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This paper presents an integrated mathematical optimisation approach to synthesise a bioelectricity supply chain network with minimal costs. Detailed economic evaluation was performed to determine the optimum location of centralised or decentralised biomass pre-treatment and power plants. Once the optimum bioelectricity supply chain network is established, input-output modelling of the network is formed. Next, feasible operating range analysis is performed. A palm-based bioelectricity supply chain case study in Malaysia is used to illustrate the proposed approach. Based on the optimised results, a total of 80.90 MW of bioelectricity are generated with an estimated net present value of USD 123.94 million and a payback period of 5 years. Meanwhile, the feasible operating range analysis indicated that the synthesised bioelectricity supply chain network possessed multiple feasible operating ranges; 5.06–10.04 MW, 11.88–36.08 MW and 44.26–101.16 MW. Based on the result, the decision makers can determine the potential of the future bioelectricity projects according to different seasons of supply and demand variations. Image 1 • Integrated approach for bioelectricity supply chain network is presented. • Optimum location of centralised/decentralised technologies is determined. • Feasible operating range analysis is performed for the synthesised network. • Potential for future bioelectricity projects can be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper will present five flash flood cases in Johor and two hailstorms from Kuala Lumpur and Melaka reported during lightning activities to determine the relationship between lightning flash rate and rainfall that occurred from 2013 to 2017. The flash floods were observed based on lightning data obtained from Tenaga Nasional Berhad Research Sdn. Bhd. (TNBR) and rainfall data from the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID). On the other hand, storm-producing hails were observed based on the lightning flash rate using electromagnetic field measurements and weather radar for their reflectivity value and cloud structure. The detection of a lightning flash, especially the negative narrow bipolar event (−NBE) and positive cloud-to-ground (+CG), could be a possible indicator of a deeper convective storm that could lead to the production of hails. In the 24-h observation of selected days when a flash flood occurred, lightning strikes correlation with rainfall had r-values ranging from 0.6 to 0.9, where the lightning data may enhance flood forecasting accuracy when combined with rainfall. Meanwhile, during the first hailstorms in Kuala Lumpur, the highest −NBEs flash rate detected during the hails appeared where 16 −NBEs were detected in a span of 5 min with reflectivity value between 53 and 55 dBz and cloud top height of 20 km. During the second hailstorms in Melaka, more + CG flashes rather than −NBE were detected during the appearance of the hail, with 64 +CG flashes and five −NBEs with reflectivity values between 60 and 66 dBz and cloud top height of 18.8 km. Based on the high convective strength, cloud top height, and presence of hailstones, −NBE and +CG flash could be possible indicators of storm severity, especially in Malaysia. • Relationship between lightning events and the severity of convective thunderstorms • The severity of the thunderstorm may not be visible at its earlier stage until the damages occurred • In Malaysia, a severe thunderstorm is not frequently studied as in temperate regions because this phenomenon is unusually formally reported • Investigating the relationship between the occurrence of severe convection with a lightning detection system, the severity of convective thunderstorms may be detected earlier with the pronounced lightning activities and selected flashes trend • Hailstorms and heavy rainfall lead to flash floods are one of the outcomes of the severity of these thunderstorms [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The output power is conducted using 3D-PV model. • A new fusion of improved bi-archive multi-objective optimization algorithm is proposed. • A new hybrid MCDM method is considered to choose the most desirable configuration. • An accurate hybrid numerical method is used for validation of the proposed method. • Performance of optimum designs are evaluated for both cases: Malaysia and South Africa. Photovoltaic (PV) and Wind turbine (WT) systems are the most promising options for rural energy delivery. In the literature, numerous studies have simply considered only on economic efficiency, while maximizing dependability by a constant value for the given demand load. Moreover, a single set Pareto optimal front (PF) has been attained for the multi-objective optimization problem. Furthermore, the primary challenge of various the off-grid multiple renewable energy sources is excessive energy loss, resulting over/under sizing and a highly total cost for the system. Therefore, this paper presents a unique improved bi-archive approach to develop the diversity and convergence independently in order to find four optimum sets of PF solutions. In addition, a new integration based on best worst method (BWM) and preference ranking organization for enrichment evaluations (PROMETHEE II) method along with group decision making (GDM) mechanism are addressed to sort and rank the optimal sets PF solutions with full consistency ratios of the three experts opinions and high degree of stability in ranking configurations. The theoretical results based on actual hourly meteorological data in Malaysia and South Africa indicated that the suggested improved two-archive-BWM- PROMETHEE II-GDM method is not only able to construct a uniform set of Pareto optimal solutions with fast convergence and high diversity, but can also rank and select the most desired design for the PV/WT/Battery system. The optimum configurations of the two cases studies are composed of a single WT, 105 PV modules, and 69 batteries storages at zero LLP, 60185 ($) of LLC, and 13548018 (KWh) of P dump for Malaysia case study, meanwhile it composes of 16 WTs, 80 PV modules, and 69 batteries storage at zero of LLP, 66073 ($) of LCC, and 31371 (KWh) of P dump. The proposed standalone hybrid renewable energy sources system is verified and assessed in a comparison with existing hybrid methods in terms of increasing the reliability, lowering overall cost, and reducing wasted energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Two hybrid models for wind power forecasting MWSO-RBFNN and MWSO-GRNN are proposed. • Six cases of Turkey and Malaysia are analyzed by RE, MAE, RMSE, NSC and R 2 correlation. • Comparisons with SOTA models confirm the performance superiority of the proposed models. In order to combat the global warming, much stress is put on integrating non-conventional energy resources, such as wind power plants and solar energy systems, into standard electricity generation systems. The stochastic nature of wind energy at a large scale requires precise forecasting in short and medium terms to manage electricity demands for regional grids because the safety and control of electricity systems are highly sensitive to voltage drop. Unfortunately, the existing forecasting models achieve less desirable performance in short term power forecasting. To resolve this issue, based on hybrid stochastic algorithm based intelligent models, which are proven to be a highly effective predictive tool, this paper proposes two new hybrid models using modified white shark optimization (MWSO) algorithm based GRNN and RBFN. To enhance the forecasting performance, the parameter mv is projected as a function of time to enforce the convergence by accelerating computation as well for effective exploration and exploitation to reinforce features of data. The supervised control and data acquisition (SCADA) data provide the input metrics to the system. A hybrid decomposition model is used to prep data for feature enhancement. Six case studies are formulated from Turkey and Malaysia to validate the forecasting performance of our technically advanced models. Recommended modifications allow MWSO for enhanced training. The results are compared with four hybrid ANN topologies in combinations with PSO and BMO stochastic optimization algorithms. Seasonal results are compared graphically and statistically through 15 min ahead forecasting. The results show that the proposed MWSO-RBFNN model outperforms the classic models in all cases for point forecasting and interval forecasting with higher convergence rate and lower stochastic error. The point and interval forecasting accuracy is extremely important to ensure power systems' stability, efficiency, and safety. Our model achieves Nash-Sutcliffe constant score of 0.99 and exhibits superior performance with the least RMSE, RE, R2, and MAE. [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]

Small scale hydropower is one of the technology options to generate and supply electricity to grid off and rural applications with almost zero emission. Malaysia is blessed with abundance of water sources and receives high rain volume per year which can be used to generate power. This paper is carried out to present the potential of small scale hydropower in Malaysia and its current status at low head location and rural electrification. Moreover, the relevant research literatures for small scale hydropower technology and the challenges facing by small renewable energy power in Malaysia are also reviewed. The review of available works display that the estimated hydropower resources in Malaysia are registered to be 29,000 MW, of which 500 MW is from small (mini)-hydro power. For this, a total of 149 sites for small hydropower potential have been identified in the country and the expected potential by 2020 is 490 MW. Despite hydro-power technologies are preferable choices for energy generation in Malaysia, they have not been fully exploited yet due to some technical, economical, and institutional challenges. Therefore, this paper can provide information for further investigations on the application of small scale hydropower for rural electrification in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade, Malaysia has experienced exceptional growth, progressing from primarily agriculture-based to a more developed manufacturing-based industrial economy. The natural rubber industry has been an important sector for Malaysia's economic development, contributing RM33.7 billion (USD101.1billion) or 4.69% of the country's Gross Domestic Profit (GDP) in 2013. This paper aims to apply the industrial symbiosis (IS) concept to the proposed Rubber City bilateral industrial development in Kedah, Malaysia. The concept of IS can be considered a strategic tool to enhance environmental and socio-economic sustainability of rubber industry. This paper involves stakeholder analysis of IS to identify strategic priorities and opportunities for the Rubber City initiative. The IS framework focuses on three main natural rubber downstream products: natural rubber blocks, tyres, and gloves; and identifies synergies in resource cycles and waste management using Materials Flow Analysis (MFA) and the Input-Output (IO) data based on previous Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) data for each of the three natural rubber products. Based on this case study, we identified ten principal synergies which include five potential IS industries integrated within the RC conceptual framework. Stakeholder surveys of natural rubber processors and other actors (such as government agencies) were conducted in Malaysia to identify barriers and enabling factors for IS implementation in the Rubber City. The outcomes of this study will be used as basis for integrated strategic development plan and implementation approach towards a sustainable Rubber City development in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the recycling potential of oil palm industrial waste which is abundantly available in Malaysia that is posing serious environmental concerns. Much research has been undertaken regarding the processing of palm oil production waste, however there is lack of attention regarding the thermal performance of oil palm waste and its attended mechanical properties as fiber reinforced mortar, stifling its wide applicability within the construction industry. This paper focuses on the utilization of oil palm residue to develop thermally insulated building envelope material. The palm oil fly ash is used as a replacement for cement, and the oil palm fibers are incorporated as an additive to reduce thermal conductivity of wall systems. Various proportions of fiber reinforced mortar were prepared to study the effects of fibers on thermal and mechanical performance. Thermal performance was studied using steady state approach by using Hot Guarded Plate apparatus. The experimental findings have revealed that the porous nature of fiber makes it a suitable choice for enhancing thermal performance of mortar, with some acceptable reduction of mechanical strength and marginal fluctuations in flexural strength. [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]

Self-regulatory driving is a term used to describe a strategy used by older drivers to preserve mobility and safety, through the adjustment of driving behaviors to match declining physical functions. It can be regarded as a way to prolong driving, or as a process leading to the cessation of driving. Previous studies have striven to explore and understand how older drivers self-regulate their driving. This paper aims to provide an overview of the relevant theories, to explicate the factors that contribute to the adoption of self-regulated driving and the scales used to measure self-regulatory behaviors. This paper also reports on the development and psychometric testing of a Self-Regulatory Driving Practices (SRDP) scale in the Malaysian context. Based on the reviewed theories, adoption of self-regulatory driving practices is a process and involves cognitive thinking that reflects a set of actions. Existing instruments to measure self-regulatory driving practices have been developed and used to identify the behavioral components of self-regulation. Based on literature reviews and a thematic analysis from focus group discussions, a SRDP scale was developed, accommodating the Malaysian context. There were 498 surveys completed by older drivers for further psychometric testing purposes. Results revealed that the final 12-item SRDP scale (α = 0.81) consists of four subscales that are planning, avoidance, reduction and alternatives. Suggestions for future research are also recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Case Study paper presents the first exploration of Speculative Design as a participatory democracy method for navigating the future of ageing in Malaysia. Speculative Design in the context of Global South is emerging, but without much data on how it is applied within different socio-economic conditions from the Global North countries. This Case Study considers the challenges and opportunities of employing Speculative Design as policy identification and development method from the context of Malaysia, a Global South country with its own unique characteristics. The paper concludes by suggesting that the novelty of Speculative Design as a policy-design approach in Global South countries, such as in Malaysia, requires the right selection of provocations and culturally familiar content to ease introduction of the methodology. Also, the efficacy of this approach as a participatory design application would require further enculturation within targeted communities, as well as sustained engagement through Champions. • Employing Speculative Design in a Global South context requires adaptation to local contexts. • Future thinking is unfamiliar to many societies still facing non-equitable development. • Participatory Speculative Design can disrupt the top-down policy-making in Malaysia. • More research is required to better localize and measure the proposed method impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Process safety and risk analysis have paramount significance in the modern process industries for preventing fatalities and asset and reputation loss due to an accident. Hence, this has been an active area of research for many decades around the world. In this paper, a bibliometric analysis-based review is presented to investigate the evolution of process safety and risk research. Specifically, the following basic questions are addressed: (i) Which countries are active in the research? (ii) What are the key areas? (iii) Who are the leading contributing authors? (iv) What are the potential sources of the publications? (v) What is the focus of most of the documents? (vi) What are the dominant factors behind the citations? and (vii) What is the contribution of the industries? Additionally, the evolution and popularity of major tools used in this field are also analyzed. It is found that safety and risk analysis is a global topic. China, Malaysia, and Iran are the emerging countries with an impressive percentage increase in research volume in this decade (2009-2018). The USA is the leading contributor, and India is the most cost-effective country. Methodology development-related works cover the vast portion of this field, and journals focusing on these works are highly likely to be cited by peer researchers. Despite a healthy contribution from industry, unfortunately collaborative works between industry and academia are rare. It is also observed that the field of process safety and risk analysis is of great growth potential with an exponential increase in the number of annual publications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Process safety and risk analysis have paramount significance in the modern process industries for preventing fatalities and asset and reputation loss due to an accident. Hence, this has been an active area of research for many decades around the world. In this paper, a bibliometric analysis-based review is presented to investigate the evolution of process safety and risk research. Specifically, the following basic questions are addressed: (i) Which countries are active in the research? (ii) What are the key areas? (iii) Who are the leading contributing authors? (iv) What are the potential sources of the publications? (v) What is the focus of most of the documents? (vi) What are the dominant factors behind the citations? and (vii) What is the contribution of the industries? Additionally, the evolution and popularity of major tools used in this field are also analyzed. It is found that safety and risk analysis is a global topic. China, Malaysia, and Iran are the emerging countries with an impressive percentage increase in research volume in this decade (2009–2018). The USA is the leading contributor, and India is the most cost-effective country. Methodology development-related works cover the vast portion of this field, and journals focusing on these works are highly likely to be cited by peer researchers. Despite a healthy contribution from industry, unfortunately collaborative works between industry and academia are rare. It is also observed that the field of process safety and risk analysis is of great growth potential with an exponential increase in the number of annual publications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A systematic overview of food waste drivers in an island-based hotels. • Using qualitative content analysis, eight food waste drivers were identified. • A holistic approach required to reduce food wastage for the hotel sector. Food waste (FW) generation from hotel operations have a significant negative impact on the environment, society and economy. Hence, the urgent need to introduce sustainable food management to reduce both FW and operational costs in hotels. The aim of this paper is to identify the drivers of FW generation and barriers to sustainable food waste management (SFWM) in island based hotels. The data were collected using in-depth interview coupled with the observations conducted at 23 selected hoteliers in Langkawi Island, Malaysia. Based on the analysis, using qualitative content analysis (QCA), eight FW drivers were identified and the drivers were classified into three categories of factors, mainly internal, external and intermediate influence. There are four FW drivers identified as internal factors that influenced the implementation of food waste management namely (1) poor hotel management and policies, (2) lack of skills in food preparation, (3) lack of facilities and FW technology and (4) non-implementation of waste audit and waste separation. For external factors, there are two FW drivers, including (5) unsustainable food consumption patterns of the customers and (6) risk of food ingredients spoilage. As for intermediate factors, two FW drivers were identified, which are (7) ineffective communication and (8) inadequate education and awareness. Findings from this study contribute towards a better understanding on the complexity of FW issues, particularly for island-based hotel sector. It was also suggested that a holistic approach with multi-stakeholders is crucial to reduce food wastage towards achieving SFWM. [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 The power output by a small hydropower generation unit (SHP) is conventionally estimated as a product of the net head, admitted flow, and a typical value of efficiency. In case of run of river (RoR) units however, sub-daily variability of stream flow together with consequent variation of efficiency make the conventional estimate open to errors. This paper presents closed form expressions for sub-daily mean output power, sub-daily maximum likelihood output power, and sub-daily output power variability; all of which serve as useful measures of RoR unit performance in presence of fluvial micro and macroturbulence phenomena. As part of the development, bimodal (alternately, multimodal) logistic distributions are established as dependable statistics for sub-daily flow admitted to a RoR unit. The concepts are substantiated through an operational RoR case study from Malaysia, and detailed Monte Carlo simulations based on the same. The three sub-daily performance metrics are shown to form good basis for comparison between candidate turbine configurations for RoR projects in operation, or alternately, those under consideration at a planning stage. Highlights • Statistics formulated for sub-daily admitted flow at a Run-of-River hydro unit. • Sub-daily mean, maximum-likelihood, and variability metrics proposed for hydropower. • Micro- as well as macroturbulence phenomena in stream flow accounted for. • Performance metrics substantiated through Monte Carlo simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The National Automotive Policy was introduced in Malaysia in 2006, which includes end-of-life vehicle (ELV) recovery policies. However, there is limited information on the current state of ELV recovery in Malaysia, which hinders the fulfillment of these new requirements. For manufacturers, the lack of information will lead to difficulties in making strategic decisions in order to fulfill the ELV policies. In order to support design strategies for ELV recovery, it is crucial to identify the issues and factors of ELV recovery, which forms the objective of this study. A survey was carried out among the key stakeholders in the aftermarket chain and the results revealed that special tooling is needed to handle ELV components as well as design that will facilitate the separation of parts according to materials. These are among the main factors that contribute toward the effectiveness of ELV recovery. The following 5 factors (pre-production, health and environment, policy and worker, manufacturing process, and end-of-life value) are the factors that will enhance ELV recovery in Malaysia and it is believed that these factors are subject to dynamic changes in the aftermarket chain. It is believed that the results presented in this paper will be useful to academics and researchers in order to establish design strategies for ELV recovery in Malaysia. Moreover, stochastic techniques are required to cater the dynamic and complex behavior of the actual ELV recovery system in Malaysia. Highlights • ELV recovery issues and factors in the automotive industry are investigated. • Special tooling is a critical issues faced by aftermarket stakeholders. • Pre-production, manufacturing process, and EOL value are among the important factors. • Fragility of components is the most important sub-factor. • The proposed factors serve as a guideline to create a dynamic ELV recovery model. [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]

Malaysia's framework for energy development was established in the early 1970s. Henceforth, many successive policies were introduced as potential resources for electricity generation and utilization. Currently, as a signatory to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Malaysia is sparing a number of effort to comply with the policy to meet the challenges of mitigating over-dependence on fossil fuels, reducing carbon levels, and achieving sustainable national development. This paper reviews the baseline studies on electrical energy policies and the measurement indicators used in Malaysia's electric power system. This research involves a comprehensive survey of electrical energy policies in Malaysia that focus on issues pertaining to energy supply, utilization, its environmental impact and considerations, renewable energy (RE) policies, production and consumption, energy efficiency, and feed-in tariffs. Fourteen energy indicators for sustainable development in Malaysia were investigated through the identification of energy policies in significant areas, such as reliability, safety, adequacy and cost-effectiveness of energy supply; increasing energy efficiency; minimizing environmental impact; and enhancing quality of life in terms of social well-being. The policies and the indicators are classified into different sustainable dimensions and summarized in tables along with the corresponding key references. In this study, future energy planning and options, especially in nuclear and RE programs, as well as the conflict between them, are illustrated through the overall performance relative to targets and benchmarks for past and future projections up to the year 2030. This review seeks to examine the past, present, and future policies and indicators to provide a sufficient overview of Malaysian energy policies for optimizing sustainable development. The goal is for this review to lead to increased efforts to accommodate the increasing demand for the management and utilization of RE, promote energy efficiency, and improve performance in achieving sustainable national development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores compulsive use of YouTube by university students and investigates how the uses and gratifications perspective and the personality perspective work together to explain compulsive use of the social medium. It compares the effects of motivation to use YouTube for information with motivation to use the platform for entertainment, and examines how the different motivational effects compare with those of personality. It also explores the influence of compulsive use of YouTube on academic motivation. Data from 807 students at a Malaysian university were analysed using hierarchical multiple regression. Stronger motivation to use YouTube for information and learning is associated with lower compulsive use, while stronger motivation to use YouTube for entertainment is associated with higher compulsive use. Entertainment motivation has a stronger effect than information motivation. Although tendency to compulsive use differs with personality traits, the motivation effects are independent of personality. Compulsive YouTube use negatively influences academic motivation. While educators can take risks of compulsive use into account when they propose YouTube resources to their students, information literacy education and training can play an additional role in risk reduction by alerting social media users to the risks of compulsive use and helping them to develop self-management strategies. [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]

Vehicles travelling in actual urban areas are mostly in idle, low or medium speeds, which reflects engine part-load condition. These regularly visited engine conditions, in reality affect the fuel economy during actual driving. Thus, understanding the characteristics of the actual driving conditions will enable many other benefits besides legislation. This paper presents the development of a preliminary Malaysian urban drive cycle with the inclusion of the engine parameters and characteristics, acquired through an actual urban driving on numerous urban roads in Malaysia that represents the actual consumer’s daily driving experience. The actual engine parameters and its characteristics are integrated into the assessment measures in an attempt to formulate representable drive cycle and fuel consumption data. The initial drive cycle is composed of 17 sequences selected from the actual on-the-road conditions to represent the Malaysian urban driving. The average fuel economy of the established Malaysian urban drive cycle was then measured on a test bench using the same engine from the vehicle. The recorded fuel economy with Malaysian urban drive cycle is 8.5% below the actual Malaysian urban driving which is closer estimation to the actual driving compared to the current in-practice NEDC which shows to be 43.1% below the actual Malaysian urban driving. Thus, Malaysian urban drive cycle is better in representing the Malaysian urban driving conditions compared to the NEDC in terms of the average fuel economy measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is based on a study of the roles and responsibilities of Excellent Teachers, as described by the teachers themselves and their role sets (Merton, 1957). The data collected via semi-structured interviews with the teachers were triangulated with documents which show official expectations of Excellent Teachers. Data were also compared with interviews carried out with other teachers, school administrators and the inspectors, to provide a 360-degree view on the roles and responsibilities of Excellent Teachers. Five themes emerged from the data analysis, respectively focusing on their roles as teacher, content expert, facilitator, mentor, and innovator. [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]

Design for Environment (DfE) and Design for Disassembly (DfD) have been recognized as an effective sustainable manufacturing approach to reduce environmental impact during product's life cycle. Although Malaysian manufacturers have long demonstrated a strong global market presence, the implementation of DfE and DfD among manufacturers are found lacking. This paper attempts to investigate the current state DfE and DfD implementation and the local driving force in the local Malaysian industry by addressing four research questions (RQ): RQ1 – How do Malaysian designers value the importance of DfE? RQ2 – What are the current approaches used by designers to incorporate environmental issues during product development stage? RQ3 – What difficulties are experienced in the implementation of DfE and DfD in the product development stage? RQ4 – What are the approaches needed to enhance the engagement of DfE and DfD into product design practices? Targeting product designers in Malaysia, a multiple approach using survey and interview is conducted shown that the current state of implementation and awareness within the local industry is fairly low. The soft approach of the local legislation does not contribute much towards seeing a major change in attitude as will be discussed further in the paper. The above two concerns are major challenges that require immediate attention. However, there seems to be growing concern from the industry and the government that pushes the need for options that could leapfrog the current situation. This presents an opportunity for the local research community to come up with various strategies that will be discussed. Finally, the paper proposes a more comprehensive strategy that is tailored to the local business environment in order for the local industry to be capable of maintaining its market presence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This paper shall first investigate the informatics areas and applications of the four Traditional Medicine systems - Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine and Traditional Malay Medicine. Then, this paper shall examine the national informatics infrastructure initiatives in the four respective countries that support the Traditional Medicine systems. Challenges of implementing informatics in Traditional Medicine Systems shall also be discussed.Methods: The literature was sourced from four databases: Ebsco Host, IEEE Explore, Proquest and Google scholar. The search term used was "Traditional Medicine", "informatics", "informatics infrastructure", "traditional Chinese medicine", "Ayurveda", "traditional Arabic and Islamic medicine", and "traditional malay medicine". A combination of the search terms above was also executed to enhance the searching process. A search was also conducted in Google to identify miscellaneous books, publications, and organization websites using the same terms.Results: Amongst major advancements in TCM and Ayurveda are bioinformatics, development of Traditional Medicine databases for decision system support, data mining and image processing. Traditional Chinese Medicine differentiates itself from other Traditional Medicine systems with documented ISO Standards to support the standardization of TCM. Informatics applications in Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine are mostly ehealth applications that focus more on spiritual healing, Islamic obligations and prophetic traditions. Literature regarding development of health informatics to support Traditional Malay Medicine is still insufficient. Major informatics infrastructure that is common in China and India are automated insurance payment systems for Traditional Medicine treatment. National informatics infrastructure in Middle East and Malaysia mainly cater for modern medicine. Other infrastructure such as telemedicine and hospital information systems focus its implementation in modern medicine or are not implemented and strategized at a national level to support Traditional Medicine.Conclusion: Informatics may not be able to address all the emerging areas of Traditional Medicine because the concepts in Traditional Medicine system of medicine are different from modern system, though the aim may be same, i.e., to give relief to the patient. Thus, there is a need to synthesize Traditional Medicine systems and informatics with involvements from modern system of medicine. Future research works may include filling the gaps of informatics areas and integrate national informatics infrastructure with established Traditional Medicine systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary This paper explores the case for using “community-based shared values” as a potential driver for the “Heartware” aspects of governance in Integrated Watershed Management (IWM) – from a Japan-Malaysia policy learning perspective. This policy approach was originally inspired by the Japanese experience, and the paper investigates whether a similar strategy can be adapted in the Malaysian context-based on a qualitative exploratory case study of a local downstream watershed community. The community-based shared values are categorized into six functional values that can be placed on a watershed: industry, ecosystem, lifestyle, landscape, water resource and spirituality. The study confirmed the availability of a range of community-based shared values in each category that are promising to drive the heartware for integrated watershed management in the local Malaysian context. However, most of these shared values are either declining in its appreciation or nostalgic in nature. The paper ends with findings on key differences and similarities between the Malaysian and Japanese contexts, and concludes with lessons for international transfer of IWM heartware policy strategies between the two countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demographic change, dramatic population increase and rapid industrial growth are major trends emerging in Malaysia. Climate change and depletion of fossil fuel along with the rise in petroleum prices have forced the Malaysian Government to rethink strategies to be more in line with other developed countries including the decision to embark on renewable energy (RE) resources as a better source of energy amongst the global energy mix. The Malaysian Government is making frantic efforts to make policies, RE programmes and incentives more effective so as to promote and develop the use of RE. Malaysia is rich with fossil fuel but these are fast depleting. Although RE is necessary, current RE resources are still not enough. Therefore, exploration into other resources must be considered in order to meet future energy demands. The objective of this paper is to identify the potential of available renewable energy resources in Malaysia as well as the country׳s current implementation strategies. This paper also discusses the different RE policies in Malaysia. In order to determine the potential of RE, various sources and published materials in conferences, international journals and information released by relevant government bodies and miscellaneous resources are used. This research has revealed that among all the renewable energy sources that are present in Malaysia, biomass and solar energy are the most prospective ones. Plus, renewable energy (RE) sources are quite advantageous as they are free from greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and related global warming effects. They can also be applied in off-grid electricity generation for rural communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The industrial usage of plant biomass, paper pulp manufacture, is increasing every day. In Malaysia, Rubber wood is the dominant raw material and the Soda-anthraquinone and total chlorine free bleaching processes lead the procedure of rubber wood paper pulp production. This paper aims to identify the structural modification in the pulp depending on the applied procedure. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry and HPLC have been applied to analyze rubberwood chip, soda-AQ and TCF pulp. The relationship between spectral characteristics and sample composition has been established, as well as the variation in the structural behavior after pulping and bleaching has been observed. FTIR spectra clearly show that after TCF the structure of the wood components is partially modified or removed. Along with FTIR data, the HPLC results confirmed the absence of chemically hazardous p-Hydroxybenzoic acid in the pulp samples, which finally results in the contamination of the river water streams. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study reports an outbreak of lymphocystis disease virus infection in cultured juvenile John's snapper (Lutjanus johnii) in Malaysia. In mid-January 2021, approximately 19,000 juvenile John's snapper exhibited signs of lethargy and isolating themselves from the schooling group, developed lymphocysts all over the body and fins, and died. The outbreak started at day 3 after the introduction of fish into the hatchery, and the severity of the disease was observed between day 7 and 14, resulting in 53% mortality. No bacteria was isolated, while a low prevalence of protozoan parasite was observed at 5% of fish samples. Histopathology examination revealed focal nodular dermal fibroblast hypertrophy with karyomegaly and hyaline capsule formation. Basophilic intracytoplasmic inclusions were observed in the diseased fish. PCR and sequence analyses revealed that all affected fish were positive to lymphocystis disease virus (LCDV), which was absent from the clinically healthy fish. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolates from this outbreak were from the cluster of LCDV genotype 2. This paper reports the first documentation of LCDV infection in cultured John's snapper in Malaysia. Farmers and authorities should beware of the impacts LCDV infection, as it can cause high mortality and economic losses in cultured fish. • The first documentation of LCDV infection in cultured John's snapper in Malaysia • Affected fish exhibit lethargy, development of lymphocysts and mortality. • PCR and sequence analyses revealed that affected fish were positive to LCDV genotype 2. • LCDV can cause high mortality and economic losses in cultured juvenile fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Covid-19 pandemic has had an adverse effect on the global economy, particularly the hotel industry. Industry players have turned to big data to recover and improve their business performance. This paper aims to identify the key resources to develop and build big data analytics capabilities (BDAC). Drawing upon the knowledge-based and dynamic capability views, this research also examines the interplay among BDAC, organizational agility, marketing and organizational innovations, and firm performance in the hotel industry. The partial least square structural equation modeling is used for the data analysis, while quota sampling is used for the sampling design. Based on the statistical data analysis from 115 star-rated hotels in Malaysia, BDAC positively impacts organizational agility, marketing and organizational innovations, and firm performance. Likewise, organizational agility positively impacts firm performance, marketing and organizational innovations. The empirical findings provide researchers and industry players with meaningful insights for improving firm performance in the hotel industry using big data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of restaurants is increasing day by day in almost all the developing countries, causing the increase in the generation of restaurant wastewater. Various activities (i.e., cleaning, washing, and cooking) going on in the restaurant kitchen lead to restaurant wastewater (RWW). RWW has high concentrations of chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), nutrients such as potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, and solids. RWW also contains fats, oil, and grease (FOG) in alarmingly high concentration, which after congealing can constrict the sewer lines, leading to blockages, backups, and sanitatry sewer overflows (SSOs). The paper provides an insight to the details of RWW containing FOG collected from a gravity grease interceptor at a specific site in Malaysia, and its expected consequences and the sustainable management plan as prevention, control, and mitigation (PCM) approach. The results showed that the concentrations of pollutants are very high as compared to the discharge standards given by Department of Environment, Malaysia. Maximum values for COD, BOD and FOG in the restaurant wastewater samples were found to be 9948, 3170, and 1640 mg/l, respectively. FAME and FESEM analysis are done on the RWW containing FOG. In the FOG, palmitic acid (C16:0), stearic acid (C18:0), oleic acid (C18:1n9c), linoleic acid (C18:2n6c) are the dominant lipid acids with a maximum of 41, 8.4, 43.2, and 11.5%, respectively. FESEM analysis showed formation of whitish layers fprmed due to the deposition of calcium salts. Furthermore, a novel design of indoor hydromechanical grease interceptor (HGI) was proposed in the study based on the Malaysian conditions of restaurant. The HGI was designed for a maximum flow rate of 132 L per minute and a maximum FOG capacity of 60 kg. [Display omitted] • Characterization and analysis of restaurant wastewater containing FOG was conducted. • Peak flow discharge was measured at the gravity grease interceptor which was the sampling point during the study. • FAME & FESEM analysis was carried on the composition of FOG in restaurant wastewater. • Design of Hydromechanical grease interceptor was proposed for the indoor and onsite installation to control the FOG. • Prevention, control, and mitigation approach to combat the deleterious effects of FOG in RWW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate distribution and sources of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) bound to fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) captured in a semi-urban area in Malaysia during different seasons, and to assess their health risks. PM 2.5 samples were collected using a high volume air sampler on quartz filter paper at a flow rate of 1 m 3 min −1 for 24 h. PAHs on the filter paper were extracted with dichloromethane (DCM) using an ultrasonic centrifuge solid-phase extraction method and measured by gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy. The results showed that the range of PAHs concentrations in the study period was between 0.21 and 12.08 ng m −3 . The concentrations of PAHs were higher during the south-west monsoon (0.21–12.08 ng m −3 ) compared to the north-east monsoon (0.68–3.80 ng m −3 ). The high molecular weight (HMW) PAHs (≥5 ring) are significantly prominent (>70%) compared to the low molecular weight (LMW) PAHs (≤4 ring) in PM 2.5 . The Spearman correlation indicates that the LMW and HMW PAHs correlate strongly among themselves. The diagnostic ratios (DRs) of I[c]P/I[c]P + BgP and B[a]P/B[g]P suggest that the HMW PAHs originated from fuel combustion sources. The source apportionment analysis of PAHs was resolved using DRs-positive matrix factorization (PMF)-multiple linear regression (MLR). The main sources identified were (a) gasoline combustion (65%), (b) diesel and heavy oil combustion (19%) and (c) natural gas and coal burning (15%). The health risk evaluation, by means of the lifetime lung cancer risk (LLCR), showed no potential carcinogenic risk from the airborne BaP eq (which represents total PAHs at the present study area in Malaysia). The seasonal LLCR showed that the carcinogenic risk of total PAHs were two fold higher during south-westerly monsoon compared to north-easterly monsoon. [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]

Ineffective waste management that involves dumping of waste in landfills may degrade valuable land resources and emit methane gas (CH 4 ), a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide (CO 2 ). The incineration of waste also emits polluted chemicals such as dioxin and particle. Therefore, from a solid waste management perspective, both landfilling and incineration practices pose challenges to the development of a green and sustainable future. Waste-to-energy (WtE) has become a promising strategy catering to these issues because the utilisation of waste reduces the amount of landfilled waste (overcoming land resource issues) while increasing renewable energy production. The goal of this paper is to evaluate the energy and carbon reduction potential in Malaysia for various WtE strategies for municipal solid waste (MSW). The material properties of the MSW, its energy conversion potential and subsequent greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions are analysed based on the chemical compositions and biogenic carbon fractions of the waste. The GHG emission reduction potential is also calculated by considering fossil fuel displacement and CH 4 avoidance from landfilling. In this paper, five different scenarios are analysed with results indicating a integration of landfill gas (LFG) recovery systems and waste incinerator as the major and minor WtE strategies shows the highest economical benefit with optimal GHG mitigation and energy potential. Sensitivity analysis on the effect of moisture content of MSW towards energy potential and GHG emissions are performed. These evaluations of WtE strategies provides valuable insights for policy decision in MSW management practices with cost effective, energy benefit, environmental protection. [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 presents analysis of the wind speed characteristics at Chuping and Kangar in Perlis, Malaysia. The characteristics consist of daily, monthly and annual mean wind speed. The Weibull distribution function is applied to analyze the wind speed characteristics and used to calculate the wind power generation potential. The wind power and energy as functions of tower height are presented and analyzed in this paper. The result shows that during 2005-2009 the mean wind speed at Chuping is 1.12m/s, and during 2012-2013 the mean wind speed at Kangar is 2.50m/s. Based on the analysis of the Weibull distribution function, the wind speed and probability density are, respectively, 0.97m/s and 73% at Chuping, also 2.5m/s and 45% at Kangar. They are important information to choose a suitable wind turbine for a wind power generation. The monthly mean wind power and energy density in the beginning (January-March) and the end (December) of year are higher than in the middle of year. The analysis result of the wind power and energy density as functions of tower height shows that higher tower height will produce higher wind power and energy density. [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]

To realize Malaysia’s vision of becoming a developed country by the year 2020, rapid urbanization and development have taken place in many parts of the country. Despite vast development in Malaysia, the country experiences a myriad of water shortage issues. Therefore, Malaysia needs to carefully manage its freshwater resources to achieve sustainable development. Greywater has proven to be a useful substitute for fresh water for non-potable activities. This paper reviews examples of greywater recycling that have been successfully implemented globally, and identifies constraints of implementing greywater recycling systems for use in Malaysia. Greywater represents 43–70% of total domestic wastewater volume, and reusing greywater for irrigation may have adverse long-term impacts on soil. Greywater should be treated and disinfected before reuse, and can be disinfected via chlorine, UV, or ozone disinfection. Chlorine disinfection is recommended as chlorine is widely available and inexpensive. Malaysia lacks strategies for kick starting greywater recycling projects. To overcome obstacles, Malaysia could establish a moderate treated greywater quality standard (pH 6–9, TSS < 20 mg/L, <5 NTU, BOD 5 < 20 mg/L and <10 CFU/100 mL of E. coli ) for urban reuse and initiate greywater recycling efforts by recycling low strength greywater from ablution activities and bathrooms. Last but not least, researchers and local authorities could work closely to monitor the greywater recycling systems, while the latter could provide subsidies and rebates to financially support the implementation of the greywater recycling system and eventually achieve the goal of water sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaysia has a plethora of biomass that can be utilized in a sustainable manner to produce bio-products for circular green economy. At the 15th Conference of Parties in Copenhagen, Malaysia stated to voluntarily reduce its emissions intensity of gross domestic product by upto 40% by 2020 from 2005 level. Natural resources e.g. forestry and agricultural resources will attribute in achieving these goals. This paper investigates optimum bio-based systems, such as bioenergy and biorefinery, and their prospects in sustainable development in Malaysia, while analyzing comparable cases globally. Palm oil industry will continue to play a major role in deriving products and contributing to gross national income in Malaysia. Based on the current processing capacity, one tonne of crude palm oil (CPO) production is associated with nine tonnes of biomass generation. Local businesses tend to focus on products with low-risk that enjoy subsidies, e.g. Feed-in-Tariff, such as bioenergy, biogas, etc. CPO biomass is utilized to produce biogas, pellets, dried long fibre and bio-fertilizer and recycle water. It is envisaged that co-production of bio-based products, food and pharmaceutical ingredients, fine, specialty and platform chemicals, polymers, alongside biofuel and bioenergy from biomass is possible to achieve overall sustainability by the replacement of fossil resources. Inception of process integration gives prominent innovative biorefinery configurations, an example demonstrated recently, via extraction of recyclable, metal, high value chemical (levulinic acid), fuel, electricity and bio-fertilizer from municipal solid waste or urban waste. Levulinic acid yield by only 5 wt% of waste feedstock gives 1.5 fold increase in profitability and eliminates the need for subsidies such as gate fees paid by local authority to waste processor. Unsustainable practices include consumable food wastage, end-of-pipe cleaning and linear economy that must be replaced by sustainable production and consumption, source segregation and process integration, and product longevity and circular economy. [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]

This paper investigates how students’ personality types influence their academic performance and how Facebook usage intervenes these associations. A survey questionnaire method was adopted to collect data from students in five public universities in Malaysia. An analysis of 1165 questionnaires shows that all five dimensions of personality from big five model predict academic performance. In addition, shyness also predicted academic performance positively while a negative relationship was found between loneliness and students’ academic performance. The mediating role of Facebook usage was established only in the relationships of academic performance with extraversion, agreeableness and loneliness. A discussion of these findings, limitations of the study and future research directions are provided. [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 main purpose of this paper is to examine the continuance intention (CI) of citizens in following government Facebook page. Applying theories of expectation-confirmation, and information system success on a sample of 362 students in Malaysia, and using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), the study finds that CI and satisfaction of government Facebook page is contingent upon information quality (IQ) of the Facebook page per se. IQ is found as a second order construct of five first order factors: reliability, completeness, relevancy, timeliness, and understandability. Satisfaction of government Facebook page is also found as a partial mediator to the relationship between IQ and CI of following government Facebook page. In addition, applying PLS multi-group analysis, the results show that different government Facebook pages moderate the relationships between IQ and satisfaction of government Facebook page, IQ and CI of following government Facebook page as well as satisfaction of government Facebook page and CI of following government Facebook page. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The palm oil milling process produces excessive amount of palm oil mill effluent (POME). Conventionally, POME is treated anaerobically to remove organic pollutant which produces biogas. Ideally, biogas is recovered to reduce the carbon footprint of palm oil production. However, more often than not the biogas is released freely to the atmosphere as a potent greenhouse gas (GHG). This paper demonstrates the Malaysia’s experiences and endeavors in biogas capture and utilization under the Economic Transformation Programme. It highlights some of the essential technological, financial and institutional elements put in place gearing towards a nationwide biogas implementation. Biogas captured is a proven source of renewable energy that can contribute to the nation’s energy mix and sustainable development. Its implementation has been realized and strengthened in recent years through private commitment and government support in the form of several financial schemes and policies. This initiative across the nation targeting GHG emissions reduction is by and large one of the most responsive long term approaches in continuously improving the environmental performance of the oil palm industry to ensure continued market access to countries imposing more stringent palm oil sustainability requirements. The hardship, pain and valuable lessons learned in this national development could be informative for many other palm oil-producing countries in addressing similar sustainability issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First application of methodology of text highlighting to product consumer research. • Case study with kiwifruit conducted in Singapore and Malaysia (1140 consumers). • Sensory and health characteristics of kiwifruit that consumers 'like' and 'dislike' were identified. • Penalty/lift analysis was used to analyse text highlighting responses to product characteristics. Text highlighting is a new method for online sensory-consumer research where participants read a text while making use of highlighting functions to indicate content that they, respectively, 'like' and 'dislike.' In a recent series of papers, consumers have been found to approach the text highlighting task in a logical and systematic manner, and the results have been shown to deliver attitudinal insights about the focal topic that fit expectations. Building on the early successes of text highlighting, it was an obvious step to try to extend it to applications in product research which occupies a central role in sensory-consumer research. A case study with kiwifruit was performed with consumers in Singapore and Malaysia (n = 1140). Participants read a text (288 words, 19 sentences) which primarily described sensory, nutrition and health characteristics of green and gold kiwifruit. Focusing on 43 specific fruit characteristics, sentiment (difference between the frequency of 'like' and 'dislike' highlights) was higher for nutrition and health characteristics than for those describing sensory characteristics. Only the Chinese origin of kiwifruit and the hairy skin of green kiwifruit were negatively perceived overall. A novel use of penalty/lift analysis to identify the specific fruit characteristics that significantly influenced expected liking of kiwifruit confirmed the results based on sentiment scores. Moreover, a difference between the drivers of liking for gold and green kiwifruit was identified; the use of 'like' highlighting for sensory properties positively contributed to expected liking for gold kiwifruit only. The case study also demonstrated the potential to meaningfully segment consumers based on their highlighting responses to product specific characteristics. The results are discussed in the context of future applications of text highlighting in product research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Machine learning method is used to predict probable factors impacting fatal falls from height accidents. • The analysis uses 3321 fatal fall incidents from Malaysia. • This study establishes the feasibility of machine learning in the field of construction safety management. The focus of this paper is to use machine learning to create a prediction model that detects the probable factors impacting fatal falls from heights accidents at the Malaysia construction industry. The dataset used in this study was imported from the Department of Occupational Safety and Health of Malaysia's industrial accident database. The dataset details 3321 accident scenarios which include; the date, the activity, the region, the summary of the accident, the direct cause, the root cause, and the factors. Seven machine learning models were tested to determine which model fits the dataset better, and as a result, the Random Forest Classification model was selected for this work. Random Forest classification tested several contributing factors such as: site conditions, management factors, individual characteristics and agent factors separately to determine their accuracy. Management factors and individual characteristics factors recorded the highest accuracy in every other prediction model; while agent factors recorded the highest accuracy in the random forest model. Additionally, this approach created ensemble predictions based on all of the dataset's characteristics. As a result, this study establishes the feasibility of machine learning in the field of construction safety management. The provided results can aid in accident prevention by increasing awareness of potential safety hazards, quantitatively predicting fatal accidents, and implementing the findings in potential safety management systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]