Least Squares (PLS). The model has validated its acceptance in the field by adopting the theory of Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Findings This study has revealed that both the perceived usefulness and perceived easy to use are found to have a positive impact on the intention of donors or crowd funders in assisting waqf institution to develop waqf land in Malaysia. Furthermore, perceived easy to use has a positive relationship and direct effect with perceived usefulness of crowd funders to use the CWM. Research limitations/implications The variables that have been used based on TAM in this study are constantly in flux. There are other variables such as trust, social norm, orientations that might be affecting the adoption level of donors or crowd funders in Malaysia. In addition, the current study is covering only Klang Valley, Malaysia. Future research is nevertheless still required that incorporate other variables and extend the study to other states of Malaysia. Practical implications The findings of this paper will provide waqf institution with an alternative source for raising capital to develop waqf asset. The present study also has implications for government and policy makers. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, no study has incorporated an element of crowdfunding to develop waqf land. Thus, the present study is relevant in extending the importance of crowdfunding as a source of financing for waqf institutions in developing waqf land.

The study proposes the local currency model to the Malaysian Indigenous community (Orang Asli) since they are among the nation's hardcore poor. It attempts to measure the probability and level of acceptance in the community if the complementary currency system were to be introduced for their economic activities. Using primary data collected from the survey among Orang Asli in Peninsular Malaysia, the study analyzes the data using Logit model and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Results from logistic regression imply that the probability to opt for proposed local currency as an alternative currency is high if it is using agricultural products and backed by national currency. The probability is also high among higher income respondents but low for those with big family size and those who prefer to use Ringgit Malaysia (RM). Using TAM, it is found that ‘perceived usefulness’ and ‘perceived ease of use’ have positive effect on ‘attitude’ to use the proposed local currency. Similar results are found between ‘perceived usefulness’ and ‘behavioral intention’ to use the proposed currency. Thus, through positive attitude, the respondent’s perceptions on the usefulness and ease of use positively affect the behavioral intention of using the new system. The findings could assist the policymakers in implementing local currency model to Orang Asli community to boost their economic activities and pull them out from the circle of hardcore poverty among nations.

PurposeWaqf institutions in many Muslim countries including in Malaysia are facing liquidity constraints in developing waqf land. This paper aims to offer a sustainable model of source of financing for waqf institutions to meet their liquidity constraint in developing waqf land, which is known as the crowdfunding–waqf model (CWM). Later, CWM validated its acceptance in the field among the crowdfunders by adopting the theory of technology acceptance model (TAM).Design/methodology/approachThe primary data are collected from the survey administered to donors or crowdfunders in Selangor, Penang, Johor and Pahang. The total number of respondents aren= 1,000. The analysis is conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM).FindingsBased on findings, both the perceived usefulness and perceived easy to use of CWM are found to have a positive impact on the behavioral intention of crowdfunders or donors in assisting waqf institutions to develop waqf land in Malaysia. Furthermore, perceived easy to use has a positive relationship and direct effect on perceived usefulness of crowdfunders to use the CWM.Research limitations/implicationsThere are some limitations of the current study. The sample size and area of study become the obvious limitations. Thus, there is a need for caution in the interpretation of the results, and the conclusion cannot be as generalized. Besides, the use of current factors might limit the ability to explore other potentially important determinants of the crowdfunders’ behavioral intention on using CWM. Thus, future research can be conducted by incorporating new factors and provide new insights for optimizing CWM. Other potential moderator variables should be included into the research model in order to obtain more robust results.Practical implicationsThe findings of this paper will provide a new avenue for waqf institutions to raise funds for developing waqf land, particularly in Malaysia. The present study also has implications for the government and policymakers. Through CWM, it enables to reduce the expenses of the government for the development of waqf land. Indeed, CWM could be applied in other Muslim countries that are facing liquidity constraint in developing waqf land.Originality/valueThis paper offers an additional literature on waqf and crowdfunding, especially in the Malaysian context. The paper proposes a viable alternative model for waqf institutions as a source of financing by using crowdfunding.

Purpose This paper aims to examine the role of religion in influencing the public relations activity of Islamic banking institutions in Malaysia by adopting circuit of culture (COC) model as theoretical framework. Design/methodology/approach A narrative analysis is used in this study. This analysis has basically involved the application of symbolic interactionist tenets to respective websites and relevant documents of Islamic banks in Malaysia. Findings The paper has identified six Islamic value orientations elements, especially respect for religious authority, affinity with the past, fatalism, communal kinship, attachment to the eternal life and spirituality and idealism relative to public relations practice among the Islamic banks in Malaysia. The study finds that the respective banks are embedded with Islamic values in their communication tools that reflect public relations activity. Research limitations/implications The theme of value orientations that have been generated and used in this study are constantly in flux. There are some other orientations that might be affecting the cultural value of public relations activities of Islamic banking in Malaysia. Furthermore, these value orientations are less effective in identifying dominating cultural factors that can be amended with situational flexibility, as the current study focuses on Malaysian context. Future research is required by incorporating a quantitative means of testing and measuring the effectiveness of website by using cultural-economic model for building. Practical implications The study suggests that public relations researchers should not ignore the vital relationship between religion and public relations activity. The findings of this paper provide Islamic banking institutions to improve and enhance their public relations activity. Originality/value This paper offers an additional literature related to public relations activity by using cultural-economic model. While previous studies have focused on product, brand matters and organization behavior to define cultural and public relation, very little research has been focused on the role of religion in determining public relations activity and cultural pattern. Indeed, no study has been focused explicitly on public relations activity of Islamic banks in Malaysia using COC.

PurposeThis paper aims to attempt to offer a viable alternative model of source of financing to develop waqf land, which is known as crowdfunding-waqf model (CWM). Design/methodology/approachThe extant literature on the financing constraints faced by waqf institution in developing waqf land, and crowdfunding have been reviewed critically and used in the attempt of proposing an alternative model. FindingsThe paper has developed CWM as a source of financing for waqf institution in Malaysia. This model is expected to provide waqf institution in Malaysia to meet their liquidity constraint in developing waqf land. It also involves an involvement of crowdfunding platform. Research limitations/implicationsThe paper is based on conceptual explorations of literature in the area of waqf and crowdfunding. This is a conceptual paper, so it did not use any empirical analysis. Practical implicationsThe findings of this paper will provide waqf institution with an alternative source of financing to develop waqf land. The present study also has implications for government and policymakers. By involving crowdfunding, it helps the government to reduce its expenses for the development of waqf land in Malaysia. Originality/valueThis paper offers an additional literature on waqf and crowdfunding especially from the Malaysian context. The paper proposes a viable alternative model for waqf institution as a source of financing by using crowdfunding, to develop waqf land. This model incorporates donation-based crowdfunding model and reward-based crowdfunding model. This model is different with the existing way of raising Cash waqf, which is conducted also via online basis by financial institutions and state government agencies. Later, the collected Cash waqf fund is transformed into illiquid assets such as building of hospitals, educational institutions and purchasing machinery and assets. However, the nature of proposed model in this study is to assist waqf institution to develop waqf land. Crowdfunding model is used to raise fund to develop waqf land in Malaysia. The fund collected via crowdfunding model is based on donation and reward based, not based on the nature of Cash waqf.

As an alternative source of financing, Investment Account Platform (IAP) becomes a new phenomenon of raising financing for SMEs from a large pool of investors via the internet, and investment diversification portfolio tools among investors in Malaysia. The purpose of this study is to identify critical factors that influence behavioral intention of investors to invest in IAP’s projects in Malaysia. The primary data (n=1000 respondents) are collected from the investors in the Klang Valley, Malaysia and the analysis is conducted using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Furthermore, the model has validated its acceptance in the field by adopting the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). This study has revealed that both the perceived usefulness and perceived easy to use are found to have a positive impact on the behavioral intention of investors to use IAP in Malaysia. Furthermore, perceived easy to use has a positive relationship and direct effect with perceived usefulness of investors to use IAP.Keywords: Investment Account Platform, Financing, InvestmentJEL Classification: E22, G24, M13, M14

One of the common problems faced by worldwide SMEs including Malaysia is accessing external financial services. Given this fact, this chapter offers a sustainable model of source of financing for Malaysian SMEs in meeting their financial need, which is known as Islamic Crowdfunding-Small and Medium Enterprises (ICSMEs) model. Authors review comprehensive literature by focusing on the issues of financial accessibility faced by Malaysian SMEs, and the existing studies relating to SMEs, crowdfunding, and Islamic finance in support to construct ICSME model. Authors discuss the modus operandi of the proposed ICSME model and offer several significances of the model.

The role of electricity towards the economy becomes crucial in many countries including in Malaysia. It becomes necessary to investigate whether electricity consumption contributes to economic growth in order to make appropriate energy policies. The purpose of this research is to examine the long run and causal relationships between electric power consumption and real GDP. This paper applies to the error-correction model. The results indicate that electricity consumption has a positive impact on economic growth. Besides that, there was unidirectional Granger causality running from electricity consumption to real GDP but not vice versa. This paper suggests that Malaysia is becoming an energy-dependent country. The government should emphasize on formulating energy strategies so as to avoid adverse effects on economic growth. JEL Classification: C39, D19, O40

Purpose This paper aims to attempt to offer a viable alternative model of source of financing which is known as integrated cash waqf micro enterprises investment (ICWME-I) model for micro enterprises in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach The literature on the issues of accessing to finance faced by micro enterprises and cash waqf are reviewed critically and used in the attempt of proposing an alternative model. Findings The paper has developed ICWME-I model as a source of financing for micro enterprises. This model is expected to provide financial services by using cash waqf fund and involved the participatory contract between non-profit organization and micro enterprises. In addition, with the proposed model, there will be no collateral requirement, interest rate and other stringent requirements which usually imposed by existing conventional financial institutions. Research limitations/implications The paper is based on conceptual explorations of literature in the area of micro enterprises and cash waqf. This is a conceptual paper, so it did not use any empirical analysis. Practical implications The findings of this paper will provide micro enterprises with an alternative source of financing to start-up or expand their business by using cash waqf fund. The present study also has implications for government and policy makers. With the involvement of non-profit organization that is proposed in this model, it helps the government to reduce its expenses for the development of micro enterprises. Originality/value This paper offers an additional literature on cash waqf especially from the Malaysian context. Furthermore, this paper adds to the literature on waqf and cash waqf. The paper proposes a viable alternative model for micro enterprises as a source of financing by using cash waqf fund. This model incorporates Musharakah Mutanaqisah (diminishing partnership) as a financial arrangement between non-profit organization and micro enterprises.

This study was designed to empirically determine: (i) to look the factors causes micro enterprises opt for using internal funding instead of external funding; and (ii) to observe the probability of micro enterprises opt for Cash Waqf fund as alternative source of funding their business. The primary data is collected from the administered survey questions in Klang Valley (Selangor and Kuala Lumpur) and the analysis is conducted using statistical analysis and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The model is validated its acceptance in the field by adopting the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA). From the findings, among the factors that lead micro enterprises to use internal funding are strict collateral requirement by commercial financial institutions, high cost of financing, strict documentation requirement and good financial and business track record. Unfortunately, most of them cannot fulfill these conditions and continue to face the problem of accessing finance. The present study has developed the Cash Waqf Investment model to support micro enterprises to improve their access to finance and enhance the skills. Based on the responses received from the field, it has been shown that the intention and readiness of micro enterprises in accepting the model as a source of financial and human capital development services is impressive.Keywords: Micro-enterprises, Financing, Cash waqf, Theory of reasoned actionJEL Classification: G1, L3, O14

Islamic microfinance can be seen as an emerging industry in some Muslim countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and MENA regions. It acts as a movement to eradicate poverty in the society and to help improve the social standard of the poor people. The concept of Islamic microfinance is similar to those implemented in conventional microfinance except for it adheres to several points and concepts which in line with the Shariah rulings. As a growing industry, Islamic microfinance does facing several challenges such as limited outreach in the market, lack of expertise in the industry, governance and management problems, and many more. Hence, this paper will discuss further the issues and challenges faced by Islamic microfinance institutions in selected Muslim countries. Plus, some suggestions are given at the end of this paper to solve these issues.

The paper aims to explore the administration and management issues of Corporate Share Waqf Model through the experience of Waqaf An-Nur Corporation Berhad. The qualitative approach notably case study is used to obtain the experiences and perception on the current practice and the issues related to administration and management of Corporate Share Waqf Model. Based on the in-depth interview findings, this study reveals that Waqaf An-Nur Corporation Berhad as pioneer of Corporate Share Waqf model faces several issues in their administration and management. The taxation, regulation, forms of dividend payment and administration are found to be the main hurdles in administering and managing Corporate Share Waqf Model particularly in Malaysian Context. This study provides recommendations for the policy maker in order to address the issue of administration and management of Corporate Share Waqf Model. Keywords: Corporate share waqf; Malaysia; administration & management; case study ABSTRAK Makalah ini bertujuan untuk menerokai isu-isu pentadbiran dan pengurusan dalam Model Wakaf Saham Korporat melalui pengalaman Waqaf An-Nur Corporation Berhad. Pendekatan kualitatif kajian kes digunakan untuk mendapatkan pengalaman dan persepsi mengenai amalan semasa dan isu-isu yang berkaitan dengan pentadbiran dan pengurusan Model Wakaf Saham Korporat. Berdasarkan hasil temubual, kajian ini mendedahkan bahawa Waqaf An-Nur Corporation Berhad sebagai perintis Model Wakaf Saham Korporat di Malaysia menghadapi beberapa isu dalam konteks pentadbiran dan pengurusan. Bayaran cukai, peraturan, bentuk pembayaran dividen dan pentadbiran menjadi halangan utama dalam mentadbir dan mengurus Model Wakaf Saham Korporat. Kajian ini mengesyorkan beberapa cadangan bagi menangani isu pentadbiran dan pengurusan Model Wakaf Saham Korporat. Kata kunci: Wakaf saham korporat; Malaysia; pentadbiran & pengurusan; kajian kes

By adopting the study by Gaither and Kandari on cultural-economic model of, the current study was designed to analyse the cultural-economic model of public relations practice of two prominent Islamic banks (full-fledged Islamic bank and Islamic window bank) in Malaysia. This study is mainly focusing on their communication tool particularly websites and relevant reports. The study is advancing the understanding of Islam and public relations in the context of Islamic banking institution in Malaysia, an understudied area in public relation literature and enlightens the relationship between religion and public relations. The analysis has identified six Islamic value orientations elements especially respect for religious authority, affinity with the past, fatalism, communal kinship, attachment to the eternal life and spirituality and idealism relative to public relation practice among the particular Islamic banks. The study concludes with observation that there is inseparable relationship between religion and culture in the context of Islamic banking industry in Malaysia.

Microfinance has emerged as an important instrument to alleviate poverty in many countries including in developing countries. Despite being able to demonstrate successes in the activity, conventional microfinance is not without controversy. The findings from the existing studies revealed that conventional microfinance is less effective, fail to reach the poorest people and generally have a limited effect on income. In addition, conventional microfinance also has highly criticized for charging excessive interest rates and fees to the poor entrepreneur. In some Muslim countries, conventional microfinance has always been rejected, due to its non-compliance with the Islamic principles, particularly on the issue related to interest or riba . Islamic microfinance evolved and reckoned as an alternative to its counterpart. However, the outreach of Islamic microfinance is very limited where only there is very few Islamic microfinance institutions and Islamic banks involved in microfinance activity. Also, Islamic microfinance is having an issue of convergence of activity with the conventional practices. Thus, this paper aims to propose to adopt Zero Interest Financing Model (ZIFM) for Islamic microfinance institutions. This study focuses on the case of Indonesian Islamic microfinance institution namely Shariah People Credit Bank (BPRS) by observing their experience and some emerging issues. The proposed model is expected to address an emerging issue in Islamic microfinance institutions.