IJICC - Vol 6 Iss 3

Volume 6, Issue 3. ISSN 2201-1323

Pdf		Mapping Crowdfunding Research on the Web of Science Database: A Bibliometric Analysis Approach *Ahmad-Ridhuwan Abdullah^a^, Nthati Rametse^b, Siti Salwani Abdullah^c, Aziz Hassan^d, Muhammad Naqib Mat Yunoh^e*, ^a,c,d,eUniversiti Malaysia Kelantan, Faculty of Entrepreneurship and Business, 16100 Malaysia, ^bRMIT University, College of Business, School of Management, Melbourne 3001, Australia, Corresponding author: ridhuwan.a@umk.edu.my, Crowdfunding research continues to evolve, particularly in entrepreneurship area. Scholars in various disciplines have shown an increased interest in this new financial technology, making crowdfunding a multidisciplinary concern. As crowdfunding research develops, researchers have systemically reviewed this topic. The purpose of this paper is to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the patterns and trends of crowdfunding research. This study examines the pattern of crowdfunding-related publications regarding citations, co-citations, and co-word analysis using sample data of 2956 articles (487 articles were specific to crowdfunding) published between the years 2008 to 2018. The study results suggest that crowdfunding publications are dominantly from the business and management fields. Findings from co-word analysis reveal that crowdfunding research is evolving within its field with little connections to the broader concept of crowdsourcing. The results also support previous claims by scholars that most of the publications on crowdfunding focus on success. Implications and future research directions are posed.
Pdf		Perceived Knowledge, Anxiety and Relative Advantage as Antecedence of Attitude towards Gold Dinar Acceptance *Ruzanifah Kosnin^a, Hazriah Hasan^b Ismail Ahmad^c,** ^aPhD, Monizone Resources Sdn Bhd, ^bSenior Lecturer, PhD, Faculty of Entrepreneurship & Business, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, ^cProfessor, Arshad Ayub Graduate Business School, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, *Corresponding author Email: hazriah.h@umk.edu.my The role of gold in providing stability and sustainability in the monetary system has been known and greatly discussed in the literature. Gold dinar on the other hand has been suggested as early as 2002 in Malaysia as a response to the Asian currency crisis in 2007-08. Although there is heightened awareness among the communities regarding the importance of gold dinar in complementing the official currency, until today, the implementation of gold dinar in Malaysia remain challenging. To date however, there has been little discussion on factors that contribute to the acceptance of gold dinar which is imperative to the current development of increased demand of physical gold among the communities of this region. Therefore, it is the objective of this study to explore and analyse the determinants of gold dinar acceptance in the context of Malaysia. A data set of 397 was gathered using an online questionnaire survey distributed to gold dinar social network groups in Malaysia. Data was analysed with a structural equation modelling (SEM) tool. Statistical results showed that perceived knowledge and relative advantage have significant positive impact on attitude while attitude also has significant impact on gold dinar acceptance. Perceived behavioural control is another factor that positively determines gold dinar acceptance while anxiety and subjective norm are not significant contributors. The results, besides indicating the suitability of the SEM in statistical analysis, have also contributed to a better understanding of the gold dinar phenomenon among its community in Malaysia. Findings are useful for academics as well as industrial practitioners to enhance the development of gold dinar usage in complementing the current financial system.
Pdf		The Factors Influencing Small Medium Enterprise (SMEs) Success in Kelantan Yuhanis Mohamed Noor^a, Lu Man Hong^b, Aimi Nadia binti Ibrahim @ Zakaria^c, Nik Noorhazila Binti Nik Mud ^d, Muhamad Naqib Mat Yunoh^e, ^a,b,c,d,eFaculty of Entrepreneurship and Business, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Malaysia, Corresponding Author Email:^a yuhanis.mn@umk.edu.my,^, ^b vicklumanhong@gmail.com^{, c} aiminadia.i@umk.edu.my^, ^d hazila.n@umk.edu.my, ^e naqib@umk.edu.my In Malaysia, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise (SMEs) are the great contributor to national income. This is due to the fact that certain agencies were appointed by the Malaysia Government in order to improve SMEs industry in the current marketplace. Indeed, individuals in Kelantan are starting to develop their businesses in order to join SMEs industry. Therefore, this study aims to identify the relationship of factors influencing SMEs success in Kelantan. Three independent variables have been selected for this research which are: entrepreneur characteristics, management and know-how and product quality. This study was carried out using quantitative research and 380 SME Kelantan entrepreneurs were randomly selected for data collection. All responses were analysed by SPSS software. The data results indicate that three independent variables in this study are related to SME success in Kelantan.
Pdf		Islamic-Corporate Social Responsibility (i-CSR): Prioritization Activities among Kelantanese SMEs Muslimpreneurs using AHP Approach *Afifah Hanim Md Pazil^a, Mohd Zulkifli Muhammad^b, Nor Hafiza Othman^c, Azwan Abdullah^d*, ^a,b,c,dFaculty of Entrepreneurship and Business, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, 16100 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia, Corresponding Author Email: zulkifli.m@umk.edu.my Globalization has led to a rise in socioeconomic problems and companies are expected to demonstrate corporate governance and social responsibility. Companies have quickly realized that overlooking the needs and interests of multiple stakeholders and the society at large is detrimental. Studies have shown that there is positive growth in corporate social responsibility developing internationally. However Malaysia is still in the weakest position and application of social entrepreneurial actions are quiet low. In addition it must be taken into consideration that Malaysia is an Islamic country, thus from the Islamic perspective, Islamic corporate social responsibility (i-CSR) is very m important and demonstrates the Muslim obligation to uphold the faithfulness of Islam as a religion and a complete way of life (ad-din). In Islam, there is no separation between the individual’s public and private life. Hence, every decision and act in life and business must be based on Islamic teachings. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine the use of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in prioritization of i-CSR activities by tSmall and Medium Enterprise (SME) Muslimpreneurs in Kelantan. Data collections through a questionnaire tool was analyzed using the AHP approach in order to identify the most important activity in i-CSR as chosen by Kelantan SME Muslimpreneurs. Thus, based on the findings, it can be seen that in prioritizing implementation of the i-CSR, the responsibility for family and less fortunate activity happens is the most important activity. The second most prioritized activity in implementing the i-CSR is the obligation to pay zakat, followed by the development of community economic strength. The least prioritized activity in implementing the i-CSR is helping orphans and the poor. The implications of the study are that most of the SME Muslimpreneurs emphasize that the family is the most important responsibility before fulfilling their responsibility to others such as helping the poor. One pertinent finding from this study proves that for one to lead in any one of the spheres in i-CSR activity among SME’s Muslimpreneurs, it is of prime fundamental importance that tauhid to Allah SWT, which is inculcated in Maqasid Shari’ah concept, is the first prerequisite aspect.
Pdf		*Creating Business a Model for Etak -* Heritage Food Revival Sustainability in Kelantan, Peninsular Malaysia** Zulhazman, H.^a, Mohammad, I.^b, Mohd Nazri, Z.^c, Rooshihan, M. A. R.^d, Mohd Rafi, Y.^e, ^aFaculty of Earth Science, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli Campus,Locked Bag No. 100, 17600 Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia, ^b,c,d,e Faculty of Entrepreneurship and Business, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kota Campus, Locked Bag No. 36. 16100 Pengkalan Chepa, Kelantan, Malaysia, Corresponding Author Email: rafi@umk.edu.my “Etak” industry in Kelantan is under threat due to social changes, increased health consciousness and reducing clam supply. In the past, there were many “etak” vendors in Kelantan and “etak” business was a source of income for rural folks, including poor people and single mothers. Nowadays only a few “etak” vendors survive and with the number of consumers dwindling, the future prospect of the business is hanging in the balance. Reviving “etak” business is deemed essential because it does not only provide employment through entrepreneurship but at the same time safeguards local heritage and irretrievable loss of heritage should be avoided. Against this background, three interrelated objectives of this study are to: (i) identify social and economic nature of the industry and existing business model (ii) identify feasibility of the industry, (iii) propose a business model for sustainability of “etak” as food heritage. Investigating the whole value chain of the industry including "etak" vendors and socio-economic factors inherent with the business is important because it does not only provide broad and thick descriptive analysis of the traditional food of Kelantan but also answers pertinent questions related to the competitiveness of the industry and in turn proposes ways of reviving the industry. As far as the literature review is concerned, no socio-economic study has been conducted in Malaysia with regard to "etak". A case study method, which is a branches of qualitative study will be adopted. This mixed-method approach warrants detailed investigation and questions pertaining to what, how and why related to socio-economic factors of "etak". In this quantitative study, as many possible “etak” business players and stakeholders will be surveyed. In qualitative method several “etak” vendors, suppliers, customers, experts in food industry, as well as relevant authorities will be approached. The survey will be analysed by using SPSS and interviews will be transcribed and then analysed using NVIVO. The findings of the proposed study will be instructive, proposing a revival model for reviving the heritage industry.
Pdf		Nutritional Level: Do Consumers in Kota Bharu, Kelantan Understand? Nurul Hafizah Mohd Yasin^a , Ahmad Faezi Ab Rashid^b, Hasif Rafidee Hasbollah^c, Ghazali Ahmad^d, Mohd Hafzal Abdul Halim^e, Nor Dalila Marican^f , Mohd Firdaus Mohd Nasir^g, ^{a,b,c,d,e,f,g}Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism and Wellness, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Malaysia^., Email: hafizah.my@umk.edu.my ; faezi.ar@umk.edu.my ; rafidee@umk.edu.my ; ghazali@umk.edu.my ; hafzal@umk.edu.my ; dalila.m@umk.edu.my ; mfirdaus@umk.edu.my, The issues of diet-related health have risen dramatically in Malaysia. Nutrition information is important for consumers to use the information to make healthier food choices. The purpose of this study is to identify the factors that influence the understanding of nutrition information among consumers in Kelantan. A cross-sectional study was conducted to collect data from a total of 400 consumers who were conveniently selected in Kelantan through a close-ended questionnaire. The result showed that 58.8% (n=235) of the respondents had a good understanding while 26.5% (n=106) of them had an average understanding. Furthermore, the results revealed a significant relationship between age (p=0.012), education (p=0.000), employment status (p= 0.000), and income (p=0.021) with the level of understanding of nutrition information. However, there was no significant relationship between gender (p=0.62) and health status (p=0.122) with the level of understanding of nutrition information. In fact, there was a significant relationship between nutritional values and level of understanding of nutrition information (the nutrition value r =-0.134**, p=0.007). This study provides recommendations for consumers and manufacturers to improve the identified weakness in order to increase comprehension towards the messages of nutrition information.
Pdf		ESL Classroom Reading Lessons: Online VS Blended Siti Zarikh Sofiah Abu Bakar^a, Fairuz Husna Mohd Yusofb, Dia Widyawati Amatc, Haniza Sarijarid, Zuraidah Sumerye, Diana Othmanf, ^{a,b,c,d,e,f,g}Academy of Language Studies, Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), Malaysia, E-mail: sitiz148@uitm.edu.my^a , fairu305@uitm.edu.my^b, diawi188@uitm.edu.my^c, haniz652@uitm.edu.my^d, zurai012@uitm.edu.my^e, diana481@uitm.edu.my^f Learning for students of the 21^st century revolves highly around the advanced technology accessible in their educational activities. Therefore, language teachers need to be ready with a range of teaching materials, especially those that access technology, particularly computer assisted language learning. This study investigates English as a Second Language (ESL) Diploma students’ preferences and performance in learning in reading lessons that comprise of online learning in comparison to blended learning methods in Malaysia. The study involved Diploma students from UiTM (University of Mara Technology) Cawangan Johor, Segamat campus. The data will be collected by using the mixed-method sequential explanatory study involved a quasi-experimental; pre-test and post-test design, and a semi-structured interview procedure. The quantitative data will be analysed by using the t-test procedure for the statistical results, while the qualitative data will be analysed by using thematic analysis. Based on the literature review, it is expected that the students may prefer to have reading lessons through blended learning rather than merely online learning. Further, the students are expected to perform better in answering reading questions after having blended learning reading lessons compared to merely online learning.
Pdf		Determinants of Audit Delay (Empirical Study on Manufacturing Companies listed on Indonesia Stock Exchange period 2011-2016) Reschiwati^a, Tahima Evalyana Sitompul^b, ^a,bSekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Y.A.I jakarta, Indonesia Email: echireschiwati@yahoo.com ^a, Email: btahimatompul@gmail.com ^b This study aims to analyze the effect of firm size, audit committee, company age, operational complexity, and application of International Financial Reporting Standards on audit delay in manufacturing companies in Indonesia. The sample in this study is a manufacturing company listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) in the period 2011-2016. The number of samples used are 41 listed companies taken by purposive sampling. The method of analysis used in this study is multiple linear regression analysis with the help of Eviews Version 9.5 for windows program. The results of this study indicate that firm size and audit committee have significant influence on audit delay. While the variable age of company, complexity of operation, and application of International Financial Reporting Standards have no significant effect on audit delay.
Pdf		Financial Inclusion and Digital Finance in the Arab World: Current Status and Future Priorities Yusef Ali Yusef Yakubi^a, B. Basuki^b, Rudi Purwono^c, ^a,b,cFaculty of Economics and Business, University of Airlangga (UNAIR) Indonesia, Email: ^a yusef-ali-2018@feb.unair.ac.id , ^b basuki@feb.unair.ac.id , ^c rudipurwono.febunair@gmail.com , This study attempts to address three questions: what is the current state of financial inclusion and digital finance in the Arab world? What difference can digital technology make for Arab households? What potential exists for using digital technology to reach financially excluded households in Arab countries? Recently, several studies on financial inclusion and digital technology have appeared worldwide; nevertheless, there are few conclusions re financial inclusion and digital finance in the Arab World. To explore the current state and level of financial inclusion and digital finance, this study applies a selective set of indicators designed by the “Group of Twenty” (G20) to holistically measure financial inclusion categories that are mostly endorsed by digital technologies. The Arab world still falls behind other regions globally, with low rates in access to and usage of traditional formal banking services including credit, savings and insurance in addition to SMEs. On the other hand, relative improvements are observed in financial expansions, cashless transactions and digital payments. More importantly, the Arab world has great potential to adopt digital technology and enhance financial inclusion. Some Arab countries have started legal and financial initiatives to enter the realm of the digital economy. Throughout this study, certain recommendations are proposed to better utilize digital finance for greater financial inclusion in Arab countries.
Pdf		Perceptions of Corporate Customers towards Islamic Banking in Brunei, Darussalam Mariawati Omar^a, ^aSchool of Business and Economics, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), E-mail: mariawati.omar@gmail.com The purpose of this research is to understand the perceptions of corporate customers with regards to Islamic banking in Brunei Darussalam. Additionally, the objectives of the study include an investigation of the awareness and usage of Islamic banking products and services as well as the ranking of Islamic banking selection criteria. The study presents primary data collected by self-administered questionnaires involving a sample of 55 private limited companies in the Brunei-Muara District selected using stratified random sampling. Descriptive statistics (frequency and cross tabulation) as well as means comparison are employed for data analysis to provide answers to the research objectives and questions. This study reveals that there is a lack of understanding and awareness of Islamic banking. A further issue highlighted through this study is that despite a high rate of awareness of some Islamic banks’ products and services, these are not being accessed by companies. In the context of Islamic bank ranking criteria, to some extent, less weight has been placed on religious reason and rather factors such as fast and efficient service; friendliness of bank staff; reliability of bank staff; and reputation of the bank are ranked higher. The empirical evidence of this study has several practical implications; first, it implies that further understanding and knowledge of Islamic banking, especially to the specific concepts and issues of Islamic banking, and the role of Islamic banking in relation to an Islamic economy, is needed. Secondly, in order to narrow the gap between awareness and usage, Islamic banks need to conduct vigorous marketing activities to attract their customers to use Islamic banking products and services. Thirdly, Islamic banks should not be taken for granted through an assumption that their customers are dealing with Islamic banks solely based on their religious grounds, rather they should also be chosen for their quality of service and customer satisfaction. The uniqueness of this study is that it reports findings from the first academic survey of corporate customers in the Brunei-Muara District in the area of Islamic banking and finance. This study will be of interest to both existing Islamic banks in the country and potential entrants into this niche market.
Pdf		The Present and Future Labour Shariah Auditor Market Mariawati Omar^a, ¹School of Business and Economics, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), E-mail: mariawati.omar@gmail.com , The Shariah audit function within Islamic Financial Institutions (IFIs) provides assurance on IFI’s compliance with Shariah principles. In spite of the importance of the Shariah audit, there is little literature on the its effective and efficient implementation from the human capital perspective, in particular Shariah audit education and training. This study aims to explore the Shariah audit discipline in terms of academic qualification and professional training courses. In addition, the paper attempts to visualize the future of the Shariah audit profession in light of the industrial revolution of 4.0. This study is based on a literature review of past studies related to Shariah audit discipline conducted in Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam. Evidence from the analysis suggest that several initiatives have been undertaken to ensure Shariah auditor efficacy and efficiency in implementation of Shariah audit. The Insight Report of The Future of Jobs Report 2018, World Economic Forum identified that accounting and auditing are considered to be redundant roles and will have declined by 2022. There is some belief that in the Shariah audit profession a Shariah robo auditor will replace human intervention. This study aims to contribute to the current body of knowledge of the subject matter in order to narrow down the identified literature gap. This study is also useful for policymaking in jurisdictions that offer Islamic finance, with relation to Shariah governance mechanisms, especially regarding policies related to Shariah audit.
Pdf		Contributing Factors to the Success of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kelantan Nor Azira Ayob^a, Nur Husna Mohamad^b, Nurafini Zahid^c, Nurul Nadia Abu Hassan^d, Farah Adilla Abd. Rahman^e, ^aFaculty of Administrative Science and Policy Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Cawangan Negeri Sembilan, Kampus Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, ^b,c,d,eFaculty of Administrative Science and Policy Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Cawangan Negeri Sembilan, Kampus Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. Corresponding Author Email: norazira@ns.uitm.edu.my This study examines the factors that contribute to the success of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Kelantan. The main purpose of this study is to provide guidelines for how people should start and manage their business by looking at all of the factors that contribute to business success. The objectives of the study are to examine the factors of market, financial assistance and environment that can influence the business success of SMEs in Kelantan and determine the main contributing factor. This is to ensure that the failure of the business can be reduced, while enhancing the potential for business success. This study identified three (3) factors that contribute to the successful operation of SMEs including Market, Financial Assistance and Environment. A conceptual framework has been developed and questionnaires were prepared based on the aforementioned factors. In addition, there three (3) hypotheses which were designed to reveal the factors that contribute to the successful of SMEs in Kelantan. The three (3) hypotheses were successfully tested with SPSS and all were accepted.
Pdf		Measuring Financial Performance of National Oil and Gas Companies in Southeast Asia Wiwiek Mardawiyah Daryanto^a, Iman Wibisono^b, ^aSekolah Tinggi Manajemen Ipmi, Indonesia, Email: wiwiek.daryanto@ipmi.ac.id , ^bSchool of Business and Management,Institut Teknologi, Indonesia, Email: iman.wibisono@sbm-itb.ac.id , Since the Industrial Revolution, oil and natural gas have played an instrumental role in economic transformation and mobility in everyday life for the majority of the world’s population. However, since mid of 2014, oil prices have dropped almost 50% and this has an impact on the performance of national oil and gas companies (NOCs). This study aims to measure the financial performances of two NOCs in Southeast Asia; Pertamina in Indonesia and Petronas in Malaysia. The data was collected from the audited financial reports of both NOCs for the period 2011 – 2016. The research methodology used was financial ratio analysis, which was classified into profitability, liquidity, activity, and solvency ratios. A comparison with industry benchmarks and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was used to confirm the financial performance and the performance efficiency of related firms. The result shows that Petronas has achieved better financial performance compared to Pertamina. Confirmation uses comparisons with industry benchmarks, revealing that both NOCs overall financial performance were above industry benchmark. However, confirmation using DEA, shows that the most superior performance efficiency is in Pertamina, followed by Petronas. The authors believe that the findings will be helpful for managers who continuously attempt to explore opportunities to provide a higher return.
Pdf		Financial Performance Analysis and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Companies in Indonesia Candraditia Daryanto^a, Wiwiek Mardawiyah Daryanto^b, ^a,bSekolahTinggi Manajemen IPMI, Jakarta, Indonesia, Email: candraditia@ipmi.ac.id^a, wiwiek.daryanto@ipmi.ac.id^b The Government of Indonesia (GOI) started to implement the National Health Insurance or Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional (JKN) program on 1st January, 2014 through its Social Insurance Administration Body or BPJS Kesehatan. This program provides health care and social insurance, including monitoring and controlling the prescriptive drug and medicine costs in Indonesia by recommending the pharmaceutical companies to produce and sell generic drugs which have a relatively low price. Generic drugs are recommended as an alternative to the high price of medicines while ninety percent of the raw materials of drugs are still dependent on imports. The Decree No.KEP-100/MBU/2002 issued by Indonesia Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) on June 2002 provides the mandate of evaluating and rating the financial health of SOEs. This study aims to analyze and evaluate the financial health condition of two pharmaceutical SOEs; 1) Kimia Farma; 2) Bio Farma; and two private companies; 1) Kalbe Farma; 2) Darya Varia. The results of investigating the financial ratios: return on equity (ROE), return on investment (ROI), cash ratio, current ratio (CR), collection period (CP), inventory turnover (ITO), total asset turnover (TATO), total equity to total asset (TETA), are then validated by the decree to conclude the financial health condition of them. The data is collected from Audited Financial Reports for the period of 2010-2017. The results show financial health levels were achieved with rank ratings; 1. Kimia Farma; all AA levels; 2. Bio Farma (AAA for the first three years; and AA for the last five years); 3. Kalbe Farma (AAA for the first six years; and AA for the last two years); and 4. Darya Varia; all AA levels.
Pdf		Organisation Learning Capability in Malaysian SMEs: Exploring Management Commitment, Openness, and Knowledge Transfer as Drivers for Innovation Implementation Noor Hidayah Abu^a, Mohd Fitri Mansor^b, Zakirah Othman^c, ^a,cSchool of Technology Management & Logistics, Universiti Utara Malaysia, ^bSchool of Business Innovation and Technopreneurship, UNIMAP, Email: ^a dayah@uum.edu.my, ^c zakirah@uum.edu.my, ^b fitrimf@unimap.edu.my Small Medium Size Enterprises (SMEs) are vital for facilitating economic growth for developed and developing countries. SMEs are the main vehicle for entrepreneurship, contribute toward employment, society, and political stability, and are pioneers of innovation and competitive power. Besides, SMEs become the main supplier of goods and services to a large industry. However, in reality they are still unaware about the challenges faced by them, such as lack of knowledge, skills, and skills manpower, as well as limited financial resources and insufficient managerial infrastructure. SMEs also do not have abundant resources available for human capital development, which would enable R&D personnel to self-generate new knowledge. Organizational learning capability may serve a great function in innovation activities for SMEs. Therefore, it is important to conduct research that focuses on SMEs in this regard. The main objective of this study was to fill the identified literature gap by exploring organizational learning activities with three established SMEs currently conducting business. In this study, a qualitative method based on interviews was implemented. A total of 3 SMEs was selected. The results of the study revealed that organizational learning capabilities through management commitment, openness, and knowledge transfer can be considered critical factors for SMEs to achieve innovativeness and increase productivity within the organization. This paper is able to enrich the current understanding of organizational learning capabilities through management commitment, openness, and knowledge creation and transfer. A greater understanding of organizational learning contributes to improved organizational practices and as such, ultimately improves SMEs productivity through innovation activities.
Pdf		Assessing the Success Factors of Small Medium Food Entrepreneurship in Small Towns Rohaizah Abd Latif^a, Norhayati Hussin^b, W. Edie Azlie W. Mohd Asri^c, Shahril Nizam Shamsudin^d, ^aFaculty of Business and Technology, UNITAR International University, ^bBerjaya University College, ^c,dSchool of Culinary Arts, UNITAR International University, Corresponding author Email: rohaizahal@unitar.my The purpose of the case study is to assess the internal and external factors that would contribute in terms of internal and external success factors in Small and Medium food Enterprises. The internal and external factors model adopted in this study is based on a study approach by Tahir, M. H and Aman, O; (2011) and Talib, H.H. et al; (2013). The study findings concluded that the measurement of the success factors practiced by the enterprise, included both internal factors: namely leadership, corporate planning, process management, customer focus and quality assurance process while the external factors included government support system and market accessibility. The internal and external factors identified have contributed to ‘n’ the product quality and business performance. The findings indicate that the degree of increase or decrease in the organization’s quality performance was determined by the internal factors and supported by the external factors. Evidently, a strong and consistent internal factor influences the determinant performance factors of the small medium food entrepreneur.
Pdf		Influence of Intrinsic, Extrinsic and Interpersonal Factors on Turnover Intention among Customer Service Executives in Contact Centres in Klang Valley *Hanita Sarah^a, Haliza Mohd Said^b, Syahrazad Md Noha^c, Mazwin Zaba’ia^d, Mohd Amar Mohd Mokhtar^e*, ^a,b,c,dFaculty of Business and Technology, UNITAR International University, ^eUNITAR Foundation School, UNITAR International University, Corresponding author, lizasaid@unitar.my The prime objective of the current study is to investigate the link between TQM, human oriented elements and the organizational performance. Satisfaction, commitment, and loyalty are considered as human oriented elements. The TQM is accessed as a determinate of the organizational performance. In addition to that, the current study has examined the mediating role of human oriented elements in the relationship between TQM and organizational performance in the higher education institutes of Thailand. Structural equation model is employed to analyze the structural model and structural relation among measured and latent variables. It analyzes the direct and indirect association among variables. The SEM-AMOS is used, and the results of the study have provided a great deal of agreement with the hypothesized results. It is evident that the graduates from Thai tertiary institutions are not prepared with the skills with which to exploit and judicially utilize the endowed natural resources in the country. These and other reasons have rendered the attainment of self-reliance and entrepreneurship education among graduates difficult to maintain. This study has focused on the subjective measure of organizational performance including information gathering in problem solving/communication, faculty intellectual pursuits, achievement and development among staff and students, achieving academic excellence through quality adherence and feedback among others. The study which is among pioneering studies will be helpful for policymakers, educationists and researchers and students in understanding the issues in the higher education sector of Thailand.
Pdf		An Empirical Study on AIRBnB Accommodation Services and Customer Decision Making Rohaizah Abd. Latif^a, Saktidevi d/o Subramaniam^b, Rabiha Maya Adiera Ab Rahim^c, Sundari Subasini A/P Nesamany^d, ^a,bFaculty of Business and Technology, UNITAR International University, ^c,dFaculty of Education and Humanities, UNITAR International University, Corresponding author, rohaizahal@unitar.my The purpose of this study is to exhibit and identify the most influencing factors in customer decision making regarding booking personal accommodation discovered online through Airbnb, a sharing platform that associates suppliers of living space with those requiring short-term accommodation. Since its first introduction in 2008, Airbnb has had fast germination that raises questions about its current and future impacts on the traditional accommodation division. An empirical method was adopted in this paper to gather data from Airbnb customers. The method consists of administering a total of 230 online surveys that were completed by customers who had consumed Airbnb services. The findings explain that some factors have fundamental importance in customer decision making process. The primary results recommended that both price value and social interaction are the most notable factors in Airbnb selection. This paper is supported by the concepts of sharing economy, collaborative consumption, peer-to-peer accommodation and customer decision making as the constructs for dependent variables, while price value, social interaction, home benefits and local authenticity are the constructs for the independent variables.
Pdf		The Sharing Economy: Can Registered Homestay Operators Survive the Challenges Ahead? Sarina Mohamad Nor^a, Khairil Wahidin Awang^b, Normazwana Ismail^c, Zaiton Samdine^d, Syamsul Herman Mohammad Afandi^e, ^aFaculty of Business and Technology, Unitar International University, Malaysia, ^bFaculty of Hospitality, Tourism and Wellness, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, ^c,d,eFaculty of Economics and Management, Universiti Putra Malaysia, ^Corresponding author, sarina@unitar.my Can registered homestay operators survive in a sharing economy or will it sink? The peer-to-peer marketplace, collectively known as the sharing economy, for example Airbnb has emerged as an alternative supplier of the conventional accommodation business models overhauling the traditional business concept. This paper explores the disruptive impacts of the sharing economy on MOTAC’S traditional homestay business concept and whether the registered homestay operators in Selangor, Malaysia can survive the challenges ahead. The question of how disruptive a sharing economy is and the effect on MOTAC’s homestay business is a big concern. This study is exploratory in nature, using the snowballing technique of collecting data. A qualitative approach was applied, and the primary data was gathered through field observations and in-depth interviews with selected stakeholders. The results of this study reveal that registered homestay operators suffer from various challenges. Not all registered homestay operators receive sufficient homestay income after a long involvement in MOTAC homestay business which lead more registered homestay operators to withdraw from registration. This study contributes to an in-depth understanding of the factors that impede registered homestay operator’s success in a sharing economy. Therefore, this study not only recommends the importance of collaboration and partnership among tourism stakeholders that enable registered homestay operators to survive the challenges ahead towards sharing economy but also sheds new light on the real effects of the sharing economy and provides important policy implications for policymakers.
Pdf		Consumer’s Repurchase Behavior Intention in Online Shopping: A Malaysian Perspective Hanifah Moksin^a, Kong Ing Fung^b, Siti Nor Bayaah Ahmad^c, Syahida Mohd Nazri^d, ^a,b,cFaculty of Business and Technology, UNITAR International University, ^dFaculty of Education and Humanities, UNITAR International University, Corresponding Author Email: hanifahm@unitar.my The retail industry is going through a transformation largely driven by the influence of digital technology on the shopping experience. The digital age has changed consumer’s purchasing behavior, shifting them away from physical stores to online stores. E-commerce has gained popularity among consumers due to the rapid development of the internet. Earlier studies have shown that perceived risks namely product risk, financial risk, non-delivery risk and convenience risk influence consumers in shopping online. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of perceived risks defined as Perceived Product Risk (PPR), Perceived Financial Risk (PFR), Perceived Convenience Risk (PCR) and Perceived Non-Delivery Risk (PNDR) in online consumer’s repurchase behavior. The online survey using close-ended questionnaire was distributed to two Buy and Sell groups from a famous online social platform, Facebook. A total of 200 valid samples were collected using convenience sampling methodology. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20.0. The findings indicate that Perceived Non-Delivery Risk and Perceived Financial Risk had a moderate impact on Malaysian online consumer’s repurchase behavior while Perceived Product Risk and Perceived Convenience Risk did not have any significant impact on Malaysian online consumer repurchase behavior.
Pdf		Comprehensiveness of Strategic Environmental Scanning Information Systems among 5-Star Hotels in Malaysia Haliza Mohd Said^a, Siti Nor Amira Baharudin^b, Nor Khomar Ishak^c_,* Sayeed Siddiq^d_,Norsafriman Abd Rahman^e, ^a,b,eUNITAR International University,3-01A, Level 2, Tierra Crest, Jalan SS6/3, Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia, ^c,dUniversiti Tun Abdul Razak, Jalan Tangsi, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. *Corresponding Author Email: hanifahm@unitar.my This study explores the comprehensiveness of strategic environmental scanning information practices among 5-star hotels in Malaysia. The purpose of the research is to understand how this activity is conducted, what the processes involved were, who is responsible for conducting, when it is conducted, why the processes are conducted and what types of information were collected. This research used a qualitative approach where data was collected through face to face interviews using semi-structured interview. The results provide a better understanding of the environmental scanning activities in hotels with a particular emphasis on the extent of comprehensiveness of Strategic Environmental Scanning Information systems, structure and processes. This finding also describes the level of depth and breadth of the information collected for the general environment, task environment and specific environment, as part of the initial steps such as identifying information needed and the information source for the strategic environmental scanning information system activities.
Pdf		Personality Figure as Potential Tourism Product: A Case Study in a Public University in Malaysia Amri Bin Ahmad^a, Safiah Rashid^b, Surrayya Binti Rossady^c, Paul Chandra Bose A/L Selvarajoo^d, ^a,bFaculty of Business and Technology, UNITAR International University, ^cFaculty of Hospitality and Tourism, University of Tun Abdul Razak, ^dUNITAR Foundation School, UNITAR International University, Corresponding Author Email: amri@unitar.my The purpose of this research is to explore the potential tourism product in community leadership of professionalism figures as an element of tourist attraction. In this research, data was collected via observation and interviews at one of the public universities in Malaysia focusing on community resources, cultural resources, site analysis, and tourism services and facilities. The study showed that the public university has professional figures which could be promoted as tourist attractions. However, a little enhancement to several aspects is required in order to be attractive as a potential tourism destination and attraction that could be offered to local and foreign tourists. Specifically the target audience could be the academic community whose context includes research and analysis of personality figures from different fields which currently only exists at the university that is the subject of this case study.
Pdf		Community-Based and Traditional Life-Style as Rural Tourism Product Development at Kg Menchali and Kg Rantau Panjang, Rompin, Pahang Safiah Rashid^a, Amri Ahmad^b, Annis Jamaluddin^c_, Arvindan Nayar A/L Prabhakaran^d, ^a,bFaculty of Business and Technology, UNITAR International University, ^cSchool of Culinary Arts, UNITAR International University, ^dUNITAR Foundation School, UNITAR International University, Corresponding Author Email: safiah@unitar.my This paper is a descriptive study of community-based and traditional lifestyle as rural tourism development at Kampung Menchali and Kampung Rantau Panjang in Rompin district, Pahang. This study mainly examines the local communities through their daily routine through ethnographic fieldwork to investigate economic and recreational activities and the methodology applied in this study is ethnography. The analysis of particular areas is based on the six instruments which are described in the theoretical framework. The collection of primary data was by observation and interview; and supporting secondary data was sourced in the literature review comprising analysis of local communities of the particular areas. There are several suggestions offered for new attractions to be developed in these areas for which four tourism packages are proposed to develop these potential rural tourism attractions and destinations.
Pdf		Determinants of Inventory Management: A Case of Military Practices Romiza Md Akhir^a, Abdul Razak Ibrahim^b, Fakhrul Zaman Abdullah^c, Hazezul Razman Othman^d, ^a,b,dFaculty of Business and Technology, UNITAR International University, ^cSulaiman Al Rajhi College, Al-Bukayriyah, 51941 Saudi Arabia, Corresponding Author Email: romiza@unitar.my Inventory management is critical and has long been studied as evidenced widespread academic literature. The problems in inventory management practices have continued to receive much attention in most business and non-profit organisation such as the military as it involves cost and the need to balance between demand and supply. Therefore, efficient inventory management practices are vital in ensuring inventories are enough to satisfy superior demands and customer needs. This research instrument was pilot-tested among 36 respondents to determine validity and reliability. The results were then highlighted in a measurement data table. Questionnaires were again distributed randomly to employees at 91 COD using simple random sampling. There are possible avenues that can be explored in future research regarding inventory management performance in the context of the Malaysian military. It would be interesting to see if future studies will be able to explain whether organisational performance (financial or non-financial) is positively related to current inventory management practices. This research has identified most of the significant factors that affect current inventory management practices in a given setting. The findings regarding when the factors and performance become (non) compensatory will be useful as it is now known which factors are critical and essential for successful execution of inventory management at 91 COD. Future research should also consider whether the outcome, i.e. inventory performance of the Malaysian military is really affected.
Pdf		Development of Wellness-Village Tourism: An Exploratory Study of a Small Town Rohaizah Abd Latif^a, Ahmad Yani Zubir^b, Asra Zaliza Asbollah^c, Erdaizzati Mohd Som^d, ^a,cFaculty of Business and Technology, UNITAR International University, ^bUniversity Putra Malaysia, ^dUNITAR College, Corresponding Author Email: rohaizahal@unitar.my The word ‘wellness’ itself clearly reflects the significant meaning of health and well-being of a human body as well as the mind. From the tourism outlook, the term wellness tourism is concomitant with travel activity or behaviour with the purpose and motivation of maintaining as well as achieving the highest state of wellness of mind, body and soul. In parallel, village or rural tourism is known to be a tourism product that is tucked inside the rustic or pastoral environment, which entails the local community participation, preservation of natural resources and experiencing the richness of the local culture. Moreover, it is deemed to be the most sustainable tourism product. The purpose of this study is to explore wellness-village tourism through the elements of natural and cultural resources through engagement with a semi-structured interview method. The result of this research shows that the above-mentioned elements have significantly influenced the development of the wellness-village tourism concept in the target study area. In short, the outcomes shall make a contribution in terms of understanding the community uniqueness and supporting the development of the study area and the wellness-village tourism industry itself.

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Vol 6 Iss 3