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Biomass gasification technology has gained significant attention as a potential solution for circular economies by converting organic waste into valuable energy and products (Waste-to-Power-to-X). This paper comprehensively evaluates biomass gasification technology from a techno-economic-policy perspective, providing valuable insights for circular economies. It examines technical aspects such as processes, feedstocks, and syngas production, assessing advancements that would improve efficiency and environmental performance by addressing key challenges like tar removal and gas cleaning. Economic feasibility is analysed through a techno-economic assessment, considering capital costs, operational expenses, revenue streams, and potential markets. Real-world examples and case studies offer insights into economic viability of these processes. The paper emphasizes the significance of supportive policy frameworks, discussing stimulus measures like feed-in tariffs, tax incentives, and regulatory reforms to promote biomass gasification adoption. By combining technological, economic, and policy perspectives, this paper provides a holistic reality check of biomass gasification technology, identifying opportunities, challenges, and pathways for leveraging as a sustainable and economically viable solution for waste management and energy production. The findings and insights presented in this paper can assist policymakers, investors, and stakeholders in making informed decisions regarding the implementation of biomass gasification projects in the future. [Display omitted] • These findings serve as valuable insights for exploring the market potential. • Waste materials are transformed into valuable resources. • Effectively managing by-products is crucial in unlocking their economic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Safety Leadership influences both safety motivation and safety motivation. • Safety knowledge and motivation mediates safety leadership and safety behavior. • Effective safety leadership in hospitals indirectly leads to better safety behavior. • Safety leadership consist of caring, controlling, and coaching dimensions. • Self-efficacy theory sheds light on safety leadership and safety behavior. Introduction: This paper investigates the relationships among safety leadership, safety motivation, safety knowledge, and safety behavior in the setting of a tertiary hospital in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Method: Underpinned by the self-efficacy theory, we argue that high-quality safety leadership enhances nurses' safety knowledge and motivation and subsequently, improves their safety behavior (safety compliance and safety participation). A total of 332 questionnaire responses were gathered and analyzed using SmartPLS Version 3.2.9, revealing the direct effect of safety leadership on both safety knowledge and safety motivation. Results: Safety knowledge and safety motivation were found to directly and significantly predict nurses' safety behavior. Notably, safety knowledge and safety motivation were established as important mediators in the relationship between safety leadership and nurses' safety compliance and participation. Practical Applications: The findings of this study offer key guidance for safety researchers and hospital practitioners in identifying mechanisms to enhance safety behavior among nurses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sunbelt countries can develop reliable solar-dominant grids in the absence of wind. • Policymakers should be highly sceptical of low solar technical potential estimates. • Zero energy emissions Malaysia requires about 0.7 TW solar, 2 TWh pumped hydro. • Sarawak-Peninsular Malaysia interconnection reduces storage needs, but not costs. • Inclusion of about 0.4% hydrogen or synthetic methane reduces storage needs and cost. Three-quarters of the global population lives in the sunbelt region (±35o latitude) with excellent access to solar resources. Wind resources at the equator are very limited, while supply chain and permitting delays are slowing wind deployment at a global scale. This paper investigates the potential for solar photovoltaic-dominant 100% renewable grids to be developed in sunbelt countries through a case study of Malaysia. It was expected that the technical potential for solar photovoltaics and off-river pumped hydro would be far in excess of what is required to decarbonise Malaysia's electricity grids. A Geographic Information System analysis determined that Malaysia has the potential to deploy approximately 8.5 Terawatts of terrestrial photovoltaics and 25 Terawatts of marine floating solar on calm oceans. There are roughly 450 Terawatt-hours of energy storage available in the form of off-river (closed-loop) pumped hydro energy storage. A least-cost, 16-year hourly energy balance model was used to determine that an affluent, fully electrified, highly interconnected Malaysia could greatly reduce emissions through the deployment of 660 Gigawatts of photovoltaics and 2200 Gigawatt-hours of pumped hydro, supported by small amounts of hydrogen-based gas peaking. All-in costs for such a fully decarbonised energy system were modelled to be in the range of 95–103 USD per Megawatt-hour. A Sarawak-Peninsular Malaysia interconnected grid could produce a similar electricity cost to two separate grids while reducing the long-term energy storage needs by approximately 33%. Inclusion of about 3 Terawatt-hours (0.1% of average annual generation at 20 Megawatt-hours/capita/year demand) of hydrogen, synthetic methane, or legacy fossil fuels could further reduce long-term energy storage needs by about 30% by helping to ride through occasional prolonged cloudy periods. Policymakers in sunbelt countries should be highly sceptical of technical potential estimates that suggest limited area for solar photovoltaics. Sunbelt countries can comfortably proceed with the development of cheap, reliable solar-dominant grids primarily supported by pumped hydro energy storage and inter-regional transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper employs a partial equilibrium model to investigate the economic and environmental impact of commercial bioethanol production from biomass on the Malaysian agricultural markets. The results show that the palm oil mills can produce bioethanol commercially as the mills utilize the waste biomass created onsite and thus avoid the feedstock and hauling costs. Furthermore, by consuming biomass that recycles carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, a large bioethanol industry would help Malaysia reduce its GHG emissions and meet its GHG commitments in the Paris Agreement. With a potential to lead to greater forestation as landowners clear rainforests to enlarge oil palm plantations, such an industry could also be expected to expand the agricultural industry, reduce the agricultural prices, and raise agricultural employment. • Producing bioethanol from waste biomass is economically viable in Malaysia. • Gasoline-bioethanol blends can significantly reduce Malaysia's greenhouse gas emissions. • A commercial bioethanol industry would expand the agricultural sector and hasten deforestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a detailed target-oriented performance assessment of a 232.5 kWp grid-connected solar PV (GCPV) system installed on a commercial building in Malaysia. Technical and meteorological data for 2019, in 5-min intervals, was retrieved from the solar data logger. The GCPV system generated about 301.5 MWh of energy in 2019, almost achieving the stated target of 305.0 MWh. While most months in 2019 successfully achieved the set monthly target, some did not due to low solar irradiance. The Performance Ratio (PR), Capacity Utilization Factor (CUF), system efficiency, and Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) were found to be 85.4%, 14.85%, 9.15%, and 0.396 MYR/kWh, respectively. The PR of the present GCPV system was higher than other GCPV systems surveyed. Approximately 177 metric tons of CO 2 emissions were saved during the year after installing the GCPV system. In addition, performance models, based on the key factors of solar irradiation and PV module temperature that affect the yield and power output of the GCPV system, were developed and tested statistically. The findings of this study should be of use to solar energy customers and stakeholders. [Display omitted] • A target-oriented performance analysis of grid-connected solar PV (GCPV) system is assessed. • Actual yield of GCPV system achieved about 90% of the set target yield. • The annual PR, CUF, and system efficiency was 85.4%, 14.85%, and 9.15%, respectively. • The payback period and LCOE was ∼8 years and 0.396 MYR/kWh, respectively. • About 177 metric tons of CO 2 was reduced due to GCPV system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Construction industry in Malaysia have been bedevilled by myriads of risk issues. • This manuscript contributes might serve as bench mark towards construction risk management area. • Data was analyzed by using PLS-SEM software. SEM provides complete information regarding the extent to which a model is supported by data. Introduction: The construction industry in Malaysia has been bedevilled by myriads of risk issues that have hampered its smooth operations in recent times. This paper is an empirical assessment that aims to examine the effect of coercive pressure on the relationship between organizational structure and construction risk management among construction industry in Malaysia. Method: Based on the proposed model, a quantitative method was employed to obtain data from G7 construction industry operating within the peninsular Malaysia. Out of the 180 copies of questionnaire, 165 copies were properly filled, returned, and used for the analysis. PLS-SEM was used to analyze the obtained data. Results: The findings of the study affirmed that specialization, centralization, and management of risk by the construction industry had positive correlation. Conclusions : As anticipated, coercive pressure had positive moderating correlation with both formalization and the management of risk by the construction industry. Similarly, it was also found that in the course of carrying out construction activities, coercive pressure made significant interactive influence on formalization, specialization, and centralization. Practical Applications : Coercive pressure reduced the frequency of accidents among workers in the process of carrying out construction works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper analyses the barriers to the adoption of the triple-bottom line of sustainability of the construction sector within the developing country of Malaysia. Barriers pertaining to sustainable construction (SC) were identified through a thorough review of the literature on the process of SC, which were then contextually customized via a pilot study and presented in the form of a hypothesized model. Primary data was collected via administration of questionnaire surveys to 122 construction stakeholders in Malaysia. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was utilized to statistically validate the final model of the barriers to SC. This paper fills the gap in the knowledge by focusing on the quantified contribution of the most significant barriers to the adoption of SC principles throughout the process of SC in the context of Malaysia. Findings of this paper uncover the most significant factors constraining the SC in Malaysia related to government, cost, knowledge and information, workforce, and client and market. The findings revealed that clear and effective legislative process is crucial for the enforcement of the integration of SC materials and practices as well as economics incentives which will ultimately lead to effective implementation of SC initiatives; hence, sustainable economic growth and efficient resource (energy, water and material) utilization. It is hoped that the findings provide guidelines for the government authorities so that they invest their efforts and allocate resources in more efficient way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate long-run relationship between economic growth and disaggregated energy consumption in Malaysia. Toda-Yamamoto (T-Y), the modified Granger causality test, along with annual disaggregated energy and real GDP growth data from 1971 to 2014 was used in the investigation process. This paper presents several outcomes; firstly, this paper argues that the Malaysian economy is energy dependent and sensitive to energy supply shocks. Secondly, the usage of energy inputs in Malaysian economy is found to be consumed inefficiently meaning that usage of higher energy resources does not contribute the economic growth significantly, rather causes environmental pollution badly. Thirdly, the finding indicates that economic growth and environmental pollution through spreading carbon emissions are responsive to each other. In this circumstance, the Malaysian economy has to find a way to consume the energy inputs efficiently so that economic growth is improved, while negative externality in the environment is reduced. Therefore, the study presents significant policy implications in order to improve the energy efficiency and reduce environmental pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)/Electric vehicles (EVs) have recently been re-established in the transportation sector worldwide. These are enhancements over their ancestors in terms of both performance and electric driving range. Although the uptake of PHEV/EVs has been noteworthy in a short time frame amongst most governmental strategies, however, adoption is still a challenge. To date, public attitudes towards PHEV/EVs have been considered under very diverse conceptual frameworks. This paper reviews a growing body of peer- reviewed literatures assessing the factors affecting PHEV/EVs adoption. Malaysia is a major energy consuming country and, given the rapid growth in its economy, the energy consumption level is expected to continue growth. Hence, it is imperative that steps are taken to reduce harmful carbon emissions. Consequently, attempts are being initiated to popularise the use of PHEV/EVs as the main mode of transportation. However, it is important to take the three main features of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) model, namely the attitude towards the PHEV/EVs' adoption, Subjective Norm (SN), and Perceived Behavioural Control (PBC) into account. The consumers' concerns regarding the harmful effect of carbon emissions should be addressed. In this paper, the significance of encouraging the adoption of PHEVs/EVs is explained and some guidelines that might be followed in the upcoming researchers are mentioned. Furthermore, the implications for the design of effective measures to change the frail social and personal norms to choose PHEVs/EVs are also discussed. The collective outcome of 'hyperbolic discounting' has a direct effect between the consumers' environmental concern-based intention and the actual adoption of PHEVs/EVs. Hence, this paper is aimed to conceptualise a framework created by amending the environmental concerns towards PHEVs/EVs. This will allow more academic consideration, and it may direct future researchers towards the empirical findings on environmental concerns and hyperbolic discounting through the proposed conceptual framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis gas, also known as syngas, produced from biomass materials has been identified as a potential source of renewable energy. Syngas is mainly consists of CO and H 2 , which can be used directly as fuel source for power generation and transport fuel, as well as feedstock for chemical production. Syngas is produced through biomass gasification process that converts solids to gas phase via thermochemical conversion reactions. This paper critically reviews the type of gasifiers that have been used for biomass gasification, including fixed bed, fluidized bed, entrained flow and transport reactor types. The advantages and limitations of these gasifiers are compared, followed by discussion on the key parameters that are critical for the optimum production of syngas. Depending on the biomass feedstock, the properties and characteristics of syngas produced can be varied. It is thus essential to thoroughly characterise the properties of biomass to understand the limitations in order to identify the suitable methods for gasification. This paper later focuses on a specific biomass – oil palm-based for syngas production in the context of Malaysia, where palm biomass is readily available in abundance. The properties and suitability for gasification of the major palm biomass, including empty fruit bunch, oil palm fronds and palm kernel shells are reviewed. Optimization of the gasification process can significantly improve the prospect of commercial syngas production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, several studies have shown that low-income house-buyers faced severe problems in gaining access to house-loan. Therefore, this study investigated the root causes of housing-loans inaccessibility for low-income earners (LIEs) in Malaysia and proffer pragmatic panaceas in an unexplored dimension. This was done sequentially, first, the qualitatively explored and findings from the qualitative phase further tested and analysed via a questionnaire survey. The "quantilised findings" were validated by the Malaysian LCH policymakers. Findings show that the pervasiveness of house-loan rejection for LIEs is about 70%. The study found bad status of Central Credit Reference Information System, insufficient income, lack of creditworthiness, high default rate, fear of inability to recover loan and operating costs from the auction, repayment incapability, lack of evidence of regular income, the absence of collateral, inability to make down payment among others as the root causes of the factors that contribute to the house-loan rejection. The paper concludes that the government should establish a special housing loan scheme for LIEs while rent-to-own scheme should be sustained and strengthened via an independent agency. Also the self-employed should be encouraged to enrol with the Employee Provident Fund and a minimum wage increase to RM1,500/month among others was recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical parasitic disease caused by the trematode flatworms of the genus Schistosoma , affects approximately 207 million people worldwide. Among the five main species infecting humans, Schistosoma mansoni and S. japonicum are responsible for the majority of hepatointestinal schistosomiasis. Human settlements near fresh water sites that lack proper sanitary systems often contribute to the transmission of disease. This risk particularly impacts on travellers or immigrants who come into contact with larvae-contaminated water. This review discusses the central features of schistosomiasis; including clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatments, and the preventive measures available for the control of this disease. The description of the Malaysian schistosome species Schistosoma malayensis and the current status of schistosomiasis in Malaysia including the compilation of cases diagnosed from 1904 to 2015 are also discussed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a vector-borne zoonotic disease caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). It causes encephalitis in human and horses, and may lead to reproductive failure in sows. The first human encephalitis case in Malaya (now Malaysia) was reported during World War II in a British prison in 1942. Later, encephalitis was observed among race horses in Singapore. In 1951, the first JEV was isolated from the brain of an encephalitis patient. The true storyline of JE exposure among humans and animals has not been documented in Malaysia. In some places such as Sarawak, JEV has been isolated from mosquitoes before an outbreak in 1992. JE is an epidemic in Malaysia except Sarawak. There are four major outbreaks reported in Pulau Langkawi (1974), Penang (1988), Perak and Negeri Sembilan (1998–1999), and Sarawak (1992). JE is considered endemic only in Sarawak. Initially, both adults and children were victims of JE in Malaysia, however, according to the current reports; JE infection is only lethal to children in Malaysia. This paper describes a timeline of JE cases (background of each case) from first detection to current status, vaccination programs against JE, diagnostic methods used in hospitals and factors which may contribute to the transmission of JE among humans and animals in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corruption is a serious concern all over the world. Due to the limited amount of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) research on specific issues such as bribery, this paper aims to determine the extent of anti-corruption information disclosure in annual reports that demonstrate organizational commitment towards combatting corruption. The index consists of 40 items developed from an analysis of past literature and several organizations' published reports. The input data was based on observation of several organizations' annual reports, CSR and sustainability reports, past literature and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) reporting indicators. The sample consists of 24 companies that participated in the ACCA Malaysia Sustainability Reporting Awards (MaSRA) and 34 Indonesian companies that participated in the Indonesia Sustainability Reporting Award (ISRA). The disclosure of anti-corruption practices (ACP) is still in its infancy in both countries. This study shows that the disclosure of anti-corruption codes of conduct and whistle-blowing practices was the most reported item. Interestingly, Indonesian companies disclosed higher amounts of ACP information compared to Malaysian companies. This is possibly because there is a higher level of coercive pressure to disclose ACP information in Indonesia compared to Malaysia. Further, there are several challenges to curbing corruption in Malaysia which potentially contribute to the low disclosure level of ACP information. This research contributes to CSR studies with a focus on anti-corruption practice, particularly in emerging economies. Some implications to improve the level of anti-corruption disclosure are also presented in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction industry contributes significantly to environmental degradation, and governments in many countries which are endeavouring to address the situation. Malaysia is no exception. This paper examines the path towards green construction project delivery in Malaysia, focusing on current green policies and initiatives by governments. The historical waves in Malaysian approaches to tackling environmental issues are described, starting from the early 20th century, through the 1990s to the present, and the influence of these approaches on construction practices is analysed. Based on the findings of policy review, essential green construction practices aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of construction activities on the environment in Malaysia were identified. This paper paves the way for future studies in construction and sustainability in Malaysia, especially for the Southeast Asian region where sustainability practices are urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to promote the growth of renewable energy sector in Malaysia, feed-in tariff (FiT) mechanism has been introduced by Malaysian government in 2011, in accordance with Renewable Energy Act 2011 and Sustainable Energy Development Authority Act 2011. The tariff was enacted to overcome the shortcomings identified in the small renewable energy power (SREP) Program from 2001 to 2010. This paper highlighted some measures adopted to rectify the shortcomings identified during SREP, and the role of Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) in achieving the above mentioned task. The paper also includes the latest progress on renewable energy projects, especially those related to solar photovoltaic system. It is predicted that solar energy will become the main source of renewable energy in Malaysia by the year 2050. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaysia, as a developing country and a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), is looking into inexhaustible and repeatable alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, mini-hydro and biomass. The estimated GDP at 2010 is $15,385 per capita and the economic and industrial growth of the country implies that energy demand is growing very fast. In addition, the growing prices of fossil fuels, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, make inevitable renewable energy solutions for the country. Geographically, Malaysia is located in a region of tropical and humid climate which provides easy access to a variety of renewable energy sources. The government of Malaysia has initiated renewable energy policies to encourage industries and individuals to employ renewable-energy-powered systems in power applications. This paper first gives a brief overview of the current status of renewable energy in Malaysia. Then it provides the energy policies, specifically the renewable energy policies in Malaysia, in Section 2 . The renewable energy programs are reviewed in Section 3. The building energy efficiency program with green aspect is provided in Section 4. Lastly, the conclusion and forecasts of this paper are given in Section 5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines prerequisites for a successful inter-state economic corridor development program in a country with a federal system of government through an in-depth study of the design, implementation and the developmental impact of the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) in Malaysia that encompasses the states of Penang, Kedah, Perak and Perlis. The analysis suggests that the NCER has the potential to leverage on the core strengths of the state of Penang—global connectivity, mature business eco-system with a strong presence of multinational enterprises, and sizeable talent pool—in order to redress the widening inter-regional and urban–rural development divide. However, so far, the achievements have not matched the expectations primarily because of an inherent institutional limitation of the program: failure to constitute the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) with adequate power and operational flexibility to achieve the overarching goal of shared growth while ensuring compliance from all stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is considered to be the most systematic methodology that is widely used in the area of energy analysis. However, embodied energy (EE) and carbon (EC) analysis requires significant time and effort to ensure the reliability of the LCA results. Therefore, a more comprehensive model of conducting the energy analysis is required to provide more realistic EE and EC analysis in turn. Hybrid LCA has been identified as the best model in improving the completeness of EE and EC inventory data. However, such a benefit was not empirically verified extensively, especially in the Malaysian construction industry. This paper demonstrates an extended application of hybrid LCA to Malaysian building design systems, and further investigates the completeness of the model. Finally, the potential for EE and EC reduction through the allocation of low EE and EC intensities of alternative materials, products or components has been evaluated. The results revealed that the hybrid LCA improved the completeness of the EE and EC inventory data compared with other models. By using low EE and EC intensity materials, products or components, a total EE and EC reduction of 43% and 41%, respectively was achieved. The results showed that the proposed methodology can assist designers practically during the early stage of the design process in the Malaysian construction industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 1990s Malaysia aspired to make biotechnology and bioeconomy as her engines of economic growth to utlise the abundance of natural resources and biodiversity. The public sector plays an integral role in developing the sector and various incentives are in place for the private sector to be actively involved and to forge collaboration with the public sector. The country launched its National Biotechnology Policy in 2005 and later launched its National Bioeconomy Programme in 2010 to become the first country in South East Asia and second in Asia after China to have such an initiative. Malaysia is also very proactive in its biosafety law and regulations and has most of the related legal instrument in place. A lot of success has been recorded since the inception of the National Biotechnology Policy in terms of job creation, contribution to GDP through biobusinesses and investment from foreign companies, but the sector is not spared from challenges too. Due to the nature of the discipline that is multidisciplinary and that requires huge amount of investment, expertise and political will, there are a lot of barriers before the country emerges as a bioeconomy player. This paper discusses the public policies, initiatives and funding mechanisms in place in Malaysia that drive its research, development and commercialisation in the area of biotechnology and bioeconomy. The authors also discuss the challenges faced in Malaysia in implementing the policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In accordance with the Paris Accord to cap global temperature rise to1.5°Celsius over the next 100 years, Malaysia submitted its Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) seeking to reduce emissions by 45% by 2030, which was changed to 2050 following the Marrakech Proclamation in 2016. This paper analyzes the implications of Malaysia's INDC and an additional proposal of continuing further climate control to cap temperature rise over the next century against the existing scenario in the country. The results show that the cumulative damage from climate change over the period 2010–2100 will amount to MYR2.1 billion under the present climatic regime. It will fall to MYR1.1 billion under scenario 2 and to MYR0.6 billion under scenario 3. Since the total abatement costs for scenario 2 (MYR14.3 billion) is close to that of scenario 3 (MYR14.6 billion) against the significant reduction in climate damage of the latter, the third proposal is the best alternative for Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia near the equator within the typical tropical climatic zone. The efficient use of energy is vital due to the dependency on fossil resources that are being exhausted, which ultimately cause CO 2 emissions. Economic development and population growth are deemed to affect the growing energy demand in the country. Therefore, sustainability, energy security, and climate change are crucial challenges for the power sector in Malaysia. The aforementioned issues can be tackled with energy efficient measures in the building sector. Buildings in Malaysia consume 14.3% of the overall energy and 53% of only electrical energy is being consumed in residential and commercial sectors. Therefore, energy efficiency in buildings is crucial in order to reduce the energy use and improve the local environmental sustainability. This paper discusses a review on the building energy scenario, the policy perspectives, building energy efficiency programs along with landmark buildings and their characteristics. Besides, the potential of renewable energy resources in buildings and various prospective issues and challenges faced by the country have also been discussed. The significant review content thus benefits researchers, scientists and practitioners for a better understanding on energy efficiency and the sustainable measures that have been so far taken. The review also puts forward some actions to promote building energy efficiency and conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The characteristics of one's neighborhood have a significant impact on life satisfaction in older people, as a properly designed neighborhood can support aging in place. Although there are various aspects subsumed under neighborhood environment, this study examines perceived and objective neighborhood environmental characteristics, such as accessibility, neighborhood safety, environmental quality, neighborhood problems, and third places. Using a questionnaire survey as well as an in-depth interview, this paper examines the effect of neighborhood environment attributes on life satisfaction among older people living in a green accredited township. The quantile regression estimates show that different quantiles of respondents attach different importance to the determinants of life satisfaction. As for third places, visiting neighborhood shopping centers and taking lifelong learning courses at school may be determinants of life satisfaction when controlling for sociodemographic characteristics. By revealing the environmental determinants of life satisfaction among Malaysian older people, this study provides information for housing associations and urban planners to design an age-friendly neighborhood. • Perceived and objective neighborhood environment would have a significant impact on the life satisfaction of older adults. • Different quantiles of respondents attached different importance to the determinants of life satisfaction. • Attending neighborhood shopping centers and taking lifelong courses at local schools are important determinants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In Malaysia, public universities and government research institutes (GRIs) are the main source for new technologies and innovations in the agricultural sector. Evidence shows that IP protection has become a norm for universities and GRIs throughout the world. The increased patenting and commercialization activity, however, brings with it concerns over limitation of the right for follow-up research, changes the norms of open-science and constrains open innovation in industry. The ensuing question is: will the increase in patenting activities by GRIs affect the patterns of knowledge transfer from the institute to the upstream, middle-stream and downstream industries? How do the GRIs decide which agricultural innovations are to be made available in the public domain and which are to be patented and made accessible for a fee? This paper first examines the central concerns surrounding open science in GRIs in relation to the output of R &D funded by the Malaysian government. The paper then explores the patent practice of the Malaysian Research Board (MRB) as a case study. MRB is chosen specifically as it is one of the oldest GRIs and the pioneer in patenting in Malaysia. Among the issues that are dealt with in this paper are: how does the Board balance its role in conducting research for the good of the society as opposed to claiming proprietary rights? How does the Board diffuse the R & D results to the small-scale farmers? What are the modes of commercialization adopted by them? The paper ends by suggesting that a balance between open science and patents must be maintained by the MRB in order to move the economy up the value chain. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Ethnic Chinese and Indians in Malaysia are deemed perpetual diasporas. • Malay hegemony sees the linguistic citizenship of non-Malays as foreign. • However, non-Malays claimed their language behaviours prove their Malaysianness. • Their discourses revealed contradictions in their perceived linguistic citizenship. This paper analyzes contradictory tensions in the linguistic citizenship of Chinese- and Indian-Malaysian youths. Malay ethnonationalism describes the languages of the local Chinese and Indian minorities as immigrant. A sociological perspective, however, tells us it is difficult to see these communities as diasporic. They hold Malaysian state citizenship, they may have no contact with China and India, and in some cases their ancestors settled in Malaysia centuries ago. This paper analyzes how, in that sociopolitical context, a cohort of Chinese- and Indian-Malaysian youths constructed their linguistic citizenship within a series of 16 semi-structured folk linguistic group discussions about multilingualism in contemporary Malaysia. The paper reveals two parallel discourses. Malay ethnonationalism has prompted discourses of linguistic allegiance to China and India as prescribed, if not impractical, homelands. However, the youths also divorced their languages and communities from India and China to instead forge a non-diasporic linguistic citizenship. In doing so, they negated Malaysia's linguistic hierarchy, despite Malay ethnonationalist discourses, by describing their unique interethnic language practices as quintessentially Malaysian and as an interethnic leveller. Malaysia showcases how linguistic citizenship in the diaspora can be both vexed by historical sociopolitical processes as well as empowered by sociopolitical resistance, resulting in contradictory discourses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of renewable energy is of paramount importance towards the energy security and environment integrity of Malaysia. The Malaysia government has been implementing various policies that could facilitate the advancement of renewable energy technology and increase its contribution to the national energy mix to reduce the country dependency on fossil fuels. On the other hand, due to rapid urbanization and population growth, there is also increasing concern over the high production rate of organic waste. Among the renewable energy available, biogas is of great interest due to its ability to treat organic waste and generate power addressing both concerns simultaneously. This paper aims to review some of the important policies on renewable energy followed by the emphasis on solid waste management policies towards effective implementation of biogas generation from municipal solid waste. The biogas network is divided into three phases on a life cycle basis, namely MSW as feedstock, biogas production and biogas utilization. Under each phase, several important stages were identified. Analysis was performed to identify the role of currently implemented policies as well as the lacking support and challenges. It was envisioned that with proper SWM policies, in terms of waste collection, waste segregation and allocation of resources, which can be further complemented with more financial initiatives and technical support under the RE policies, the biogas development in Malaysia can progress more efficiently. Several supportive actions needed were derived from the analysis and presented in three figures, representing each of the phase, which could constitute a solid biogas framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the asymmetric inflation hedging properties of housing in Malaysia. We decompose both consumer inflation and energy inflation into positive and negative changes. We analyze the short-run and long-run hedge against inflation of housing by using Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lags (NADRL) approach. Based on the aggregate and four major types of houses, we find that house prices respond to both consumer and energy prices symmetrically in the long-run. However, only investment in terraced house hedge against consumer inflation in the long-run and the investment in all types of houses do not hedge against energy inflation. Nevertheless, house prices react to both consumer and energy inflation asymmetrically in the short-run. But housing asset investment cannot hedge against consumer inflation as well as the energy inflation in the short-run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) enables transferring technology from developed countries to developing countries, such as Malaysia, and simultaneously promotes sustainable growth. Although this has been proven, the contribution of Malaysian companies in CDM projects is low. Therefore, this study has been aimed at investigating the determinants of CDM adoption and its impact on companies' performances. Data were gathered by surveying 91 companies in the energy, agriculture, and forestry sectors in Malaysia implementing CDM projects. The data were analysed using the partial least squares technique. The results show that environmental regulations, competitiveness, and financial benefits have a positive impact on CDM implementation. Additionally, this study reported a significant positive effect of CDM implementation on economic performance. This paper extends the knowledge on the determinants and financial outcome of CDM implementation. The information given in this research might be beneficial for policy makers and managers in modifying tactics and strategies towards successful promotion of the CDM in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This paper investigates the impact of foreign labor on domestic manufacturing wages through a case study of Malaysia, a country where foreign labor has played a key role in manufacturing growth over the past two decades. The main focus of the paper is on an econometric analysis of the determinants of inter-industry variation in wage growth using a new panel dataset. The results suggest that wage growth is fundamentally embedded in the structure and performance of domestic manufacturing. There is evidence of a statistically significant negative impact of foreign labor on the growth of unskilled-worker wages, but the magnitude of the impact is rather small. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roof leakages of high-rise buildings involving concrete flat roof design in tropical countries continue to be a serious problem. Currently, exiting methods of detecting potential leaks are mostly destructive to the building material. Although the method of detecting a defect using non-destructive measurement exists, current methods such as infrared thermography, metal detector and humidity meter have varying constraints in their application. This paper describes the potential use of microwave technology as an effective non-destructive tool to monitor and investigate leakage of concrete flat roof due to failure of membrane layer. This study was performed experimentally on flat room structures built for laboratory use and according to Malaysian flat roof concrete proportions standards. Experiments performed utilized a sensor equipped with essential parameters that enable control to sensor angle, temperature and distance between object and sensor structure and designed to enable numerous measurements in real time. The study determined that microwave technology can be used to identify moisture content in concrete flat roof by analysing properties of the concrete roof and water. This proves to be an effective non-destructive method of determining leakage problems in concrete flat roof in real time before the defects become critical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilization of electrical energy is the key to economic growth and improvement in people׳s living standards, especially in developing countries. The growing demand for electrical energy and the environmental effect of fossil fuel usage are the main topics driving us towards renewable technology. Hydropower, mainly hydrokinetic energy technology, is a well-known source of renewable energy. This study was carried out to present the potential of hydrokinetic energy in the world and Malaysia. Relevant research literature, based on developments, applications, design, operation, efficiency as well as different hydrokinetic technologies have been reviewed. This work critically considers the main characteristics of Malaysian current and water depth and the challenges associated with enhancing the efficiency of hydrokinetic turbines and providing electricity to remote areas with access to running water but little electricity. This paper will aid researchers to identify areas that need to be improved, as well as encourage public bodies to implement proper energy policies regarding hydrokinetic energy technology usage in rural areas with low-speed currents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palaeozoic black shale-bearing formations comprise 25% of the sedimentary cover in Peninsular Malaysia. However, nothing has been published regarding their geology, composition and maturation. Representative samples from different ages and localities of the black shales were subjected to detailed mineralogical and geochemical investigations during this study to determine their origin. These investigations also provide an opportunity to trace the changes in depositional environments and paleoclimate during the Palaeozoic as well as the nature of unknown and hidden basement rocks in Malaysia. This paper reports nineteen Palaeozoic formations in Malaysia that contain black shales that are classified into seven categories based on their age. These are the Cambrian-Ordovician, Ordovician-Devonian, Silurian-Devonian, Devonian, Carboniferous, Carboniferous-Permian and Permian black shales. Although illite was identified in all black shales, other clay minerals including kaolinite and smectite-illite mixed layers show significant variations among the studied samples. The Al 2 O 3 /TiO 2 ratios (13–33), SiO 2 contents of probable magmatic source rocks (54–69 wt.%) and Zr-TiO 2 bivariate diagram suggest a mixture of felsic and intermediate source rocks for the studied black shales. This indicates that the hidden basement rocks in Malaysia are dominated by felsic igneous rocks. Variations in clay minerals, SiO 2 and Al 2 O 3 /TiO 2 ratios and upper continental crust (UCC)-normalized REE patterns suggest a local provenance for each locality rather than regional and common source rocks for all black shales. Al 2 O 3 /SiO 2 ratios vary from one age to the other ranging between 0.09 and 0.37. This indicates changes in the degree of weathering of the sediment-source rocks of these shales and suggests climate changes in the Peninsular Malaysia during the Palaeozoic from relatively wet conditions during the Cambrian to relatively dry conditions during the Ordovician followed by relatively wet conditions extends from the Silurian to the Carboniferous, which followed by relatively dry conditions during the formation of Carboniferous-Permian black shales and finally to relatively wet conditions during the Permian. The V/Ni, V/(V + Ni) and V/(V + Cr) ratios as well as the positive Ce anomalies indicate that these black shales were deposited under reducing conditions. The high V/Ni ratios (> 3) also suggest a purely marine source input for the organic matter. Devonian black shales show relatively high concentrations of redox-sensitive elements, which may suggest the possible existence of Devonian anoxia as well as the Devonian-Carboniferous (D-C) boundary in Malaysia. Based on the abundance of illite (> 85%) and illite crystallinity (IC) values (27–46°Δ2θ), the majority of the Palaeozoic black shales in Peninsular Malaysia are probably anchimetamorphic and over-matured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To overcome the negative impacts on the environment and other problems associated with fossil fuels have forced many countries to inquire into and change to environmental friendly alternatives that are renewable to sustain the increasing energy demand. Solar energy is one of the best renewable energy sources with least negative impacts on the environment. Different countries have formulated solar energy policies to reducing dependence on fossil fuel and increasing domestic energy production by solar energy. This paper discusses a review about the different solar energy policies implemented on the different countries of the world. According to the 2010 BP Statistical Energy Survey, the world cumulative installed solar energy capacity was 22928.9MW in 2009, a change of 46.9% compared to 2008. Also this paper discussed the existing successful solar energy policies of few selected countries. Based on literatures, it has been found that FIT, RPS and incentives are the most beneficial energy policies implemented by many countries around the world. These policies provide significant motivation and interest for the development and use of renewable energy technologies. Also the status of solar energy policy for Malaysia is investigated and compared with that of the successful countries in the world. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This article explores dominant discourses on 'illegal' migrants in the context of contemporary Indonesian labour migration to Malaysia. By focusing on the particular case of migrant domestic workers, it discusses recent political moves undertaken by both nation-states to regularise migratory movements. These state-induced efforts at regularising transnational migration have been promoted as combating trafficking and 'illegal' migration, but they have led to the legitimisation of a migration scheme that has much in common with colonial indentured labour. Hence, the paper argues that this 'legal,' state-sanctioned migration scheme gradually leads domestic workers into 'legal' - but bonded - labour arrangements and that the labour contract, as such, needs to be analysed as an instrument of subordination. Through the counter-narrative of Arum, an Indonesian domestic worker performing her work 'illegally' in Malaysia, the paper then goes on to argue that to migrate through 'illegal' migration channels can be interpreted as an act of voluntarily circumventing the 'legal,' state-sanctioned migration scheme. Thus, 'illegal' migration can be equated with deliberately resisting a coercive system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: By the year 2020, Malaysia aspires to become a fully developed nation. In order to realize this vision, formally termed ‘Vision 2020’, Malaysia must address nine strategic challenges identified by the government of former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad. These challenges are: (1) Establishing a united Malaysian nation, (2) Creating a psychologically liberated, secure, and developed Malaysian society, (3) Developing a mature democratic society, (4) Forming a community that has high morale, ethics, and religious strength, (5) Establishing a mature, liberal and tolerant society, (6) Establishing a scientific and progressive society, (7) Establishing a fully caring society, (8) Ensuring an economically just society, and (9) Establishing a prosperous society. The present paper seeks to identify and rank the critical success factors of these nine challenges by applying the Analytic Hierarchy Process. A number of ‘front-line’ critical success factors are discussed at length. The paper also analyzes the impact of respondents’ demography on the outcomes. The findings are expected to provide valuable guidelines to the Malaysian government in course of developing effective action plans to achieve Vision 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper investigates the effect of organizational demographic variables on successful knowledge management (KM) implementation which insofar has not been thoroughly reported in the KM literature. For meaningful results to be generated, four organizational demographic variables, namely functional areas, years of KM involvement, KM development stage, and degree of knowledge intensity were moderated against a comprehensive set of KM activities, which comprise of KM preliminary success factors, KM strategies and KM processes, with organizational performance. The respondents comprised of middle managers working in the telecommunication industry in Malaysia. Based on the data collected from 289 respondents using a set of structured questionnaire, the results reveal that all the four demographic characteristics interacted with the degree of implementation of the KM activities, while three of the characteristics, with exception of functional areas, show significant relationships with organizational performance. The contributions of the paper, along with the implications of the results are discussed and interpreted to provide guidance to organizations for improved business performance through KM implementation success. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Landslide-susceptibility mapping is one of the most critical issues in Malaysia. These landslides can be systematically assessed and mapped through a traditional mapping framework that uses geoinformation technologies (GIT). The main purpose of this paper is to investigate the possible application of an artificial neural network model and its cross-application of weights at three study areas in Malaysia, Penang Island, Cameron Highland and Selangor. Landslide locations were identified in the study areas from the interpretation of aerial photographs, field surveys and inventory reports. A landslide-related spatial database was constructed from topographic, soil, geology, and land-cover maps. For the calculation of the relative weight and importance of each factor to a particular landslide occurrence, an artificial neural network (ANN) method was applied. Landslide susceptibility was analyzed using the landslide occurrence factors provided by the artificial neural network model. Then, the landslide-susceptibility analysis results were validated and cross-validated using the landslide locations as study areas. Different training sites were randomly selected to train the neural network, and nine sets of landslide-susceptibility maps were prepared. The paper then illustrates the verification of those maps using an “area under the curve” (AUC) method. The verification results show that the case of the weight using the same test area showed slightly higher accuracy than the weight used for the cross-applied area. Among the three studied areas, the verification results showed similar accuracy trends while using the weight for the study area itself. Cameron showed the best accuracy and Penang showed the worst accuracy. Generally, the verification results showed satisfactory agreement between the susceptibility map and the existing data on the landslide location. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The process of development control involves a technique for the systematic compilation of expert quantitative analysis and qualitative assessment of project land use and property development viability, including its effect on the surrounding area, and the presentation of results in a way that enables the importance of the predicted results, and the scope of modifying or mitigating them to be properly evaluated by the relevant decision making body before a planning permission is rendered. Taking the local authorities in Malaysia as an example, this paper will discuss and demonstrate the development of a GIS database and its integration and application for development and building control. The first part of the paper examines the functions of local authorities particularly in the context of development control. In this study, the procedure involved in granting a planning permission as well as enforcement becomes the main focus because it determines the bulk of the system design. The study identifies seven sub-systems namely planning permission, building control, planning enforcement, geospatial database, information kiosk, document processing and presentation sub-systems. The system is developed using a combination of office automation, CAD, GIS, multimedia and other software packages. This paper will focus on the development of the GIS for the purpose of development control. The components of the GIS database include land information, buildings, existing developments, planning information, development plans, utilities, community facilities, transportation, environment and the socio-economy database. The GIS database will be used at every stage of development control, for example, in initial discussions, registration, invitation of objections, the development control process, the consideration by Technical Committee and the consideration by Planning Committee. It is anticipated that the GIS database could be used by many parties involved in the process as a reference point in evaluating a planning submission. Having access to the database will provide flexibility in assessing a proposed development and deciding on the overall urban growth management programme in the most cost-effective manner. The system will also provide transparency and consistency in the development control procedure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Transnational processes and imaginings valorise the putative cultural networks, connections 1. and affinities of Malaysia's 'non-Malay' (Indian and Chinese) communities. In this paper, I argue that this signals neither the end of nation building—which naturalised such communal difference in the first place—nor of the nation-state as a social. political and economic actor. Rather. attention is given to discursive practices through which the state seeks to 'reposition' Malaysia in/for the 'networked' information economy and society. Multicultural 'rescripting' I of the nation/national identity is thus highlighted as part of broader state strategies to negotiate, facilitate and capitalise upon transnational phenomena. Increasing state emphasis on multiculturalism unsettles Malay-centred constructions of post-colonial national identity. However, the paper cautions against a celebration of the high-profile accorded to multiculturalism in 'information age' Malaysia. The Malay 'special position' continues and the lowering of ethnic barriers in various domains remains dependent upon domestic political contest. In addition, the socio-economic benefits of less Malay-centred state means of development associated with Malaysia's 'k-economy' push are highly uneven. Non-Malays wooed to the high-tech showcase Multimedia Super Corridor are a highly-skilled professional elite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transnational processes and imaginings valorise the putative cultural networks, connections and affinities of Malaysia's 'non-Malay' (Indian and Chinese) communities. In this paper, I argue that this signals neither the end of nation building—which naturalised such communal difference in the first place—nor of the nation-state as a social, political and economic actor. Rather, attention is given to discursive practices through which the state seeks to !reposition' Malaysia in/for the 'networked' information economy and society. Multicultural 'rescripting' of the nation/national identity is thus highlighted as part of broader state strategies to negotiate, facilitate and capitalise upon transnational phenomena. Increasing state emphasis on multiculturalism unsettles Malay-centred constructions of post-colonial national identity. However, the paper cautions against a celebration of the high-profile accorded to multiculturalism in 'information age' Malaysia. The Malay !special position' continues and the lowering of ethnic barriers in various domains remains dependent upon domestic political contest. In addition, the socio-economic benefits of less Malay-centred state means of development associated with Malaysia's 'k-economy' push are highly uneven. Non-Malays wooed to the high-tech show- case Multimedia Super Corridor are a highly-skilled professional elite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil palm wastes (OPWs) are important biomass resources, and approximately 127 million tons of OPWs are generated from the oil palm industry annually in Malaysia. The scientific and reasonable utilization of OPWs is essential to economic and environmental sustainability in the country. Pyrolysis is a mature and revolutionary technology that can convert OPWs into biofuel. The conversion of OPWs into biofuel is in accordance with the national conditions of Malaysia and can simultaneously address the problems of fossil fuel shortage and environmental deterioration. Therefore, Malaysia is the most active country in the research of OPWs pyrolysis and has achieved fruitful results. Bio-oil produced from the catalytic co-pyrolysis of OPWs with hydrogen-rich materials exhibits remarkable fuel properties. Biochar generated from OPWs pyrolysis presents huge application potential as an absorbent, catalyst, soil conditioner, and carbon sequestration agent. Consequently, the paper provides a comprehensive review of OPWs pyrolysis and lays the foundation for the exploitation of OPWs resources. [Display omitted] • Malaysia is the most active country in the research of OPWs pyrolysis. • Effects of reactors and conditions on OPWs pyrolysis are detailed. • OPWs-based biochar exhibits great application potential in various fields. • Building a pyrolysis plant near the oil palm mill is a viable and economic method. • OPWs pyrolysis has great commercial potential and economic value in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of Material Flow Cost Accounting (MFCA) to five companies under the Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC) project has shown that these companies have indeed achieved simultaneous benefits of economic gains and environmental sustainability. This paper highlights the experience of one of the companies, emphasising how one can leverage enablers and also overcome barriers to implementing MFCA in a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) in Malaysia. Driven by the diffusion of innovation (DOI) theory, the case company found most of its enablers within MFCA's own attributes. Additionally other factors such as the team composition, interpersonal communication, and efforts of the change agents were instrumental in the success of the MFCA implementation. However, the company was also constrained by its suppliers. More importantly, it is envisaged that a potential hurdle for MFCA advancement is when performance management issues are not addressed by higher management. Drawing upon the company's experience and the theoretical literature, other barriers that may also be encountered by SMEs in Malaysia are also discussed. These include for example, overcoming the traditionalist view held by most SMEs, persevering the implementation processes on their own without the direct assistance from MPC and several others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine renewable energy (MRE) is yet to be included in the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) system in Malaysia. However, the country is surrounded by the Straits of Malacca and South China Sea, making it suitable to harness energy in the water. Financial supports from the government are essential in developing this technology. This paper aimed to suggest appropriate FiT rates of MRE based on Net Present Value (NPV) approach. Meanwhile, the proposed FiT rates were compared with other implemented FiT rates of MRE in United Kingdom, Germany, France, Republic of Ireland, Italy, Portugal and Korea. The results showed that reasonable FiT rates of MRE in Malaysia should be in the range of €0.06–0.60/kWh depending on the type of MRE technology used. The proposed tariffs were exceedingly higher than the implemented FiT rates of solar photovoltaic ranging from €0.20 to 0.28/kWh due to higher project cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical energy consumption is expected to increase in Malaysia, and illumination is the second largest electric power consumption in Malaysia. Remarkably, the majority of residential illumination is carried out with incandescent lamps which consume a high level of energy in comparison with recent high efficient technologies. Light Emitting Diodes (LED) could possibly be an option to replace incandescent lamps and even fluorescent lamps (FL). This paper outlines the overview of Malaysia׳ energy sector, policy and programs; and calculate possible savings in terms of energy, costs and environmental emissions by using LED lamps in Malaysia. Despite the capital cost of energy-efficient LED lamps, the use of LEDs might make economic sense for households due to the reduction in operational energy (OE) in certain stage. By replacement of incandescent with LED, a significant reduction in annual energy use, electricity bill, CO 2 and other greenhouse gas emission in terms of lighting can be accomplished by each household in Malaysia. It is also suggested that the governments׳ financial support and regulations assist in adopting this energy-efficient technology more rapidly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shaded plantation of cocoa is not only a promise for chocolate and cocoa farmers but also shaded cocoa production can significantly support biodiversity. However, boom and bust of cocoa production systems due to pest and diseases have prompted the farmers to abandon the cocoa cultivation. This paper presents system dynamics model to address the boom and bust of cocoa production systems in Malaysia as a case study. The simulated results indicate that the collapse of cocoa production systems can be avoided through biodiversity conservation and insect control resulting sustainable production systems and implementation of such policy demands adequate subsidy to retain high biodiversity, control pest and disease and attain acceptable yields through extension services through farmers field schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the impact of urbanization on energy consumption by applying the Stochastic Impacts by Regression on Population, Affluence and Technology (STIRPAT) in case of Malaysia. The study covers the time period of 1970Q1–2011Q4. The unit root test and the ARDL bounds testing approach have been applied to examine integrating properties and long run relationship in the presence of structural breaks. Our results validated the existence of cointegration and exposed that urbanization is a major contributor in energy consumption. Affluence raises energy demand. Capital stock boosts energy consumption. Trade openness leads to affluence and hence increases energy consumption. The causality analysis finds that urbanization Granger causes energy consumption. The feedback effect is found between energy consumption and affluence and, energy consumption and capital. The bidirectional causality exists between trade openness and energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Implementation of large Chinese projects overseas is uneven, with the dynamic more complex than often portrayed. • Projects are rolled out more expeditiously in host states with a highly centralized political structure and vice versa. • Malaysia's power concentration has facilitated elite consensus and quickened the East Coast Rail Link's rollout. • Indonesia's implementation of the Jakarta-Bandung High Speed Rail has been checked by multiple influential stakeholders. • This paper's findings have important implications for future South-South cooperation in railway development. This paper focuses on two of the most prominent Chinese railway projects in Southeast Asia since the 2013 inception of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) – Malaysia's East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) and Indonesia's Jakarta-Bandung High Speed Rail (HSR). Adding non-economic considerations and political contestation between central state organs into Sinha's (2005) framework on central-state/province interactions and their impact on economic development, it argues that the implementation of large, capital-intensive BRI projects is more complex than often portrayed. The ECRL is implemented considerably faster than the HSR primarily because, relative to Indonesia, Malaysia possesses a more centralized political structure. Malaysia's power concentration at two levels – between central and subnational players and amongst central players – has facilitated elite consensus and accelerated the ECRL's rollout. In contrast, Indonesia's decentralization exercise since the late 1990s, both at the spatial level and within the executive arm of the central government, has encouraged plurality of opinions and complicated project implementation. Despite President Joko Widodo's clear intentions to expedite the Jakarta-Bandung HSR, he has been checked by multiple influential stakeholders, resulting in delays. The Indonesians, relative to the Malaysians, appear to have negotiated a somewhat better deal from the Chinese railway consortium. However, these tentative gains are offset by the HSR's slow implementation, which in turn is undergirded by Indonesia's fragmented institutional arrangement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar photovoltaic has shown a significant rise in terms of worldwide installation. One of the main reason is due to the introduction of the FiT (feed-in tariff) policy by the governments. This paper aims to evaluate FiT policy in promoting solar PV (photovoltaic) investments in Malaysia by using a dynamic systems approach. The assessment model captures the complexities arising from the interaction of FiT rate dynamics, construction delays, and investors’ and technology learning dynamics in an integrated framework. The model provides total operational PV capacity, amount of finances needed to support the policy, and the cost of environmental savings, as output. Computer simulations, based on twelve scenarios, were used as a means to study the model behaviour. For the most favourable scenario, a total capacity of about 16 GW PV by 2050 can be expected, while for the least favourable scenario, expectations would be only about 10 GW. On the expenditure side, the most favourable scenario can cost up to MYR (Malaysia Ringgit) 15 billion, whereas, for the least favourable ones, the cost can be as low as MYR2 billion. The maximum cost of CO 2 abatement can vary from MYR 0.05 per kg-CO 2 to the lowest value of MYR 0.02 per kg-CO 2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the new global economy, carbon emission has become an important worldwide issue. One key reason for this is the magnification of the transport sector, as millions of gasoline-based vehicles are plying on roads producing carbon emission throughout day and night. In order to impede these vulnerabilities and promote a more sustainable economy, one solution is to switch from gasoline-based vehicles to using green technology vehicles. There is growing agreement that electrification and the ability to ‘decarbonize’ this sector seems to be significant, as it helps to mitigate the high reliance on fossil fuels and reduce carbon emissions. The introduction of electric vehicles has led the automotive industry to a whole new echelon, one with zero fuel dependency and increased fuel efficiency. While the usage of greener and cleaner vehicles, such as electric vehicles, is well supported with government policies and programmes, it is surprising that little information is divulged about the public acceptance of electric vehicles from the social perspective. Public acceptance and diffusion of this new green technology is relatively fresh and unknown in Malaysia. In fact, public acceptance can appear as a prevailing obstacle for market diffusion and encumber the development of technology adoption. The rationale of this paper is to conduct an exploration to determine the key predictors affecting the usage of electric vehicles acceptance in Malaysia. Malaysia has been referred to here, as electric vehicles are just being introduced as one of the initiatives to encourage a low fossil carbon technology within the transportation sector. More specifically, an empirical study using a survey questionnaire was distributed to 1000 private vehicle drivers in Malaysia. An electric vehicle usage model was proposed based on a literature review and a multiple regression model. The results demonstrated that electric vehicles acceptance in Malaysia can be explained as being significantly related to social influences, performance attributes, financial benefits, environmental concerns, demographics, infrastructure readiness and government interventions. In addition, the study offers a valuable wealth of information on the public acceptance of automotive players planning to market electric vehicles in Malaysia. It also offers sensible guidelines for the formulation of marketing strategies that will address the real wants and needs of future electric vehicles users. In the meanwhile, policy-makers should concentrate on the appropriate intervention and policy to encourage the development of electric vehicles as part of the strategy towards a transition to a low carbon society in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]