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The world has witnessed the largest single disruption to social wellbeing since the first known case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported in China in December 2019. In Malaysia, the government implemented the Movement Control Order (MCO) on 18 March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, this paper highlights how the Malaysian government responded to COVID-19 in comparison with some Asian countries; and what has and has not worked for the MCO imposed by the government. The paper adopts a review approach that is supported by findings from both grey and academic literature. The findings reveal that the COVID-19 pandemic has significant impacts on the society's wellbeing in Malaysia, the most severe of which are negative mental health and job unemployment. On the other hand, COVID-19 has sparked a surge of volunteering in society. This paper presumably and hopefully represents a frontier review with more empirical research to be conducted to investigate the extent of the social impact of COVID-19, the outcomes of which are a call for re-envisioning of social policies in Malaysia. To the best knowledge of the authors, little empirical research has been conducted to explore the social-wellbeing implications of COVID-19 in Malaysia. By reflecting on the various scenarios—both detrimental and beneficial in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the paper identifies potential avenues for relevant research in the social wellbeing realm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: As the literature reveals contrasting arguments regarding the positive effect of a proactive personality on well-being, this paper aims to investigate the negative consequences of a proactive personality on employee well-being. The paper tests the relationships between a proactive personality, trait competitiveness and well-being. It also examines the mediating effect of job burnout on these relationships. Design/methodology/approach: The data were collected from 213 employees working in the retail sector across Malaysia. AMOS's structural equation modeling was used to test the hypotheses of the study. Findings: Overall, the findings showed that a proactive personality negatively affected employee well-being. Job burnout had a partially mediating effect on this relationship. However, the effect of trait competitiveness on employee well-being was insignificant and the mediating effect of job burnout on this relationship also found no support. Originality/value: The main contributions of this study are twofold. First, this study shows that a proactive personality can have negative repercussions for employee well-being. In contrast to many previous findings on the proactive personality, this study tests and verifies the possibility of an adverse impact of being proactive. Second, this study reveals that job burnout can play a vital role in mediating the adverse effect of a proactive personality on well-being. This suggests that depending on the context, being proactive will not always result in desirable outcomes, especially if job burnout is present. Therefore, organizations need to prepare contingency plans to offset the negative effects of such burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium is a well-known substance to enhance food taste, but the intake must be restricted, especially for patients who require a low-sodium diet. The amount of added salt in cooking can be optimized and controlled by calculating the total sodium in the ingredients used. This process is cumbersome for hospital meal catering, in which food is prepared based on the number of daily orders and specific diets. The existing solution uses a spreadsheet for calculating the amount of sodium, which is vulnerable to errors and not user-friendly. This paper presents a systematic system that can monitor and control the amount of sodium during meal preparation for hospital catering. The system consists of two main parts: a desktop application and an automated salt dispenser. The application keeps track of sodium usage based on the final ingredient list and the meal plan, thus allowing the catering officer to check the feasibility of changing the sodium amount needed for cooking without doing any manual calculations. The application is then integrated with a salt dispenser to ensure the salt amount used in the cooking is as intended. The successful implementation of this system supports Malaysia's 2021-2025 salt reduction strategy to prevent and control Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD). It is also consistent with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, which calls for a global decrease in salt intake of 30%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for gig work is continuously rising with the emergence of online platforms and marketplaces such as Freelancers.com, LinkedIn, Grab, Foodpanda, etc. Although the demand for gig work is growing, the ecosystem of this field does not fully support the welfare and well-being of its workers. The literature discussion is scarce regarding the well-being of Malaysia's gig workers, especially regarding the financial, work-life balance, and workers' protection aspects. This study aims to fill this gap. Our findings indicate that the main motivation for choosing gig work is flexible work hours. The challenges faced by gig workers include the meagre ability to save, and lack of retirement security. No health benefits are present to support the sustainable wellbeing of gig workers. The current policies that help workers during times of need, such as SOCSO and EPF, are always welcome but perceived as optional. Thus, the paper suggests that more policies should be formulated to support the wellbeing of gig workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Fear of losing psychological resources can lead to stress, impacting psychological health and behavioral outcomes like burnout, absenteeism, service sabotage, and turnover. OBJECTIVE: The study examined the impact of job stressors (time pressure, role ambiguity, role conflict) on employee well-being and turnover intentions. The study also investigated the mediating role of employee well-being between job stressors and turnover intention based on the conservation of resources (COR) theory. METHODS: Data from 396 IT executives in Malaysian IT firms were analyzed using the Partial Least Squares - Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique. RESULTS: Results confirmed a significant negative correlation between time pressure (–0.296), role ambiguity (–0.423), role conflict (–0.104), and employee well-being. Similarly, employee well-being showed a significant negative relationship with turnover intentions (–0.410). The mediation analysis revealed that employee well-being mediates the relationship between time pressure (0.121), role ambiguity (0.173), role conflict (0.043), and turnover intentions. CONCLUSION: This paper aims to manifest the importance of designing employee well-being policies by firms to retain employees. Findings reflect the role of the managerial approach towards ensuring employee well-being for employee retention, thereby reducing recruitment and re-training costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The objective of this paper is to examine the level of psychiatric symptoms and associated factors among Thai migrants from the southernmost Thai provinces of Pattani, Yala, and Narithiwat who are working in Malaysia. Comparisons will be made with the sending population in the southernmost provinces of Thailand. Methods: Data are drawn from survey and in-depth interviews with Thai migrants who are working in Malaysia. Comparisons are made with a probability sample of working age adults in Thailand. The twenty item Self Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ) was the measure of mental health. Results: The study found that the migrants, on average, have normal levels of psychiatric symptoms. However, although about 24% of migrants reported more eight or more symptoms that may indicate a need for evaluation. There are many stressors in their lives including distance from families, reduced social support, legal matters surrounding immigration, and discrimination/exploitation of migrant groups. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for policy makers and non-governmental organizations to give attention to migrants' mental health, well-being and sustainable livelihoods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reported the quality of life (QoL) of 260 Malaysian parents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and factors which influencing it. About half of these parents reported to having good QoL. The factors identified in the double ABCX model showed that perceived social support and sense of coherence (SOC) were mediated by coping strategies and had a positive direct and indirect effect on parents' QoL. These finding reiterate the importance of social support, coping skills, and strong SOC reflection skills in influencing the QoL of parents with ASD child. We therefore suggest parents to utilize the widely available social and organization supports to gain good QoL, which is also important for the wellbeing of their child. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autism spectrum disorder or ASD is a lifelong developmental disorder typified by impairment of social interaction, communication deficits, and repetitive behaviour. The number of children diagnosed with ASD is currently increasing globally, including in Malaysia. As the main caregiver for these children, parents face challenges due to their children's demanding situation. The rising prevalence of ASD go together with the continuous endeavours to understand and support parents in meeting challenges related to their child's ASD. While fathers nowadays are generally more involved in raising children, many research focus on parenting ASD children remain to be inclined toward mothers' experiences. This paper aims to provide an understanding on the challenges encountered by fathers with their special children. A purposive and snowball sampling of three fathers of children (aged 7 to 14 years old) with ASD participated in an in-depth face-to-face semi-structured interview. Data were transcribed and analysed using the thematic analysis method. The fathers narrated that the challenges they have encountered include: Understanding the child-specific behaviours; accepting the diagnosis; encountering phase-based temporal challenges; finding strength and patience; handling endless physical, emotional and financial sacrifices; and reflecting on religion matters. This study has identified parental challenges associated with autistic children that can serve as the foundation of the children's well-being and positive development as the experience of parents impacts parents themselves too. Additionally, findings have also highlighted the coping strategies utilised by the fathers to ensure they stay rational, stable, sensible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the state of subjective well-being (SWB), living and social environment of the displaced community in Putrajaya, Malaysia. The study also explores the determinants of SWB through a survey of 141 households and interviews. The results show that almost half of the household heads have low SWB. The community faces disadvantages in terms of physical living conditions, neighbourhood environment and financial stability. SWB has been shown to correlate strongly with social networks such as family and neighbourhood relationships. In addition, long-term financial stability (rather than income) and a stable living environment contribute significantly to higher SWB. We argue that more prudent policies to promote the well-being of the displaced community are needed to achieve the inclusive development that the government seeks. In particular, intervention programmes are crucial to improve the social network, living conditions and financial stability of the displaced community. The study contributes to uncovering the lack of comprehensive knowledge on the problems of SWB, especially regarding the development of the displaced community, to generate policy insights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although participation in paid work improves women's quality of life and well-being, the health benefits decline for women with young children. Implementing family-friendly work conditions is one strategy for improving working women's well-being, especially those with competing unpaid work responsibilities. Objective: This study investigated the extent to which accessibility and use of 11 specific family-friendly work conditions were associated with physical health, anxiety and depression in Malaysian women with young children. Design: A cross-sectional design using a retrospective self-complete, anonymous, online survey was conducted between March and October 2021. Methods: Women with a child aged 5 years or less (N = 190) completed an online survey measuring their exposure (availability and use) to 11 specific family-friendly work conditions, and their physical health, anxiety, and depression. The sample included women who were currently and recently working and with both formal and informal employment. Results: After accounting for potential confounders, women who used paid maternity leave have a lower likelihood of having anxiety symptoms. Conclusion: Future research is needed to extend the findings from this study by over-sampling women who are informally employed and not currently working. Policy creation and development processes, including research and decision-making, should be led by and inclusive of women. For example, research funding could be allocated to 'lived experience' research that privileges the co-design of research with consumers. Based on these findings, the extent to which family-friendly work conditions fulfill their intent to improve the well-being for working women requires further critique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community-based ecotourism enables community participation to achieve effective sustainable management while also fostering environmental well-being and community development. Fraser's Hill is a well-known ecotourism travel destination located in the Pahang state highlands in Malaysia. This study aims to examine the impact of development on the community's quality of life living in the vicinity of Fraser's Hill and contribute to the continuous move towards sustainable ecotourism. This study utilises the descriptive analysis approach to analysis to find the basic static value. A total of 60 respondents, including residents and guests in the area, were randomly chosen to collect data by the structured interview method. Positive and negative experiences were identified from an analysis of the expressive dimensions of the respondents. The study's findings demonstrate that several development accomplishments have decreased the fragile ecosystem to a specific degree. Moreover, there is an absence of community well-being in ecotourism exercises in the Fraser's Hill area. Most importantly, Fraser's Hill's development is appropriate; in any case, the community's understanding of the development is minimal. Holistic endeavours ought to be made for the community's well-being to share in the activities related to ecotourism in this highland location. This study will assist policymakers in three ways: to expand environmental understanding for sustainable development, to motivate the local community in community-based ecotourism, and to increase economic, social, and cultural benefits among inhabitants. These benefits encourage people in the community to get involved with community-based ecotourism, which helps both tourists and locals keep the environment safe and develop the local economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) is a chronic functional disorder where treatment should be tailored to the individual needs. While customized therapy with a physiotherapist has evidence-based benefits, it comes at a cost and the facility may not be available to some, especially in rural areas. An alternative option is a home-based treatment called MEND (Move, Eye, Neck stretching, and Deep breathing exercises) therapy. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of MEND therapy in PPPD compared to the hospital-based vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT). Methods: 59 PPPD patients completed the randomized-controlled study comparing MEND therapy (intervention) and hospital-based VRT (control). EuroQOL Group quality of life questionnaire (EQ-5D), Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), and 21-question Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) were monitored at baseline, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks. Results: At the end of the study, 100% patients on MEND therapy found it beneficial compared to 79.3% in the control group. The MEND therapy provided significant improvements in the physical (P = .007), functional (P = .0006), emotional (P = .0003), and total DHI (P = .0003) with a medium to large effect size. The control group showed significant improvement only in the functional elements of DHI (P = .04), and total DHI (P = .04) with a small to medium effect size. Conclusion: The MEND therapy is an effective option that incorporates all elements of therapy for PPPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stigmatisation is considered a 'second illness' for people with a mental illness and is highly prevalent in Malaysia. Stigmatisation negatively impacts wellbeing, recovery and productivity. Addressing stigmatisation is integral towards people attaining a higher quality of life. Aim: To explore mental illness stigmatisation in Malaysian adults. Method: A systematic literature review was conducted using thematic analysis to synthesise and categorise evidence. Five key themes emerged, providing insight into mental health stigmatisation. Findings: Cultural beliefs, limited knowledge of mental health and lack of education on mental health were factors influencing stigmatisation. Stigmatisation significantly affected the wellbeing and functioning of people with a mental illness. Interventions such as contact-based education effectively reduce stigmatising attitudes manifested by healthcare providers. Conclusion: Establishing mental health literacy, encouraging patient contact, promoting mental health awareness and strengthening mental health policies could reduce mental illness stigmatisation and its impact in Malaysia. Future research is warranted to investigate the impact on physical wellbeing and anti-stigmatising strategies targeting the general public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective - This study aims to investigate the relationship between spirituality and restoration in the public sector workplace of civil officials in Malaysia, specifically through the lens of emotional intelligence. The primary objective is to enhance the understanding of emotional wellness among government employees, addressing it as a crucial mental health concern in the context of workplace dynamics. Methodology/Technique - The study utilizes a comprehensive literature review to identify and extract relevant information on emotional wellness, with a specific emphasis on spirituality and recovery. Data collection involves exploring the experiences and perspectives of civil servants through surveys and structured assessments. Findings - The study anticipates shedding light on the intricate relationship between emotional intelligence, spirituality, and restoration in the workplace. By examining existing literature and conducting quantitative analyses, the research aims to provide insights into the specific ways in which spirituality and access to green spaces contribute to emotional wellness. The findings are expected to highlight the importance of integrating these elements into workplace strategies for government employees. This research contributes to the field by emphasizing the role of spirituality and nature in mitigating emotional disturbances among civil servants. The incorporation of therapeutic nature experiences is a novel approach to addressing mental health issues in the workplace. Novelty - The study also explores the concept of self-attachment to nature as a means of alleviating emotional disturbances and fostering a deeper connection with spirituality. By linking emotional wellness to these factors, the research introduces innovative strategies for enhancing the mental welfare of government employees, ultimately contributing to the broader discourse on workplace well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issue of food security has garnered worldwide interest in light of growing apprehensions regarding population increase and climate change on a global scale. Therefore, this review examines the intricate relationship between public expenditures, food security, the sustainability of fish availability, and the overall welfare of Malaysian fishery communities. Given that the fishing industry is a crucial source of sustenance and income for these communities, it is essential to comprehend the intricate relationships between public financial allocations, food security, and sustainable fishing practises. Through a comprehensive synthesis of existing literature, data analysis, and policy evaluations, this review study sheds light on the complex relationships between public expenditures, food security, fish availability sustainability, and the overall well-being of Malaysian fishing communities. The findings of the review disclose the ripple effects of increased food security and sustainable fish availability on the general welfare of fishing communities. It recognises that when public expenditures effectively resolve food security issues, fishing communities experience improved physical health, decreased hunger vulnerability, and increased economic stability. These positive outcomes not only contribute to the immediate well-being of community members, but they also foster social cohesion and pave the way for long-term development. This study seeks to guide policymakers, stakeholders, and practitioners towards informed decision-making that fosters resilient fishing communities, ensures food security, and promotes the sustainable use of marine resources. The study will further help the policy makers to develop strategy to improve the sustainability of fish and the wellbeing of fishing community in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaysia, just like all the other developed countries, is steadily moving towards becoming an aged population. The United Nations sets those above 60 years as older persons, Doris, et. al. (1) reclassified into 4 categories. Chan et. al. (2) discloses that 50% of Malaysian elderly are inactive. This paper narrows into the elderly Malaysian Indian population. An online survey was conducted and the results show that changes in lifestyle and living arrangements have caused challenges and also caused changes in the social support system while the socioeconomic status (gender, education, income, strata) has an impact on the wellbeing of elderly Malaysian Indians. This means that in future, a more secure family system needs to be ensured despite living in urban or rural areas that are well connected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Young adults face many significant challenges to their financial well-being. The rising cost of living and unstable economies have impacted how they consume, manage, and save monthly income to maintain their standard of living. Hence, exploring the financial well-being of young adults in Malaysia is an intriguing and relevant research topic that deserves examination from multiple perspectives. This study aims to investigate how these three factors, namely financial knowledge and locus of control with financial behaviour as a mediator, are correlated with the financial well-being of low-income young adults in Malaysia. A total of 520 young adults from North, Central, South, East zones in Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia were randomly chosen using a multi-stage sampling technique as the sample of this study. Data in this study were obtained using a set of questionnaire-based survey through cross-sectional study and then scrutinized using IBM SPSS (Statistical Package of Social Science). This study discovered that financial knowledge, internal and external locus of control, and financial behaviour were significantly correlated with the financial well-being of low-income young adults. The findings also demonstrate that financial behaviour mediates the correlation between financial knowledge, both internal and external locus of control, and financial well-being. This study is one of the very few important studies that explore the link between financial literacy, locus of control, financial behaviour, and financial well-being among low-income young adults. This study also found an interesting and noteworthy fact regarding the impact of the minimum monthly wage policy on highly educated young adults in Malaysia, which is worth discussing and needs to be alerted to the policymakers and leaders of the country. Therefore, the findings of this study can be utilized as a starting point by policymakers, government organizations, and non-governmental organizations to create new initiatives aimed at raising financial well-being among the younger generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rising prevalence of mental health disorders among children is a serious concern. Young children who exhibit early warning signs of mental health issues are more likely to develop symptoms in the same or overlapping regions years later. The research aimed to identify emotional and behavioural problems and associated factors in Malaysian preschools. A sample of young children aged 4–6 years from public and private preschools was chosen using a multistage random sampling method. Data were collected from 18 preschools via a parent survey using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). The sample involved 557 children in the SDQ assessment (92%). The overall estimated prevalence of emotional and behavioural problems was 8.4%. Peer problems were the most prevalent attribute, with a percentage of 19.7%. Conduct problems were found in 5.2%, hyperactivity problems in 5.6%, prosocial behaviours in 13.5%, and emotional problems in 6.8%. Girls showed a significant increase in behavioural and emotional problems compared to boys. Having one parent working, having more than two siblings, and having a single-parent family were associated with emotional and behavioural problems. The prevalence of emotional and behavioural problems in Malaysian children was relatively low compared to data from previous studies and other Asian countries but consistent with European studies. Measuring mental health disparities in young children helps stakeholders launch local early intervention programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Employee well-being in a casino work environment is crucial for the quality of work-life and employees' performance. This study examines the dimensions of well-being at a casino in Malaysia to gain deeper insights into employee challenges and motivational factors to arrive at practical mitigation efforts. Design/methodology/approach: The study adopted a qualitative approach involving 14 semi-structured interviews with casino employees in Malaysia. Interviews lasted 30 min to 2 h at a time when Covid-19 was raging in 2021. Responses were analysed via a data-driven approach and coded using NVivo software to delineate the contents into analytical categories of well-being dimensions. Findings: The findings suggest that employees at the casino face challenges in achieving work-life balance. Employee's well-being suffers from insufficient break time, irregular working hours affecting family time, managing customer temper tantrums and lack of emotional support systems and remunerations altered by the pandemic. Women employees were particularly vulnerable. Research limitations/implications: The findings suggest a need to create better working conditions and address well-being with counselling support for stress management, a balanced approach by employers to the "customer is always right" mantra, creating promising career pathways and supervisors to have better oversight of workaholics. The research focused only on one casino and there was limited access to management departments for an organizational perspective. Originality/value: This study adds to the body of knowledge on employee well-being in the context of a casino. It suggests hospitality and tourism organizations review their human resource practices that would ease the stresses at the workplace and create support systems to promote employee well-being. Crucially, in a pandemic crisis, well-being dimensions must be accommodating and integrative to employee sentiments, sensitivity and self-actualization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Good agricultural practice (GAP) helps increase productivity by producing fresh fruit bunches (FFBs), and selling FFBs will increase Independent Smallholders' (ISH) income. However, although GAP promotes increased productivity, the effectiveness of GAP in delivering the well-being of the ISH in oil palm production areas remains to be determined. To that end, this study (i) measures the smallholder's well-being index, (ii) compares the well-being index by states in Malaysia, and (iii) maps the relationship between GAP implementation, productivity, and well-being. The study selected respondents using purposive sampling (PS). PS identifies and selects individuals with Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification and knowledge and experience of GAP. As a result, the research interviewed 564 ISHs with MSPO certification from 162 Sustainable Palm Oil Clusters (SPOC). The study used Principal Components Analysis (PCA) and the Structural Equation Model (SEM) framework to achieve the objectives. The study found that the average ISH well-being index was 0.62, and ISHs in Sabah had the highest well-being, with 0.73 compared to other states. The study also found that GAP influences productivity and is positively and significantly related to well-being. Therefore, it indicates to ISHs and the government the importance of GAP implementation to increase ISHs' productivity and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neoliberal globalization contributes to the out-migration of labour from sending countries in the global South. Supported by multilateral organizations including the IMF and World Bank, the migration and development nexus holds that nations and households in migrant sending countries can migrate their way out of poverty. Two countries that embrace this paradigm, the Philippines and Indonesia, are major suppliers of migrant labour including domestic workers, and Malaysia is a primary destination country. Theory and methods: We deployed a multi-scalar and intersectional lens to highlight the impact of global forces and policies, interacting with constructions of gender and national identity, to explore the health and wellbeing of migrant domestic workers in Malaysia. In addition to documentary analysis, we conducted face-to-face interviews with 30 Indonesian and 24 Filipino migrant domestic workers, five representatives from civil society organizations, three government representatives, and four individuals engaged in labour brokerage and the health screening of migrant workers in Kuala Lumpur. Results: Migrant domestic workers in Malaysia work long hours in private homes and are not protected by labour laws. Workers were generally satisfied with their access to health services; however, their intersectional status, which is both an outcome of, and contextualized by, the lack of opportunities in their own country, prolonged familial separation, low wages, and lack of control in the workplace, contributed to stress and related disorders—which we regard as the embodied manifestation of their migratory experiences. Migrant domestic workers eased these ill effects through self-care, spiritual practices, and the embrace of gendered values of self-sacrifice for the family as a form of solace. Conclusions: Structural inequities and the mobilization of gendered values of self-abnegation underpin the migration of domestic workers as a development strategy. While individual self-care practices were used to cope with the hardships of their work and family separation, these efforts did not remedy the harms nor redress structural inequities wrought by neoliberal globalization. Improvements in the long-term health and wellbeing of Indonesian and Filipino migrant domestic workers in Malaysia cannot focus solely on the preparation and maintenance of healthy bodies for productive labour, but must attend to workers' attainment of adequate social determinants of health, which challenges the migration as development paradigm. Neo-liberal policy instruments such as privatization, marketisation and commercialization of migrant labour have led to both host and home countries benefitting, but at the expense of the migrant domestic workers' well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enforced lockdowns and social distancing measures associated with COVID-19 may have influenced older adults' preferences towards their homes and neighborhoods as well as social spaces. One objective of this research is to determine whether home and neighborhood environments ("first place") affect how satisfied older adults are with their lives during the epidemic. This study also examined the extent to which social spaces that exist in the virtual world ("online third places") affect older adults' life satisfaction when they would have to practice risk-averse behaviors in times of pandemic. To collect data, this study analyzed the responses of 500 active older adults and conducted in-depth interviews with seven older adults who served as neighborhood leaders in Klang Valley, Malaysia. The study found that there is a direct relationship between older adults' satisfaction with their current housing and their overall life satisfaction during the pandemic. Similarly, having a quality neighborhood nearby increases the likelihood of living a satisfied life during the pandemic. Most online third parties, with the exception of instant messaging apps, do not appear to provide older adults with an adequate platform to interact with their friends, participate in social networking, and join communities for emotional support during the pandemic. The findings and recommendations of this study would be very useful in developing effective interventions to promote aging in place during the coronavirus outbreak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: The first objective of this study is to analyze whether financial behavior (FB), financial stress (FS), financial literacy (FINLIT) and the locus of control (LOC) influence subjective financial well-being (SFWB) among low-income households in Malaysia. The second objective is to investigate whether the use of digital financial services (DFS) moderates the influence of FB and FS, on SFWB. Design/methodology/approach: Motivated by the literature on transformative service research (TRS), this study examines how the use of DFS impact SFWB among low-income households in Malaysia. Low-income households are chosen as they are more likely to be financially excluded and lack financial knowledge and skills. Using an interviewer-administered survey, trained enumerators collected data from 1,948 low-income households in Malaysia, selected using a two-stage sampling based on the National Household Sampling Frame obtained from the Department of Statistics Malaysia. Findings: Results reveal that SFWB is positively influenced by FB and the LOC, and is negatively impacted by FS and FINLIT. The evidence shows that the use of DFS counterintuitively weakened the strength of the relationship between FB and SFWB, but effectively reduced the adverse effect of FS on SFWB. Practical implications: To reverse the signs of relationship, financial services marketers need to identify the specific types of DFS that low-income households use in order to provide targeted marketing efforts and financial education to promote the use of DFS on a more holistic basis to increase financial well-being. Originality/value: The findings of this study add to the body of knowledge deliberating on the opposing effects of technology on consumers' welfare and well-being. This study focuses on the lower-income stratum of Malaysian households as this group of the population is more likely to be financially excluded and have deficiencies in financial knowledge and skills. Findings of this study show that DFS use can actually diminish the positive impact of FB on SFWB while reducing the adverse effect of FS on SFWB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With planetary health gaining traction as a global movement and problem-solving approach, this trans-disciplinary field is well-placed to provide an exciting and dynamic platform to promote engagement with young people. Previous studies have shown that although there is great energy and passion from youth, the global planetary health community struggles in sustaining young people's motivations and engagement in today's crowded physical and online environments. Planetary health advocates are also dealing with an increase in climate anxiety that has taken a toll on the emotional and mental wellbeing of young people. Here, we review our experience in engaging youth groups and networks in Malaysia through a four-pronged approach (consultation, facilitation, capacity-sharing, and evidence-building), as well as challenges commonly faced by the planetary health community in educating and building a youth movement. After a year of engagement, we found that mobilising the next generation of planetary health leaders requires a change in existing power dynamics to a capacity-sharing model, an emphasis on clear, simplified, and effective communications that utilise the mainstream youth spaces (e.g., social media), and hopeful messages to counter apathy and anxiety into action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extant research in Western countries have indicated that children's well‐being may be influenced by children's own resilience, parent–child attachment, and parental marital relationship. Yet, there is very little research in Malaysia on how these factors may influence well‐being among children in middle childhood. The aim of this study, therefore, was to explore the relationships among children's self‐efficacy—a resilience factor—and well‐being, parental marital relationship, and parent–child attachment style. The study used a quantitative, cross‐sectional survey method. Participants were 955 Malay‐Malaysian children aged 11 years from intact families. They responded to a questionnaire on demographic background, self‐efficacy, well‐being, parental harmony and conflict, and parent–child attachment style. Moderated mediation analysis indicated that (i) parental harmony was a significant mediator for the relationship between children's self‐efficacy and well‐being; (ii) parental conflict was not a significant mediator for the relationship between children's self‐efficacy and well‐being; and (iii) parent–child attachment style was a significant moderator for the relationship between children's self‐efficacy and well‐being. These findings are discussed within the frameworks of optimal child development and family relationship. These findings may also inform policies such as Malaysia's Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) and National Family Policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article unveils the voices of the international students of the Universiti Sains Malaysia by exploring their belongingness and community well‐being in Malaysia. This study was conducted with 14 international students (seven males and seven females) studying at the Universiti Sains Malaysia for at least a year. A qualitative approach was employed using in‐depth case interviews to examine the socio‐cultural challenges they experienced while studying abroad. The specific challenges reported among the international students are their well‐being in distinct aspects such as physical, mental, and emotional. This study seeks to explore the international students' reliability on conational communities for social support. When achieving belongingness with their conational friends, international students can flourish well in their current community in Malaysia, thus achieving social community well‐being although they are far away. Besides maintaining established close friendships, the international students develop a sense of comfort and familiarity by forming new friendships with conational and other international students. Sharing similar backgrounds and nationalities, as well as experiences and struggles, are significant for international students in maintaining close friendships and situational harmony. This study highlighted the meaning behind physical and emotional distance, as well as the situation of "being temporarily abroad" and its relations to intimacy practices and belongingness in close friendships. The results presented in this article contribute to an increasing understanding of international students' challenges and the future of social harmony and community well‐being while temporarily living in Malaysia. Correspondingly, as a result of this study, students will be more deferential of cultural differences and cross‐cultural sensitivity, which will also help to decrease prejudice and discrimination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) have an increased risk of psychological distress. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine factors associated with psychological burden, quality of life (QoL) and patient satisfaction among adults living with CSU. Participants completed the self-administered Urticaria Activity Score-7 (UAS-7), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS 21), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and Short Assessment Patient Satisfaction (SAPS) questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the independent predictors of depression, anxiety, stress, QoL and patient satisfaction. From a total of 115 subjects with a median age of 42.6 years, range (19–89 years). 60.9% subjects reported moderate-to-severe CSU, 26.1% reported symptoms of depression, 54.8% had anxiety, 40.0% had stress, and 36.5% reported severely impaired QoL. The median UAS-7 score was 20 (IQR 11–27) while the median score of DLQI was 8 (IQR 4–13). The median score of SAPS was 20 (IQR 17–21). Low-income and severe disease were the significant predictors for depression while severe disease was predictive of impaired QoL and depression. Subjects who were diagnosed at older ages and those who required medical leave due to flares of CSU were less likely to be satisfied with their care. (192 words) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poverty in small-scale fisheries is a global issue; most of the time, the solution to poverty is discussed through economic variables. Scholars highlight the contribution of social capital factors to the livelihoods of small-scale fishing communities and suggest that social aspects can be used as an alternative solution to reduce poverty. The concept of social capital has been extensively used to explain the relationship between social capital factors and wellbeing. The role of social capital in the well-being of small-scale fisher communities in Malaysia needs to be clarified. The current study investigates the contribution of various livelihood assets to the household income of small-scale fishers in Malaysia. Data for the survey were collected from 182 respondents from across multiple fishing villages on Langkawi Island, off the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, using a structured questionnaire. The partial least square (PLS) technique was applied for statistical analysis. The study’s empirical findings depict that social capital, trust, job experience, and financial capital are important factors contributing to fishers' household income. The results show that the contribution of social capital and trust factors are significant to household income, indicating that social factors are essential in improving the well-being of small-scale fisher households in Malaysia. Policy for livelihood improvement of small-scale fisheries in Malaysia needs to prioritise investments in financial, human, natural and physical capital assets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rising number of elderlies has brought several issues forward, particularly pertaining to care and support. Children are expected to be the primary source of support for the elderly and provide them with physical, social, and financial support to show that they are indebted to their parents. This concept is called "kenang budi." The concept is prevalent in the Malay Muslim culture in Malaysia. This study examines the types of support given by the children in the practice of the "kenang budi" concept by analyzing the data gathered from 327 elderly in Pahang, Malaysia, using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The results demonstrate that the concept is practiced by several acts of service, such as providing health support and care, aiding them financially, preparing daily necessities, maintaining good contact, and taking them to places such as mosques and festival shows. Since children's support is pertinent for the well-being of the elderly, the concept of "kenang budi" is appropriate in ensuring the children's continuous support and providing a chance for the children to care for and be responsible for the elderly. This article highlights the element of "kenang budi" (literally, in English, grateful) in the Malay community, especially in the context of doing a good or responsible attitude towards elderly parents, similar to the concept of filial piety practiced in Chinese society in Southeast Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary healthcare workers (PHCWs) are at the frontline of dealing with viral pandemics. They may experience significant psychological stresses, which have hitherto not been examined in depth. We aimed to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the psychological health and wellbeing of frontline PHCWs in Malaysia. Method: We purposively recruited PHCWs with diverse backgrounds in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Using longitudinal qualitative methods, we conducted two sequential semi-structured telephone interviews, 3 to 4 weeks apart, to capture different stages of the pandemic. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically. Result: Twenty-one PHCWs participated yielding a total of forty-two interviews. Themes clustered around stressors associated with work, home, and leisure activities, emotional changes, and modifying factors. In the first interviews, COVID-19 had just started in Malaysia. Participants expressed fear about the actual and perceived personal risk of COVID-19 infection. Most were worried about transmitting COVID-19 to their family members. Some felt stigmatized because of this perceived risk of infection. By the second interviews, participants felt safer, but instead focused on the need to keep other people safe. Participants’ emotions were influenced by their perceived risk of contracting COVID- 19 infection. Internal factors such as religion enabled them to manage their concerns and develop personal coping strategies. Support from family members, colleagues, and employers promoted wellbeing during the pandemic. Training sessions, daily roll calls, and psychological support services were important in maintaining their psychological health and wellbeing. Many participants were hopeful and believed normalcy would return by the end of 2020. Conclusion: PHCW’s psychological health and wellbeing evolved throughout the early stages of the pandemic and were influenced by their perceived risk of contracting the disease and personal belief structures. Clear updates on the disease and strategies for keeping safe at work and socially are essential to maintaining PHCWs’ psychological health and wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traditional, complementary and alternative medicine (TCAM) is used to treat a broad range of conditions. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), TCAM use is particularly common among those with low socio-economic status. To better understand the patterns and impact of TCAM use on the management of non-communicable diseases in these populations, this study examines the prevalence and characteristics of TCAM use for hypertension, its determinants, and its association with hypertension management outcomes and wellbeing among low-income adults in two Southeast Asian countries at different levels of economic and health system development, Malaysia and the Philippines. Methods: We analysed cross-sectional data from 946 randomly selected adults diagnosed with hypertension from low-income rural and urban communities in Malaysia (n = 495) and the Philippines (n = 451). We compared the prevalence, characteristics and household expenditure on TCAM use between countries and used multi-level, mixed-effects regression to estimate associations between TCAM use and its determinants, and five hypertension management outcomes and wellbeing. Results: The prevalence of TCAM use to manage hypertension was higher in the Philippines than in Malaysia (18.8% vs 8.8%, p < 0.001). Biologically-based modalities, e.g. herbal remedies, were the most common type of TCAM used in both countries, mainly as a complement, rather than an alternative to conventional treatment. Households allocated around 10% of health spending to TCAM in both countries. Belief that TCAM is effective for hypertension was a positive predictor of TCAM use, while belief in conventional medicine was a negative predictor. TCAM use was not strongly associated with current use of medications for hypertension, self-reported medication adherence, blood pressure level and control, or wellbeing in either country. Conclusions: A small, but significant, proportion of individuals living in low-income communities in Malaysia and the Philippines use TCAM to manage their hypertension, despite a general lack of evidence on efficacy and safety of commonly used TCAM modalities. Recognising that their patients may be using TCAM to manage hypertension will enable health care providers to deliver safer, more patient-centred care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indigenous people of Malaysia are a heterogeneous community scattered over more than 852 villages in Peninsular Malaysia. This community has been identified as socioeconomically and culturally poor and marginalized in Peninsular Malaysia. Therefore, the study aims to examine the well-being and create well-being indices of the Indigenous people. This study employed Alkire and Foster's multidimensional poverty index (MPI) to create the well-being indices by using primary data. The finding revealed that Indigenous people are likely to remain poor due to insufficient access to basic education and lack of employment opportunities. The well-being index showed that females are more deprived than males and Indigenous people living in rural areas are better off compared to those living in urban and sub-urban areas. The study suggests that there is a need to combat low education levels and the government should introduce a community-based education system and mobile health clinics for Indigenous people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the factors affecting workplace well-being in building construction projects. The objectives of this study are (1) to investigate the critical factors for workplace well-being in building construction projects, (2) to compare the critical factors between large enterprises (LEs) and small-medium enterprises (SMEs), and (3) to compare the critical factors between high-rise building construction projects and non-high-rise building construction projects. Data from 21 semi-structured interviews with construction industry professionals in Malaysia and a systematic literature review were used to develop a potential list of factors. Then, the factors were used to create a survey that was distributed to industry professionals. Data from 205 valid responses were analyzed using mean score ranking, normalization, the Kruskal–Wallis test, and overlap analysis. Fourteen critical factors were determined, including salary package, working hours, project progress, planning of the project, workers' welfare, relationship between top management and employees, timeline of salary payment, working environment, employee work monitoring, communication between workers, insurance for construction worker, general safety and health monitoring, collaboration between top management and employee, and project leadership. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by identifying the critical factors for improving workplace well-being. The study findings allow researchers and practitioners to develop strategies to promote workplace well-being in building construction projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective - The World Health Organization claims that in almost every nation, including Malaysia, the number of persons over 60 rises more quickly than in any other age group. A significant worry for health and quality of life is how to mature successfully and accept well-being. Considerable interest is also being shown in well-being-related topics. As a result, this study will look at the social variables, such as social networks, social support, and social activities, that can significantly boost elderly wellbeing. Methodology/Technique - Using purposive sampling techniques, 200 structured questionnaires were distributed to Malaysian seniors ages 60 and above. However, only 150 usable questionnaires were completed. This work examined the research model using partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Findings -- The results show that social networks significantly influence elderly well-being. However, no significant correlations were discovered between social activities, social support, and elderly well-being. Furthermore, the research model explains 63.1% of the substantial variation in elderly well-being. This study used the social theory of aging to comprehend the social elements that affect the well-being of the elderly. Novelty - The health of Malaysia's senior population has long-term economic and social advantages, making this study crucial. As a result, it needs to be significantly upgraded and improved by putting applicable rules and standards in place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homelessness has long been recognized as a worldwide problem that affects the poorest people in both developed and developing countries. Homelessness affects thousands of people in Malaysia, regardless of their age group, race, education, professions, and geographical regions. All aspects of the human experience are significantly influenced by human needs that promote well-being. However, for the homeless people, basic needs such as food, water, healthcare, education, and even shelters have often been difficult to be met. The study aims to investigate the factors contributing to the well-being of homelessness. The study employed a quantitative method using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) and data was collected using purposive sampling from 102 respondents from the city of Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia. Findings indicate that social relationships and skills have a significant influence on the well-being of homeless people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The uptake of risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) in Asian countries is variable despite being the most effective option for ovarian cancer risk reduction in BRCA mutation carriers. Exploration of factors which may impact the RRSO decision-making of BRCA mutation carriers from Malaysia, a developing country in Southeast Asia, was undertaken. Methods: In-depth interviews with 28 Malaysian BRCA mutation carriers with a history of breast cancer were conducted in addition to observing their RRSO decision-making consultations in the clinic. Results: The decision-making considerations among the carriers were centered around the overarching theme of "Negotiating cancer risk and womanhood priorities," with the following themes: (1) risk perception, (2) self-preservation, (3) motherhood obligation, and (4) the preciousness of marriage. Cognitive knowledge of BRCA risk was often conceptualized based on personal and family history of cancer, personal beliefs, and faith. Many women reported fears that RRSO would affect them physically and emotionally, worrying about the post-surgical impact on their motherhood responsibilities. Nevertheless, some reported feeling obliged to choose RRSO for the sake of their children. For some, their husband's support and approval were critical, with emotional well-being and sexuality reportedly perceived as important to sustaining married life. Despite reporting hesitancy toward RRSO, women's decisions about choosing this option evolved as their priorities changed at different stages of life. Conclusions: Recognizing during clinic encounters with Malaysian women that RRSO decision-making involves negotiating the likelihood of developing cancer with the societal priorities of being a woman, mother, and wife may serve to support their decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engineers are very driven to go up the career tree, and they aim for psychological achievement. Nevertheless, the struggle between fulfilling the company's work demands and having their ambitions and expectations affected their well-being. In Malaysia, engineers are reported as one of the groups of unhappy employees. Consequently, this research examines the impact of proactive career management behaviours (PCMB) on the personal well-being of Malaysian engineers. The current research involved 387 registered professional engineers from a variety of fields and businesses. The hypotheses were tested via a path analysis using PLS. The findings indicated a positive effect of PCMB on individual well-being. Employers and industries may use the results to incentivise their unlicensed engineers to enroll as graduates and to pursue careers as professional engineers. For that reason, people will see their work as significant, thus increasing their work satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Literature on adolescent development has shown that parenting practices have positive relationships with adolescents' life satisfaction. Adolescents' life satisfaction improves when they have parents low in psychological control who uphold reciprocal self-disclosure in their communication. Guan parenting was found to correlate positively with adolescents' development. Therefore, it is methodologically important to replicate the investigation on the relationship between adolescents' life satisfaction and Guan parenting. Literature suggests that filial piety is shaped by parenting practices and adolescents who perceived intense parental concern, care, and involvement tend to uphold filial piety and express gratitude toward parents which may promote the adolescents' life satisfaction. In this study, mediation analysis was done to elucidate the relationship among parents' guan parenting style, filial piety, and life satisfaction on 606 adolescents (Mage=15.07; SDage=1.03; 52.1% females) in Malaysia. The adolescents were sampled through cluster sampling, and data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. The results showed positive relationship between paternal and maternal guan parenting with filial piety and adolescents' life satisfaction. Greater parents' filial piety was linked to higher life satisfaction among adolescents. Findings from the mediation models indicated the association among guan parenting with filial piety, gratitude toward parents, and higher life satisfaction. The findings also offered empirical evidence to the underlying mechanism of how guan parenting could affect adolescent life satisfaction via the mediating role of filial piety. The findings also supported the importance of culture-infused parenting in inculcating adolescents' filial piety besides establishing its link to life satisfaction in Asian families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Family caregivers play an important role in supporting patients at the end of life. Although providing care for palliative care patients can be inherently stressful, it is possible for family caregivers to experience both positive experiences and stress simultaneously. Understanding these positive experiences can be helpful to aid counterbalancing the negative aspect of caregiving. Therefore, we conducted a qualitative study using face-to-face interviews with semi-structured questions to explore the experiences of well-being of palliative care family caregivers from a positive perspective. The entire sample consisted of 18 family members caring for cancer patients and 2 family members caring for patients with motor neuron disease. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed with qualitative research software NVIVO. The themes generated from the analysis are: (1) Acceptance, (2) Gratitude, (3) Hope, (4) Happiness and (5) Support. The 5 themes provide 6 constructs for independent intervention. Understanding these themes that promote caregiver well-being can be a guide for us to take care of our family caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

University students are one of the group of people that will always learn new things every day. Unfortunately, most of them are unaware of national prosperity and unity fundamentals. One of the reasons why this happens is that these students only focus on their field of study, causing basic things like the concept of well-being and unity of the country not to be widely known to them. This is particularly significant because these kids will be the country's future leaders, as well as the ones who will decide the country's future by voting in general elections. The main objective of this study is to determine the level of understanding of national prosperity and unity among university students. The module will be tested on 100 students at a Malaysian public university. According to the findings of this study, this module is very effective in raising awareness about the country's unity and well-being among university students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]