Idris Abdullahi Abdulqadir, Bello Malam Sa'idu, Ibrahim Muhammad Adam, Fatima Binta Haruna, Mustapha Adamu Zubairu and Maimunatu Aboki
This article investigates the dynamic implication of healthcare expenditure on economic growth in the selected ten Sub-Saharan African countries over the period 2000–2018.
Abstract
Purpose
This article investigates the dynamic implication of healthcare expenditure on economic growth in the selected ten Sub-Saharan African countries over the period 2000–2018.
Design/methodology/approach
The study methodology included dynamic heterogenous panel, using mean group and pooled mean group estimators. The investigation of the healthcare expenditure and economic growth nexus was achieved while controlling the effects of investment, savings, labor force and life expectancy via interaction terms.
Findings
The results from linear healthcare expenditure have a significant positive impact on economic growth, while the nonlinear estimates through the interaction terms between healthcare expenditure and investment have a negative statistically significant impact on growth. The marginal effect of healthcare expenditure evaluated at the minimum and maximum level of investment is positive, suggesting the impact of health expenditure on growth does not vary with the level of investments. This result responds to the primary objective of the article.
Research limitations/implications
In policy terms, the impact of investment on healthcare is essential to addressing future health crises. The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can never be separated from the shortages or low prioritization of health against other sectors of the economy. The article also provides an insight to policymakers on the demand for policy reform that will boost and make the health sector attractive to both domestic and foreign direct investment.
Originality/value
Given the vulnerability of SSA to the health crisis, there are limited studies to examine this phenomenon and first to address the needed investment priorities to the health sector infrastructure in SSA.
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I. Introduction It is no secret that Islamic countries have entered a new epoch in which serious questions regarding the nature of their economic institutions have taken on…
Abstract
I. Introduction It is no secret that Islamic countries have entered a new epoch in which serious questions regarding the nature of their economic institutions have taken on renewed urgency. During the past few years, elan debates have taken place, both nationally and internationally, among specialists in economic sciences, specialists in traditional Islamic disciplines, and intellectual exponents of various Islamic political movements. Inherently complex, the discourse, which appears in academic and semi‐ academic publications as well as the popular press, is made distinctly more complex as it often takes place in an extremely volatile environment, which has been shaped by severe economic crises, political turmoil, and social unrest.
The purpose of this paper is to draw a map of the general features of epistemological and critical concerns in contemporary Islamic philosophy. This study will not be confined to…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to draw a map of the general features of epistemological and critical concerns in contemporary Islamic philosophy. This study will not be confined to the domain of academic philosophy or to those who are professionals in the field of philosophy.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper adopted the critical rational approach in dealing with contemporary Islamic philosophy in the Arab world. The scope will include scholars from different fields of epistemology who tried to present a “vision” of the attitude that should be adopted in facing the challenges of the age and the problems of the nation on the epistemological level or the political, economic and social levels.
Findings
There is a need for a philosophy of action and progress rather than a philosophy that is based on abstract ideas and theories and of words/rhetoric. The ethics required to accomplish this ought to identify the attributes of the citizen who can reach self-actualization through legitimate means based on a progress agenda with theoretical and philosophical foundations.
Research limitations/implications
Because a critical rational approach can be dealt with from different perspectives, this paper will adopt the classification of the principal intellectual trends: the reformist, secular and liberal.
Practical implications
This paper covers a long time span to determine whether the philosophical projects have been effective.
Originality/value
This paper, which criticizes the philosophic projects that are theoretically unsound and that do not address real social problems (like poverty), argues the need for a philosophy of progress and action. This will lead to devising an agenda that addresses the challenges the society is facing and to finding alternative and creative solutions resulting in development.
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This paper aims to discuss the possibility of embracing an Islamic perspective on interculturality and social justice as an underlying system of multicultural education. While…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to discuss the possibility of embracing an Islamic perspective on interculturality and social justice as an underlying system of multicultural education. While western thought continues to dominate the education scholarship, advancing an alternative epistemology can ameliorate the scope of multicultural education by considering other relevant elements. In particular, interreligious relations have not been researched extensively in terms of managing cultural capital in schools. This paper argues that Islamic ethics provide a system of justice and rules of conduct that satisfy the principles of multicultural education.
Design/methodology/approach
Classical texts (Qu’ran and Hadith) are analyzed to explore the Islamic perspective on interculturality and social justice. While the plurality of interpretations is remarkable, the aim is to examine these texts on the basis of ethical and humanistic orientation.
Findings
Islamic ethics are commensurate with intercultural empathy and multicultural education. While some verses are interpreted as evidence of the religious legitimacy of enmity and hostility towards non-Muslims, they are decontextualized readings isolated from the verses’ historical contexts.
Practical implications
This paper proposes considering Islamic ethics as a foundation of multicultural education. Because Islam promotes social justice, teachers and students are encouraged to take action and never tolerate any act of oppression. Teachers should pay attention to conflicts that may arise from theological differences among students.
Originality/value
This paper offers a new perspective that has been sidelined and not considered in Modern issues. Because multicultural education recognizes the necessity of appreciating all cultures, Islam delivers a similar framework that is based on peaceful intercultural communication and social justice.
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Sadali Rasban, Adam Abdullah and Aznan Hasan
This paper aims to examine the current practice in Singapore regarding an inheritance issue: disposal of the residual net estate to the bayt al-māl, which is identified as the…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine the current practice in Singapore regarding an inheritance issue: disposal of the residual net estate to the bayt al-māl, which is identified as the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura, MUIS). The issue arises when the deceased leaves farḍ (fixed-share) heir(s) and/or dhawū al-arḥām (outer family members) but there is no ʿaṣabah (agnatic residuary heir by blood). Farḍ legal heirs are those beneficiaries for whom the Qurʾān prescribes inheritance of a pre-determined share. Disposal of the residual net estate to the bayt al-māl results in a reduction in the share due to the farḍ legal heir or worse, a total loss to the dhawū al-arḥām legal heirs.
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative approach based on library and case study research has been adopted to elaborate practices that fall under the purview of the Administration of Muslim Law Acts (AMLA), Chapter 3.
Findings
The current practice seems biased against, especially, women and spouses. It creates high dissatisfaction in the community, especially those affected by such practices. This paper elaborates on the practice of residual net estate distribution in Singapore and the contemporary practices of the four Sunni madh-habs – the Ḥanafī, Mālikī, Shāfiʿī and Ḥanbalī jurisprudential schools – in other countries.
Research limitations/implications
In Singapore, Muslim law is defined and implemented by the civil court, not the Syariah Court or MUIS. The recommendation to change from the current classical practice by the Syariah Court and MUIS to the contemporary practice that is relevant to today’s context lies with the civil court and Government of Singapore. The choice for the Syariah Court and MUIS to adopt the contemporary practice as per Ḥanafī School by rule of the court or the government is beyond this research. Zayd ibn Thābit, Caliph Abū Bakr and a small number of companions held the view that the residue net estate asset must go to the bayt al-māl, the current classical practice. The contemporary practice adopted by Sayyidina ʿUthmān ibn ʿAffān, Jābir ibn Zayd and majority of the companions’ view, is not in favour of the residue net estate asset to go to the bayt al-māl; rather they view that it must be returned to the legal heirs.
Practical implications
Awareness in the community in the current controversial practice in Singapore when the residue net estate through the farāʾiḍ law was giving to bayt al-māl instead of returning to farḍ or dhawū al-arḥām in the absence of the ʿaṣabah legal heir as stated in the Inheritance Certificate issued by Syariah Court.
Social implications
To understand the contemporary Muslim law and the practical and just application in today’s Singapore context as supported by the AMLA, Chapter 3.
Originality/value
This is the first study that challenges the current practice by the Syariah Court and MUIS in Singapore, thereby endeavouring to restore justice to the community.
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Muhammad Ikhlas Rosele, Abdul Muneem, Abdul Karim Ali, Azizi Che Seman, Luqman Haji Abdullah, Noor Naemah Abdul Rahman and Mohd Edil Abd Sukor
The purpose of this study is to propose and develop a zakat model for digital assets from the Sharīʿah perspective.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to propose and develop a zakat model for digital assets from the Sharīʿah perspective.
Design/methodology/approach
This research adopts a qualitative research method while studying the literature thoroughly, and it analyzes the data through an exploratory research approach to propose a zakat model for the digital assets.
Findings
This research aims to develop a zakat model for digital assets within the framework of Sharīʿah. Using a qualitative research method, the study thoroughly examines existing literature and uses an exploratory research approach to propose this zakat model. The findings suggest that digital assets hold the potential to be considered for zakat in the contemporary digital age. Previous studies indicate that both commodity-based and currency-based digital assets meet the criteria for zakat imposition. Given zakat’s significant impact on socioeconomic development, it is imperative to carefully manage these assets to maximize their potential benefits. However, variations in interpretations by different jurisdictions and Sharīʿah scholars regarding the understanding and classification of digital assets lead to ongoing scrutiny from legal and religious perspectives. This research aims to contribute to the discourse by proposing a zakat model for digital assets and identifying potential assets eligible for zakat.
Originality/value
This research seems to be the pioneer in providing a zakat model for digital assets, combining different segments of digital assets.
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Rana M. Zaki, Amr Kheir El Din and Reham I. Elseidi
The Islamic modest fashion industry is growing rapidly and becoming more competitive within an increasing number of brands available in the market. Based on this reason, both…
Abstract
Purpose
The Islamic modest fashion industry is growing rapidly and becoming more competitive within an increasing number of brands available in the market. Based on this reason, both marketers and designers need to create differentiation in their brands. One of the ways to create such differentiation is by establishing a brand personality. Thus, the purpose of this study is to develop a reliable measure of Islamic apparel personality that incorporates the relevant dimensions/traits Muslim females attribute to their apparel.
Design/methodology/approach
Islamic apparel brand personality model was developed based on the Qur’an verses, hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad), traits in Aaker’s and other Islamic brand personality models. Focus groups were used to generate a list of traits. Following this, a survey research method was used to gather data. Then, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted on a sample of 190 Egyptian Muslim females.
Findings
This study introduces five dimensions of the Islamic apparel brand personality model, namely, simplicity, feminine, modesty, Islamic and righteousness.
Practical implications
This study contributes to the branding as well as Islamic apparel marketing literature as it is the first Islamic apparel brand personality framework. With the Islamic apparel brand personality model, Islamic apparel designers, producers and marketers can create a strong brand image, use advertising strategies effectively and ultimately attract more potential consumers.
Originality/value
The Islamic apparel brand personality model being the first of its kind is significant for the Islamic apparel industry. It reflects dimensions that are supported by the Quran and hadith and therefore suits the Muslim customer market.
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Naailah Nutman, Khadijah Isa and Salwa Hana Yussof
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) implementation in Malaysia had raised various responses from many parties involved when the new tax was introduced in 2015 until its abolishment…
Abstract
Purpose
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) implementation in Malaysia had raised various responses from many parties involved when the new tax was introduced in 2015 until its abolishment in 2018. GST complexity has been stated as part of the reasons for its resistance and abolishment. The purpose of this paper is to identify causes of GST complexities during its implementation in Malaysia.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper draws on causes of tax complexity from previous studies and conducted semi-structured interviews with tax experts. The respondents comprised of subject matter experts in GST and the findings are based on their numerous years of experiences handling clients with diverse backgrounds.
Findings
Findings from this study are categorised into legal complexity and declarative complexities. Almost all the causes of complexities from prior studies were encountered by Malaysian businesses. This study concluded that the most likely reasons for the abolishment of GST in Malaysia are: numerous rules and exception to the rules (e.g. 35 tax codes, gifts rules, 21-day rules), frequent changes of GST rulings and guidelines, GST computations that were too difficult for mixed supply and process of GST refund that were onerous and lengthy.
Research limitations/implications
Limitations of this paper include reliance on the respondents’ ability to accurately and honestly recall details of their experiences, circumstances, thoughts or behaviours that are being asked.
Practical implications
Despite the abolishment of the GST in Malaysia, it is pertinent to identify the causes of GST complexities that can be learnt by the relevant authorities. Measures can be formulated to mitigate the identified GST complexities to ensure high compliance among businesses with other existing taxes or new taxes (if any) to be introduced in the future. This includes addressing the competency of RMCD officers and businesses on the rules and regulations, minimal rules and exception to the rules, a simplified GST computations for mixed supply and a systematic refund process.
Originality/value
The research method used is a flexible and powerful tool to capture the voices and the ways respondents make meaning of their experience dealing with the GST matters. The findings reveal a deep understanding of the issues from the views of the experts in the field.
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Talha Mansoor, Muhammad Umer and Alejandra Duenas
The healthcare sector faces leadership challenges, emphasizing the importance of a mechanism to support and empower team members. The present study aims to investigate the impact…
Abstract
Purpose
The healthcare sector faces leadership challenges, emphasizing the importance of a mechanism to support and empower team members. The present study aims to investigate the impact of team empowerment (TE) on team performance (TP), with the mediating role of shared leadership (SL) and the moderating role of relationship conflict between shared leadership and team performance.
Design/methodology/approach
This study's conceptual model was proposed using the social exchange theory and conservation of resource theory. Data was collected using a self-administrated questionnaire to 492 respondents, of which 42 were team leaders, and 450 were team members from 42 teams in the Pakistani healthcare sector. The Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique was used to examine the proposed hypotheses of the study.
Findings
The results revealed a significant positive relationship between team empowerment and shared leadership. SL is positively associated with team performance. The present study also found that SL positively mediated the relationship between shared leadership and team performance. Moreover, relationship conflict moderated the relationship between SL and TP.
Practical implications
The finding delineates that healthcare organizations can adopt shared leadership and empower team members by involving them in decision-making, enhancing collaboration, resource utilization, and patient care outcomes. Managers should implement structured strategies like cross-functional training and inclusive decision-making processes to cultivate empowered teams and mitigate relationship conflicts for optimal performance.
Originality/value
The study advocates developing shared leadership practices for better team outcomes. This study is an early attempt to examine the mediating role of shared leadership between team empowerment and team performance.