Geografia-Malaysian Journal of Society and Space
The Geografia-Malaysian Journal of Society and Space (GMJSS) is an international, multidisciplinary journal jointly published 4 times per year in February, May, August and November (since 2017) by UKM Press. The GMJSS was formerly known as Jurnal Ilmu Alam, a yearly publication, which was first published in May 1972 by the Department of Geography, UKM. GMJSS strive to continue the long and illustrious history and to emulate the excellent tradition of knowledge sharing and dissemination of the former journal, providing venue for sharing and discussion of problems and issues in the developing world. It considers theoretical and empirical articles that deal with the physical and human environments and developmental issues from geographical and interrelated disciplinary viewpoints. The journal welcomes contributions from geographers as well as other scholars from the humanities, social sciences and environmental sciences with a research interest in the developing world. Articles are published in Malay and English. The journal will only accept submissions send through online system. This is an open access journal. As such and in accordance with the BOAI definition of open access, all content of this journal is freely available without charge to the user or his/her institution. Users are allowed to read, download, copy, distribute, print, search, or link to the full texts of the articles in this journal without asking prior permission from the publisher or the author. The jurnal is currently indexed in : Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI) in Web of Science ERA Ranked Journal List MyCite MyJurnal ISSN: 2180-2491 e-ISSN: 2682-7727
Province-based analysis of recreation capacity and performance: A CRITIC–MARCOS approach
This study aims to evaluate the recreational capacity and performance of eight provinces in the Aegean Region of Turkey and to identify the most influential performance indicators. A hybrid Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) framework was employed, incorporating five criteria: total number of facilities, operation rate, bed-per-facility efficiency, occupancy rate, and bed density per population. Criterion weights were determined using CRITIC, while provincial rankings were obtained via MARCOS. Robustness was validated using TOPSIS, VIKOR, and sensitivity analysis. The findings reveal that efficiency-oriented indicators play a more decisive role than sheer quantitative capacity. Bed Density and Bed per Facility together accounted for nearly 40% of the total weight, underscoring their strong explanatory power. According to the MARCOS results, Aydın, Muğla, and Denizli emerged as the top-performing provinces, whereas Uşak and Kütahya ranked the lowest. Notably, İzmir ranked relatively low despite having one of the highest numbers of facilities, indicating that high facility count alone does not guarantee superior performance. High correlations among methods (Spearman ρ > 0.92) confirm the robustness of the rankings. These findings offer practical insights for tourism planners and policymakers, suggesting that efficiency improvements should be prioritized over capacity expansion. The study also contributes to the literature on MCDM applications in destination performance assessment by demonstrating the critical role of efficiency metrics in regional comparisons. Keywords: CRITIC, MARCOS, MCDM, recreational capacity, tourism performance, Türkiye
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Beyond spatial coverage: Analysing capacity deficits and population pressure in Kuantan’s flood evacuation network using GIS-Kriging
This study examines the spatial and capacity deficiencies of the evacuation centre (EC) network in Kuantan, Pahang, highlighting critical implications for flood risk management and urban resilience. Despite residential land use occupying only 2% of the total area, approximately 71% of residential zones are located within designated flood-prone areas, exposing many residents to significant flood risks. Service area analysis indicates that only 35% of residential land falls within a 1-km travel distance of existing ECs, revealing inadequate accessibility. Capacity analysis further uncovers spatial inequities, with a projected population of 548,000 in 2025 being able to be accommodated by only 6% of the current EC capacity. This gap raises concerns about emergency planning effectiveness during large-scale flood events, potentially leading to overcrowding and increased reliance on informal shelters. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to enhance EC capacity and accessibility, particularly in flood-prone zones and densely populated urban areas. By integrating site suitability assessments with capacity and service area analyses, the research provides a comprehensive framework for optimizing evacuation infrastructure, ultimately fostering a more equitable and resilient community prepared for flood-related risks in Kuantan. Keywords: Capacity, evacuation centre, flood risk management, GIS, population, Urban resilience
Operationalising Social Return on Investment (SROI) in flood mitigation: Applying the Sungai Muda model to Shah Alam
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development mandates the implementation of public financing models that balance economic advancement, social well-being, and environmental sustainability. However, in flood disaster management, funding justification remains challenging due to difficulties in quantifying the intangible social and environmental outcomes generated by mitigation projects. This study operationalises the Social Return on Investment (SROI) framework by integrating empirical evaluation with predictive forecasting to assess the broader societal value of flood mitigation projects in Malaysia. Using the completed Sungai Muda Flood Mitigation Project as the empirical baseline case to evaluate actual social return outcomes and forecast the potential social value of future flood mitigation initiatives, including the Shah Alam Flood Mitigation Project. The methodology translates social, environmental, and economic impacts into measurable financial proxies using stakeholder-informed valuation and comparative forecasting predictions derived from historical project performance. The findings reveal that the Sungai Muda Flood Mitigation Project generated a total social return value of RM4,892,641,540.00, indicating that every RM1 invested yields approximately RM4.88 in shared values of social, economic, and environmental benefits. These empirical findings subsequently serve as the baseline reference for forecasting and exemplifying the potential social return outcomes of the Shah Alam Flood Mitigation Project within the comparative SROI framework. The study further demonstrates that integrating predictive forecasting with empirical SROI assessment strengthens the framework’s capacity to estimate future social value creation under conditions of uncertainty and resource scarcity. The findings imply that the operationalised SROI framework provides government agencies, investors, policymakers, and project managers with a strategic evidence-based tool to justify funding allocation, optimise resource utilisation, and enhance the long-term sustainability and resilience of public investments in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Keywords: Flood mitigation project, social investment, Social Return on Investment (SROI), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Embedded social capital in urban flash flood management: Evidence from Kajang, Malaysia
Flash floods have become a recurring hazard in many rapidly urbanising cities, including Kajang Town, Malaysia, where urban development has increased pressure on drainage systems and exposed communities to greater flood risk. Although social capital is widely discussed in disaster research, its role in connecting community capacities with formal flood governance remains underexplored in urban Southeast Asia. This study examines how embedded social capital supports flash flood management through a qualitative case study of Kajang Town. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 purposely selected participants representing residents, community organisations and formal institutions, supplemented by document analysis. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Reflexive thematic analysis identified three dimensions of embedded social capital: relational, structural and cognitive. Neighbourhood social networks, trust and shared local knowledge supported the exchange of information, early assistance and collective action before, during and after flood events. Residents often identified changing flood conditions before official responders arrived, while community organisations helped coordinate volunteers and communicate community needs. Formal institutions contributed emergency coordination, technical expertise and material resources. Flood response depended on continued interaction between community networks and formal institutions. Embedded social capital developed through everyday relationships and repeated flood experience rather than during emergencies alone. These relationships supported communication, cooperation and local decision-making across different stages of flood management. Recognising embedded social capital as part of urban flood governance highlights the importance of neighbourhood organisations, local knowledge and long-term collaboration between communities and formal institutions in strengthening urban flood resilience. Keywords: Community networks, disaster governance, embedded social capital, flash flood management, local knowledge, urban resilience
Understanding the attitude–behaviour gap in river conservation: Perspectives from urban riverside communities in Sabah
River pollution remains a significant environmental challenge in Malaysia despite the implementation of numerous environmental awareness and river conservation programs. This study aims to examine the factors contributing to the attitude–behaviour gap in river conservation among urban riverside communities in Sabah through the lens of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). A qualitative approach was employed using semi-structured interviews with four senior residents living along the Petagas River in Kg. Contoh, Putatan, Sabah. The interview data were analysed thematically using both deductive and inductive coding approaches. The findings revealed that although the participants generally supported environmental education and river conservation initiatives, their pro-environmental behaviour was constrained by several interrelated factors. Subjective norms shaped by the normalisation of river pollution practices within the community reduced the perceived importance of conservation behaviour. In addition, perceived behavioural control was limited by economic pressures, time constraints, inadequate waste management infrastructure, and limited institutional support. The participants also perceived river pollution as a broader structural issue originating beyond their communities, which weakened their sense of environmental responsibility. The study demonstrates that environmental awareness alone is insufficient to promote sustainable behavioural change without addressing the wider social, cultural, and institutional realities influencing environmental behaviour. This study contributes to the literature by extending the application of TPB within the context of river conservation among urban riverside communities in Sabah and highlights the importance of integrating environmental education with supportive governance, community participation, and infrastructural development to achieve sustainable river conservation. Keywords: Environmental education, pro-environmental behaviour, river conservation, riverside communities, Sabah, Theory of Planned Behaviour
GIS-based multi-criteria groundwater potential zone mapping using the AHP in water stressed area Chaj Doab, Pakistan
Groundwater is an important fresh water resource, which is readily available to humans on earth. Its depletion due to natural and anthropogenic reasons is a critical concern for regional development, prosperity and policy making particularly where an ancient civilization and major population exist. Accurate delineation of groundwater potential zones is a key factor for sustainable groundwater management, long-term conservation of aquifer resources and recharge planning. This study adopted Geographic information system (GIS), remote sensing, and field data to map Groundwater Potential (GWP) in the Chaj doab, a rapidly urbanizing and strategically important region located adjacent to Punjab's industrial triangle, making it an ideal case study for groundwater potential assessment. Groundwater occurrence and its movement is dependent on various physical and geomorphological parameters such as soil, rainfall, land use, geomorphology, drainage density, lineament density, and slope. A Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) based on Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in the GIS environment was applied for weight determination of corresponding thematic layers and groundwater potential zones identification, classification and mapping. The result expressed very high potential zone comprises 8.2% (1635.17 km2), high 24.6% (4917.7 km2), moderate 31.8% (6351.5 km2), low 19.9% (3982.4 km2) and 15.2% (3049.8 km2) very low, respectively. Furthermore, this research study findings contribute to the scientific insights on groundwater dynamics in water depleting areas. The results show the efficiency of GIS, RS and AHP in examining the groundwater prospects and provide key tools for local and regional water resource management. Keywords: Analytical Hierarchy Process, GIS, groundwater potential, multi-criteria decision making, overlay analysis
Climate–stressed coastal: Reconfiguring marine fisheries port management
Climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of tidal flooding in Pekalongan City, Central Java, severely affecting the Nusantara Fishery Port (PPN) Pekalongan. As a central hub for marine and fisheries activities, the port has experienced functional deterioration due to repeated inundation, resulting in infrastructure damage, reduced fishery production and declining welfare among local fishers. This study applies a qualitative single-case study approach to examine the impacts of tidal flooding and to assess adaptation measures using the Permanent International Association of Navigation Congresses (PIANC), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) frameworks. The findings show that tidal flooding has significantly reduced capture fisheries productivity, with output decreasing from approximately 103,000 tons in 1995 to under 20,000 tons in 2023. Recurrent inundation also damages port infrastructure and fishing gear, disrupts loading and unloading activities and thereby further undermines overall fishing activity. The adaptation policy assessment at Pekalongan PPN indicates that 50% of the 10 sub-indicators have been achieved, particularly those related to technical interventions and local coordination, while funding mechanisms and participation in international policy forums remain limited. The main long-term strategy involves developing inland ports through the Integrated Fisheries Port and International Fish Market program, which is supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency. Strengthening the regulatory framework, fiscal incentives and global engagement is recommended to advance comprehensive and sustainable port adaptation governance. Keywords: Fishery, fishing port, Pekalongan, policy evaluation, tidal flood
Conservation of biodiversity spatial areas in Perdana Botanical Gardens Kuala Lumpur
Urban green spaces in cities face numerous threats due to various challenges. The reduction of these green areas is attributed to inefficient land use, pollution, habitat destruction, and rapid urbanization. These issues undermine the importance of biodiversity in urban settings and negatively impact natural environments. A specific area facing significant ecological challenges is the Perdana Botanical Gardens, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. This study focuses on biodiversity and conservation efforts within the Gardens. It examines five landscape attributes form and size, vegetation, artificial materials, surrounding land use, and wildlife activity that contribute to the preservation of biodiversity in an urban park. Visitors to the park were randomly surveyed, with 100 participants contributing to the questionnaire. The data were analysed using SPSS, and PLS-SEM was employed to validate the relationships between landscape parameters and biodiversity. Using a structural model, the study explored connections between biodiversity conservation and the five landscape elements. The findings revealed that these five factors significantly influence the park's efforts to conserve biodiversity. Among these, the types of plants, park configuration, and associated habitats have the most substantial impact on urban park biodiversity. Even in densely populated urban areas, biodiversity can be enhanced through effective ecological design practices, such as introducing artificial habitats, incorporating native vegetation, and implementing thoughtful space planning. The Perdana Botanical Gardens exemplifies how ecological preservation can be maintained amidst urban expansion in the tropical city of Kuala Lumpur. Keywords: Biodiversity, conservation, ecological design, landscape, Perdana Botanical Gardens, urban green space
Exploring tsunami literacy levels among vulnerable groups in areas affected by the 2018 Anak Krakatau Tsunami, Indonesia
The end of 2018 marked a significant turning point for coastal communities in several areas of South Lampung, Indonesia. A key question remains: what is the level of awareness among those affected, particularly among vulnerable groups? This study aims to investigate tsunami literacy levels among vulnerable groups, specifically children, women, and the elderly. In conducting this investigation, a mixed-methods approach was used, involving questionnaires distributed to children (n = 80 respondents) and in-depth interviews with groups of women and the elderly (n = 11). Specifically, this investigation was conducted in the Rajabasa subdistrict across three villages Way Muli, Way Muli Timur, and Kunjir which were among the three villages severely affected by the tsunami at the end of 2018. During our investigation, we obtained specific data indicating that children’s tsunami literacy levels were, in order, high (20%), moderate (61.25%), and low (18.75%), with an average of 64.06. Based on this data, the majority of them understand tsunami warning signs, but their knowledge of evacuation procedures remains limited. Meanwhile, among other vulnerable groups, such as women and the elderly, 10 out of 11 respondents demonstrated preparedness, a finding strongly supported by their prior disaster experiences. We can conclude from these findings that there is a need to strengthen tsunami preparedness through a participatory, culturally-based approach by integrating local cultural elements into disaster education programs in schools and local communities. We also highlight the urgency of strategies to enhance tsunami literacy to help them protect themselves in the face of future tsunami disasters. Keywords: Children, disaster literacy, older adults, tsunami, women
Socio-environmental determinants of mosquito density and dengue risk in a high-density urban neighbourhood of Klang, Malaysia
Dengue fever remains a persistent public health challenge in rapidly urbanising areas of Malaysia, particularly in Klang, Selangor, where neighbourhood-scale environmental conditions and sociodemographic vulnerabilities interact to influence disease transmission. This study examines the socio-environmental determinants of mosquito density and dengue risk in selected endemic residential areas of Klang through an integrated neighbourhood-scale approach combining household surveys, environmental assessments, ovitrap surveillance, and secondary dengue surveillance records. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 106 respondents across five endemic residential localities between January and March 2025. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including Pearson’s chi-square tests, were performed using SPSS to examine associations between socio-environmental variables and mosquito density. The findings revealed consistently higher ovitrap positivity rates in outdoor environments across all residential zones, indicating the dominant role of neighbourhood-level environmental exposure in sustaining mosquito breeding. Significant associations were identified between mosquito density and community knowledge of dengue prevention (χ² = 4.905, p = 0.027), the presence of community dengue programmes (χ² = 7.880, p = 0.005), and neighbourhood breeding-site inspections (χ² = 10.367, p = 0.001). In contrast, conventional institutional control measures such as fogging, environmental surveys, and health inspections showed no significant association with reduced mosquito density (p > 0.05). High population density and socioeconomic vulnerability further intensified dengue risk within dense terrace-housing environments. This study demonstrates that dengue transmission in Klang is driven more strongly by neighbourhood-scale environmental conditions and collective community action than by isolated household practices or episodic institutional interventions. The study contributes a socio-environmental neighbourhood framework that highlights the importance of sustained community participation, targeted outdoor environmental management, and spatially informed vector-control strategies for improving dengue prevention in rapidly urbanising settings. Keywords: Dengue fever, environmental risk, mosquito density, sociodemographic factors, urban health
Coastal resources, activities and challenges to local and indigenous Mah Meri community along the coastlines of Port Klang and the Klang Islands
Malaysia’s coastal zones provide significant environmental and socioeconomic value, particularly for resource-dependent and Indigenous communities. This study focuses on the coastal resources, livelihood activities, and challenges faced by the Indigenous Mah Meri community along the coastlines of Port Klang and the Klang Islands, Malaysia, with the aim of contributing to broader discussions on Indigenous resilience and sustainable coastal development. Five study zones were established, covering Klang, Pulau Ketam, Pulau Tengah, Northport, Pulau Indah, Pulau Che Mat Zin, Pulau Pintu Gedong, and Pulau Selat Kering. Data was collected through desktop study, field observations and supported by secondary spatial data, including satellite imagery and base maps, which were visualized using ArcMap software tool (version 10.8.2) to delineate the study area and identify the distribution of coastal features. The findings indicate that mangroves, coastal rivers, beaches, and coastal waters are the most dominant natural resources across the study area, forming the basis of key economic activities such as fisheries, tourism, shipping, and logistics. Pulau Ketam demonstrates a high concentration of small-scale fisheries and tourism-related activities, supporting local livelihoods. However, the Mah Meri community faces increasing challenges due to environmental pressures and surrounding development, which affect both resource availability and income stability. This study highlights the interconnected relationship between coastal resources and Indigenous livelihoods and contributes to sustainable development discourse by emphasizing the need for inclusive, community-based strategies to enhance resilience and ensure the long-term sustainability of coastal ecosystems. Keywords: Coastal vulnerability, indigenous knowledge systems, mangrove dependency, small-scale fisheries, socio-ecological systems
Exploring personalised travel strategies of autistic adults: A case study of Indonesian urban context
Autistic individuals encounter serious challenges in navigating public spaces, including difficulty with trips, resulting in heavy reliance on caregivers and limited independent mobility. However, research on inclusive transportation tends to overlook the diverse experiences of neurodivergent groups, including individuals on the autism spectrum, particularly in Global South contexts. Little is known about how autistic individuals manage daily travel in developing urban environments like Indonesia, where insufficient transport infrastructure, safety concerns, and social norms uniquely shape their daily travels. This study explores the travel experiences of autistic adults in Bandung, Indonesia. Drawing on in-depth and walk-along interviews and observations in locations such as the campus and hiking area with two autistic adults with high-functioning traits and their caregivers, the research identifies how autistic participants develop personalised travel strategies through self-regulation, masking, the use of digital navigation apps, and personal tools to manage sensory sensitivities, cognitive demands, and social discomfort. They perceived daily trips as challenging, requiring pre-planning and routine travel customs that support emotional regulation and reduce cognitive and sensory overload. The travel strategies they developed reflect ongoing adaptations that have become habitual to cope with transport systems rarely designed to accommodate neurodivergent transport users. The study reframes their adaptive strategies as a form of agency to control over their mobility in the face of systemic ableism in neurotypical society. These findings underscore the urgent need for neurodiversity-affirming transport policies, particularly in Global South cities striving toward mobility justice. Keywords: Ableism, autism, Global South, independent mobility, masking, transportation
Tailoring sustainable tourism indicators: Addressing the unique challenges of small island provinces in Indonesia
Indicators for sustainable tourism on small islands should not be equated with those used for the mainland. Studies focusing on small islands further highlight significant limitations in transportation access, infrastructure, water availability, investment capacity, etc. These constraints must be carefully considered when developing appropriate and effective sustainability indicators for tourism in small islands. This 2025 study employed Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) to assess the sustainability of tourism development across Indonesia’s priority destinations. The dataset covers 7,158 islands across 12 priority tourism destination provinces. Monte Carlo analysis shows that island provinces perform well in the social and environmental dimensions. These findings highlight the need to integrate local social and environmental considerations into tourism planning and policy, particularly in small island regions where sustainability is crucial for long-term resilience. However, small island provinces perform poorly in the economic and physical dimensions of tourism sustainability. Their geography leads to the limited availability of clean water, infrastructure, high transportation costs and limited access to investment. Island Provinces such as Bangka Belitung, West Nusa Tenggara, North Maluku, Southeast Sulawesi, and East Nusa Tenggara exemplify these challenges. In contrast, non-island provinces demonstrate stronger sustainability in the economic and physical dimensions due to better infrastructure and greater investment capacity. Our research findings, which emphasize a major challenge faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS): the systemic imbalance in the global financial architecture, infrastructure, water availability, and transportation. Keywords: Economic, environment, island, physical, social, tourism
A conceptual study on envisioning digital humanities based on spatio-temporal analyses anthropogenic activities of heritage site: An interactive application
Heritage buildings provide a visual depiction of Malaysian culture and historical elements. Heritage buildings are also living representations of the past. Malacca Town, Malacca, is known to have numerous heritage buildings that are over a century old. The Malaysian government has been working diligently to manage these historical buildings since Malacca was designated as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. However, this research study aims to bridge the gap in understanding human impact on historical sites by integrating digital tools and spatio-temporal analysis and proposes a digital humanities framework that integrates Geographic Information Systems (GIS), spatio-temporal analysis, and interactive web-based storytelling to analyse anthropogenic activities within Melaka’s heritage zones. Multi-temporal land-use and land-cover data from 1989 to 2024 were analysed to identify patterns of urban expansion and environmental transformation and the results reveal a substantial increase in developed areas. To support data dissemination and public engagement, an interactive GIS-based web application and story map were developed which enabled users to explore heritage buildings through spatial visualization, historical timelines, and multimedia integration. The proposed framework demonstrates how digital tools can enhance heritage monitoring, support conservation planning, and democratise access to historical knowledge. The significance of this study lies in its innovative approach to analyzing and visualizing the patterns of anthropogenic activities over time, contributing valuable insights to the field of digital humanities and to the advancement of digital humanities by bridging geospatial analysis with cultural heritage interpretation, offering a scalable approach for sustainable heritage management and citizen science engagement in rapidly developing urban environments. Keywords: Database design, digital humanities, heritage building, GIS, story map, web mapping
Cabaran penarafan perusahaan sosial dalam kalangan koperasi di Malaysia: Satu kajian kualitatif (Challenges in social enterprise accreditation among cooperatives in Malaysia: A qualitative study)
Selaras dengan usaha mengukuhkan pengiktirafan perusahaan sosial, penarafan khusus telah diberikan kepada entiti yang memenuhi kriteria sebagai perusahaan sosial (SE). Koperasi adalah entiti yang ditubuhkan bagi mencapai objektif sosioekonomi bersama melalui penggembelingan sumber dan usaha kolektif serta penjanaan pendapatan melalui aktiviti berorientasi perniagaan. Justeru, koperasi dijangka berpotensi besar memperolehi penarafan SE disebabkan sifat semula jadi yang berorientasikan kebajikan sosioekonomi anggotanya. Makalah ini bertujuan meneroka cabaran yang membataskan perolehan penarafan samada sebagai Perusahaan Sosial Asas (SE.Basic) atau Perusahaan Sosial Diakreditasi (SE.AC) dalam kalangan koperasi di Malaysia. Kajian ini merupakan kajian kes menggunakan reka bentuk pendekatan kualitatif temubual berstruktur melibatkan kumpulan informan terdiri daripada wakil Suruhanjaya Koperasi Malaysia (SKM), Kementerian Pembangunan Usahawan dan Koperasi (KUSKOP) dan Ahli Lembaga Koperasi (ALK) daripada dua buah koperasi yang memiliki penarafan SE. Informan seramai enam (6) orang telah dipilih menggunakan teknik persampelan bertujuan berasaskan kapasiti sebagai pentadbir yang terlibat langsung dan tidak langsung dalam aktiviti koperasi dan penarafan SE. Data temubual telah dianalisis menggunakan analisis tematik. Hasil kajian menemui lima kategori cabaran penarafan koperasi sebagai SE terdiri daripada kategori cabaran fundamental, kepimpinan koperasi, teknikaliti permohonan, model piawai penarafan dan kebolehan pengurusan. Seterusnya 11 tema cabaran spesifik telah dikenal pasti di bawah setiap kategori cabaran. Implikasi penemuan ini memberi input kepada usaha memahami kedudukan koperasi dalam kerangka konsep perusahaan sosial dan mendorong kriteria penarafan yang mengambil kira ciri spesifik koperasi. Kajian ini dapat menyumbang kepada pembangunan ekosistem perusahaan sosial di Malaysia dalam konteks menambah baik sistem penarafan yang mengambil kira identiti koperasi berasaskan perspektif Teori Identiti Organisasi. Kata kunci: Keusahawanan sosial, koperasi, pengurusan, penarafan, perusahaan sosial, piawai penarafan In line with efforts to strengthen the recognition of social enterprises, a specific accreditation system has been introduced for entities that fulfil the criteria of a social enterprise (SE). Cooperatives are entities established to achieve shared socio-economic objectives through the mobilisation of collective resources and efforts, while generating income through business-oriented activities. Therefore, cooperatives are considered to have strong potential to obtain SE recognition due to their inherent socio-economic welfare orientation towards members. This paper aims to explore the challenges limiting the attainment of either Basic Social Enterprise (SE.Basic) or Accredited Social Enterprise (SE.AC) status among cooperatives in Malaysia. This study adopts a qualitative case study approach using structured interviews involving informants from the Malaysian Cooperative Commission (SKM), the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP), and Board Members of two cooperatives with SE recognition. A total of six informants were selected through purposive sampling based on their administrative roles and direct or indirect involvement in cooperative activities and SE accreditation. Interview data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings identified five categories of challenges affecting SE accreditation among cooperatives, namely fundamental challenges, cooperative leadership, application technicalities, standard accreditation models, and management capability. Additionally, 11 specific challenge themes were identified across these categories. The findings provide insights into understanding the position of cooperatives within the social enterprise framework and support the development of accreditation criteria that consider the unique characteristics of cooperatives from the perspective of Organisational Identity Theory. Keywords: Social entrepreneurship, cooperative, management, accreditation, social enterprise, accreditation standard
Economic empowerment through targeted training: Insights from the underprivileged population in Kedah, Malaysia
Vocational training is a critical tool for poverty alleviation. However, a research gap persists regarding how localized socioeconomic variations, and intersectional barriers affect program success in rural Malaysia. This study addresses this by analyzing the training needs of 748 underprivileged participants in Kedah, where 71.3% earn below RM2,208 monthly and encounter significant educational hurdles. Using a quantitative analysis, the research identifies that while 41.2% of participants aim to improve current employment, 36.2% seek to generate extra income. Regional differences are stark; for example, in the Sik district, 55.9% prioritize supplementary income. Vocational demand is highest for food preparation (49.20%), followed by agriculture (16.30%–18.05%) and technology-based skills (8.15%–10.63%). Entrepreneurship interests emphasize business opportunity identification (38.28%) and online business development (35.37%). The study contributes a "hyper-localized" framework for economic empowerment, reconciling traditional livelihoods with modern digital entrepreneurship. By mapping specific regional priorities, the findings provide a scalable blueprint for policymakers to design culturally responsive programs that advance United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 8. These insights are vital for reducing systemic disparities, addressing intersectional barriers, and fostering sustainable self-sufficiency within Malaysia’s marginalized communities. Integrating digital tools and context-specific strategies ensures equitable access and long-term economic resilience for the underprivileged. Keywords: Digital literacy, economic empowerment, entrepreneurship development, skill development programs, targeted training programs, underprivileged populations
What drives return and entrepreneurial engagement among malay overseas-educated returnee students?
This interdisciplinary paper blends the principles anchored in two distinguished theories namely; migration and entrepreneurship. In Malaysia and in many other countries, the drivers of international students’ return and their entrepreneurial engagement have not been well researched, and the resulting findings not fully unveiled. As such, policy makers are deprived of valuable insights on an important part of the potential that returnee students could bring to the local economies. This paper focused on the scantly-researched field of returnee entrepreneurship in the context of overseas-educated students. It aimed to understand the return conditions of Malay returnee students who chose entrepreneurial career, and the drivers of their entrepreneurial choice. To do this, the study employed a generic qualitative exploratory design to reflect on the entrepreneurial experience of these students. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect in-depth data which were subsequently analysed using thematic analysis. Our findings revealed that students’ return is shaped by two drivers namely: social concerns and institutional obligations which often occur immediately after the end of study. Additionally, the entrepreneurial choice’s drivers are autonomy, role model, employment conditions, and formation of business ideas overseas. Interestingly, we found evidence that the development of business ideas overseas and employment-related issues, as elements that reflect return conditions, were among the reasons that influenced the entrepreneurial choice, and that the development of entrepreneurial intention during the overseas stay was also observed among students who received study sponsors and had a commitment to return. The implications of these findings were discussed. Keywords: Conditions, entrepreneurship, Malay, overseas-educated, returnee, students
Penambahbaikan sokongan institusi ke atas program parol di masa hadapan dalam pengurusan tanaman kelapa sawit (Enhancing institutional support for future parole programmes in oil palm plantation management)
Industri sawit Malaysia, khususnya sektor huluan, berdepan cabaran kekurangan buruh tempatan dan kebergantungan tinggi kepada buruh asing. Bagi mengatasi isu ini, kerajaan memperkenalkan penempatan orang diparol di ladang sawit melalui program pemulihan luar penjara. Kajian ini bertujuan mengenal pasti faktor kejayaan program pemulihan tersebut serta mencadangkan penambahbaikan pada masa hadapan bagi memberikan impak yang lebih konstruktif dari segi pemulihan sosial bagi bekas banduan ini. Kaedah kajian berbentuk kualitatif menggunakan pendekatan kajian kes pelbagai. Data dikumpul melalui temu bual separa berstruktur terhadap 17 orang informan terdiri daripada pegawai kerajaan, pegawai parol, pengurus ladang, serta pihak industri sawit. Data dianalisis menggunakan ATLAS.ti 23 untuk memetakan tema-tema utama. Dapatan menunjukkan program pemulihan orang diparol di ladang sawit berjaya dari tiga aspek: (i) sistem perlindungan sosial, (ii) sokongan sosial, dan (iii) kawalan kendiri. Namun, kelemahan dari segi sokongan institusi masih wujud terutama ketiadaan dasar yang jelas dan kesediaan majikan yang tidak seimbang. Implikasi kajian ini menunjukkan program parol di ladang sawit wajar diperluaskan secara inklusif sebagai strategi serampang dua mata untuk menyelesaikan isu kekurangan buruh serta menyokong proses reintegrasi banduan. Kajian ini juga mencadangkan supaya program parol dilihat bukan semata-mata sebagai tenaga kerja alternatif, tetapi sebagai bentuk sokongan industri sawit terhadap pemulihan sosial bekas banduan. Kata kunci: Buruh asing, industri sawit, orang diparol, pemulihan banduan, reintegrasi sosial, sokongan institusi The Malaysian palm oil industry, particularly the upstream sector faces challenges related to the shortage of local labour and the high dependence on foreign workers. To address this issue, the government introduced the placement of parolees in oil palm plantations through an external prison rehabilitation programme. This study aims to identify the success factors of the rehabilitation programme and to propose future improvements in order to create a more constructive impact on the social rehabilitation of former prisoners. The study employed a qualitative method using a multiple case study approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews involving 17 informants consisting of government officers, parole officers, plantation managers, and representatives from the palm oil industry. The data were analysed using ATLAS.ti 23 to map the main themes. The findings indicate that the rehabilitation programme for parolees in oil palm plantations was successful in three aspects: (i) social protection systems, (ii) social support, and (iii) self-control. However, weaknesses in institutional support still exist, particularly the absence of clear policies and the uneven readiness of employers. The implications of this study suggest that the parole programme in oil palm plantations should be expanded inclusively as a two-pronged strategy: addressing labour shortages while supporting the reintegration process of former prisoners. This study also suggests that the parole programme should not merely be viewed as an alternative labour source, but rather as a form of support from the palm oil industry towards the social rehabilitation of former prisoners. Keywords: Foreign workers, palm oil industry, parolees, prisoner rehabilitation, social reintegration, institutional support
Designing a socio-development index framework for the Orang Asli Community using the Analytic Hierarchy Process
Despite many development programmes introduced since Malaysia’s independence in 1957, the Orang Asli community remains relatively marginalised in key areas such as land ownership, education, healthcare, and income. Existing national development indicators, particularly income-based measures, do not fully reflect the specific needs and priorities of Indigenous communities. This study addresses this gap by developing a structured socio-development index for the Orang Asli. The study uses the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a multi-criteria decision-making method that applies expert judgment to compare indicators in pairs and assign relative importance weights in a systematic way. Fourteen experts participated in identifying and prioritising socio-development indicators through pairwise comparisons. The final index consists of nine main indicators and thirty-two sub-indicators. The results show that land recognition is the most important indicator, followed by healthcare, policy and legislation, educational achievement, economic empowerment, infrastructure, leadership empowerment, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability. These results indicate that Orang Asli development priorities are mainly focused on structural rights and access to basic services rather than income alone. The main contribution of this study is the development of a validated and prioritised Indigenous socio-development index. Unlike conventional development indices, this index reflects the actual hierarchy of needs based on AHP-derived weights. It provides a practical tool for policymakers and researchers to measure, monitor, and improve Orang Asli socio-development in a more targeted and context-specific way. Keywords: Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), index framework, multi-criteria decision-making, Orang Asli, socio-development
Spatial clustering of autism spectrum disorders in Kelantan, Malaysia: Urban hotspots and rural gaps
The geographic distribution of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) remains poorly characterized in many developing settings, including Malaysia, where rural populations face notable healthcare access gaps. We mapped spatial clustering of ASD subtypes (severe, high-functioning and mild) in Kelantan, a predominantly rural Malaysian state, to examine diagnostic disparities. In this cross-sectional spatial epidemiological study, 103 ASD cases (2022–2024) from two major Kelantan centers were analyzed at the district level. Global Moran’s I assessed overall spatial autocorrelation and optimized Hot Spot Analysis (Getis-Ord Gi*) identified local clusters of high or low ASD incidence. Moran’s I revealed significant positive clustering for mild (I≈0.065, p<0.001) and high-functioning ASD (I≈0.039, p=0.0096) cases reflecting urban concentration but no significant autocorrelation for severe ASD. Optimized hotspot analysis localized statistically significant high-incidence clusters in Kota Bharu and surrounding districts, while rural districts emerged as cold spots. This urban-rural pattern mirrors known disparities (ASD diagnoses concentrate where healthcare access is better) and suggests underdiagnosis in underserved areas. Uneven geographic distribution of diagnostic resources likely drives these patterns. These results reveal service-related inequalities in ASD diagnosis in Kelantan and reinforce the need for targeted healthcare interventions and expanded screening in rural communities to ensure equitable care. Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), geographic information system (GIS), high-functioning autism, optimized hotspot analysis, spatial autocorrelation
Physical environment and domestic waste management practices in a suburban settlement of Kuching, Sarawak
Domestic waste management continues to pose significant environmental and public health challenges in suburban areas of developing regions, including Sarawak, Malaysia. While previous studies have largely focused on policy interventions, institutional capacity and community awareness, limited attention has been given to how the physical environment shapes everyday household waste management practices. Guided by Social Practice Theory, this study examines how the physical characteristics of the suburban environment shape domestic waste management practices in Kampung Sungai Midin, Kuching Sarawak. A qualitative research approach was employed, involving in-depth interviews, field observations and document analysis with community members, local leaders and local authority representatives. The findings indicate that perceived settlement patterns, accessibility, housing density, availability of waste management infrastructure and proximity to waste collection facilities as important conditions shaping household waste disposal behaviors. The study further reveals that physical and spatial constraints can hinder the adoption of proper waste management practices despite the presence of residents' awareness of environmental issues. From a Social Practice Theory perspective, these findings demonstrate how the material and spatial conditions of the community interact with everyday waste management practices, influencing how residents perform and sustain particular behaviors. The findings underscore the importance of integrating physical planning, environmental design and community-based governance into development of effective and sustainable waste management systems. By highlighting the role of material and spatial conditions in everyday waste practices, this study contributes to the growing discourse on sustainable waste management and urban development in suburban communities. Keywords: Domestic waste, Physical environment, suburban settlement, Sustainable waste management
Cabaran mengenai isu keselamatan sempadan di zon ESSCOM: Analisis sejauh mana kesannya terhadap ekonomi dan pembangunan Sabah (Challenges of border security issues in ESSCOM zone: An Analysis of the extent of its impact on Sabah's economy and development)
Keselamatan sempadan memainkan peranan penting dalam mengekalkan kedaulatan dan kestabilan negara, terutamanya di Sabah, di mana terdapat banyak ancaman keselamatan bukan tradisional. Tujuan kajian ini adalah untuk mengenal pasti halangan keselamatan sempadan di Zon Keselamatan Timur Sabah (ESSZONE) dan menilai sejauh mana halangan dan cabaran ini memberi kesan kepada kemajuan ekonomi negeri. Kajian mendapati bahawa ancaman seperti penculikan untuk wang tebusan (KFR), keganasan, dan penyeludupan telah menjejaskan kepercayaan pelabur dan industri pelancongan. Ini ditunjukkan melalui pendekatan kualitatif dan analisis dokumen dalam kajian ini. Walau bagaimanapun, penubuhan ESSCOM telah meningkatkan keselamatan dengan merekodkan tiada kes KFR sejak 2020. Kejayaan ini seterusnya telah menggalakkan pertumbuhan besar dalam industri pelancongan, yang dijangka menerima 4 juta pelancong pada tahun 2026. Selain itu, analisis keruangan bagi profil risiko di kawasan Utara (Kudat) dan Selatan (Tawau) menunjukkan wilayah tersebut memerlukan pendekatan penguatkuasaan yang berbeza. Kesimpulannya, untuk menjamin kestabilan jangka panjang di kawasan tersebut, strategi keselamatan yang mampan mesti menggabungkan penguatkuasaan undang-undang yang ketat dengan usaha pembangunan sosioekonomi. Kata kunci: Analisis ruang, ancaman transnasional, ESSCOM, keselamatan sempadan, Sabah Border security plays a vital role in maintaining the sovereignty and stability of the country, especially in Sabah, where there are many non-traditional security threats. The purpose of this study was to assess the border security barriers in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZONE) and assess the extent to which these barriers and challenges impact the state’s economic progress. The study reveals that threats such as kidnapping for ransom (KFR), terrorism, and smuggling have undermined investor confidence and the tourism industry. This was demonstrated through a qualitative approach and document analysis in this study. However, the establishment of ESSCOM has improved security with no KFR cases recorded since 2020. This success has in turn encouraged significant growth in the tourism industry, which is expected to receive 4 million tourists by 2026. In addition, spatial analysis of the risk profiles in the North (Kudat) and South (Tawau) regions shows that the regions require different enforcement approaches. In conclusion, to ensure long-term stability in the region, a sustainable security strategy must combine strict law enforcement with socio-economic development efforts. Keywords: Spatial analysis, transnational threats, ESSCOM, border security, Sabah