bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trade-Related Environmental Measures under the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Malaysia: The Analysis of its’ Application
Authors: Ahmad Shafiee Yanti , Yeon Asmah Laili
Published: August 2020

The objective of this study is to explore the application of trade-related environmental measures in Malaysia. Trade-related environmental measures are environmental measures that were invoked which may have an effect on international trade. These measures can be in the form of tariff and non- tariff. As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Malaysia is compelled to apply and implement the environmental provisions of the General Agreement of Tariff and Trade (GATT) and the WTO agreements. However, the ability to fully comply with these agreements needs to be determined as Malaysia’s effort in environmental protection could affect its international trading. In this study the analysis was on Malaysia’s domestic legislations; the GATT, especially Article XX; WTO agreements such as the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS), the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) and the WTO Dispute Settlement Body decided cases. Secondary data such as journal articles were referred. It is expected that this study could assist in determining the efforts made by Malaysia in finding a balance between international trade and environmental protection.
The Relevancy of the ‘Guanxi ‘and ‘Xinyong’ Concepts in Chinese Business Capitalization in Indonesia
Authors: Ikhsan Mohammad Fajar , Abdul Ghani Ahmad Bashawir , Subhan Muhammad
Published: August 2020

The concepts of ‘guanxi’ (relationships and networking) and ‘xinyong’ (interpersonal trust) in Chinese traditional ethics are often studied as the key factors that contribute to the pattern and succession of the ethnic Chinese in business practices which are based on the cultural approach. In the context of Southeast Asia such as in Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines, the ethnic Chinese are one of the minority groups whose profession is dominantly that of a businessman or an entrepreneur. As stated in the literature, even though the ethnic Chinese are classified as a minority group in those countries, some of the Chinese capitalist groups had controlled 70-80% of the private business sector. However, these two traditional concepts are not the only main factors of the Chinese business success, but the ‘irregular’ business pattern such as the patronage relationship with political elites also becomes the most important criteria. Hence, this study needed to re-examine and clarify whether the implementation of the guanxi and xinyong concepts in Chinese business activities are still relevant in their business practice due to the political connection in the Chinese business succession also being a dominant variable. This study was based on a fieldwork conducted in Indonesia especially in Medan City of Indonesia and used the descriptive qualitative method through interviews and library research. This aim of this study were three fold: the first was to discuss the relevance of the guanxi and xinyong concept in Chinese business practices, the second was to discuss whether the Chinese business practices were more influenced by a formal community organization or rather influenced by an informal network among Chinese businessmen through guanxi and xinyong bases, third, this study also discussed the challenges faced by the Chinese in attempting their business interests.
The Implication of Xenophobic Violence on Nigeria-South Africa Relations
Authors: Bello Ismail , Rauf  Tunde Sakariyau
Published: August 2020

The renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa on Nigerians and other Africans is an ugly trend that raises serious concern among experts and analysts of foreign relations. The latest scenario in Pretoria has resulted in the loss of innocent lives and valuable properties destroyed by some militant youths in South Africa. According to Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Advisor, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the country has lost about 116 nationals due to the unlawful acts of some hoodlums in South Africa. This remains a significant setback and which poses a threat to the external relations of Nigeria and South Africa. The research relies on secondary data, such as journals, books, Internet materials, newspaper and official communications between South Africa and Nigeria. The ugly trend of xenophobic attack has resulted in a cold war between Nigeria and South Africa in their socio-economic and political relationships. However, the paper infers that adequate actions are required to be taken to restore and guarantee peace for the immigrants residing in South Africa. Failure to curb the menace of xenophobic violence in South Africa might degenerate into regional conflict which invariably will affect the relationship between both nations in all ramifications. The research contributes to existing literature on the issue of xenophobic attack and its impact on foreign relations; it also gives insight on the recent xenophobic attack which occurred in 2017 and its impact on Nigeria and South Africa relations.
Recurring Armed Conflict in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo: an Insight into the SADC Intervention Problematique
Authors: Maeresera Sadiki , Zengeni Knocks Tapiwa
Published: August 2020

Conflict recurrence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) provides a litmus test to the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC’s) capacity to sustainably resolve the conflict and build peace. The surrender of the March 23 (M23) rebels, followed by overtures to incorporate the same into the Congolese military and political institutions, seem not to have made much significant impact on the security stability in the eastern part of the country. Armed activities by militia groups such as the Democratic Liberation Forces of Rwanda (FDLR), the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), and various Mayi Mayi groups are likely to cause a recurrence of a fully fledged armed conflict in eastern Congo. Whilst the UN Mission for the Stabilisation of Congo (MONUSCO), along with its Intervention Brigade continue to make efforts to support the Congolese government to address the security situation in the country, this article presents a critical analysis on the prospects and constraints of SADC to sustainably resolve the conflict and build peace in the context of conflict recurrence. For purposes of conflict resolution and peacebuilding, the DRC falls within SADC’s area of sub-regional responsibility, which overlaps that of the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR). The paper looks at the political/diplomatic and military/ security initiatives that SADC can take to complement the current efforts of critical role players such as MONUSCO and ICGLR in sustainably resolving the recurring conflict and building peace.It also analyses the prospects of such sub-regional initiatives. Considering the conflict matrix of the eastern Congo conflict with specific reference to its recurrence, an examination of the likely constraints that SADC could encounter in trying to resolve the eastern Congo conflict will be presented. Policy suggestions will be proffered on what can be done to encounter such constraints.The research adopted a qualitative approach premised on interviews. Secondary sources, including key policy documents and statements of the SADC, AU, ICGLR and UN, were utilised. To complement the primary sources, structured opportunity interviews were conducted at seminars and workshops with academics and senior political and security analysts conversant with the SADC conflict and peace dynamics.
Malaysia-Indonesia Cross-Border Governance: Is There a Trade-off between Security and Economic Development?
Authors: Anuar Abdul Rahim , Harun Azhar
Published: August 2020

The National Security Council of Malaysia has declared the east coast of Sabah as the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZONE) to inhibit security threats and enhance security in the east coast of Sabah. This study employed an in-depth interview with the stakeholders involved in security governance and development in the study area. The selection of stakeholders was based on expert sampling. Secondary data relating to maritime economic activities were also used to reinforce the findings of the in-depth interview. The study areas were Tawau (Sabah) and Sebatik Island. Sebatik Island is divided into two regions; the northern region is owned by Malaysia and the south is owned by Indonesia. This paper examined the impact of ESSZONE’s security policy toward economic activities in Tawau and Sebatik Island. The security policy implemented by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) in Sabah’s east coast has a negative impact on maritime economic activities in Tawau and Pulau Sebatik. Therefore, the government must re-evaluate the security measures in Tawau and Pulau Sebatik waters, and the curfew regulations in particular, because the security threat is lower and more manageable than in Sandakan, Tawau, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Semporna, and Kinabatangan, which form the hot spot area. Furthermore, the government should consider appropriate measures to balance the objectives of security and economic interests, depending on the level of security threat zones.
Does Democratic Peace Theory Genuinely Envision Global Peace? A Critical Approach
Authors: Kiprizli Goktug , Caglar Kaya Yasin
Published: August 2020

Democratic Peace Theory has been one of the most hotly debated topics ever since the 1980s. From Kant to the present day, the meaning of Democratic Peace Theory has changed, while the theory nowadays claims in principle that democratic states wage war against each other less often owing to their institutions’ and citizens’ abilities to urge their governments to establish a peaceful foreign policy. At this point, the critical theory offers an alternative explanation for the behaviors of democratic countries. This study was designed as a theoretical discussion utilising the analysis of primary and secondary sources in the field, both in printed and electronic materials. Employing the viewpoint of the critical theory, this paper argues that Democratic Peace is the disguise of hegemonic relations and the product of the historical block. This study revealed that democracies are not pacifist actors in the international realm. As articulated by the critical approach, the study also puts forth that the concept of Democratic eace facilitates the expansionist ambitions of hegemonic powers in the international system by utilizing various humanitarian interventions and serves as a means to maintain imperialist peace. Empirical evidence from the military intervention in Libya further reinforces this argument. Thus, this study asserts the idea to be cautious against the propositions of the Democratic Peace Theory because any activities done in the name of spreading democracy may involve a hidden agenda and disrupt the internal stability of non-democratic countries.
Human Rights Violations in Myanmar and the Military Junta’s Defensive Human Rights Diplomacy
Authors: S. Sidhu Jatswan
Published: August 2020

Once considered the internal domain of states, of late human rights issues and concerns have been frequently raised at the international level through the use of human rights diplomacy. However, human rights diplomacy is not only confined to like-minded states who often raise issues pertaining to human rights violations abroad, but can also employed by states violating human rights as a means for its own defence. Under intense criticism for its abysmal human rights record, the Myanmar regime too has often resorted to human rights diplomacy as a strategy to deflect criticism, mainly from without. In doing so, the regime not only often invokes the notion of sovereignty, but even undertakes systematic attacks on the members of the international media and transnational advocacy groups who raise these issues. In addition and knowing that these issues have often dented its own credibility and legitimacy, the Myanmar junta even embarked on an image-building campaign, namely by enlisting the services of foreign public relations firms. In the light of these developments, this article will analyse how Myanmar’s military regime has used defensive human rights diplomacy to ward-off criticism against its poor human rights record.
The Moplah Rebellion Reconsidered: Islamic Insurrection in Southern India, 1921-1922
Authors: Bytheway Simon James
Published: August 2020

Contemporary newspaper reports and de-classified archival sources are used to revisit an infamous episode in the long, contentious, and very often violent encounter between colonial rule and the Muslim Moplah peasants. The significance of the Moplah rebellion is re-stated as being relevant and revelatory to all peoples, despite the timelessness of war, as it marks the emergence of protracted (asymmetrical) guerrilla tactics as the dominant mode of anti-colonial warfare. Moreover, the long series of suicide attacks by the Moplahs, and the punitive justice, summary executions, and abuse they experienced as prisoners at the hands of the colonial government, are all appallingly familiar today as part and parcel of ‘modern warfare’. Analysts, educators, policy makers and researchers are invited to review the events that constitute the Moplah rebellion (primarily as they were portrayed by newspaper reporters) in order to grasp the ‘new realities’ the conflict gave rise to, and to appreciate the wider international significance of what happened in Malabar (South India) at that time. Rather than speculate on the psychological and sociological facets of Moplah resistance and the politics of a mass movement, as in the case of the prevailing discourse on the Khilafat movement, new insight into the imbrications of the history of the Moplahs is provided by situating the events of the Moplah rebellion of 1921-22 against the contemporary background of militant Islamism and the on-going ‘War on Terror’.
Noncompliance a Major Threat in Fisheries Management – Experience from the Artisanal Coastal Fisheries of Bangladesh
Authors: Kuperan K.V. , Jahan K.M.
Published: August 2020

Non-compliance with regulation is a major problem that undermines the effectiveness of the coastal fisheries management in Bangladesh. The result of non-compliance with regulation is over fishing, resource depletion, habitat degradation and resource use conflicts. From a management perspective, it is important to examine the level and causes of non-compliance and explore policies for encouraging or securing compliance. An attempt has been made in this study to investigate these issues in the case of the marine fisheries of Bangladesh. The specific area of interest is the mesh size regulation. Result showed an absolute violation of the mesh size regulation. The study found that the opportunity of getting higher catches and economic returns, weak enforcement, influence of the social environment, ignorance about the law and limited livelihood opportunities are the main causes behind the noncompliance of the fishers with respect to mesh size regulation.
The Evolution of International Fisheries Law and Policy Framework: A Paradigm Shift Towards Responsible Fisheries
Authors: Ahmad Mohammad Zaki
Published: August 2020

The proliferation of international legal and policy instruments for fisheries governance during this post-LOSC era attests to the urgency and strong political commitment of the global community to improve and strengthen the international management and conservation framework for marine capture fisheries, fuelled in part by their mounting concerns over the pervasive unsustainable use and ineffective management of coastal and offshore fisheries worldwide. This paper aims to trace the historical origin and evolution of modern international fisheries regime, focusing on how the current legal and policy framework for responsible fisheries came into being over the last two decades. A series of chronological events that led to this process is examined, stretching back to the periods from 1980s to 2001. Included in this paper is discussion on one of the important driving factors that led to the development global framework for the sustainable and responsible use and management of marine living resources: the need to address the inherent weaknesses of fisheries regime under the LOSC. Finally, the general background of international conferences, conventions, voluntary instruments that have played pivotal role in the development of responsible fisheries concept applicable to coastal States jurisdiction are presented in the paper by examining their scope of application and structure.
UGANDA: A Country Profile
Authors: Masum Ahmad
Published: August 2020

Uganda lies in the heart of Sub-Saharan Africa. It is situated in East Africa and occupies an area of 241,038 sq km (roughly twice the size of the state of Pennsylvania) and its population is about 35,873,253 (CIA World Factbook, 2012). Uganda is bordered by Tanzania and Rwanda to the south, Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, South Sudan to the north, and Kenya to the east. Uganda is a landlocked country and occupies most of the Lake Victoria Basin, which was formed by the geological shifts that created the Rift Valley during the Pleistocene era. Uganda was a British colony and became an independent- sovereign nation in 1962 without a bloody struggle. Several ethnic groups reside in the country i.e. Baganda, Banyankole, Bahima, Bakiga, Bunyoro, Batoro, Basoga, Bagisu, Langi, Acholi, Lugbara, Karamojong and others. English is the official language by virtue of Article 6(1) of the 1995 Constitution and Swahili is also widely spoken especially in the urban areas. Uganda has no State religion. As a country, Uganda has witnessed some positive development in the area of security. The government managed to plant the seeds of peace in the north by defeating the Lord Resistance Army (LRA) led by Joseph Kony.
Sino-African Relations: Emerging Concerns and Dynamics
Authors: Zengeni Knocks Tapiwa
Published: August 2020

The objective of this article is to demonstrate that one of the most significant consequences of the growth of China-Africa relations is the positioning of the African continent as a possible theatre for US-China geo-political rivalry. The interpretative approach adopted in this essay involves a comprehensive review of extant literature, and draws on recent data to highlight China’s economic forays into Africa and the attendant implications. Undeniably, Africa’s strategic minerals are of great value to both competing global powers, that is, the United States and China. Interestingly, China’s presence in Africa has been bolstered by its state-capitalist model which has captivated and convinced most African leaders into believing that this alternative development paradigm might be the answer to Africa’s long quest for economic growth. To many African leaders whose regimes are mainly pseudo-democracies, the Chinese model which delivers economic growth without embracing democracy has become an attractive option vis-à-vis the Western model which is predicated on unpopular conditionalities of good governance and respect for human rights. While the emergence of China in Africa has been welcomed in the continent, it is equally true that some concerns and fears are emerging over the growing presence of China in Africa. Some of these concerns include the reversal of the democratization agenda in some African countries; the unequal trade relations between Africa and China; environmental questions on Chinese investments; and fears of a re-packaged form of new colonialism.More importantly, most African countries are apprehensive about the growing tensions between China and the US over Africa which might lead to a new ‘Scramble for Africa’ and the re-emergence of proxy conflicts on the continent.
Supporting National Transition in Myanmar Through Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Khin Daw
Published: August 2020

Myanmar is moving rapidly in the direction of a more democratic and economically strong future. However, many challenges remain and constructive change will require the cooperation of the corporate sector. Many foreign businesses are interested in investing in Myanmar as a result of political reforms. The government could take a pivotal role, leading the agenda by setting Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) standards as a tool for social development. This paper explores how CSR could be embedded in government business strategy, how business practice could exceed public expectations, how labour laws could strengthen employee packages and benefits, and how foreign investors could be encouraged to bring CSR expertise to strengthen domestic capabilities. Finally, this paper argues that a CSR code of conduct should be imposed to ensure that business practices are tailored to national economic and social interests, and the form such a code of conduct could take.
The Role of the United States and The “Asian Solution” Approach in the Malaysia-Indonesia Confrontation (1963-1966)
Authors: Hj Ab Ghani Rohani , Paidi Zulhilmi
Published: August 2020

The Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation between 1963-1966 was an important event attracting the attention of politicians and scholars alike as the conflict had threatened the long existing relations between the two countries. Indonesian confrontation with Malaysia was due to its refusal to accept the formation of the new federation of Malaysia, founded on 16th September 1963. Sukarno’s confrontational stand on this had broken the long-standing sentiments of regional brotherhood or “saudara serumpun” that had nurtured between the two countries for many years. The conflict also saw the involvement of major powers like the United States (U.S.), Britain, China and Russia in the midst of bipolar power struggle between the communist and the anti-communist as part of the ongoing Cold War. The three years of confrontation witnessed great attempts at peace efforts by U.S. Although U.S. involvement in the conflict was merely as a moderator for both countries it was also fueled by its efforts of containment of communism in the Southeast Asian region. The U.S. viewed that the conflict should be resolved in the context of “Asian solution” as it involved two Asian countries A settlement to the Malaysia-Indonesia confrontation was finally achieved through the Bangkok Agreement, signed in August 1966. This paper discusses the role of U.S. in its attempts at finding an amicable settle to the confrontation in the form of “Asian solution.”
Bilingual Test as a Test Accommodation to Determine the Mathematics Achievement of Mainstream Students With Limited English Proficiency
Authors: Shanmugam S. Kanageswari Suppiah , Lan Ong Saw
Published: August 2020

Purpose – This study aims to investigate the validity of using bilingual test to measure the mathematics achievement of students who have limited English proficiency (LEP). The bilingual test and the English-only test consist of 20 computation and 20 word problem multiple-choice questions (from TIMSS 2003 and 2007 released items. The bilingual test consists of items in Malay and English languages. The English teachers classified their students into LEP and non-LEP groups.   Methodology – A total of 2,021 LEP and 2,747 non-LEP students from 34 schools were identified. Spiral administration was employed. A total of 2,399 students sat for the bilingual test and 2,369 for the English-only test. The scores were linked using RAGE-RGEQUATE version 3.22.   Findings – Findings revealed that in the word problem testlet, the bilingual test was one unit easier for LEP students, probably indicating that the Malay language adaptation assisted them. For the non-LEP students, the bilingual version did not provide any added advantage to them as they did not show elevated achievement score.   Significance – This study indicates bilingual test can be an appropriate test accommodation that validly measures both LEP and non-LEP students’ mathematics achievement in countries where English is not the native language but is used as the instructional language.
Motivational Factors in Continuing Education an Academic Achievement of Adult Learners
Authors: Pang Vincent , Lee Pei Ling
Published: August 2020

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between motivational factors in continuing education and academic achievement of adult learners. The study is conducted due to a lack of research pertaining to academic achievement among adult learners particularly in Malaysia.   Methodology – A random sample of 150 part-time adult learners from a public university in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, represented 202 part-time adult learners in the areas of social sciences and humanities at the university. A thirty-item questionnaire, adapted from Boshier’s Education Participation Scale(EPS) (1991) and Neill’s The University Students Motivation and Satisfaction Questionnaire 2 (TUSMSQ2) (2004) was used to examine their motivational factors i.e. personal development, career advancement, social pressure, social and communication improvement, and escapism. Self-reported cumulative grade point average (CGPA) was utilized as the measurement of academic achievement. Rasch analysis reaffirmed the content validity of items in the questionnaire.   Findings – The findings indicate that personal development and social pressure are the best predictors of academic achievement among adult learners. The motivational factors that are not significant as predictors are career advancement, social and communication improvement, and escapism. Adult learners with higher motivation for personal development (intrinsic motivation) perform better academically. Conversely, adult learners with higher motivation based on social pressure (extrinsic motivation) perform lower academically. Intrinsic motivation seems to be more powerful in enhancing academic achievement of adult learners as compared to extrinsic motivation.   Significance – This finding is crucial for program planners and adult educators. They will be able to lead adult learners to be more intrinsically motivated in continuing education. In this way, they will optimize their learning outcomes and develop quality human capital in Malaysia.
Preschool Teachers’ Perceptions Towards the Use of Play- Based Approach in Language and Literacy Development for Preschool
Authors: Nor Puteh Sharifah , Ali Aliza
Published: August 2020

Purpose – In the new mandatory National Preschool Curriculum Standards introduced by the Ministry of Education Malaysia, the play-based approach has been emphasized in the teaching and learning process. This study aimed to find out teachers’ perception towards the use of the play-based approach in the language and literacy development of preschoolers.   Method – A structured questionnaire survey was the main instrument used for data collection. The respondents consisted of 60 teachers from four agencies which provide preschool education, namely the Ministry of Education, KEMAS, Jabatan Perpaduan Negara (JPN), and private preschool centers in the district of Hulu Langat Selangor. All respondents were randomly selected. Of the 60, 51 respondents completed the survey. To gain additional insights into teachers’ perceptions 12 respondents were purposely selected from this group to be interviewed. One-way ANOVA was used to analyze data from the survey.   Findings – The results showed that teachers have a positive response towards a play-based approach in preschoolers’ language and literacy development. They believed children like to play and are actively involved in play. However, they were unsure about the use of play based approach. Issues and constraints such as time allocation for play activities, limited and unsuitable space for play, and lack of knowledge and skills required to implement developmentally appropriate teaching including play, made them resort to a didactic teacher-directed approach in their classrooms.   Significance – The study points to the importance of providing teachers with knowledge and skills on the use of play in their teaching approach. Intervention programs and collaborations among the agencies providing preschool education must be established to enhance the quality of teaching practices and to ensure the new curriculum is effectively implemented.
Pelajar Generasi Pertama Sebagai Sumber Manusia: Motivasi dan Aspirasi Melanjutkan Pelajaran ke Institusi Pengajian Tinggi (IPT)
Authors: Abdul Rahim Abdul Hamid , Azman Norzaini , Mohd. Majzub Rohaty @ Norhatiah
Published: August 2020

Tujuan – Memahami aspirasi pendidikan adalah sangat penting memandangkan keinginan seseorang untuk melanjutkan pelajaran adalah langkah awal dalam proses permohonan melanjutkan pelajaran ke IPT. Tujuan kajian ini dijalankan adalah untuk mengkaji fenomena motivasi dan aspirasi pelajar generasi pertama di sekolah menengah luar bandar. Secara khusus, kajian ini mengenal pasti tahap motivasi dan aspirasi pelajar generasi pertama untuk melanjutkan pelajaran ke IPT. Kajian ini turut melihat hubungan antara faktor motivasi dan aspirasi. Di samping melihat apakah faktor-faktor motivasi yang mempengaruhi aspirasi melanjutkan pelajaran ke IPT.   Metodologi – Kajian ini dijalankan dengan menggunakan gabungan pendekatan kuantitatif dan kualitatif. Seramai 417 pelajar generasi pertama yang sedang menuntut di tingkatan empat telah dipilih secara rawak berstrata sebagai responden untuk menjawab satu set soal selidik. Manakala 8 kumpulan berfokus telah dipilih melalui pensampelan bertujuan untuk ditemu bual bagi mendapatkan data kualitatif.   Dapatan – Hasil kajian menunjukkan motivasi pelajar generasi pertama luar bandar adalah pada tahap tinggi, manakala aspirasi mereka pada tahap sederhana tinggi. Terdapat hubungan yang positif signifikan di antara motivasi dan aspirasi. Faktor-faktor motivasi yang mempengaruhi aspirasi mencakupi faktor keperluan fisiologi, keperluan keselamatan, keperluan sosial, keperluan penghargaan kendiri dan keperluan penyempurnaan kendiri.   Kepentingan – Hasil kajian ini memberi implikasi strategik kepada pihak sekolah dan institusi pengajian tinggi (IPT) dalam usaha membantu pelajar generasi pertama di sekolah menengah luar bandar merealisasikan aspirasi mereka.
Teacher-Led Initiatives in Supporting Learner Empowerment among Malay Tertiary Learners
Authors: Kaur Naginder
Published: August 2020

Purpose – Learner empowerment or learner autonomy is regarded by some theorists as the self-propelled, sole effort of the learner. However, in creating self-directed learners who are empowered to learn, the role of significant others such as the instructor is imperative. This study shows how a committed lecturer can play an instrumental role in facilitating self-directed learning among learners.   Methodology – Learner autonomy in vocabulary learning was successfully facilitated among a group of Malay tertiary learners pursuing a Business Studies course in Malaysia. This qualitative study explored the lecturer’s proactive efforts and initiatives in raising learners’ confidence in learning vocabulary. Data were collected through reflective in-depth interviews with the lecturer and learners at the end of every week for one month to obtain insights into their learning experiences.   Findings – The lecturer’s pedagogical approaches of providing sufficient learning opportunities in class, teaching vocabulary in context, using vocabulary lists and direct methods, and building lessons spirally to reinforce learning made complex tasks become manageable and achievable. These efforts were well-commended by the learners in this study. The lecturer's conscious decisions, namely, encouraging collaborative learning tasks and not forcing reluctant speakers were guided by her awareness of the learners’ cultural background which impinged on their learning preferences, thus, creating a non-threatening learning environment.   Significance – This study establishes the case that learner empowerment is not teacherless learning but is fostered when the instructor is able to pitch the lesson at an appropriate level and create a conducive and positive learning environment to synchronise with the learners’ cultural traits.
The Effectiveness of Finishing School Programmes from the Perspectives of Graduates and Employers
Authors: Ali Jamal , Eam Lim Hock , Ismail Russayani , Abdul Rahim Fauziah , Md Isa Filzah , Ismail Ismi Arif
Published: August 2020

Purpose – This study examined the effectiveness of Finishing School programmes in enhancing the employability of graduates from institutions of higher learning. The perceptions of the graduates and employers towards the effectiveness of the programmes were analyzed. The effectiveness of Finishing School programmes evaluated through a graduate marketability outcome study and the expectations of employers with regard to the type of soft skills of graduates most needed by industries were also examined.   Methodology – Data for this study were obtained through a survey questionnaire administered to graduates and focus group interviews with selected employers. The primary data involved a large sample (n = 1092) of graduates from public universities and also 31 selected employers from various industries. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and a multinomial logit model. Due to the unavailability of a population frame, the data were collected using a convenient sampling design.   Findings – Graduates had a positive perception of the effectiveness of Finishing School programmes. However, in terms of the marketability outcome, Finishing school programmes currently
Teacher Autonomy Support: Does it Hinder Motivation among Thai Students?
Authors: Kaur Amrita , Awang Hashim Rosna , Noman Mohammad
Published: August 2020

Purpose – This article examined the relevance of teacher autonomy support [TAS] among Thai students. It is based on a study conducted to compare the effects of TAS on motivation among Thai students. The issue of motivation among Asian students has invited controversy as few cross-cultural relativists have claimed that Asian students get motivated when teachers use controlling strategies.   Methodology – The study collected data through a quasiexperimental study with an appended ABA withdrawal design. The subjects were 105 Thai students who completed self-reported questionnaires that assessed perceived autonomy support, intrinsic motivation and self-regulation, before, after and on withdrawal of experiment intervention.   Findings – MANOVA results revealed that students in the experimental group who were in the autonomy supportive teachinglearning environment reported greater interest, effort, relatedness and integrated regulation compared to the control group taught using a traditional approach. Furthermore, students in the experimental group experienced less pressure and reported less external regulation compared to the control group.   Significance – The findings support the claim in Self-determination theory (SDT) that autonomy is not a culturally bound value, and is a pedagogical concept equally relevant to Thai students as it facilitates motivation. The fi ndings will encourage Thai educators to adopt autonomy as a pedagogical concept that will help facilitate motivation among their students.
Pengetahuan Pedagogi Kandungan Guru Bahasa Iban yang Baharu dengan yang Berpengalaman di Sekolah-Sekolah Menengah di Sarawak
Authors: Anak Nor Magdeline , Mahamod Zamri
Published: August 2020

Tujuan – Keberkesanan dan kepakaran seseorang guru dapat dinilai melalui teknik pengajarannya. Oleh itu, fokus akan diberikan kepada proses pengajaran guru bahasa Iban untuk memastikan keberkesanan pengajaran guru-guru bahasa Iban di Sarawak. Kajian ini dijalankan berdasarkan teori yang diperkenalkan oleh Shulman, iaitu Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) atau juga dikenali sebagai Pengetahuan Pedagogi Kandungan (PPK).   Metodologi – Kajian kualitatif ini dijalankan untuk meneroka dan meneliti secara mendalam pengetahuan pedagogi kandungan (PPK) yang dimiliki oleh guru bahasa Iban baharu dan berpengalaman di sekolah menengah di Sarawak. Tiga orang guru bahasa Iban dari Pejabat Pendidikan Daerah (PPD) Subis dan seorang guru bahasa Iban dari PPD Miri dipilih sebagai peserta kajian temu bual dan pemerhatian. Transkrip temu bual dianalisis secara teliti dengan bantuan perisian QSR Nvivo9.   Dapatan – Kajian mendapati bahawa PPK guru-guru bahasa Iban dipengaruhi oleh disiplin ilmu masing-masing kerana kesemua guru bahasa Iban berlatar belakangkan pengkhususan yang berbezabeza. Dapatan kajian juga menunjukkan tidak ada perbezaan PPK yang ketara antara guru berpengalaman dan guru yang baharu. Sebaliknya faktor keperibadian guru yang membezakan penguasaan PPK guru, sama ada guru tersebut baharu atau berpengalaman hanya menjadi faktor sampingan sahaja. Strategi pedagogi kandungan guru-guru bahasa Iban juga didapati dipengaruhi oleh latar belakang pengkhususan mereka. Pemerhatian pengkaji mendapati PPK yang baik terhasil apabila seorang guru itu benar-benar menghayati dan menghargai mata pelajaran bahasa Iban.   Kepentingan – Kajian ini penting kepada pihak pengurusan sekolah agar memastikan guru-guru bahasa Iban yang berkelayakan sahaja yang dibenarkan mengajar mata pelajaran bahasa Iban.
Influence of Culture on Students’ Awareness of How and Why They Learn
Authors: Choy Siew Chee , Sedhu Daljeet Singh , Liew Yow Lin , Malenee Audrey , Anuar Norkhadirah , Lee Mun Yee
Published: August 2020

Purpose – The reason many Asian students fi nd student-centred learning challenging may be due to cultural factors present in every human interaction between individuals. This study attempts to determine the infl uence of these cultural factors on students’ awareness of how and why they learn.   Method – A sample of 12 students enrolled in a two year diploma course in a Malaysian university was interviewed, using a semistructured interview protocol, on the students’ perceptions and experiences when learning. The results were analysed qualitatively using the interpretive approach.   Findings – The results show that students rely on their teachers for information, implying a high power distance as well as low individualism, and are not inclined to explore on their own. These students readily approach their friends rather than teachers for help with their assignments. They also hold their parents’ opinions in high regard.   Significance – The results of this study are important for teachers when implementing student-centred learning. It will be challenging for Malaysian students to respond well to this form of learning strategy as it requires a certain amount of independent learning as well as risk-taking behaviour which these students seem to lack.
Basic and Advanced Skills They Don’t Have: The Case of Postgraduate and Literature Review Writing
Authors: Hei Kuang Ching , David Maya Khemlani
Published: August 2020

Purpose – This paper aims to identify the difficulties postgraduate students face in writing the literature review for their thesis and dissertation.   Methodology – Seventy postgraduate students from 9 faculties in one public university in the Klang Valley consented to participating in this study. They were 49 Masters candidates and 21 doctoral (PhD) candidates attending a workshop on academic writing. Among them, 31 were Malaysians and 39 were foreigners with majority being Arabs and Africans. After an icebreaking session, participants were asked what their writing diffi culties are when doing their literature review. They were told to write their responses in English in a paper. A linguistic analysis was then applied to the written phrases and expressions which denote their diffi culties. These were then categorised under common themes and manually counted in terms of the frequency.   Findings – A total of 37 categories of diffi culties were detected. They encompassed basic and advanced skills in reading and writing including ‘not knowing what to read’, ‘how to read’, ‘how to start writing’, ‘organising’, ‘doing a critical analysis’, ‘summarising’ and ‘synthesising’.   Significance – The fi ndings imply that most of the participants do not possess the necessary skills of reading and writing which are required in most postgraduate programmes. Thus, it is imperative that institutions of higher learning develop stricter criteria for student selection. Alternatively, a programme providing support in reading and writing may enable these postgraduate students to raise their level before being admitted. This kind of support can help to mitigate the burden imposed on supervisors as well as develop better quality postgraduate students.
Kesan Pengantaraan Pengalaman Psikologi bagi Hubungan Pelbagai Kemahiran dalam Tugas Pengajaran dengan Motivasi Kerja
Authors: Osman Rafisah , Abdullah Mat Zaini
Published: August 2020

Tujuan – Kajian ini bertujuan meneliti hubungan langsung faktor pelbagai kemahiran dengan motivasi kerja guru. Selain itu, kajian ini juga meneliti kesan pengantaraan pengalaman-pengalaman psikologi sebagai pemboleh ubah pengantara. Metodologi – Kajian ini menggunakan reka bentuk korelasi yang melibatkan pengujian permodelan persamaan berstruktur dengan pendekatan kuantitatif, manakala kaedah tinjauan keratan rentas digunakan untuk pungutan data kajian. Responden kajian ini berjumlah 458 orang terdiri daripada kalangan guru sekolah menengah kebangsaan harian biasa di negeri Kedah. Teknik pensampelan rawak berkelompok telah digunakan untuk memilih responden kajian. Data kajian telah dianalisis dengan menggunakan Pemodelan Persamaan Berstruktur dan analisis lanjutan IBM SPSS melibatkan kaedah bootstrapping bagi kesan pengantaraan.   Dapatan – Hasil kajian menunjukkan pelbagai kemahiran tidak mempunyai hubungan langsung yang signifi kan dengan motivasi kerja guru. Namun begitu, faktor pelbagai kemahiran didapati mempunyai hubungan langsung yang signifi kan dengan pengalaman kerja yang bermakna, pengalaman bertanggungjawab terhadap hasil kerja dan pengetahuan sebenar hasil kerja. Analisis selang keyakinan 95% bias diperbetulkan bagi pengalaman kerja yang bermakna, pengalaman bertanggungjawab terhadap hasil kerja dan pengetahuan sebenar hasil kerja tidak mengandungi nilai sifar menunjukkan ketiga-tiga pengalaman psikologi memberi kesan pengantaraan yang signifikan.   Signifikan – Kajian ini memberi manfaat kepada penguruspengurus di sekolah dan kepimpinan pendidikan dalam merancang reka bentuk kerja guru dengan memberi tumpuan kepada pembinaan motivasi kerja melalui proses merangsang pengalaman-pengalaman psikologi guru. Dalam hal ini, pengalaman-pengalaman psikologi merupakan keberhasilan modal psikologi positif melalui penglibatan guru dalam melaksanakan tugas pengajaran. Kajian ini memberi manfaat secara langsung kepada guru dalam memahami kepentingan menggunakan pelbagai kemahiran dalam melaksanakan tugas pengajaran di sekolah.
The Motivational Profiles and Perceptions of Schooling of Asian Students in Australia
Authors: Mcinerney Dennis M
Published: August 2020

Asian-background students are performing better than other groups within the Australian educational setting. In order to investigate the reasons for this achievement advantage, this study examines the motivational profiles of Asian-background and Anglo-background students in New South Wales Australia. The research utilises personal investment theory and self-concept theory to provide a research framework. 283 Asian-background and 887 Anglo-background students were administered the Inventory of School Motivation, the General Achievement Goal Orientation Survey, the Facilitating Conditions Survey, and the Academic Self Description Questionnaire. While the motivational and self-concept profiles of the two groups were surprisingly similar, there are core significant differences that help explain the Asian students’ achievement advantage. Asian-background students are highly task oriented and significantly more effort oriented, more competitive, praise and token oriented than the Anglo-background students. They have a significantly stronger sense of purpose for schooling and are more performance oriented. Asian-background students also have a stronger intention to go on to university and further study, value school and like school more than their Anglo peers. These results are consistent with those reported in earlier studies with Asian American students.
Inhibiting Factors Affecting Teachers’ Implementation of the KBSM (Revised) English Language Curriculum
Authors: Abdul Karim Hamida Bee Bi
Published: August 2020

This paper aims to discuss teachers’ degree of implementation of the KBSM (Revised) English Language Curriculum, introduced in 2003. It also sets to highlight the inhibiting factors that had impeded teachers’ implementation of the Skills Specifications or activities suggested in the Huraian Sukatan Pelajaran (HSP) Bahasa Inggeris Tingkatan Empat of the new curriculum. Firstly, the author finds that about 60 percent of the teachers obtained only a medium degree of implementation for 18 out of the 22 Skills Specifications. Secondly, the author concludes that among the prominent factors that had inhibited teachers’ implementation of the KBSM (Revised) English language curriculum in Malaysian classrooms were too many components of the new curriculum, hence leading to lack of understanding of the curriculum, lack of in-service training, time constraints and finally inadequate and irrelevant teaching materials.
English as Foreign Language Student Teachers’ Perceptions of the Use of Moodle in a Foundations of Education Course
Authors: Al-Ani Wajeha Thabit
Published: August 2020

In order to design an effective e-learning environment, the present study investigated English as Foreign Language (EFL) students’ perceptions of the use of Moodle as a course management system in a Foundations of Education (FOE) course at the College of Education. The study also aimed at exploring statistically significant differences between student teachers’ perceptions that can be attributed to gender, residence, year in the program, computer skills, and GPA variables. Data were collected from a sample of 60 students using a questionnaire. Findings showed that using Moodle increases students’ participation in learning, exchanging ideas and knowledge (μ = 4.37). Over half the total number of students preferred to use chat rooms and forums in computer labs to formal lecture rooms. Findings also showed that there are statistically significant differences between student responses related to year in the program in favor of students in their third and fourth year. With regard to obstacles facing students, the findings showed that most of these obstacles revolve around technical issues and frequent computer errors. Based on these findings, several recommendations were made.
Faktor Ibu Bapa dalam Kecemerlangan Akademik Pelajar Pekak: Kajian Kes Retrospektif
Authors: Othman Shahrul Arba’iah , Azman Norzaini , Mohd Ali Manisah
Published: August 2020

Kajian kes retrospektif ini dijalankan untuk memahami bagaimana faktor ibu bapa telah menyumbang kepada kecemerlangan akademik pelajar pekak. Kecemerlangan akademik didefinisikan sebagai kejayaan yang dicapai oleh pelajar pekak dalam peperiksaan awam hingga membolehkan mereka melanjutkan pelajaran ke peringkat diploma atau ijazah pertama di institusi pengajian tinggi. Data dikumpul dengan membuat triangulasi kepada kaedah dan sumber. Kaedah pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah temu bual mendalam, soalan bertulis, dan analisis dokumen. Sumber-sumber kepada data merupakan ibu bapa, pelajar pekak, dan dokumen/ memorabilia. Seramai lapan orang pelajar pekak yang cemerlang dalam akademik, lapan orang ibu dan empat orang bapa pelajar tersebut dipilih menjadi peserta kajian. Temu bual mendalam telah dijalankan dengan ibu bapa terlibat. Maklumat yang dapat menyokong atau mengukuhkan kata-kata ibu bapa ini telah diperoleh secara jawapan bertulis daripada pelajar sendiri dan analisis dokumen. Hasil temu bual telah dibuat trankripsi secara verbatim dan kesimpulan yang dibuat berdasarkan analisis tema. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan kecemerlangan akademik pelajar pekak bergantung kepada dua faktor iaitu keluarga dan diri pelajar pekak sendiri. Faktor-fakor keluarga yang penting ialah sikap ibu bapa, penglibatan ibu bapa, jangkaan ibu bapa, persekitaran keluarga, dan sumber keluarga. Kajian ini memberi implikasi kepada penyediaan khidmat intervensi awal yang lebih baik, pemberian peluang pendidikan yang sama rata kepada pelajar pekak, dan penyediaan khidmat sokongan secara kolaboratif antara agensi-agensi yang terlibat.