Akademika publishes three issues a year; April, July and October. It is a refereed journal published by UKM Press that is committed to the advancement of scholarly knowledge by encouraging discussion of several branches of the social sciences and humanities in Southeast Asia region. The journal publishes research and conceptual articles whose content and approach are of interest to a wide range of scholars. Articles submitted for consideration of publication in this journal should clearly show the implications to the community, society and humanities.
It is the author's responsibility to ensure that his or her submitted work does not infringe any existing copyright. Furthermore, the author indemnifies the editors and publisher against any breach of such a warranty. Authors should obtain permission to reproduce or adapt copyrighted material and provide evidence of approval upon submitting the final version of a manuscript. This journal does not allow the author(s) to hold the copyright without restrictions or retain publishing rights without restrictions.
Applying the Fuzzy Delphi Technique of Islamic Multidimensional Poverty Index in Measuring Urban Poverty
Urban poverty involves more than economic hardship as it encompasses limited access to quality education, inadequate healthcare, insecure housing and social exclusion. It also includes psychological, spiritual, and moral deprivation. Conventional poverty indices such as the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) do not fully capture these non-material aspects, especially in Muslim-majority societies where well-being is shaped by Islamic values. This study introduces an Islamic Multidimensional Poverty Index (i-MPI) based on the principles of maqāṣid al-sharīʿah and includes a unique soul dimension that reflects emotional, perceptual, and behavioral well-being. The Fuzzy Delphi Technique (FDT) was used to gather expert consensus from 14 scholars and practitioners in Islamic economics and poverty research. A total of 18 indicators across six dimensions were evaluated: religion, life, intellect, progeny, wealth, and soul. Triangular fuzzy numbers and defuzzification thresholds were applied to assess clarity, relevance, and expert agreement. Results showed a high level of consensus, particularly in recognizing the value of including spiritual deprivation in poverty assessment. The i-MPI offers a culturally grounded and operationally sound tool for measuring urban poverty in Islamic contexts. It supports applications in zakat allocation, Islamic social finance, and integrated policy planning. This study presents both a practical framework and a conceptual shift that acknowledges spiritual and ethical well-being as essential to understanding poverty.
Delaying Motherhood: The Ethics of Social Egg Freezing
Pregnancy and childbirth play a significant part in a woman’s life. Nonetheless, for some women, the dream of having a child needs to be postponed or forgotten due to medical and non-medical reasons. A woman’s ability to carry a child to term may be compromised due to health issues such as the need to undergo medical treatment that may affect their fertility. In addition to health issues, non-medical factors such as the inability to find a suitable partner or spouse or a career commitment can also impact a woman's chances of having a child. Now, with the help of technologies, women may opt to postpone pregnancy by choosing to freeze their eggs for future use. While the practice of egg freezing on medical grounds may be tolerable and less problematic, its use for social reasons invites further scrutiny. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully discuss the potential risks and harms of social egg freezing for women, newborns, and society as a whole. This paper aims to identify the ethical, legal, and Islamic concerns surrounding social egg freezing by analysing this practice from a Malaysian perspective. In addition, the law and policy on social egg freezing in some jurisdictions are also examined and considered as a benchmark in proposing a suitable law in Malaysia.
The Relevancy of Islamic Education for Children in Muslim Convert Families
This article explores the dynamics of Islamic education among children aged 7–12 in Muslim convert families in Malaysia—an area often overlooked in existing research. While the religious learning of adult Muslim converts has been widely studied, limited attention has been given to the experiences and challenges faced by their young children. This study aims to fill that gap by examining the religious education of children in convert families from the perspectives of multiple stakeholders: convert parents, Islamic education teachers, NGOs supporting converts, religious guidance officers, Islamic creed experts, early childhood education specialists, and Islamic management experts. Using qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews, the study also conducts a needs analysis for children’s religious learning. Findings reveal that Islamic education in these families is complex and multifaceted. Parents—often new to Islamic teachings—play a central role in nurturing their children’s faith, commonly through participation in Islamic classes. However, families face significant challenges, such as adjusting to new religious norms, navigating cultural differences, and managing identity transitions. This research highlights the importance of understanding the religious educational experiences of children in Muslim convert families and identifying factors that influence their spiritual development. The findings offer valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and community leaders to develop targeted support and resources that foster effective religious education in this unique context.
Analisis Bibliometrik Penerbitan Ilmiah Bahasa Melayu dalam Jurnal Berindeks Scopus
Penerbitan ilmiah dalam bahasa Melayu berpotensi meningkatkan martabat bahasa dengan mengukuhkan peranannya sebagai medium utama ilmu pengetahuan dan memperluas pengaruhnya dalam bidang akademik dan profesional. Sehubungan itu, artikel ini bertujuan menganalisis penerbitan makalah bahasa Melayu yang diterbitkan oleh pengarang dengan afiliasi negara Malaysia yang diindeks dalam pangkalan data Scopus. Kajian ini mengaplikasi kata carian Malaysia sebagai afiliasi negara pengarang dan limitasi bahasa Melayu bagi mengumpulkan maklumat secara sistematik mengenai pengarang, artikel, jumlah sitasi, institusi, kata kunci dan lain-lain. Data kajian ini diekstrak daripada pangkalan data Scopus pada 27 September 2024. Bagi tujuan analisis, perisian biblioMagika berasaskan Microsoft Excel digunakan bagi tujuan analisis kekerapan, manakala Biblioshiny dan VOSviewer pula bagi tujuan pemvisualan data. Hasil analisis mendapati, penerbitan dalam bahasa Melayu mula diindeks ke dalam pangkalan data Scopus bermula tahun 1993. Sebanyak 2,160 dokumen dalam bahasa Melayu telah diindeks dalam pelbagai bidang melibatkan bidang Sains dan Sains Sosial. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) muncul sebagai institusi paling produktif melibatkan bilangan dokumen dan jumlah pengarang yang paling banyak. Analisis sitasi menunjukkan penerbitan bidang Sains dalam bahasa Melayu mendapat perhatian ramai pengkaji dengan rekod jumlah sitasi yang tinggi. Walaupun dokumen diterbitkan dalam bahasa Melayu, ia tidak menghalang pengarang di Malaysia untuk berkolaborasi dengan pengarang antarabangsa terutama dengan Indonesia, dan beberapa negara di Asia dan Eropah. Implikasi analisis bibliometrik ini menunjukkan bahawa bahasa Melayu berupaya berfungsi sebagai bahasa ilmu dan penyelidikan yang berdaya saing di peringkat antarabangsa serta diiktiraf dalam pangkalan data seperti Scopus dan lain-lain.
An Exploration of Multimodal Intertextuality and Persuasion Based on Beauty Influencer Advertising in Social Media
Social media is becoming a major marketing tool in the digital age. As a new advertising genre, beauty influencer advertising brings significant commercial value to promoting beauty brands. Beauty influencers often utilise complex discursive identity and persuasive strategies to promote products and brand images. However, only a few studies have investigated this new advertising discourse from an intertextual and interdiscursive perspective. This study selected 15 beauty advertising videos from three prominent beauty influencers on Douyin (the Chinese version of TikTok) as its corpus. Drawing on Bazerman’s (2004) intertextuality framework and Kress and Van Leeuwen’s (2006) visual grammar theory, the study investigates how beauty influencers realize persuasive intent through intertextual strategies and multimodal resources. The results showed that the influencers heavily used evaluative strategies in intertextuality. The study also indicated that the interdiscursivity of such influencer advertisements manifested in three activities: product endorsements, product reviews, and makeup tutorials, with different activities having their discursive mixes. Additionally, visual elements such as gaze, distance, colour, and movement in multimodal resources play a crucial role in reinforcing the presentation of linguistic information, evoking audience emotions, and enhancing persuasive effects. This study not only reveals how beauty influencers achieve persuasive goals through rhetorical devices but also provides practical insights for professionals to enhance product communication efficiency by employing effective discourse patterns and multimodal strategies.
Reconstruction Vowels and Diphthongs of Proto Patani Malay Dialect of Narathiwat
The Patani Malay dialect is one of the Malay dialects spoken in southern Thailand, primarily in Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, and parts of Songkhla. Based on several studies on the Patani Malay dialect that previous researchers have discussed, it can be confirmed that no researcher has yet tried to reconstruct the ancient form of the Patani Malay dialect, especially in the Narathiwat region. Accordingly, this study aims to describe the vowel phonemes and diphthongs system of the Patani Malay dialect of Narathiwat (PMDN) and reconstruct the vowel phonemes and diphthongs form of the Patani Malay dialect of Narathiwat (PMDN) to obtain the ancient form of these two phonemes. This study is a descriptive qualitative study that uses a historical linguistic approach. Both library and field methods were used to gather information and data on the Patani Malay dialect. The study focuses on several villages in the Narathiwat region, including Kresor (KRS), Buketa (BKT), Puyok (PYK), Munok (MNK), Benae Luwas (BNL), and Aikubu (AKB). The analysis conducted shows that the Patani Malay dialect of Narathiwat Proto (PMDNP) has eight vowel phonemes, namely the vowels *i, *u, *e, *ɘ, *o, *ɛ, *ɔ, and *a which consist of two vowels narrow, three semi-narrow vowels, two semi-wide vowels, and one broad vowel and has five diphthong phonemes, namely diphthongs *ai, *ae, *aɛ, *au, and *ao. This study is expected to contribute to and further develop knowledge in Malay linguistics, particularly concerning the Patani Malay dialect.
Comparative Analysis of Eschatological Beliefs in Malaysian Chinese Buddhism and Islam: Insights through Ninian Smart’s Dimensions of Religion
This study aims to perform a descriptive content analysis to explore the factors contributing to the similarities and differences in afterlife beliefs between Buddhism and Islam. The analysis used Ninian Smart’s seven dimensions of religion, namely doctrine, ritual, mythic, experiential, ethical, social, and material to evaluate the common dimensions shared by Buddhism and Islam. Interviews were conducted with six Muslim converts who were formerly Buddhists. The study revealed that the doctrinal dimension has the highest frequency, indicating a strong focus on the theological differences in afterlife beliefs between Buddhism and Islam. The ethical dimension follows closely, highlighting the importance of moral behaviour in both religions. The material and social dimensions show moderate frequencies, reflecting how practices and communal customs shape beliefs about death. The experiential dimension, though less frequent, emphasises personal spiritual experiences, while the ritual and mythic dimensions receive the lowest references, suggesting a greater emphasis on doctrinal and ethical aspects over specific rituals and narratives. The study also found that moral justice and ethical conduct in the doctrinal dimension are closely related to the ethical dimension. Additionally, the social dimension’s emphasis on community and support is linked to funeral traditions in the ritual dimension. These findings indicate areas of alignment between Buddhism and Islam, revealing shared purposes but differing practices. Ultimately, the common emphasis on virtuous living provides a basis for interfaith dialogue on ethical values.
Navigating Modernity: Factors Influencing the Psychological Well-being of Temuan Elderly in Selangor, Malaysia
Psychological well-being is an important aspect in achieving sustainability in life but it still under discussed among Orang Asli elderly. They are a vulnerable group that is easily effected due to the current modernisation that is changing the environmental and social landscape. This paper aims to examine the factors that affect the psychological well-being of the Temuan elderly in Selangor, specifically across eight villages: Desa Kemandol, Bukit Cheding, Pulau Kempas, Busut Baru, Bukit Tadom, Desa Temuan, Rasau Hulu, and Rasau Hilir. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative data collection. A total of 261 Temuan elderly individuals were surveyed, and 38 of them participated in semi-structured interviews. The quantitative results indicate that the psychological well-being of those surveyed is cumulatively in good condition (85.0%), based on five key indicators: harmony (96.0%), happiness (96.0%), interdependence (85.4%), respect (82.4%), and acceptance (66.0%). Chi-square analysis further revealed that socio-demographic factors such as locality, marital status, and working status significantly influence the psychological well-being of the Temuan elderly. Concurrently, qualitative findings from the interviews highlight respondents' profound concerns regarding environmental changes, the increasing fragility of social relationships, and their health status. These insights are crucial for developing targeted interventions and policies that support the well-being of indigenous elderly populations as they adapt to modern challenges. Keywords: Temuan Elderly; psychological well-being; environmental changes, modernization, active aging
Dari Idea ke Kata: Analisis Pengaruh Arahan ChatGPT dalam Proses Penghasilan Naratif
Kajian ini meneliti pengaruh kecerdasan buatan (AI), khususnya penggunaan ChatGPT, dalam proses penulisan kreatif, dengan memberikan tumpuan kepada kesan bentuk arahan (prompting) terhadap naratif yang dihasilkan. Arahan merujuk kepada input berstruktur yang menjadi panduan kepada model bahasa untuk memenuhi keperluan atau objektif tertentu. Melalui pendekatan eksperimental dan berlandaskan teori Naratologi, kajian ini membandingkan dua jenis arahan iaitu arahan umum dan arahan spesifik bagi menilai pengaruh terhadap struktur dan kualiti naratif. Hasil kajian mendapati kedua-dua bentuk arahan ini berkesan dalam membentuk naratif mengikut keperluan pengarang, namun dengan fokus yang berbeza. Arahan umum cenderung menghasilkan naratif yang lebih terbuka dan ringkas, manakala arahan spesifik memperkuatkan perincian emosi watak, latar, serta konflik, sekali gus meningkatkan kesan pembacaan. Kajian ini juga menunjukkan bahawa gabungan antara kecekapan manusia dalam menyusun arahan dan kemampuan ChatGPT menghasilkan respons yang berstuktur dapat membuka perspektif baharu dalam bidang penulisan kreatif. Pendekatan ini bukan sahaja membantu pengarang memperkaya struktur naratif, tetapi juga memperluas potensi kecerdasan buatan dalam genre penulisan yang berbeza. Di samping itu, dapatan ini selaras dengan prinsip Naratologi yang menekankan kepentingan deskripsi dan perincian dalam pembinaan naratif. Namun begitu, kajian ini turut menyedari keterbatasan yang sedia ada, seperti skop kajian yang terhad kepada perbandingan antara arahan umum dan spesifik serta penggunaan satu model bahasa sahaja. Kata Kunci: Kecerdasan Buatan; ChatGPT; Proses Penulisan Kreatif; Arahan; Kreativiti
THE ETHOS OF STATE AND NATION IN SARAWAK MALAY WRITINGS
The paper examines the concepts of state and nation formulated in Sarawak Malay writings produced from three different epochs. To learn of the nature of the concepts historically can present a contrast to a contemporary identification of state and nation in purist, essentialist categories of political identity and territoriality. Three of the writings are chosen on the basis of their authorial prominence, Hikayat Panglima Nikosa, Nafahat al-Ridwan and My Family and Other Anecdotes. The writings are examined from the interpretive perspective drawn from the Geertzian’s interpretive anthropology relating to the ethos of writing expressed in the works. The study found that the feature of localisation consistently appears in those writings manifested in the process of incorporation of foreign and indigenous elements historically shaped the ethos of state and nation in Sarawak. Therefore, the Malay writings selected here exemplified the case of localisation of Malay political identity grew in the context of co-existence with their largely non-Malay-Muslim inhabitants.
Exploring Teachers’ Conceptions of Classroom Based Assessment in Malaysian ESL Classrooms.
The shift from high-stakes examination system to the Classroom Based Assessment (CBA) in 2021 marked a significant transition in the Malaysian educational landscape, emphasizing continuous formative assessment. In the context of English language learning, CBA is aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), which aims to establish international standards for students’ language proficiency. This study explores Malaysian ESL teachers’ conceptions of CBA following education reform and examines its alignment with policy mandates. This research used qualitative approach of a case study design where the data were collected through semi-structured interviews with nine Form 3 ESL teachers from four public secondary schools in Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, who were selected through purposive sampling. Document analysis supplemented the interviews to triangulate findings and provide deeper insights into how teachers perceive and implement CBA in line with policy requirements. Findings show that teachers could articulate conceptions of CBA that align with policy recommendations. Teachers viewed CBA as a form of continuous assessment, a problem-solving tool, and a comprehensive evaluation method that corresponds with policy requirements. However, some teachers faced challenges due to an incomplete understanding of its objectives, particularly in relation to the holistic assessment of language skills. More concerningly, some still perceive CBA as being similar to traditional examinations. This study identifies gaps in teachers' comprehension of CBA, suggesting the need for targeted professional development and clearer instructional guidelines to ensure successful implementation. These findings contribute to discussions on educational reform, highlighting teachers' practical challenges in adapting to new assessment frameworks.
A Systematic Literature Review on The Importance of Spiritual Intelligence in Marital Satisfaction
Spiritual intelligence is a growing concept that extends beyond personal development, significantly shaping interpersonal relationships, particularly within marriage. This study seeks to systematically review and analyze the impact of spiritual intelligence on marital satisfaction among married couples. The review follows the PRISMA framework (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses), ensuring a structured and transparent approach to synthesizing relevant literature. It delves into the intricate ways in which spiritual intelligence influences the quality and stability of marital bonds. To gather pertinent studies, Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus were used to source peer-reviewed research focusing on the connection between spiritual intelligence and marital satisfaction. Through content analysis, the study identified four core themes: (a) stability, (b) wisdom, (c) love, and (d) security, focusing on the sense of emotional safety and trust nurtured by spiritual practices and beliefs. The findings highlight the crucial role of spiritual intelligence in strengthening marriages by enhancing resilience and promoting healthier relationships. Moreover, these insights serve as a foundation for further scholarly exploration and practical implementation. The study suggests that both researchers and policymakers can leverage these findings to develop specialized programs and interventions aimed at improving marital satisfaction through the integration of spiritual intelligence. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how spiritual intelligence can be utilized to fortify marriages and enhance couples' overall well-being.
Food Industry Sustainability Through Digitalization: A Systematic Review
Digitalization is transforming food security by enhancing efficiency, transparency, and sustainability in agriculture. This study systematically reviews the impact of digital technologies, including IoT, blockchain, AI, and automation, in addressing key food security challenges such as supply chain disruptions, resource inefficiencies, and climate risks. Using a structured methodology, peer-reviewed literature from 2023 to 2024 was analyzed from databases like Scopus and Web of Science. The study follows the PRISMA framework, identifying 29 relevant articles classified into five themes: Emerging Technologies, Digitalization & Sustainability, AI & Automation, Resilience & Optimization, and Knowledge & Innovation. The findings highlight how digitalization improves traceability, predictive analytics, and decision-making in agriculture, enhancing resource management and reducing food waste. However, challenges such as high implementation costs, interoperability issues, and digital literacy gaps hinder adoption. The study emphasizes the need for regulatory frameworks, stakeholder collaboration, and infrastructure investments to maximize the benefits of digital solutions. Integrating AI-driven predictive models and blockchain-enabled transparency mechanisms could further enhance food security by strengthening risk management and supply chain resilience. While digital technologies hold great potential, addressing socioeconomic and technical barriers is crucial for sustainable implementation. Future research should focus on developing inclusive policies and scalable digital solutions to ensure food security in an increasingly digital world.
Can AI Outsmart Cybercriminals? A Systematic Review of AI-Driven Cyber Defense
Cybercrime has become a critical challenge in the digital age, posing significant threats to individuals, businesses, and global infrastructures. As cybercriminals leverage sophisticated techniques, traditional cybersecurity measures often struggle to keep pace. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative tool in cybersecurity, offering automated, adaptive, and intelligent solutions for threat detection, incident response, and fraud prevention. This systematic literature review (SLR) synthesizes findings from 47 peer-reviewed studies to examine AI’s role in cyber defense. The review explores machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), blockchain security, adversarial AI, and explainable AI (XAI) in mitigating cyber threats, including malware, phishing, ransomware, and financial fraud. Findings indicate that AI-driven threat detection systems significantly improve accuracy, with models achieving over 99% precision in malware and fraud detection. AI-powered forensic tools enhance cybercrime investigations, while deep reinforcement learning (DRL) and user behavior analytics bolster proactive cybersecurity measures. However, challenges remain, including algorithmic bias, adversarial attacks, ethical concerns, and regulatory gaps. The study underscores the need for transparent AI policies, interdisciplinary cybersecurity strategies, and global cooperation to ensure responsible AI deployment. This review provides key insights for researchers, policymakers, and cybersecurity professionals by identifying emerging trends, limitations, and future research directions. It emphasizes the necessity of adaptive, ethical, and explainable AI frameworks to address evolving cyber threats and fortify digital security in an increasingly interconnected world.
Sorotan Literatur Bersistematik Kajian Berkenaan Penggunaan Bahasa Tidak Santun dalam Komunikasi Digital
Kajian ini bertujuan untuk meneliti sorotan literatur berkaitan penggunaan bahasa tidak santun dalam komunikasi digital. Interaksi digital yang bersifat tanpa batas menunjukkan penggunaan bahasa yang tidak mementingkan aspek kesantunan ketika berbahasa telah menjadi kebiasaan bagi warga maya dan diterima sebagai norma baharu dalam komunikasi digital. Perkembangan ini telah menarik minat ramai sarjana untuk meneliti pelbagai aspek penggunaan bahasa tidak santun dalam konteks digital. Oleh itu, fokus kajian ini meliputi tiga aspek utama iaitu mengenal pasti bentuk-bentuk bahasa tidak santun, menganalisis platform media sosial yang menjadi tumpuan kajian bahasa tidak santun serta menerokai konteks penggunaannya dalam komunikasi di media sosial berdasarkan literatur sedia ada. Metodologi kajian ini berpandukan garis panduan Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Prosedur sorotan literatur bersistematik melibatkan kaedah pencarian teratur, kriteria penyaringan, pengumpulan maklumat dan penelitian hasil daripada artikel yang terpilih. Pencarian artikel dijalankan melalui tiga pangkalan data utama iaitu Web of Science, Scopus dan Google Scholar dari tahun 2019 hingga tahun 2024. Sebanyak 18 artikel telah terpilih dan dianalisis berdasarkan kriteria kelayakan yang ditetapkan. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahawa bahasa tidak santun meliputi pelbagai bentuk iaitu bahasa makian, kesat, hinaan, mengejek dan kebencian. Dari segi plaform kajian, Facebook mendominasi pilihan utama pengkaji terdahulu dalam pengumpulan data diikuti Twitter dan Instagram. Sementara itu, konteks penggunaan bahasa tidak santun merentasi pelbagai situasi komunikasi digital yang meliputi perbincangan politik, hiburan serta interaksi sosial. Secara keseluruhannya, penemuan ini memperluas pengetahuan mengenai bahasa tidak santun dalam komunikasi digital serta menyediakan panduan asas untuk mengisi jurang kajian bagi penyelidikan lanjutan Kata kunci: bahasa tidak santun; komunikasi digital; media sosial; pragmatik; sorotan literatur bersistematik.
Minimalist Design in Academic Presentations: Impacts on Structured Speech Delivery among Malaysian Undergraduates
Many students find it challenging to produce engaging slides that complement their speech delivery. While previous research focused more on traditional presentation method that rely on the use of lengthy slides and heavy texts, the impact of minimalist presentation design in structured speech remained underexplored. Hence, the study examines how minimalist design in academic presentation influences students’ structured speech delivery, the common challenges they faced, and the strategies to make better presentation designs that help with structured speech delivery. A mixed-methods approach was used for the study, which included rubric-based evaluation of student slides and a post-presentation survey. The sample consisted of 40 undergraduate students enrolled in an English for Informative Speech course at a Malaysian university. Findings indicate that minimalist visual designs significantly improve speech clarity, audience engagement and language performance, with students generally adhere to the visual design principles. However, students faced challenges in designing and template selection, balancing visual-text balance, content organisation, and creativity and resourcefulness. To address this, the study proposes SPARKLE strategies, a set of structured guidelines for minimalist presentation design in structured speech presentation. This emphasises the pedagogical benefits of minimalist presentation design in academic presentation. Future research should explore broader contexts of visual-based delivery across diverse disciplines and cultural settings and its long-term impact on students’ academic presentation skills.
Pengaruh Persekitaran Sosial terhadap Pendirian Politik Wanita di Selangor
Kajian ini menganalisis pendirian politik wanita di Selangor dan peranan persekitaran sosial dalam membentuk pandangan mereka. Faktor utama yang dikaji termasuk keluarga, pasangan, jiran, rakan rapat, pemimpin komuniti, media massa, dan perbezaan kawasan bandar-luar bandar. Kajian ini menggunakan persampelan rawak berstrata melibatkan 3,579 responden wanita bagi memastikan keterwakilan pelbagai latar belakang. Hasil kajian menunjukkan hubungan interpersonal seperti keluarga (45.98%) dan pasangan (42.62%) adalah pengaruh utama, terutamanya di kawasan luar bandar, manakala media massa dan rakan sebaya lebih berpengaruh di kawasan bandar. Selain itu, wanita berpendidikan tinggi dan yang mempunyai akses luas kepada media cenderung membentuk pendirian politik yang lebih bebas dan kritikal. Sumbangan utama kajian ini adalah penerokaan mendalam terhadap peranan sosial dalam konteks geografi dan budaya unik Selangor, mengisi jurang dalam literatur politik wanita di Malaysia. Kajian ini memberikan pemahaman baharu mengenai dinamika sosial yang membentuk pendirian politik, terutama dalam masyarakat yang kompleks antara konservatisme dan liberalisme. Secara praktikal, dapatan kajian ini membantu pembuat dasar, NGO, dan aktivis politik merangka strategi komunikasi yang disesuaikan dengan konteks demografi dan sosial wanita. Ini termasuk penyediaan program literasi politik dan kempen kesedaran melalui media sosial dan tradisional. Selain itu, kajian menekankan keperluan untuk memperkasa pendidikan politik yang inklusif, khususnya bagi wanita luar bandar yang lebih terdedah kepada pengaruh interpersonal. Penemuan ini memberi implikasi besar kepada pembangunan sosial dan politik, mencadangkan pendekatan pelbagai dimensi untuk meningkatkan penglibatan politik wanita secara bermaklumat. Kata kunci: Politik wanita, pengaruh sosial, media massa, persekitaran sosial, pendirian politik.
Bridging the Gap between Malaysian Employment Law and ILO Standards on Gig Workers' Rights
The rapid rise of the gig economy has created new challenges in ensuring legal protection for workers. Classifying gig workers as independent contractors often excludes them from traditional employment law protections, especially in jurisdictions like Malaysia, where the laws primarily focus on employees with formal contracts. This research aims to investigate the influence of the International Labour Organization (ILO) standards on gig workers’ rights and to assess how Malaysian employment law aligns with the ILO standards. Although the ILO has not created specific conventions for gig workers, its general labour standards can still be applied to safeguard their rights. For example, the ILO’s Decent Work Declaration offers protections such as fair wages, occupational safety, and social security that can benefit gig workers. This study adopts a qualitative approach, analyzing both legal and non-legal sources. It includes a comprehensive review of ILO instruments, Malaysian employment law, and relevant journal articles and reports, to identify similarities and discrepancies between the legal frameworks. The analysis focuses on the ILO's impact on gig worker protections. This research evaluates the effectiveness of Malaysian law in ensuring protections such as minimum wages, social security, and dispute resolution mechanisms for gig workers, based on their legal status. This study adds to the continuing discussion about the gig economy by fusing state laws with global norms.
SOLUSI ‘SHARENTING’ KEPADA KANAK-KANAK: ANALISIS PERBANDINGAN REMEDI UNDANG-UNDANG DI UNITED KINGDOM DAN MALAYSIA
‘Sharenting’, iaitu amalan ibu bapa berkongsi imej dan maklumat peribadi anak-anak mereka dalam talian, menimbulkan implikasi serius terhadap hak privasi, kesejahteraan psikologi, autonomi, dan perlindungan kanak-kanak. Meskipun risiko-risiko ini telah diketahui umum, ramai ibu bapa masih berkongsi imej dan maklumat tersebut secara berlebihan. Kanak-kanak yang terkesan mungkin berasa terancam dari segi privasi dan membantah pendedahan maklumat peribadi mereka, seterusnya mengemukakan permintaan kepada ibu bapa agar memadam kandungan tersebut. Secara prinsipnya, ibu bapa sepatutnya menghormati permintaan ini, namun keengganan mereka dalam sesetengah keadaan menimbulkan keperluan untuk mekanisme remedi undang-undang yang membolehkan kanak-kanak mendapatkan pemadaman kandungan yang menjejaskan kepentingan mereka. Artikel ini menganalisis permohonan injunksi berdasarkan pelanggaran kewajipan kerahsiaan, penyalahgunaan maklumat peribadi, dan pencerobohan privasi dalam konteks sharenting di United Kingdom dan Malaysia. Selain itu, ia turut mengkaji keberkesanan hak untuk dipadamkan dan hak untuk membantah di bawah rangka kerja perlindungan data dalam melindungi kepentingan kanak-kanak. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa penguatkuasaan hak untuk dipadamkan menawarkan remedi yang lebih berkesan bagi kanak-kanak yang terkesan akibat sharenting. Namun, ketidakjelasan dalam tafsiran perundangan serta ketiadaan garis panduan khusus dalam konteks mekanisme pemadaman atau penghapusan data untuk kanak-kanak yang terlibat dalam sharenting menekankan keperluan untuk kajian lanjut. Oleh itu, artikel ini menekankan kepentingan garis panduan yang lebih jelas bagi memastikan keseimbangan antara hak privasi kanak-kanak dan hak ibu bapa untuk berkongsi kandungan dalam talian.
Better Safe Than Sorry: A Systematic Literature Review on Flood Preparedness Among Indigenous Peoples
Climate change has increased the likelihood of severe flooding, which particularly affects indigenous communities living in remote areas. Research on the preparedness of indigenous peoples to floods is crucial for the development of strategies based on traditional knowledge to increase resilience and mitigate the effects of severe floods. However, there is a lack of comprehensive studies on flood preparedness in these communities. Previous research has tended to focus on traditional literature reviews, overlooking critical elements such as identification, screening and eligibility processes. To address this research gap, a systematic literature review was conducted using the Reporting Standards for Systematic Evidence Syntheses (ROSES) protocol to examine flood preparedness among Indigenous peoples. The articles analysed in this study were sourced and screened from Scopus and Web of Science, with additional references from Google Scholar and ScienceDirect. The literature search was conducted in five main steps, including adherence to the review protocol, formulation of research questions, and systematic search strategies based on identification, screening, and eligibility. Ten main themes were identified in the thematic analysis: technology adoption, government policy and collaboration, social capital, structural measures, ecosystem-based adaptation, food security, income stability and diversity, self-proactive actions, house-building strategy and adjustments, and traditional knowledge of flood forecasting indicators. These main themes were further subdivided into 22 sub-themes. This study makes an important contribution to the existing body of knowledge and provides practical insights for stakeholders.
Editorial Introduction Advancing Human Well-Being: Psychological and Social Perspectives
This editorial introduces the AKADEMIKA Special Section titled “Advancing Human Well-Being: Psychological and Social Perspectives,” which explores the multifaceted nature of well-being through interdisciplinary lenses bridging psychology, social sciences, and the humanities. The collection underscores that well-being extends beyond the absence of illness, encompassing the interplay of personal resilience, social connectedness, and structural support systems. The featured articles address diverse yet interconnected themes, including personality and behavioral psychology, social support and stigma, digital openness, gendered experiences, and recovery among marginalized populations. Collectively, these contributions reveal that well-being is co-created within social, cultural, and institutional contexts. The editorial highlights the section’s intellectual framing, thematic integration, and implications for future research—calling for contextually grounded, cross-disciplinary, and action-oriented approaches to advancing human well-being in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Unveiling gendered realities in Myanmar’s small-scale aquaculture: Opportunities for change
The article discusses the potential of focusing on gender dynamics and relations in improving fish consumption, increasing income, and reducing expenditure on the purchase of fish products by rural people in Myanmar with aquatic resources. In addition to gender inequalities, the pandemic and the security situation in Myanmar since 2021 have affected the lives and livelihoods of people in rural communities. As a result of these impacts, people are struggling to recover and improve their lives. We conducted a gender study to explore how gender norms and relations influence the ability of people to participate in and benefit from aquaculture activities. We interviewed 24 women and men from two different communities in Ayeyarwady and analysed their interview transcripts using QSR’s Nvivo12 software. Key findings include that access to productive resources varies across households, with less marked differences within households as they believe that their families' common resources are accessible to all. When necessary, women and men can take on each other’s tasks. However, we found that women participate more in productive tasks when their spouses do not earn an income for various reasons, such as alcoholism and gambling addiction. To achieve the desired sustainable changes and results, we have made several recommendations for future programmes in this context.
Personality Effects on Deviant Behavior Among Adolescents: Concurrent Triangulation Technique
Adolescence is a critical developmental phase marked by rapid physical, emotional, cognitive, and social changes. These transitions often lead to identity confusion, personality conflicts, and, in some cases, deviant behavior. This study investigates the personality factors contributing to deviant behavior among adolescents in Peninsular Malaysia through a mixed-methods approach involving a survey of 299 students and in-depth interviews with eight adolescents. The findings identified extraversion and neuroticism as significant predictors of deviant behavior. Additionally, five major themes emerged from the data: openness, conscientiousness, exaggeration, agreeableness, and neuroticism, all of which showed various degrees of association with deviant tendencies. Extraversion was often expressed through sociability and risky behavior within deviant peer groups, while neuroticism was linked to emotional instability, including feelings of disappointment, self-harm, and the use of abusive language. These traits suggest vulnerability to negative influences in unsupportive environments. To mitigate deviant behavior, several strategies are recommended, such as strengthening positive parental role models, establishing community-based mentoring programs, implementing early behavioral screening in schools, and encouraging adolescents to participate in spiritual, recreational, and volunteer activities. These interventions are designed to build a supportive ecosystem that nurtures emotional resilience, strengthens social bonds, and promotes positive behavioral outcomes among adolescents in high-risk settings.
KEPUASAN HUBUNGAN KEKELUARGAAN DAN KESEJAHTERAAN PSIKOLOGI DALAM KALANGAN PELAJAR REMAJA TAHFIZ DI SELANGOR
Elemen kebersamaan dalam hubungan kekeluargaan merupakan salah satu aspek psikologi yang penting dalam menilai tahap kepuasan hubungan seseorang terhadap keluarganya. Keadaan ini lebih kritikal bagi pelajar remaja tahfiz yang tinggal berjauhan dengan keluarga. Maka, tujuan kajian ini adalah untuk mengkaji hubungan di antara kepuasan hubungan kekeluargaan dan kesejahteraan psikologi dalam kalangan pelajar tahfiz di Selangor. Kajian ini telah menggunakan kaedah pensampelan kluster. Seramai 261 remaja dari lima buah sekolah tahfiz di Selangor telah terpilih dan secara sukarela mengambil bahagian dalam kajian ini. Soal selidik kajian yang diedarkan mengandungi tiga bahagian utama yang mengandungi soalan-soalan berkaitan latar belakang responden, kepuasan hubungan dalam kekeluargaan dan kesejahteraan psikologi. Skala Kepuasan Hubungan Kekeluargaan (FSS) digunakan untuk mengukur kepuasan hubungan kekeluargaan. Manakala Skala Kesejahteraan Psikologi (PWB) digunakan untuk mengukur Kesejahteraan Psikologi. Semua data yang diperoleh dalam kajian ini dianalisis menggunakan IBM Statistical Package for Social Science versi 26. Keputusan kajian menunjukkan bahawa terdapat hubungan yang signifikan secara positif antara kepuasan hubungan kekeluargaan dan kesejahteraan psikologi (r=.472**, k<0.01). Seterusnya, hasil kajian mendapati bahawa terdapat pengaruh kepuasan hubungan kekeluargaan terhadap kesejahteraan psikologi (R2=.223, ß=0.472) di mana kepuasan hubungan kekeluargaan menyumbang sebanyak 22.3% terhadap kesejahteraan psikologi pelajar tahfiz. Hasil kajian ini dapat memperkayakan kefahaman tentang perkembangan psikologi remaja pelajar tahfiz remaja. Selain itu, kajian ini dapat juga membantu profesion menolong seperti ahli terapi, kaunselor dan ahli kerja sosial yang membantu klien daripada golongan kumpulan ini. Kajian ini juga dapat digunapakai oleh pihak sekolah dan ibu bapa dalam memperkasakan pelajar tahfiz remaja dan institusi kekeluargaan secara keseluruhannya.
Mediation Effect of Employees’ Well-Being in the relationship between Perceived Organizational Support and Adaptive Job Performance among Malaysian Government Servants
Perceived organizational support (POS) is vital in boosting employees' adaptive job performance and well-being. Workers who sense that their organization supports them will be less stressed, happier about their jobs, experience improved mental health, increase their job performance drive and effectiveness. However, little research has been conducted to analyze this relationship, particularly in the context of the Malaysian public sector. Thus, this study aimed to clarify the interaction between POS, employees' well-being, and adaptive job performance among Malaysian government servants. Hypotheses were formulated based on the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) Model and Broaden-and-Build Theory. These hypotheses encompass the direct influence of POS on adaptive job performance and the indirect effect of employees' well-being as mediators. The study used a questionnaire completed by 733 public sector employees in Malaysia and data was analyzed by way of multiple regression analysis. Result of the analysis asserted that while POS may directly influence performance, its effect is amplified when mediated through employee well-being. Thus, the findings of this study support the proposition that employees' well-being mediates relationship between POS and adaptive job performance. Based on the analyzed results, the study provides implications and recommendations to enhance adaptive job performance by improving POS and fostering employee well-being. Additionally, recommendations for future research are also provided.
PENEROKAAN BENTUK SOKONGAN PSIKOSOSIAL DALAM KALANGAN PETUGAS BENCANA BANJIR
Bencana banjir adalah isu rentas sempadan yang memberi kesan kepada negara-negara ASEAN, termasuk isu psikososial yang dihadapi oleh petugas bencana. Sokongan psikososial memainkan peranan penting dalam membantu petugas bencana mengatasi tekanan demi kesejahteraan mental, emosi, dan sosial mereka. Oleh itu, objektif kajian ini adalah untuk meneroka bentuk sokongan psikososial yang diperlukan oleh petugas bencana banjir. Penyelidikan ini menggunakan kaedah kualitatif iaitu kajian kes sebagai reka bentuk kajian. Lokasi kajian adalah di Selangor, Malaysia. Keadah persampelan kajian yang digunakan adalah kaedah persampelan bertujuan dengan kriteria inklusif; (i) Berumur antara 20 - 55 tahun (ii) Masih berkhidmat di agensi yang terlibat dalam mengurus bencana banjir di Selangor (iii) Berpengalaman sekurang-kurang satu tahun sebagai petugas bencana banjir. Kaedah pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah temu bual mendalam manakala teknik tematik analisis digunakan untuk menganalisis data kualitatif. Hasil daripada kajian mendapati lima tema utama iaitu sokongan emosi dan psikologi; sokongan praktikal, fizikal dan logistik; sokongan sosial; sokongan profesional dan kerja; serta sokongan dasar dan polisi. Sokongan psikososial bukan sahaja melindungi keselamatan dan kesihatan petugas tetapi juga menjamin kesejahteraan kehidupan mereka. Implikasi dari kajian ini melihat kepada perlunya penyediaan sokongan psikososial yang menyeluruh dan bersepadu bagi memperkukuh daya tahan petugas bencana yang mempengaruhi kepada tindak balas terhadap bencana banjir di Malaysia. Kata kunci: Sokongan psikososial, petugas bencana, kualitatif, bencana banjir, Malaysia.
TENGKU SYUHADA ELISSA BINTI TENGKU ADAM AZLI
Highly Active Antiretoviral Therapy (HAART), Sokongan Sosial Dan Kaunseling : Perspektif Individu HIV Positif (PLHIV)
Kehidupan dengan HIV positif merupakan suatu perjalanan yang penuh dengan cabaran serta perlu menempuh pelbagai perkara yang sukar dan tidak diingini. Walaubagaimanapun, rawatan HAART telah memberikan sinar kepada golongan ini. Kaunseling berperanan sebagai satu bentuk sokongan sosial yang amat diperlukan oleh mereka yang hidup dengan HIV (PLHIV), memandangkan mereka sering berdepan dengan pelbagai isu seperti stigma dan diskriminasi. Justeru, kajian ini dijalankan untuk meneliti pengalaman dan persepsi PLHIV terhadap rawatan HAART, sokongan sosial serta perkhidmatan kaunseling, berdasarkan sudut pandang mereka sendiri. Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif di mana temubual secara mendalam telah dijalankan bersama lima orang PLHIV yang merupakan penghuni Rumah Teduhan Kasih. Informan kajian dipilih melalui kaedah persampelan bertujuan, manakala data dianalisis menggunakan teknik analisis tematik bagi memperoleh pemahaman yang lebih terperinci berkaitan objektif kajian. Kesemua informan berumur antara 38 hingga 60 tahun, dan telah menjalani rawatan HAART selama lebih daripada lima tahun. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa para informan mempunyai pandangan yang pelbagai terhadap rawatan HAART, bentuk sokongan sosial yang diperoleh serta perkhidmatan kaunseling yang disediakan oleh institusi kesihatan. Di samping itu, hasil kajian turut mendapati bahawa walaupun tergolong dalam kelompok minoriti, para informan tidak berasa keberatan untuk menghadiri sesi kaunseling dan menganggap perkhidmatan tersebut sebagai usaha yang penting dalam usaha mempertingkatkan kualiti hidup PLHIV. Secara keseluruhannya, kajian ini diharap dapat menyumbang kepada pemahaman yang lebih menyeluruh mengenai persepsi dan pandangan PLHIV terhadap rawatan HAART, bentuk sokongan sosial yang diperlukan serta keberkesanan perkhidmatan kaunseling, sekaligus memberi penambahbaikan dalam bidang kaunseling serta pelaksanaan intervensi yang lebih berkesan pada masa akan datang.
DEMOGRAPHICS MEDIATOR ON SOCIO-PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS ON DOWN SYNDROME PARENTS' PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING
This study investigated the psychological well-being of parents raising children with Down syndrome, specifically examining how stigma, social support, and self-acceptance influence their mental state. A key objective was to explore the mediating effects of demographic factors, such as parental age, education level, household income, and the child's age, within this intricate relationship. We employed a quantitative research approach, utilizing a mediator factor method. A total of 351 parents residing in Riau province, each with a child diagnosed with Down syndrome, participated. Their psychological well-being, demographic information, perceived stigma, social support networks, and parental self-acceptance were assessed using a series of standardized psychological scales. The collected data underwent rigorous analysis using the mediator factor method, which allowed us to uncover the indirect influences of demographic variables. Furthermore, regression and correlation analyses were conducted to thoroughly explore the interplay between self-acceptance, perceived stigma, and the availability of social support on the parents' overall psychological well-being. The findings indicate that demographic factors exert a significant mediating influence on the connection between having a child with a disability and the parents' psychological well-being. These results are crucial, suggesting that efforts to enhance the psychological well-being of these parents should not solely focus on direct psychological interventions. Instead, a more comprehensive approach is needed, one that also considers the broader socioeconomic and structural factors that significantly impact their daily lives and overall well-being
Pengalaman Cubaan Bunuh Diri Dalam Kalangan Banduan Di Penjara Malaysia: Satu Tinjauan Awal
Isu bunuh diri semakin banyak diperkatakan akhir-akhir ini dan peningkatan kes tidak terkecuali di penjara. Walaupun pada dasarnya penjara dianggap sebagai sebuah institusi yang terkawal dan dijaga rapi namun kejadian kes cubaan bunuh diri yang berlaku membawa kepada persoalan bagaimana perkara ini boleh terjadi. Sehubungan itu, kajian kualitatif ini bertujuan untuk meneroka pengalaman cubaan bunuh diri dalam kalangan banduan di penjara Malaysia melalui pendekatan fenomenologi deskriptif. Artikel ini bersandarkan kepada sebuah kajian rintis yang melibatkan seorang peserta kajian. Analisis tematik kemudiannya digunakan untuk menganalisis data temu bual mendalam. Dapatan awal kajian ini membawa kepada penemuan tema utama iaitu, (1) kesukaran hidup menjadi punca tekanan (2) tingkah laku mencederakan diri sebagai ekspresi emosi (3) sokongan keluarga dalam membuat perubahan diri (4) pengalaman banduan terhadap keberkesanan perkhidmatan sokongan di penjara dan (5) perasaan dendam mengakibatkan ketidakstabilan emosi. Berdasarkan kajian awal ini dapat dirumuskan bahawa tekanan emosi yang tinggi, pengasingan sosial, dan kekurangan akses kepada perkhidmatan kesihatan mental dan sokongan psikologi mempunyai hubungan dan kaitan berlaku tindakan cubaan bunuh diri dalam kalangan banduan di penjara. Kajian ini juga akan menjadi asas dan panduan yang penting kepada pengkaji untuk menjalankan kajian lanjut yang lebih mendalam terhadap peserta kajian selanjutnya dengan lebih teliti. Kesimpulannya, kajian ini menyerlahkan perlunya perhatian yang lebih besar terhadap kesejahteraan mental banduan sebagai satu sistem sokongan yang berkesan bagi mencegah kejadian cubaan bunuh diri dalam kalangan banduan di penjara, serta mencadangkan model intervensi yang diperlukan dalam menangani kejadian cubaan bunuh diri dalam kalangan populasi ini di penjara.
Healing Through Helping Services: Insights from Peer Recovery Workers in Malaysia’s Community-Based Drug Treatment Program
Recovering individuals employed as peer workers in community-based drug treatment organizations offer unique experiential insights. This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of these individuals—specifically their motivations, challenges, coping strategies, and social support mechanisms—associated with their dual roles. It aimed to better understand how helping others contributes to their own healing journey. A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed, with 30 recovery workers in Malaysia recruited through purposive and snowball sampling across several community-based treatment settings. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged: (1) Spiritual Anchoring, (2) Lifelong Recovery, and (3) Transformative Service. Findings reveal that religious practices, peer connections, and narrative meaning-making play central roles in sustaining both recovery and professional engagement. This study offers valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of peer work in Malaysia and the broader Southeast Asian context, where cultural norms, religious values, and communal ties significantly shape recovery experiences. It underscores the importance of culturally responsive and structured support systems to safeguard peer workers’ well-being and highlights the need for greater recognition of their contributions within evolving social work and addiction recovery landscapes.
Religious Practices and Muslim Well-Being in Malaysia: The Roles of Knowledge, Social Relationships, and Personal Growth
Well-being plays a crucial role in fostering a harmonious society and achieving ultimate happiness. However, there is a growing concern regarding the neglect of spiritual practices in daily life, which hinders individuals from attaining a balanced sense of well-being. The absence of consistent religious engagement may lead to a decline in mental and emotional stability, affecting overall well-being. Thus, this study aims to explore the significance of religious practices in enhancing Muslim well-being, focusing on three key variables: religious knowledge, social relationships, and personal growth. This study employs a quantitative research design, utilizing a structured questionnaire distributed to 500 participants. A stratified random sampling method was applied to ensure representation across age, gender, and education strata. The self-developed questionnaire underwent pilot testing and achieved satisfactory validity and reliability indices. The findings reveal that religious practices play a significant role in promoting well-being and happiness among Muslims. PLS-SEM analysis indicated that religious knowledge positively predicted happiness (β =0.35, p < .001), social relationships showed a moderate positive effect (β = 0.28, p < .01), and personal growth contributed significantly (β = 0.31, p < .001). The model explained 42% of the variance in Muslim well-being (R² =0.42). Religious knowledge is essential for individuals to perform daily spiritual practices effectively, fostering a deeper connection with faith. Additionally, personal growth, driven by self-reflection and religious engagement, contributes to emotional resilience and psychological well-being. Social relationships, reinforced through religious gatherings and communal activities, further enhance a sense of belonging and support. The study underscores the necessity of integrating religious knowledge, personal development, and social engagement to achieve holistic wellbeing. Given the rising prevalence of mental health issues, particularly depression in Malaysia, policymakers are urged to incorporate these components into psychological and social development policies.
Menelusuri Personaliti Triad Gelap: Kuasa, Manipulasi, dan Implikasi dalam Kehidupan
ABSTRAK Personaliti Triad Gelap, yang merangkumi narsisme, Machiavellianisme dan psikopati, terus menjadi tumpuan utama dalam kajian psikologi disebabkan oleh pengaruhnya yang meluas dalam pelbagai aspek kehidupan sosial dan organisasi. Kajian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis ciri-ciri, dinamika, serta implikasi personaliti Triad Gelap dalam konteks kepimpinan, persekitaran kerja dan hubungan sosial. Pendekatan analisis dokumen dan sorotan kepustakaan telah digunakan bagi meneliti pelbagai perspektif berhubung konstruk personaliti ini. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa individu yang memiliki ciri-ciri Triad Gelap cenderung mencapai kejayaan dalam persekitaran yang kompetitif disebabkan kebolehan mereka dalam memanipulasi situasi, mengawal keadaan serta mempengaruhi individu lain melalui karisma dan keupayaan interpersonal yang tinggi. Walau bagaimanapun, kesan negatif seperti peningkatan konflik dalaman dalam organisasi, tekanan kerja yang tinggi, dan pengabaian terhadap prinsip etika turut dikenal pasti sebagai cabaran yang signifikan. Meskipun personaliti ini sering dikaitkan dengan tingkah laku tidak beretika, kajian ini menekankan potensi untuk memanfaatkan unsur-unsur tertentu seperti daya kepimpinan narsistik dan strategi Machiavellian dalam konteks yang konstruktif. Pemimpin yang memperlihatkan ciri-ciri Triad Gelap juga berkemungkinan mempunyai persona yang dikagumi serta berpengaruh dalam kalangan pengikut. Kajian ini mencadangkan agar penyelidikan masa hadapan memberi tumpuan terhadap impak jangka panjang personaliti triad gelap serta mengenal pasti strategi intervensi yang bersesuaian bagi mengurangkan kesan negatifnya terhadap organisasi dan masyarakat. Selain itu, kajian ini mencadangkan agar perhatian yang sewajarnya diberikan terhadap potensi sifat-sifat Personaliti Triad Gelap yang sekiranya diterapkan secara adaptif dan strategik, berupaya menyumbang kepada pembangunan sumber manusia serta memperkukuh daya saing organisasi dalam jangka panjang. Kata kunci: Personaliti Triad Gelap; narsisme; Machiavellianisme; psikopati; organisasi. Exploring the Dark Triad Personality: Power, Manipulation, and Implications in Life ABSTRACT The Dark Triad personality traits, comprising narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy, continue to be a central focus in psychological research due to their widespread influence across various aspects of social and organizational life. This study aims to analyse the characteristics, dynamics, and implications of the Dark Triad personality within the contexts of leadership, workplace environments, and social relationships. A document analysis and literature review approach was employed to explore multiple academic perspectives on this personality construct. The findings indicate that individuals exhibiting Dark Triad traits tend to achieve success in competitive environments owing to their ability to manipulate situations, control circumstances, and influence others through charisma and strong interpersonal skills. However, negative consequences such as increased internal conflict within organizations, elevated work-related stress, and disregard for ethical principles have also been identified as significant challenges. Despite the frequent association of these traits with unethical behaviour, this study highlights the potential for leveraging certain aspects, such as narcissistic leadership qualities and Machiavellian strategies, in constructive contexts. Leaders displaying Dark Triad characteristics may also possess an admired and influential persona among followers. This study recommends that future research focuses on the long-term impact of the Dark Triad personality and identifies appropriate intervention strategies to mitigate its negative effects on organizations and society. Furthermore, the study suggests that greater attention be given to the adaptive and strategic application of these traits, which may positively contribute to human capital development and enhance organizational competitiveness in the long run. Keywords: Dark Triad Personality; narcissism; Machiavellianism; psychopathy; organization.
Pengaruh Sokongan Sosial dan Stigma Kendiri sebagai Peramal Kepulihan Sosial
Teori dan model tentang kepulihan penagihan dadah banyak memberi tumpuan kepada kepulihan individu seperti Model Transteoritikal Kesediaan Berubah dan Self Determination Theory (SDT). Walaupun individu mempunyai keazaman untuk meninggalkan tingkah laku penyalahgunaan dadah, mereka amat dipengaruhi oleh stigma kendiri dan penerimaan masyarakat. Sehubungan itu, mengenalpasti faktor yang mempengaruhi kepulihan sosial sangat penting supaya individu berjaya bebas daripada dadah. Objektif kajian ini adalah untuk mengenalpasti pengaruh sokongan sosial dan stigma kendiri terhadap kepulihan sosial, serta menguji peranan stigma kendiri sebagai mediator dalam hubungan di antara sokongan sosial dan kepulihan sosial. Kajian ini menggunakan kaedah survei yang melibatkan 344 responden penyalahguna dadah di bawah pengawasan AADK. Satu set soal selidik telah digunakan dalam pengumpulan data yang mengandungi empat bahagian iaitu: 1) maklumat demografik, 2) sokongan sosial yang mengukur sokongan keluarga, sokongan rakan, dan sokongan komuniti, 3) stigma kendiri dan 4) kepulihan sosial. Keputusan kajian menunjukkan terdapat pengaruh signifikan sokongan keluarga, sokongan rakan, dan sokongan komuniti terhadap kepulihan sosial. Keputusan kajian juga menunjukkan stigma kendiri tidak berperanan sebagai mediator dalam hubungan di antara sokongan sosial terhadap kepulihan sosial. Hasil dari kajian ini penting untuk menyumbang kepada program yang mensasarkan kepulihan sosial individu. Ini dapat membantu agensi pemulihan dalam mencapai agenda Dadah Terkawal 2025 dan Dasar Dadah Negara.
Cabaran Kesukarelawanan dan Strategi Daya Tindak Sukarelawan Senior di Malaysia Berpandukan Pendekatan Fenomenologi
Kesukarelawanan senior merupakan satu bentuk aktiviti menua secara produktif yang memberi manfaat kepada kesejahteraan dan kualiti hidup warga emas. Namun begitu, pengetahuan mengenai penyertaan warga emas dalam aktiviti kesukarelawanan di Malaysia masih pada tahap yang rendah. Selain itu, sukarelawan senior juga tidak terkecuali daripada berhadapan dengan pelbagai cabaran yang berpotensi mempengaruhi minat dan kekerapan penglibatan untuk meneruskan aktiviti ini. Kajian ini bertujuan untuk memahami cabaran kesukarelawanan yang dihadapi oleh sukarelawan senior sepanjang menjalankan kerja sukarela dan strategi daya tindak yang digunakan untuk mengatasi cabaran yang dihadapi. Kajian ini mengguna pakai rekabentuk kualitatif berdasarkan pendekatan fenomenologi. Teknik persampelan bertujuan dan bola salji telah digunakan untuk mengenal pasti dan menemubual 19 orang sukarelawan senior berumur 60 tahun ke atas yang menjalankan kerja sukarela secara formal dan informal sekurang-kurangnya 12 bulan di negeri Kedah, Perak, Sarawak, Selangor, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur dan Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya. Data kajian ditranskrip verbatim dan dianalisis secara tematik menggunakan perisian NVivo. Hasil kajian mendapati bahawa terdapat tiga cabaran utama kesukarelawanan iaitu: (1) komitmen masa; (2) stigma dan persepsi; dan (3) pengurusan organisasi sukarela manakala strategi daya tindak yang digunakan untuk mengatasi cabaran ini ialah (1) pengurusan masa efektif (2) kebergantungan terhadap sistem sokongan; dan (3) pemilihan aktiviti secara selektif. Penemuan daripada kajian ini dapat menyumbang kepada pemahaman yang lebih mendalam mengenai landskap kesukarelawanan senior di Malaysia. Hasil kajian ini memberi implikasi dasar dan praktikal yang menyumbang kepada usaha untuk merekrut, membangun dan memperkasakan daya tahan sukarelawan senior dalam jangka masa panjang. Kata kunci: Cabaran; strategi daya tindak; sukarelawan; warga emas; fenomenologi
Understanding Openness: Factors Influencing Individuals’ Willingness to Share Mental Health Experiences
Despite increasing global awareness of mental health, many individuals remain hesitant to disclose their struggles. Understanding the factors that influence openness is critical for fostering supportive environments and reducing stigma. While prior research has examined mental health stigma broadly, less attention has been given to the nuanced internal and external influences on individuals’ willingness to share their experiences. This study explores the barriers and enablers to mental health disclosure among young adults diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or personality disorders. Using a descriptive phenomenological qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants in their twenties who had received clinical diagnoses. Thematic analysis revealed a complex interplay of psychological, relational, and sociocultural factors that shape disclosure decisions. Key barriers included fear of judgment, internalized stigma, and unsupportive responses from family, peers, or professionals. Participants shared how anticipated or past adverse reactions, such as being labeled “dramatic” or “unstable,” reinforced their silence and emotional withdrawal. Conversely, disclosure was facilitated by trusted relationships, emotionally safe environments, and a desire to contribute to mental health advocacy. These findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive interventions that address both personal and societal aspects of stigma. Promoting mental health literacy, empathetic communication, and psychologically safe spaces, particularly in families, workplaces, and educational institutions is essential. By identifying the conditions that foster openness, stakeholders can design more effective strategies to support mental health disclosure, reduce stigma, and enhance recovery outcomes for young adults. This study contributes valuable insights into the lived experiences of those navigating the complex decision to speak about their mental health.
Willingness and Challenges to Change among Female Emerging Adults Compulsively Viewing Pornography: Impact for the Motivational Interviewing (MI) Approach
Engaging in compulsive pornography viewing during adolescence poses significant risks to self-esteem, mental health, and sexual development, with potentially lasting consequences into adulthood. Motivational Interviewing (MI) is recognised as a useful approach in addressing behavioural addictions, including pornography use. This study aims to identify suitable keywords and themes for use in MI, based on findings from a preliminary qualitative study exploring female adolescents’ readiness to stop watching pornography and the challenges they face. Using a phenomenological approach, the study involved five emerging adult females who voluntarily participated in a pornography prevention program and met the criteria for purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews grounded in the Transtheoretical Model, focusing on participants' readiness and barriers to behavioural change. Findings revealed that all participants expressed a desire to change and acknowledged the negative impact of pornography. Five key challenges to cessation were identified, (i)inability to control desire, (ii) the allure of internet content, (iii) coping with loneliness, (iv) habitual behavior, (v)perceived lack of harm to others. The study provides meaningful guidance on how to effectively apply MI by highlighting themes that reflect the lived experiences and psychological readiness of adolescent females. These themes are mapped to suggest suitable components for MI, including empathetic dialogue, affirmations, and targeted reflections that address both emotional and cognitive dimensions. Overall, this study offers insights into tailoring motivational strategies that support adolescent girls in overcoming pornography use, enhancing the relevance and effectiveness of MI in therapeutic settings.