Akademika, a refereed journal published by UKM Press is published thrice a year. The journal is committed to the advancement of scholarly knowledge by encouraging discussion of several branches of the social sciences and humanities.
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It’s Hard to Raise a Child Alone: Lived Experiences of Widowed Parents in Raising Their School-Age Children
The study aimed to explore the lived experiences of widowed parents in raising schoolchildren. The researcher employed a phenomenological design and reflexive thematic analysis. The in-depth interview participants included six widowed parents in Bayawan City, Philippines. The researcher generated three themes from the experiences shared by the widowed parents who are raising schoolchildren: financial difficulty, loss of marital and parental support, and adjustment to new parental roles. The death of a spouse meant a cut in the family income thereby leaving the widowed parents struggling to raise their schoolchildren. Further, it also meant the loss of marital and parental support for the children since widowed parents have to accomplish various domestic and parental responsibilities all by themselves. Meanwhile, widowed parents' adjustments to the transitions before and after they lose their spouses are conveyed in the following subthemes: disparities between having and losing a partner, emotional distress, and adapting to new responsibilities left by their deceased partners. The researcher concludes that widowed parents who are raising schoolchildren experienced financial difficulties, loss of marital and parental support, and their need to adjust to new parental roles left by their deceased partners. This study advances knowledge of the experiences of widowed parents of school-aged children and their responses to one of life's most upsetting occurrences. Relevant programs and interventions, like counseling programs and livelihood training, may be implemented using the study’s findings to help this vulnerable population.
RAJA ALI HAJI’S WISDOM IN CONVEYING ISLAMIC JURISPRUDENCE: THE ISSUE OF WOMEN’S BEAUTY IN SYAIR SITI SIANAH
Women are often intertwined with the notion of beauty, leading to a gender stereotype that links women with an obsession for beauty and adornment to enhance their attractiveness. This issue also colors the history of Islamic society in the Malay World, notably explored by Raja Ali Haji in his work, Syair Siti Sianah. In this poem, Raja Ali Haji addresses the gender stereotype, relating these behaviors to the cultural practices of the Malay community and the tenets of Islamic teachings. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the issue of women’s beauty as addressed in Syair Siti Sianah from an Islamic perspective. To achieve these objectives, this qualitative study employs the method of reflexive thematic analysis to analyze Syair Siti Sianah and the method of Islamic jurisprudence analysis to interpret Islamic jurisprudence regarding the permissible limits of beauty in Islam. The findings reveal that Raja Ali Haji addressed several issues such as tabarruj (excessive display of beauty) and tasyabbuh (imitation of other cultures). In this regard, Raja Ali Haji ultimately challenges the gender stereotype that equates women’s worth with physical attractiveness and excessive adornment. Instead, he firmly asserts that true beauty lies in the harmonious integration of outward appearance with moral integrity, modesty and spiritual virtue, thereby redefining women’s beauty within an ethical and Islamic framework.
Rukun Negara Dan Dilema Perpaduan: Satu Wacana Epistemologi
Isu perpaduan di Malaysia kekal sebagai cabaran yang belum menemui penyelesaian tuntas. Walaupun negara telah mencapai lebih enam dekad kemerdekaan, usaha membina dan mengukuhkan perpaduan dalam kalangan masyarakat pelbagai bangsa, budaya, dan agama masih berdepan pelbagai rintangan. Pelbagai inisiatif telah dilaksanakan, melibatkan peruntukan masa, tenaga, dan sumber kewangan yang besar. Namun, perpaduan nasional masih kelihatan rapuh, apabila wujud bibit-bibit ketegangan yang boleh mencetuskan konflik antara kaum dan agama. Keadaan ini menjadi lebih genting apabila ia tidak ditangani sejak awal, ditambah pula dengan iklim politik yang sering tegang dan retorik yang membangkitkan rasa curiga serta perpecahan dalam kalangan rakyat. Rukun Negara, yang diterima sebagai ideologi kebangsaan, seharusnya menjadi panduan dalam mencapai perpaduan dan keharmonian. Prinsip pertama Rukun Negara, iaitu Kepercayaan kepada Tuhan, diharap dapat menjadi faktor penyatuan masyarakat. Namun, persoalan timbul apabila prinsip ini dilihat gagal memainkan peranan utamanya dalam memperkukuh perpaduan nasional. Oleh itu, melalui metodologi kualitatif, artikel ini akan menganalisis Rukun Negara dari sudut epistemologi dan falsafahnya. Kajian ini juga akan meneliti sama ada wujud pertembungan epistemologi antara agama dan sekularisme dalam memahami Rukun Negara, yang akhirnya menyebabkan ia gagal dihayati secara menyeluruh dan sekadar menjadi simbol semata-mata. Perbincangan dalam kerangka pertembungan epistemologi ini diharap dapat memberikan pencerahan serta membimbing pemahaman yang lebih mendalam mengenai Rukun Negara dan realiti sebenar isu perpaduan di Malaysia. Kata kunci: Sekularisme, epistemologi, liberalisme, agama, perpaduan nasional.
Penyiasatan Kesalahan Pelanggaran Fatwa dalam Media Sosial: Implikasi Terhadap Penguatkuasaan dan Masyarakat di Malaysia
Kesalahan pelanggaran fatwa dalam talian semakin berleluasa, menyebabkan penyebaran ajaran dan fahaman yang bertentangan dengan prinsip Islam. Walaupun fatwa yang diwartakan mempunyai implikasi perundangan, cabaran utama dalam penguatkuasaan ialah proses penyiasatan dan pembuktian yang tidak mencukupi. Pihak penguatkuasa agama menghadapi kesukaran dalam mengumpul bukti yang sah dan boleh diterima di mahkamah, terutama apabila kesalahan berlaku di media sosial. Oleh itu, kajian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis permasalahan dalam proses penyiasatan kesalahan pelanggaran fatwa di media sosial serta impaknya terhadap penguatkuasaan dan masyarakat. Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan menganalisis sumber sekunder seperti buku, artikel, akta, dan enakmen berkaitan perundangan jenayah Syariah. Selain itu, temu bual dengan pengamal undang-undang Syariah dijalankan bagi memperoleh perspektif praktikal mengenai cabaran penguatkuasaan. Hasil kajian menunjukkan terdapat kekangan dalam pendakwaan kes jenayah Syariah dalam talian disebabkan kelemahan dalam penyiasatan, kesahihan bukti elektronik, serta batasan bidang kuasa. Tambahan pula, wujud kekeliruan dalam pengesahan status fatwa yang digazetkan dan lafaz sighah fatwa yang kurang jelas untuk dikuatkuasakan. Bagi menangani isu ini, kajian mencadangkan supaya bidang kuasa dan prosedur penyiasatan dalam Enakmen Tatacara Jenayah Syariah diperincikan dengan mengambil kira elemen jenayah siber. Selain itu, lafaz sighah fatwa perlu dipinda agar lebih jelas dan mengikat secara perundangan. Penemuan ini diharapkan dapat membantu memperkukuh sistem penguatkuasaan, meningkatkan kesedaran masyarakat mengenai kepatuhan fatwa, dan mengurangkan kesalahan pelanggaran fatwa di media sosial. Kata kunci: Pelanggaran fatwa, media sosial, penyiasatan, penguatkuasaan, sighah fatwa
Kemampuan Emosi: Analisis Terhadap Kefahaman Guru Pendidikan Islam Mengenai Konsep Akhlak Murid Berkeperluan Pendidikan Khas
Kemampuan emosi merupakan aspek penting dalam perkembangan akhlak murid berkeperluan pendidikan khas (MBPK) kerana mereka sering menghadapi cabaran untuk mengawal emosi dengan stabil. Hal ini memberi kesan kepada pembentukan akhlak MBPK secara menyeluruh. Kefahaman guru Pendidikan Islam (GPI) pula terhadap konsep akhlak MBPK memainkan peranan utama dalam membimbing perkembangan ini. Kajian ini bertujuan meneroka bagaimana kefahaman GPI terhadap konsep akhlak MBPK yang diterjemahkan dalam pengajaran mereka khususnya berkaitan dengan kemampuan emosi MBPK. Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif berbentuk kajian kes yang melibatkan tujuh orang GPI daripada Program Pendidikan Khas Integrasi (PPKI). Data diperoleh melalui kaedah temu bual, pemerhatian bilik darjah dan analisis dokumen dalam tempoh enam bulan. Analisis data dilaksanakan dengan bantuan perisian ATLAS.ti bagi mengenal pasti tema dan subtema yang berkaitan. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa kefahaman GPI terhadap kemampuan emosi MBPK merangkumi tiga subtema utama iaitu kawalan emosi, ekspresi emosi dan ketahanan diri. Setiap subtema ini diterjemahkan melalui pendekatan pengajaran yang bersifat empati, berstruktur dan berpusatkan murid. Oleh yang demikian, kefahaman yang jelas terhadap kemampuan emosi membolehkan GPI membimbing MBPK secara lebih sistematik serta membina persekitaran pembelajaran yang menyokong perkembangan akhlak secara menyeluruh. Hasil kajian ini memberikan sumbangan ke arah memperkasa strategi pengajaran Pendidikan Islam yang lebih inklusif dan bersesuaian dengan keperluan emosi MBPK dalam konteks kelas PPKI..
Health Communication and Parasocial Relationships on Social Media: Systematic Review of Opinion Leader-Follower Interactions
Social media has reshaped communication, replacing traditional media and transforming health discourse. It allows interactions between medical and health experts, referred to as social media opinion leaders, and followers on health-related information. These interactions foster parasocial relationships, influencing attitudes, emotions, and health decisions. Studies highlight their impact, leading to the term parasocial relationships. Nonetheless, existing systematic reviews on parasocial relationships, particularly those focusing on social media health opinion leaders and followers, have been inconclusive. Accordingly, there is a need for a cohesive systematic literature review. The current article offered a systematic literature review concerning the parasocial relationships within the context of health communication on social media platforms. It was achieved by integrating research designs that adhered to PRISMA guidelines. A total of 28 articles underwent a screening process and a final selection of 14 articles was chosen. This study found a significant relationship between social media health opinion leaders and followers, especially how information is shared and influences their followers’ behaviours. In addition, this study found that prior studies have failed to address the quality and formation of the relationship. This is important to understand the specific, fundamental factors or elements involved in the health information sharing and discussion by opinion leaders. This review emphasises future exploration on the development of parasocial relationships between health opinion leaders and social media users.
The Impact of ChatGPT and Instructor Feedback on ESL Email Writing: A Mixed-Methods Study
This study explores the impact of ChatGPT-generated feedback and hybrid feedback (ChatGPT + instructor) on ESL students’ writing development within a process writing framework. Using a mixed-methods intervention design, 33 Malaysian pre-diploma students completed three email writing tasks: a pre-test (baseline writing), post-test 1 (revised using ChatGPT), and post-test 2 (further revised following instructor feedback). All email responses were assessed using a CEFR-aligned rubric, and student perceptions were collected via a questionnaire containing both close- and open-ended items. Results showed moderate gains in writing performance following ChatGPT feedback, particularly in grammar and vocabulary accuracy. However, the most substantial and consistent improvements were observed after hybrid feedback, especially in coherence, content organisation, and task fulfilment. Questionnaire responses revealed students generally appreciated ChatGPT for its immediacy and clarity but still valued instructor feedback for its personalised and contextualised nature. The findings suggest that combining AI and instructor feedback supports more meaningful revision and writing improvement. This study highlights the potential of integrating generative AI into scaffolded writing instruction and calls for future research to examine hybrid feedback models across broader contexts and proficiency levels.
The Use of Metadiscourse Markers in Expository Essays By Malaysian ESL Learners
Language elements such as interactive and interactional metadiscourse (MD) are employed to keep essays coherent. Since there was only one way for the writer and reader to communicate, it was difficult for English Second Language (ESL) learners to write clearly and thoroughly. The use of MD markers by ESL learners was studied, and its usage was compared. An experimental study was conducted among 120 ESL learners who are undergraduates from a university in Malaysia. Their use of MD markers was analysed based on Hyland (2005)’s framework. A set of questionnaires was distributed to determine the types of MD markers used and whether learners from different groups make any differences in their choices of MD markers in their expository essays. For data triangulation, a semi-structured interview was conducted too. The analysis revealed that ESL learners in both groups frequently used more interactional than interactive MD. The most prominent feature used is Self-mention and the least is Evidential. However, the experimental group used frequently MD markers in their essays as compared to the control group. The ESL learners from experimental group which were given treatment have chosen to use more MD markers in their essays. This result indicates the vital role of MD use in academic writings to enhance the writing quality. This could lead to a proposition for an analysis of MD use on written corpus to gain fascinating outcomes and also to find the relationship of MD use with the ESL learners’ awareness and their writing score.
Tahap Pemahaman Peribahasa Melayu dalam kalangan Pelajar Sekolah Menengah: Satu Kajian Kes Berdasarkan Kesejajaran Model Proses Tiga Serangkai dengan Aras Kemahiran Berfikir
Pemahaman yang baik terhadap makna peribahasa Melayu membolehkan kecendekiaan orang Melayu diketengahkan kepada masyarakat global. Dalam hal ini, guru menjadi agen utama untuk mengajar generasi muda melalui pendidikan formal. Namun begitu, PdP peribahasa Melayu dilihat hanya berlaku secara literal kerana penjelasan tentang kewajaran pemilihan simbol dan tingkah laku yang dikiaskan dalam peribahasa Melayu tidak dititikberatkan. Objektifnya adalah untuk mengenal pasti tahap pemahaman makna peribahasa Melayu dalam kalangan pelajar Tingkatan 5 dan menjelaskan tahap pemahaman tersebut berdasarkan prosedur penginterpretasian metafora dalam Model Hibrid Baharu. Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan melibatkan 50 orang pelajar Tingkatan 5. Data dikumpulkan untuk menilai pemahaman pelajar terhadap makna peribahasa Melayu dan dianalisis dengan memetakan jawapan pelajar kepada Model Proses Tiga Serangkai (MPTS) serta disejajarkan dengan aras kemahiran berfikir dalam Taksonomi Bloom. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahawa pemahaman pelajar terhadap makna peribahasa Melayu berada pada tahap proses metarepresentasi dalam MPTS atau pada aras memahami dalam Taksonomi Bloom. Dapatan ini menunjukkan bahawa kemahiran berfikir para pelajar masih pada aras rendah kerana mereka tidak dapat memahami dengan jelas perkaitan antara simbol yang menjadi inti peribahasa. Kajian ini membuktikan bahawa penggunaan MPTS mampu memberikan gambaran yang lebih jelas tentang tahap kemahiran berfikir pelajar, seterusnya mencerakin punca kelemahan pemahaman secara empirikal. Penyelidikan ini penting untuk melestarikan akal budi Melayu dengan menekankan aspek pemahaman terhadap simbol dalam peribahasa. Usaha ini akan semakin berimpak apabila kajian lanjutan dijalankan yang menggunakan kaedah visualisasi selari dengan perkembangan kecerdasan buatan bagi memaksimumkan pemahaman makna peribahasa Melayu.
Determinants of Marital Readiness in Southeast Asia’s Generation Z: Social Media, Career Aspirations, and Mental Well-Being
Marital readiness among Generation Z has emerged as a critical social issue in Southeast Asia, where rapid digitalisation and evolving cultural values are reshaping young adults’ life trajectories. This study examines the impact of social media use, career aspiration, and mental well-being on marital readiness among Generation Z in Riau, Indonesia, with marital attitude tested as a mediating factor. A cross-sectional survey of 400 undergraduate students was conducted, and data were analysed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to assess both direct and indirect effects. The results show that social media use exerts a negative influence on marital readiness, whereas career aspiration and mental well-being significantly enhance preparedness for long-term commitments. Attitudes toward marriage partially mediate these relationships, underscoring the role of personal value orientations in shaping marital decisions. Gender-based differences were also identified: social media use had stronger effects on males, while career aspirations and psychological well-being more strongly influenced females. These findings highlight the multifaceted nature of marital readiness within the context of digital transformation and socio-cultural change in Southeast Asia. Theoretically, this study integrates perspectives from communication, career development, and psychological well-being to construct a comprehensive model of marital readiness. Practically, it offers valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and family institutions in developing culturally sensitive interventions to help young adults balance career aspirations, mental health, and relational commitments in contemporary society.
A Validated Big Data Management Model for Malaysian District Education Offices
The use of big data as a result of Industrial Revolution 4.0 has significantly improved the field of education by contributing to quality education. Big data requires systematic management and a complete process cycle to ensure its quality is well maintained. Previous studies have produced several big data management models but it does not meet the specific requirements of big data management in district education office where the model does not have a specific governance process and some are produced by emphasizing the data analytics aspect only. The District Education Office Excellence Evaluation Report (Laporan Penilaian Kecemerlangan Pejabat Pendidikan Daerah) (PKPPD, DTP) shows that there are still District Education Offices (PPD) that do not reach the standard level of data management. Therefore, a study was conducted to develop a PPD big data management model in Malaysia that has a complete cycle process. A quantitative study using the PLS SEM method involving a total of 156 respondents who are all public data managers in PPD and JPN throughout Malaysia were conducted. A pilot study was conducted on 30 respondents and the Cronbach's alpha value obtained exceeded 0.9. Based on the analysis of the reflective measurement model and the structural model using the PLS SEM technique, the results of the study show that the study has successfully developed a model that has a complete cycle process that is suitable and can be used.
Tourism Business Performance in the Digital Era: The Influence of Social Media Marketing
The rapid advancement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the widespread use of the Internet have created both opportunities and challenges for tourism agencies aiming to enhance their competitiveness in an increasingly aggressive market landscape. Prior research indicates that leveraging digital tools, particularly social media, can significantly improve business performance. In response, many tourism agencies have adopted strategic social media marketing approaches to strengthen their market positioning. However, the extent and effectiveness of social media use are influenced by various factors. This study aims to identify the key determinants affecting social media adoption among tourism agencies and to examine its impact on business performance. Guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), the study focuses on four core factors: performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions. Employing a quantitative research design, data were collected through structured questionnaires from 307 tourism agencies operating in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur. The data were analyzed using SPSS for multiple regression analysis. The findings reveal that the adoption of social media is generally at a high to very high level among the respondents. Furthermore, social media use shows a significant and positive relationship with business performance, contributing to improvements in both financial and non-financial outcomes. These results offer practical insights for tourism agencies in optimizing social media as a marketing tool to enhance business success. Additionally, the findings provide valuable guidance for policymakers and relevant agencies in promoting technology-driven marketing initiatives within the tourism sector.
Filem Sebagai Ruang Persaingan Kuasa : Menelusuri Persaingan Hegemoni dalam Era Digital Malaysia
Artikel ini mengupas peranan filem sebagai medan persaingan ideologi dan wacana politik dalam konteks Malaysia pasca-PRU15, di tengah-tengah polarisasi politik, peralihan kuasa, dan perkembangan ekosistem digital. Berpaksikan kerangka Teori Hegemoni oleh Gramsci, Aparatus Ideologi Pemerintah Althusser, dan Kuasa Komunikasi Digital oleh Castells, artikel ini berpendirian bahawa filem di Malaysia tidak hanya berfungsi sebagai medium perwakilan budaya, tetapi sebagai ruang pergelutan antara dominasi negara, pentas kapitalisme, dan persaingan masyarakat sivil. Melalui pendekatan analisis wacana kritikal dan kajian teks filem, artikel ini meneliti bagaimana filem arus perdana melahirkan naratif nasionalisme Melayu yang hegemoni, manakala filem indie dan dokumentari politik tampil sebagai wacana saingan yang mengangkat sejarah alternatif, hak asasi manusia, dan politik emosi. Namun, dalam era digital, potensi persaingan ini berhadapan dengan bentuk penapisan baharu melalui tatacara penapisan penjelmaan dan pengawalan pentas. Analisis dari artikel ini menunjukkan bahawa demokrasi digital dalam perfileman Malaysia adalah medan dialektik yang kompleks iaitu antara perluasan ruang artikulasi wacana dan kawalan oleh kapitalisme data serta pengawasan siber. Artikel ini mengusulkan perlunya strategi blok kaunter hegemoni digital yang melibatkan kolaborasi antara pengkarya filem, aktivis sosial, dan komuniti penonton kritis bagi memastikan filem terus berfungsi sebagai alat persaingan, pendidikan politik, dan pembentukan memori kolektif yang bebas serta mandiri. Filem, dalam kerangka ini, bukan sekadar cerminan masyarakat, tetapi juga umpama alat bedah yang merungkai dan menimbang tara kuasa. Kata kunci: filem, hegemoni, persaingan digital, pentas kapitalisme, wacana perlawanan.
Exploration of Malay Cultural Hybridity on TikTok Through Semantic Network Analysis
The digital space serves as a melting pot where various elements of cultures and discourses intersect, as also seen in contemporary Malay society. This study explores how traditional values and global influences shape Malay identity by analyzing 34,810 TikTok comments from 126 videos related to the keyword "Melayu." The data were analyzed using semantic network analysis (SNA) and the 3P framework: cultural products, perspectives, and practices. Data pre-processing was performed using Python on Google Colab. Term frequency was used to generate a co-occurrence matrix to examine semantic relationships with degree centrality and modularity analysis conducted via Gephi to identify themes manually. Results were analyzed and grouped using three frameworks: cultural products, cultural perspectives, and cultural practices. Findings define tangible and narrative hybridization of Malay identity in TikTok, as well as strengthening concepts of glocalization, memory ecologies, and third space by offering the concept of the transformation of cultural identity. This research demonstrates the usefulness of Semantic Network Analysis (SNA) in large-scale and unstructured social media datasets. Due to limitations of this research that focus solely on symbolic/narrative representations in social media, we suggest that future research conduct focus group discussions (FGDs) to understand the perceptions and challenges faced by Malays in shaping their identities in everyday lives.
Systematic Literature Review on Coastal Sociology: The Uses of Sociological Paradigms
The increasing density of coastal populations has resulted in various environmental and social challenges. To address these issues, various studies have been conducted by coastal sociologists. However, no research has yet discussed the use of paradigms in coastal sociology articles. This research aims to identify the use of paradigms in the field of coastal sociology. This sytematic literature review was conducted using the PRISMA method. This research began by searching for articles related to coastal sociology using the keyword "Coastal Sociology" in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. The search successfully identified 98 research articles published until the end of 2024, in English and openly accessible. This research applies Ritzer’s multiple sociological paradigms, the Human Exceptionalism Paradigm (HEP) and the New Ecological Paradigm (NEP) in the screening process to find 21 relevant and eligible articles. This research found nine themes frequently discussed in coastal sociology articles, namely traditional beliefs, community adaptation, environmental justice, public migration, public participation, ecotourism, gender equality, the fishing industry, and coastal wildlife. This study also provides a summary of information from the 21 articles related to the distribution of time and place of research, data collection methods, popular sociological paradigms, and interrelated factors between the environment and society. The word "paradigm" is only found in five articles (environmental justice paradigm, hydraulic paradigm, neoliberal policy paradigm, and new paradigm for well-being), but it is not to explain the sociological paradigm for the research.
Transformasi Perjuangan Raja Haji Menentang Penjajahan Belanda Ke Dalam Drama Bersiri Televisyen Arka Raja Haji (2014)
Arka Raja Haji (ARH) merupakan sebuah siri drama televisyen yang disiarkan pada tahun 2014. Drama sepanjang 352 minit ini merupakan sebuah adaptasi peristiwa perjuangan Raja Haji dalam karya agung Melayu berjudul Tuhfat al-Nafis. Namun begitu, naratif drama lapan episod ini hanya merangkumi 10% daripada keseluruhan kisah dalam karya agung Melayu tersebut. Oleh itu, artikel ini bertujuan untuk meneliti proses kreatif dalam pengadaptasian peristiwa peperangan Raja Haji dalam menentang penjajahan Belanda di Kerajaan Johor-Riau dengan tumpuan khusus terhadap aspek plot dan watak. Kajian berbentuk kualitatif ini akan mensentesiskan dua kaedah kajian iaitu kaedah kepustakaan dan analisis teks. Data kajian diperoleh daripada siri televisyen ARH yang dimuat naik dalam akaun rasmi Pesona Pictures di platform YouTube, dan kemudiannya dibandingkan dengan hipoteksnya iaitu Tuhfat al-Nafis. Teori Intertekstualiti oleh Julia Kristeva digunakan sebagai kerangka analisis bagi mencapai objektif artikel ini. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahawa watak utama dan watak pembantu antagonis, serta tiga peristiwa dalam drama tersebut telah melalui prinsip transformasi. Di samping itu, prinsip eksistensi juga dikenal pasti dalam 42 peristiwa di samping dua watak sampingan dan lapan watak pembantu bagi protagonis; serta dua watak sampingan antagonis. Prinsip ekspansi turut wujud melibatkan empat watak sampingan dan sebelas watak pembantu protagonis, tiga watak pembantu antagonis dan sembilan belas peristiwa. Kajian ini membuktikan bahawa subjek drama bersiri ARH telah mengalami prinsip transformasi, eksistensi, dan ekspansi apabila dibandingkan dengan hipotekstnya. Drama ARH terpaksa melalui proses kreatif ini bagi disajikan dalam medium berdigit dan bagi memastikan naratif yang dramatik dan menarik untuk penonton.
Latihan Kognitif Berkomputer bagi Melewatkan Kemerosotan Kognitif dalam Kalangan Warga Tua
Ageing population is a growing global phenomenon as the proportion of older adults continues to increase steadily. Ageing is commonly associated with gradual cognitive decline, particularly in domains such as memory, attention, executive functions, and speed of processing, which can negatively affect independence and quality of life. Identifying effective and accessible interventions to delay cognitive decline among older adults has therefore become a critical priority. This article reviews and evaluates the potential computerized cognitive training (CCT) programs, with a specific focus on speed-of-processing training, as intervention programs to mitigate age-related cognitive decline. Drawing on international and local literature, this article discusses the foundations of neuroplasticity and how structured, adaptive, and repetitive cognitive exercises delivered through digital platforms can strengthen targeted cognitive domains. Evidence from large-scale studies, including the ACTIVE trial, suggests that speed-of-processing training produces consistent and long-lasting benefits, with some transfer effects to daily functioning and reduced functional risks. The article presents three CCT interventions that can be used to mitigate age-related cognitive decline and highlights the specific features that make each intervention suitable for supporting cognitive functioning in older adults. The article demonstrates that CCT activities are feasible and contextually suitable for multi-ethnic older adults in Malaysia as such interventions offer a scalable and cost-effective strategy for supporting cognitive health and healthy ageing at the population level. This in line with the government’s support to achive Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG-3) by promoting healthy ageing and well-being among the projected 15% older population by 2030.
A Comparative Policy Analysis of End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) Management: Examining the Regulatory Drivers behind Divergent Performance between Malaysia and Japan
This study presents a comparative policy analysis of End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) management frameworks in Malaysia and Japan, examining the interplay between legislation, economic instruments, and Authorized Automotive Treatment Facility (AATF) operations. Employing a qualitative comparative case study design, the research triangulates document analysis, immersive site visits, and semi-structured focus group discussions at benchmark facilities of Carmedic Sdn Bhd (Malaysia) and Kaiho Sangyo Co. Ltd (Japan). Thematic analysis of interview transcripts, observational data, and policy documents reveals five critical regulatory drivers underpinning divergent performance. Japan's 95% recycling success derives from institutional coherence: (1) binding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) with last-owner liability; (2) a secured pre-paid recycling fund (JARC) ensuring recycler viability; (3) synergistic economic disincentives (shaken, progressive taxation, and high operating costs) that engineer predictable ELV supply; (4) effective marginalization of informal operators through mandated deregistration; and (5) stable secondary material markets sustaining investment. In contrast, Malaysia's framework, while progressive on paper, lacks stringent enforcement, effective economic drivers, and a cohesive system for integrating informal actors. The paper concludes that Malaysia's path to ELV management success requires a holistic policy transplant that extends beyond EPR legislation to include powerful market-creating and market-correcting mechanisms, as exemplified by the Japanese model.
Manifestasi Akal Budi dan Kearifan Tempatan dalam Teka-teki Filem Nujum Pak Belalang (1959)
Kajian ini menelusuri persembahan tradisi lisan berbentuk teka-teki Melayu dari sudut akal budi Melayu dan kearifan tempatan. Kajian menggunakan filem Melayu klasik yang mengabadikan kehebatan teka-teki Melayu iaitu filem Nujum Pak Belalang terbitan 1956 menjadikan teka-teki Melayu sebagai wacana utamanya. Melalui penelitian ke atas ungkapan-ungkapan yang terdapat dalam lima buah teka-teki menampilkan watak Nujum Pak Belalang yang telah dilantik sebagai Nujum Diraja. Walaupun kebetulan berjaya menjawab dan menyelesaikan teka teki yang sulit dan mengalahkan pencabarnya dari negara lain namun kandungan lima buah teka-teki memiliki bentuk soalan dan jawapan yang istimewa. Oleh itu, objektif kajian ini adalah untuk menganalisis teka-teki yang bercitrakan akal budi dan kearifan tempatan daripada filem tersebut. Metodologi kajian ini berasaskan analisis kandungan filem dengan memfokuskan kepada kandungan 5 buah teka-teki pada babak pertandingan teka-teki filem Nujum Pak Belalang. Kajian ini menggunakan konsep akal budi Melayu dan kearifan tempatan dalam menjelaskan nilai dan fungsi yang terdapat dalam teka-teki tersebut. Hasil dapatan kajian, menunjukkan 5 buah teka-teki filem Nujum Pak Belalang mencerminkan akal budi dan kearifan tempatan masyarakat Melayu zaman silam dianalisis makna setiap satu daripada 5 buah teka-teki Nujum Pak Belalang iaitu akal budi kepimpinan, kearifan perkongsian, unsur kesan positif humor dan nilai kearifan sosial kepimpinan, akal budi perlambangan serta kearifan unsur kejenakaan. Implikasi kajian dapat menyumbang kepada pemartaban tradisi lisan teka-teki Melayu sebagai medium mencerdaskan akal fikiran untuk pendidikan kanak-kanak dari masa ke masa. Kata kunci: akal budi; Filem Nujum Pak Belalang; kearifan tempatan; teka-teki Melayu; tradisi lisan.
Bohong Sosial dalam Lakuan Respons Pujian Berdasarkan Gender
Dalam komunikasi masyarakat di Malaysia amalan menjaga air muka dan tidak berterus terang merupakan salah satu pegangan adat dan budaya santun. Bohong sosial misalnya merupakan situasi berbahasa yang lazim ditemui dalam konteks pertuturan santun masyarakat. Bohong sosial ialah pertuturan yang tidak berterus terang, bersifat berlapik atau adakalanya mengalihkan topik bagi menjaga kesopanan dalam sesuatu perbualan. Bohong sosial menjadi salah satu penanda kesantunan dalam budaya berbahasa agar sesuatu komunikasi berjalan lancar. Fenomena bohong sosial yang menjadi amalan dalam respons pujian dilihat bertujuan menjaga hati dan perasaan orang lain agar dapat memelihara keharmonian dalam berbahasa. Oleh hal yang demikian, kajian ini memanfaatkan 4000 respons daripada 200 orang responden lelaki dan perempuan yang merupakan pelajar Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). Kajian ini mengenal pasti dan mengklasifikasikan maklum balas daripada responden terhadap 12 pujian yang telah direka bentuk menerusi tiga klasifikasi oleh Manes dan Wolfson (1981). Data kajian ini dianalisis menggunakan taksonomi respons terhadap pujian oleh Herbert (1990). Kajian ini menunjukkan bahawa terdapat perbezaan respons pujian antara pelajar lelaki dan perempuan yang dikaji. Hasil kajian menunjukkan kaum perempuan lebih banyak menerima pujian berbanding kaum lelaki, iaitu masing-masing sebanyak 85.3% dan 81.2%. Dapatan kajian juga mendapati kaum lelaki lebih banyak melakukan bohong sosial berbanding kaum perempuan. Oleh hal yang demikian, hasil dapatan ini secara tidak langsung memperlihatkan bohong sosial masih digunakan dalam kalangan generasi muda bagi tujuan merendah diri dan bersopan santun semasa interaksi sosial dalam masyarakat. In social communication in Malaysia, the practice of keeping a straight face and not being frank is one of the customs and polite culture. Social lying, for example, is a language situation that is commonly found in the context of social polite speech. Social lying is speech that is not frank, is padded or sometimes diverts the topic to maintain politeness in a conversation. Social lying is one of the markers of politeness in language culture so that a communication goes smoothly. The phenomenon of social lies that is practiced in response to compliments is seen as aiming to protect the hearts and feelings of others in order to maintain harmony in speaking. As such, this study utilizes 4000 responses from 200 male and female respondents who are students at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). This study identifies and classifies responses from respondents to 12 compliments that have been designed through three classifications by Manes and Wolfson (1981). The data of this study was analyzed using the taxonomy of response to praise by Herbert (1990). This study shows that there is a difference in response to praise between the male and female students studied. The results of the study show that women receive more compliments than men, which are 85.3% and 81.2% respectively. The findings of the study also found that men commit more social lies than women. Therefore, the results of this finding indirectly show that social lies are still used among the younger generation for the purpose of being humble and polite during social interactions in society.
Editorial Note: ASEAN–China Dynamics in Building a Shared Future
In this Special Section of the journal, we publish various papers presented at the ACSF International Conference 2025, held on November 15, 2025, at the Ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre, that apply deliberate approaches to increase trust and collaboration between ASEAN states and China. The six papers in this Special Section provide different perspectives on the theme of shared future, allowing us to reflect on how this very important concept can be understood by considering the application of the principles of peace, sovereignty, inclusiveness, and shared governance to these papers.
Beyond Western Paradigms: Malaysia-China Relations and the Practice of Humanistic Diplomacy
Western-centric models have dominated the study and practice of international relations. The conduct of diplomacy between nations have been operated based on two paradigms – realism or liberalism. Often, both paradigms frame global politics as a zero-sum game of survival or a contest for ideological dominance. Such framing eventually generated conflict, inequality, and mistrust. The fact that the world is shifting toward a more flattened, multipolar reality has also been ignored. Thus, an approach grounded in a more humanistic worldview that view the relations between nations as a subject and not as an object should be rediscovered. Nations can play active role in building relations through prioritizing mutual respect, civilizational dialogue, and shared human progress over military and economic coercion. To demonstrate how this works in practice, the article examines the evolution of Malaysia-China relations. The relations, as this paper would like to put it is not managing international relations as a transaction that is driven by fear and utilitarian mindset. To do so, this paper traces the Malaysia-China relations through four distinct historical stages. It highlights how both nations have actively chosen cooperation over conflict including complex issues such as the territorial disputes. As a result, both nations enjoy great progress in their relations and is not reaping the benefits and is a living example of how humanistic diplomacy is not an altruistic fantasy. It is the most practical, realistic path forward for maintaining a just, progressive, and peaceful global order in the 21st century.
Strategic Alignment between the China-Malaysia Community with a Shared Future and the ASEAN Community Vision 2045
The strategic alignment between the China-Malaysia community with a shared future and the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 is an important issue where the upgrading of bilateral relations intersects with the deepening of ASEAN Community-building. Based on the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, this paper proposes a Bilateral-Regional Nested Strategic Alignment Model and analyses how bilateral cooperation can be embedded in a regional long-term strategy from the value, functional and implementation dimensions. At the value dimension, the China-Malaysia community with a shared future is centred on political mutual trust, common development and regional cooperation, while the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 looks ahead to the next two decades and emphasises the building of a resilient, innovative, dynamic and people-centred ASEAN. The two are highly compatible. At the functional dimension, China and Malaysia enjoy strong political mutual trust, close trade and investment ties, significant industrial complementarity, mature regional mechanisms and a deep people-to-people foundation. Malaysia's hub role in ASEAN also provides important support for strategic alignment. At the implementation dimension, the two sides should strengthen institutional coordination, deepen economic, trade and industrial chain cooperation, advance connectivity, the digital economy, green development, people-to-people exchanges and non-traditional security cooperation, and improve risk management and public communication. Based on this study, the paper explores how the China-Malaysia community with a shared future can be better embedded in the process of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, thereby providing a demonstrative practical model for China-ASEAN cooperation and common regional development.
Beyond Propaganda: An Institutional Analysis of China’s International Communication in Southeast Asia and the Global South
Against an imbalanced global communication order and persistent misperceptions of China, this study systematically examines China’s international communication from an institutional perspective. It argues that such communication is not mere propaganda, but a layered systemic practice rooted in China’s media system, integrating national governance, digital platforms, cultural industries and diplomatic goals. As a key contra-flow in global communication, it advances the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind and diversifies dominant global narratives. Focusing on Southeast Asia, the study identifies four core practices: national image building, public engagement, agenda setting, and win-win development and cultural dialogue. Findings show that institutional coordination enables outreach, while effectiveness depends on regional adaptation to local contexts. This communication strengthens China’s neighborhood diplomacy, fosters regional trust, and offers implications for the Global South to build a fairer global communication order and enhance discursive power.
The Ancestral Bridge: A Framework for Shared Cultural Futures between Malaysia's Orang Asli and the Bulang of Yunnan, China
The shared future of Malaysia’s Orang Asli and China’s Yunnan indigenous communities can be theorized under "Indigeneity as Practice". This framework is built on identifying common challenges and establishing reciprocal cultural and economic platforms. As a starting point for collaborative advocacy on land rights and environmental preservation, Comparative Indigeneity first recognises their common fight against marginalisation. Both tribes have invaluable traditional knowledge that is in danger from modernisation. Second, the framework encourages Mutual Cultural Resilience. This entails an ongoing dialogue through art and heritage exchange, such as comparing Orang Asli wood carving to Yunnan textiles, which leads to innovation and confirmation of traditions. Knowledge sharing about traditional ecological practices is mutually beneficial. Finally, the framework facilitates Heritage Mobilisation for Socioeconomic Empowerment. By working together to develop models for ethical cultural tourism, communities can commercialise their culture while maintaining control over their intellectual property and receiving equitable economic benefits. Essentially, the framework goes beyond simple cultural exchange to construct a proactive, shared future in which the unique legacy of the Orang Asli and Yunnan's indigenous peoples serves as a source of resilience, innovation, and equitable development.
An Experiential Outreach Framework for University-School STEM Engagement: Insights from Biomedical and Mechatronics Activities in Malaysia
The Malaysian Education policy actively encourages student participation in STEM streams. However, access to real-world engineering experiences remains limited for most school students. This disconnect between university-level engineering education and school-level STEM exposure creates a persistent challenge in Malaysia. University outreach programmes offer a practical means of addressing this issue. This paper presents an experiential outreach of twenty-eight STEM engagement sessions conducted by the Department of Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineering, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), for schools in the Klang Valley and national events between June 2023 and November 2025. The sessions covered two domains: biomedical engineering and mechatronics. Students engaged directly with hands-on activities including gait analysis, ECG monitoring, robotics, and drone operation. Our outreach methodology is based on three educational concepts: the experiential learning cycle, contextual learning theory, and near-peer mentoring model. UTAR applied these frameworks across its outreach programmes to guide domain selection, session sequencing, and volunteer deployment. The approach is offered as a practical framework for university departments looking to establish active and collaborative connection with schools.
Federal Bargains and Decentralised Competition: Ethnic Politics in Sarawak and West Kalimantan
This paper compares regional ethnic politics in Sarawak, Malaysia and Kalimantan, Indonesia, two historically and culturally linked border regions that have progressed under different state structures. It examines how colonial legacies, nation-building strategies and centre-periphery relations shaped divergent patterns of ethnic mobilisation and accommodation. The study argues that Sarawak’s politics act within a constrained consociational framework under Malaysia’s federal system, where elite bargaining and coalition politics enable representation while limiting autonomy. On the other hand, West Kalimantan reflects Indonesia’s shifting diversity management, from early post-war representation to New Order centralisation, and later decentralised, competitive ethnic politics after Reformasi. By comparing these courses, the paper shows how similar social compositions create different outcomes under federal versus unitary arrangements. Empirically, it contributes to the subnational studies in Southeast Asia, and theoretically emphasises the role of institutional pathways in structuring ethnic accommodation beyond the national level.