Husrul Nizam Husin, Abdul Hadi Nawawi, Faridah Ismail and Natasha Khalil
There are rising issues with the delivery performance of Malaysian low-cost housing (LCH) because the occupants are inclined to perceive safety hazards. Among the safety issues…
Abstract
Purpose
There are rising issues with the delivery performance of Malaysian low-cost housing (LCH) because the occupants are inclined to perceive safety hazards. Among the safety issues raised during the occupancy period in LCH are structural instability and falling building fragments. Without defining the occupants’ requirements in the early housing development, it is hard to determine the prevailing safety factors. Hence, this paper emphasises the application of post occupancy evaluation (POE) that incorporates participation from the occupants as a tool to assess the safety performance of Malaysian LCH. The purpose of this study is to develop a framework of POE integrated with safety elements for Malaysian LCH.
Design/methodology/approach
This research was carried out with a quantitative method using questionnaires as the survey instrument involving safety inspection survey and satisfaction surveys. The inspection survey and Occupants’ Satisfaction Survey were carried out based on 24 LCH projects located in the federal territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In total, 380 samples were used for both surveys. Statistical correlation was used to affirm the incorporation of occupants’ participation towards safety performance in the POE approach. The Spearman’s rho (r) correlation was used in the analysis for variables in both surveys which consisted of an ordinal scale.
Findings
The correlation result revealed that there was a significant relationship among all safety attributes between safety performance and occupants’ satisfaction. Therefore, a framework consisting of POE and safety elements has been proposed based on the significance of both variables. The development process of the framework used the vital phases of POE and inputs of safety elements which consisted of three main stages: planning phase as safety input, conducting phase as safety process and applying phase as safety output.
Research limitations/implications
The surveys were limited to the rented People’s Housing Programme located in Kuala Lumpur and not extensively to all LCH programmes in Malaysia. The surveys were also not carried out to other LCH programmes such as the Hardcore Poor Housing Programmes and the low- to medium-cost housing because of the limitations of time and resources.
Practical implications
This research has introduced a new dimension for safety performance assessment in LCH using the POE as the safety performance tool. By allowing the participation of occupants for safety assessment, this study stresses the fundamental concept of POE by highlighting the importance of obtaining feedback from the building occupants.
Originality/value
As a proactive measure, the proposed framework was introduced as an improved procedure to inspect safety performance in LCH during occupancy, in lieu of the current assessment process. Receiving complaints from the occupants after the occurrence of incidents is demarcated as a reactive approach, whereas the current inspection survey does not incorporate the occupants’ participation. Feedback from occupants is not a routine of building assessment during occupancy; hence, using POE is generally a new dimension of safety performance in Malaysian LCH.
Details
Keywords
Ragayah Haji Mat Zin and Zulkifli Senteri
The roles of small and medium‐scale industries (SMIs) are well‐documented (see Ragayah Haji Mat Zin, 1996). SMIs not only continue to be the majority of enterprises everywhere and…
Abstract
The roles of small and medium‐scale industries (SMIs) are well‐documented (see Ragayah Haji Mat Zin, 1996). SMIs not only continue to be the majority of enterprises everywhere and exist side‐by‐side with large industries in developed countries such as Japan, Germany, Italy and the United States of America, they are also regarded as the engine of growth in the Newly Industrializing Economies (NEEs). In the developed countries, SMIs are said to be able to generate more employment relative to large firms as well as plying a complementary role to the latter. In Japan, for example, of the 430,393 enterprises in the Japanese manufacturing sector at the end of 1991, 99.1%, or 436,455, were small businesses, which also accounted for 72.1% of the employees and 51.8% of the value of shipment in this sector (JFS, 1993). They are seen to play a wider role in developing countries. In addition to the above, many studies (see for example Chee, 1985, 1990; Levy, 1993; and Rahmah Ismail, 1995) have shown that SMI entrepreneurs can mobilize savings, SMIs can act as seedling beds for entrepreneurial training, as well as improve income distribution.
Islamic finance and Halal product sectors are thriving successfully. This chapter is a general review of the perception of Asian consumers on Islamic finance and Halal sectors in…
Abstract
Purpose
Islamic finance and Halal product sectors are thriving successfully. This chapter is a general review of the perception of Asian consumers on Islamic finance and Halal sectors in the global Halal economy.
Methodology/approach
The first section will briefly describe the Halal concept in both Islamic finance and Halal industries, and the growth of both sectors in Asian countries. The second part highlights the review of Asian consumers’ perception towards Islamic finance products and Halal products.
Findings
The review found that the consumers’ perception towards the Islamic finance products and Halal products is distinctive. This is due to the diversity of Asian countries in terms of geography, religion, culture, ethnic, school of thoughts (madzahib), income per capita and government’s involvement.
Originality/value
The third part of the chapter concentrates on planning towards Halal marketing, which involves the move and future challenges in different layers of industries to gear up and strengthen the Halal economy.
Details
Keywords
Farah Nazira Juhari, Mohd Azrai Azman, Faridah Muhamad Halil, Nor Nazihah Chuweni, Ku Mohammad Asyraf Ku Azir, Halimahton Saadiah Let, Safura Abdul Malek, Boon L. Lee and Martin Skitmore
The construction industry plays a significant economic role but has struggled with improving labor productivity. Understanding the reasons behind this slow growth is valuable for…
Abstract
Purpose
The construction industry plays a significant economic role but has struggled with improving labor productivity. Understanding the reasons behind this slow growth is valuable for the industry’s sustainability and improving wages. This study aims to explore the impact of capital intensity and the interaction effect of market regulations on construction labor productivity.
Design/methodology/approach
Using two-stage least squares panel data modeling, financial data from 55 Malaysian construction firms and economic data from 2009 to 2020 are analyzed.
Findings
The findings reveal that higher capital intensity associated with mechanization and innovation generally boosts labor productivity. However, certain market regulations, such as economic and capital freedom (ECF) and foreign debt rules (FDR), can counteract this positive effect. This suggests that poorly developed financial regulations may lead to inefficient capital allocation, reducing labor productivity in the long run.
Originality/value
The study highlights the importance of policymakers understanding these dynamics to develop effective strategies for enhancing labor productivity in the construction industry by considering the impact of capital intensity and the moderating effect of market regulation.
Details
Keywords
Hoong Sang Wong and Chen Chen Yong
This chapter provided systematic and comprehensive analysis on trawl fisheries management and conservation measures in the Straits of Malacca. Detailed analysis is conducted on…
Abstract
This chapter provided systematic and comprehensive analysis on trawl fisheries management and conservation measures in the Straits of Malacca. Detailed analysis is conducted on Malaysian fishery management framework particularly domestic country's trawl fishery status, legal structure, input-control strategies, ecosystem protection plan, pollution, law enforcement, and complementary measures that designed to reduce and prevent overfishing in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of Malacca Straits. Gaps and challenges found in existing trawl fisheries literature are presented followed by recommendations for improvement in the management and conservation of trawl fisheries.
Details
Keywords
Khian Sin Ong, Bang Nguyen and Sharifah Faridah Syed Alwi
The purpose of this paper is to develop and test a consumer-based virtual brand personality (CBVBP) concept by examining its sub-dimensions in the context of online banking, thus…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to develop and test a consumer-based virtual brand personality (CBVBP) concept by examining its sub-dimensions in the context of online banking, thus extending existing brand personality research. In addition, it examines the relationship between CBVBP with customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Design/methodology/approach
A survey method was employed and data were collected from 219 online banking users in Malaysia. A series of hypotheses were tested using both multiple and hierarchical regression analyses to determine the direct and mediating effects of CBVBP, customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Findings
The dimensions that comprise CBVBP are found to include Excitement, Sophistication and Competence. These dimensions help online bankers to strategise, communicate and position their online banking sites better in order to compete against other online banking services. The study confirmed positive relationships between CBVBP, customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. Specifically, in the online banking context, customer satisfaction partially mediates the relationship between CBVBP and brand loyalty, extending the current understanding of online branding, consumer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Originality/value
The major contribution of this study lies in the development of the CBVBP concept and to study its direct and mediating effects with customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. The study emphasises the importance of measuring the virtual brand personality traits as part of an overall online banking brand strategy in the virtual environment in order to better understand how to position against competitors.
Details
Keywords
Neni Ruhaeni, Efik Yusdiansyah and Eka An Aqimuddin
As a growth industry in the international tourism segment market, halal tourism domestic policy should align with General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) as an international…
Abstract
Purpose
As a growth industry in the international tourism segment market, halal tourism domestic policy should align with General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) as an international trade in services regulation. This paper aims to examine Indonesia’s halal tourism policy and its intersection with obligations as a member state of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Particularly in balancing Indonesia’s international obligation and the right to regulate.
Design/methodology/approach
The present study uses normative legal research by analysing legal materials, primarily GATS and Indonesia’s halal tourism policy. By using this methodology, this paper seeks the normative ideal domestic approach that aligns with Indonesia’s international obligations within GATS.
Findings
Regional regulations primarily govern the halal tourism policy in Indonesia. The critical substance of the regulation is the mandatory halal certification for the implementation of halal tourism. This obligation may be incompatible with Indonesia’s commitment to liberalise the tourism sector under the GATS. The current legal framework gives rise to a lack of consistency in its application despite its adherence to the halal tourism standards established by the MUI. At the same time, the provincial and regent authorities lacked the authority to do so. The authors argue that halal tourism policy shall be promulgated in the national-level policy to settle this issue. This measure is necessary to mitigate conflicts between prevailing norms and Indonesia’s international commitments within GATS. Therefore, Indonesia can uphold both its international obligations and national interests.
Originality/value
This paper presents a novelty contribution by highlighting the absence of prior research examining Indonesia’s adherence to its international commitments under the GATS in formulating domestic legislation on halal tourism. To close this gap, this study suggests that national legislation governing halal tourism should consider international obligations in the tourism sector under the GATS.
Details
Keywords
Rusnah Muhamad, T.C. Melewar and Sharifah Faridah Syed Alwi
The purpose of this paper is to explore the different segments of consumers in the Islamic financial services industry (IFSI) and their relationship with product/brand positioning…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the different segments of consumers in the Islamic financial services industry (IFSI) and their relationship with product/brand positioning for Islamic financial services (IFS).
Design/methodology/approach
In‐depth interviews were conducted with individuals in managerial positions among the key market players in the IFSI to explore the segmentation of consumers and their buying motives.
Findings
Four segments of IFS consumers emerged, namely, Religious conviction group; Religious conviction and economic rationality group; Ethical observant group; and Economic rationality group. These segmentation groups were appropriately categorized through a psychographic (value)‐based approach.
Research limitations/implications
The empirical findings of this study pave the way for embarking on promising and relevant future research, which is needed to substantiate and enrich the academic understanding and managerial practice of linking market segmentation and brand positioning for IFS in the global market. Future research should focus on analysing these issues from the perspective of consumers of IFS to identify the purchase trend.
Practical implications
The study provides empirical evidence of the bases or initial dimensions of consumer segmentation for IFS. The findings are useful in guiding the management of institutions offering IFS in making decisions relating to the marketing communication and promotion strategy as well as product and brand positioning strategy.
Originality/value
For both academia and the IFSI, this study provides useful knowledge in strategically using market segmentation to position IFS in the global market.
Details
Keywords
Muhamad Izzuddin Zainudin, Faridah Haji Hasan and Abdul Kadir Othman
The growing competition in Malaysia’s modest fashion industry has proven to be the main challenge for the business to stay relevant in the market. Based on this reason, it is…
Abstract
Purpose
The growing competition in Malaysia’s modest fashion industry has proven to be the main challenge for the business to stay relevant in the market. Based on this reason, it is vital for marketers to create a differentiation in their brands to attract more customers. One of the ways to create this differentiation is by establishing brand personality. Brand personality does not only differentiate from one product to another but is also a common strategy used by marketers to create competitive advantage for their business. Although brand personality has been studied on various product brands, limited research has been done on Muslim products, especially modest fashion apparel. Because modest fashion is considered as Muslim products in Malaysia, this paper aims to examine the relationship between Halal brand personality and brand loyalty with the aim of providing a better understanding of the Islamic marketing concept.
Design/methodology/approach
Descriptive survey design was conducted to measure consumer behavior, attitude and perception within a specific period. A total of 400 respondents were identified for the study. Purposive sampling was chosen for this study because the respondents are expected to have same set of characteristics and perceptions toward the phenomena. Five-point Likert scale was used to assess consumers’ perception of the relationship between Halal brand personality and brand loyalty. Last but not least, SPSS software (Version 22.0) was used to analyze the data through multiple regression analysis.
Findings
The result indicated that only three out of five Halal brand personality dimensions have a significant relationship with brand loyalty. The three significant dimensions are excitement, sophistication and righteousness. It can be concluded that modest fashion brands need to include all of the three dimensions in their branding strategy.
Research limitations/implications
Two main limitations in this study is that it was conducted only in a stipulated period and it focused only on one generational cohort, which is millennial consumers.
Practical implications
This study provides new recommendations to the knowledge gap of brand personality introduced by Aaker (1997). It helps the marketers and researchers to understand the importance of emphasizing religious values in marketing Halal products to their consumers. This study further recognizes the relationship between Halal brand personality and brand loyalty, particularly with regard to millennial’s modest fashion consumption.
Originality/value
Brand personality has received levels of attention from academics and practitioners alike; however, there is a lack of research on Halal brand personality in marketing field, particularly on its relationship with brand loyalty. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study presents the first empirical test of the direct effect of Halal brand personality and how it drives millennial consumers’ brand loyalty.
Details
Keywords
Jack Kie Cheng, Fazeeda Mohamad, Puteri Fadzline M. Tamyez, Zetty Ain Kamaruzzaman, Maizura Mohd Zainudin and Faridah Zulkipli
This paper aims to identify the interaction of different intervention strategies implemented in Malaysia towards flattening the curve of COVID-19 cases. Since the outbreak of…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to identify the interaction of different intervention strategies implemented in Malaysia towards flattening the curve of COVID-19 cases. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, many approaches were adopted and implemented by the Malaysian government. Some strategies gained quick wins but with negative unintended consequences after execution, whereas other strategies were slow to take effect. Learning from the previous strategies is pivotal to avoid repeating mistakes.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper presents the cause, effect of and connection among the implemented COVID-19 intervention strategies using systems thinking through the development of a causal loop diagram. It enables the visualisation of how each implemented strategy interacted with each other and collectively decreased or increased the spread of COVID-19.
Findings
The results of this study suggested that it is not only essential to control the spread of COVID-19, but also to prevent the transmission of the virus. The Malaysian experience has demonstrated that both control and preventive strategies need to be in a state of equilibrium. Focusing only on one spectrum will throw off the balance, leaving COVID-19 infection to escalate rapidly.
Originality/value
The developed feedback loops provided policy makers with the understanding of the merits, pitfalls and dynamics of prior implemented intervention strategies before devising other effective intervention strategies to defuse the spread of COVID-19 and prepare the nation for recovery.