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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]

Tropical country such as Malaysia experienced high intensity and long period of rainfall, which is the main factor of slope failure. The increasing of seepage subjected by rainfall not only distress suction distribution, but also affects hydraulic properties of soil lead to the decreasing of soil strength. This also leads to soil slope failure. The main hydraulic properties for soils are Soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) and hydraulic conductivity, k. The relationship of these parameters is highly influenced by tropical soil, thus contributes to soil instability phenomenon. The main objective of this paper is to study the relationship between soils' hydraulic properties and particle size distribution (PSD). Four types of soils investigated in this research include one sample taken from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)'s reserved forest, and three samples were commercially obtained. Other than soil basic properties, pressure plate extractor and permeability tests were conducted for SWCC and permeability, respectively. Tests show that different types of soils demonstrate different characteristic of SWCC and hydraulic conductivity. Result also shows that PSD has the influence and affect the result of hydraulic properties of soils. This study is expected to enhance the understanding of complex phenomenon of residual soil instability. • Infiltration of rainwater into soil is a main cause of slope instability. • Tackle this issue by studying relationship of hydraulic properties of soils. • Result shows that PSD has the influence and effect to hydraulic properties of soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Debris flow caused high number of deaths among many of geohazard events in Malaysia due to the characteristics of sudden outburst and high energy density. This paper reviewed the initial mechanism and characteristics of existing debris flow in Malaysia. Almost all debris flows occurrence were initiated on natural terrains as opposed to other forms of landslides. Most of the events were induced by the rainfall. This is due to the geographic locations of Malaysia that lies on the equator with tropical climates and received abundant rainfall of 2400 mm annually. Intense and heavy rainfall increases the water content and pore water pressures within the residual soil that could trigger landslides. Thus, an intense and prolonged rainfall has become the major triggering factor for debris flow. This review article focus on clarifies the characterization of historical debris flow events that had an impact the infrastructure in Malaysia. In summary, this review attempts to systematically summarize the existing research on the mechanism of debris flow in Malaysia to provide further reference on debris flow prevention. Comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms and the behaviour of the debris flow will assist to the fundamental hazard and provide proper planning for structural measures. • The initial mechanism and characteristics of existing debris flow in Malaysia. • The effects are more severe due to the climate change and human activities. • Formation of natural dam also can produce a disastrous debris flow. • Reality ofthe occurrence in Malaysia known as cascading geological process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of sustainable materials in the construction industry has been on the rise recently. Studies have proven that the use of conventional concrete and its raw materials has a negative impact on the environment. Research on incorporating biochar as a supplementary cementitious material has been recently evolving and has shown that the attributes of biochar are highly affected by the pyrolysis parameters. These attributes have enhanced the properties of biochar concrete and mortar composite. This paper identifies the different physiochemical properties exhibited by palm kernel shell biochar through optimization by response surface methodology. Focusing on some of the properties of biochar that have proven beneficial when used as a cement replacement. Very limited research has used optimization tools for the production of biochar with the intention of using it as a cement substitute. Pyrolysis was conducted by a tubular furnace at different temperature ranges from 200 °C to 800 °C. The biomass and biochar have been analyzed with TGA and FESEM-EDX. The targeted biochar properties and selected responses are the yield, carbon, oxygen, silica, and potassium content. The optimized parameters obtained are 409 °C, 15 °C/min, 120 min with responses of 38.2% yield, 73.37% carbon, 25.48% oxygen, 0.39% potassium and 0.44% silica. Thermal properties of the palm kernel shell biochar affected by the pyrolysis factors such as temperature, heating rate and residence time have also been discussed. In conclusion, this study supports and encourages the use of palm waste, which is abundant in Malaysia, as a supplementary cementitious material to promote sustainable growth in construction. [Display omitted] • Hypothesis for a high potential of palm kernel shell biochar to be used as supplementary cementitious replacement. • The factors that are taken into consideration are pyrolysis temperature, heating rate and residence. The responses are biochar yield, carbon, oxygen, potassium, and silica content. • Optimized round of palm kernel shell biochar is 409 °C, 15 °C/min and 120 min. • The carbon content of the biochar is directly proportional to the pyrolysis temperature. • The pyrolysis temperature and residence time are more effective than heating rate on the physiochemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scholarship on Christianity in Malaysia has been dominated by denominational church history, as well as the study of urban, middle-class and English-speaking church congregations in the post-Independence period. In focusing on the vernacular Chinese Protestant church in Malaysia, and one of its most prominent para-church organisations, called The Bridge, this paper draws attention to the variegated histories of Christian conversion and dissemination in Malaysia, and the various modes and meanings of Christian identity as incorporated into different local communities and cultures. The history of the Chinese Protestant church suggested in the first part of the paper takes as its point of departure the distinction between mission and migrant churches, the latter being the origin of the vernacular Chinese churches in Malaysia. The second part of the paper traces the emergence of a Chinese para-church lay organisation called The Bridge, and the Chinese Christian intellectuals behind it, in their mission to engage the larger Chinese and national public through literary publications and other media outreach activities. In so doing, these Chinese Christian intellectuals also drew on the resources of an East Asian and overseas Chinese Christian network, while searching for their destiny as Chinese Christians in the national context of Malaysia. By pointing to the importance of regional, Chinese-language Christian networks, and the complexity of vernacular Christian subjectivity, the paper hopes to fill a gap in the existing literature on Christianity in Malaysia, as well as make a contribution to on-going debates on issues of localisation, globalisation and authenticity in global Christianity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Particulate matter (PM10) associated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in ambient air were determined at two sites within the Klang Valley, Kuala Lumpur (urban, KL) and Petaling Jaya (industrial, PJ), and one site outside the Klang Valley, Bangi (semi-urban, BG). This study aimed to determine the concentration and distribution of PAHs in PM10 and the source of origin through principal component analysis (PCA) and diagnostic ratio analysis. This study also assessed the health risk from exposure to airborne BaPeq. PM10 samples were collected on glass fiber filter paper using a High Volume Sampler (HVS) for 24 h between September 2010 and April 2011. The filter papers with PM10 were extracted using dichloromethane-methanol (3:1), and analysis of 16 USEPA priority PAHs was determined using gas chromatography with mass spectra (GC–MS). Health risk assessment was estimated using toxic equivalency factors (TEFs) and incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) which quantitatively estimate the exposure risk for age specific group. The results showed that the total PAHs concentrations throughout seasonal monsoons for KL, PJ and BG ranged from 1.33 ng m−3 to 2.97 ng m−3, 2.24 ng m−3 to 4.84 ng m−3 and 1.64 ng m−3 to 3.45 ng m−3 respectively. More than 80% of total PAHs consisted of 5-ring and 6-ring PAHs such as benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene (IcP), benzo[b]fluoranthene (BbF), benzo[k]fluoranthene (BkF) and benzo[g,h,i]perylene (BgP). The presence of benzo[g,h,i]perylene (BgP) with high concentration at all locations suggested a source indicator for traffic emission. PCA and diagnostic ratio analysis also suggested substantial contributions from traffic emission with minimal influence from coal combustion and natural gas emissions. The use of total BaPeq concentration provide a better estimation of carcinogenicity activities, where they contributed to more than 50% of the potential health risk. Health risk assessment showed that the estimated incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) from exposure to airborne BaPeq is negligible at all sampling sites for all age specific group. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Malaysian palm oil industry spans the entire value chain from upstream processes to downstream activities. This paper aims to review the progress of the palm oil industry and the current issues in the plantation sector, such as labor shortage, sustainable production, and greenhouse gas emission from the cultivation process. Palm oil cultivation is known for its labor-intensive process. Foreign laborers are usually employed in Malaysian palm oil plantations for harvesting, fruit collecting, and general maintenance works. Some issues have affected the supply of workers to Malaysian palm oil plantations. Farm mechanization, which has always been recommended as a tool to reduce dependency on foreign workers, is expected to solve the issues. However, certain considerations should be investigated, such as fuel consumption, to reduce its impacts on the environment. The currently available farm machineries that are frequently used contribute to almost 211 million kg of CO2-eq per year, as diesel consumption stands at 290 million L per year. Therefore, this paper also examines the potential renewable energy resources for the palm oil cultivation process. Exploiting renewable energy technologies in plantation operations, such as battery-powered electric vehicles charged using a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, can reduce up to 750 tonnes of CO2-eq per year. Therefore, this initiative will increase the sustainability of the Malaysian palm oil industry in general. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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]

Abstract: This paper investigates the economic feasibility of rice straw co-firing at coal power plants in Malaysia and in doing so looks at the operating, capital, and logistic costs. Co-firing rice straw in an existing coal power plant is a technique that could reduce CO2 emissions and make Malaysia less dependency on coal resources. In a country such as Malaysia with abundant biomass resources, utilizing biomass residue also would help reach government targets of developing renewable energy under the country's Fuel Diversification Policy. The overall rice straw life cycle assessment presented here analyses environmental, energy and economic aspects for co-firing of rice straw at existing coal power plants in Malaysia. Analysis of GHG emissions and energy consumption throughout the entire co-firing rice straw life cycle was based on selected coal power plant capacity output. This paper also analyses the implication of rice straw use under different co-fired ratios, transportation systems and CO2 emission prices. The reduction of GHG emissions was found to be significant even at a lower co-firing ratio. [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]

Abstract: This paper describes the trend of utilizing oil palm residue, i.e. the empty fruit bunches (EFB) left after extraction of the palm oil, using a case study of Malaysia, which is one of the world''s major palm oil producers, and discusses the environmental performance of recycling technologies being developed in Malaysia for fuel, fiber, and fertilizer. Seven technologies are analyzed: ethanol production, methane recovery, briquette production, biofuel for combined heat and power (CHP) plants, composting, medium density fiberboard (MDF) production, and pulp and paper production. The life cycle assessment (LCA) method is used to discuss the environmental impacts of these technologies for adding value to this biomass. Sensitivity analyses are conducted to determine the land use effects for the various technologies utilizing EFB and to estimate the energy generation potential of raw EFB in CHP plants and methane production. Among the technologies for energy production, CHP plants have the best performance if the electricity generated is connected to the national grid, with superior benefits in the majority of impact categories compared to briquette, methane, and ethanol production. Overall, we find that methane recovery and composting are more environmentally friendly than other technologies, as measured by reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Pulp and paper, and MDF production are favorable technologies for land use impacts; however, they have intense primary energy requirements, chemical use in the processes, and emissions from their waste treatment systems. Our results provide information for decision makers when planning for sustainable use of oil palm biomass. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Electrical power outages are major concerns to power utilities throughout the world. Unfortunately, power outages will continue to happen and they cannot be totally prevented. Outages could be due to lightning strikes, tree encroachments or equipment failures. However, the impact can be reduced if power system operators are equipped with appropriate tools to analyze the root causes of the outages. To ensure system operators have the system fault conditions immediately after a tripping has occurred, this paper discuses practical solutions to be applied in the control center. This paper presents a tool for analyzing protection system performance with special emphasis on the fault signatures using Digital Fault Recorders (DFRs). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The world's biodiesel demand is rising from day to day due to the urgency to tackle fuel crisis, greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions and climatic changes in the near future. This alternative energy will minimize the dependency on fossil fuels while guarantees a continuous energy supply and upholds the ecosystem sustainability. Malaysia, as a developing country is still finding a suitable green energy source to support the national daily energy consumption without affecting the political stability and socio-economic background. In this article, a realistic effort made by applying microalgal biotechnology for biodiesel production and concurrently mitigating CO2 and other flue gases in the presence of tertiary wastewater. Microalgae produce high amount of biomass feedstock in a short time with less amount of land capacity by using wastewater as the medium to grow. Malaysia is producing variable wastes from both agro-industrial and industrial sectors that can be recycled as a nutrient supply for microalgae. Wastewater that is available in Malaysia comprises high nutrient value compounds that have high amount of nitrogen and phosphorus. The current trend in Malaysia in the biodiesel industry as well as the application of microalgae as a superlative feedstock to replace conventional methods and boost future biodiesel industries are well elaborated in this article. This also includes the opportunities and challenges of Malaysia in cultivating microalgae with stronger technical feasibility and higher turnout in the economy by using the high rate algal pond (HRAP). Apart from that, this review paper illustrates the process of converting waste from five different sources in biofuel production by using microalgae as the intermediate tool. [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]

ISO 14001 has been widely applied by various power plant sectors to manage their plants’ performance. This paper aims to conduct monitoring on the environmental and operational performances of an ISO 14001 certified coal power plant in Malaysia. This work suggests some area for improvements for those performance parameters which show inconsistency and downtrend, statistically. Relevant environmental and operational performance parameters were selected as the indicators for air quality, generating efficiency, power availability and reliability. The environmental parameters are the air quality parameters which include Total Suspended Particulate, Particulate Matter up to 10 μm in size and Sulfur Oxides. Thermal Efficiency and Equivalent Availability Factor were selected as parameters for generating efficiency and availability. For reliability, the parameters are Equivalent Unplanned Outage Factor and Equivalent Planned Outage Factor. Overall findings showed that better performance was recorded on environmental aspect, suggesting more focuses were put on regulatory concerns to ensure high environmental compliances. The present work provides some of the approaches in achieving more effective ISO 14001 implementation in power plant industry, in tandem with the policy of Malaysia government towards a more self-regulating manner. It demonstrates some relevant evidences toward treating operational improvement as equally significant and beneficial efforts for economic gain and environmental enhancement. Furthermore, this study provides a useful structure method for future research on performance monitoring as well as for the reference of other certified and non-certified ISO 14001 power plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We performed a cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment (LCA) of a bio-based cosmetic cream containing Refined Palm Kernel Oil (RPKO). The objective was to investigate the importance of the RPKO production within the environmental impact of the cosmetic cream. We assumed a baseline scenario with best oil palm agricultural practices in Malaysia, and then tested different parameters, i.e. deforestation, peat soil drainage and improved effluent treatment, in order to check their influences. In the baseline scenario, transport of the cosmetic cream was the main contributing process (largest contribution for 11 out of 15 impact indicators). Contribution of the packaging of the cosmetic cream was also significant (largest for 2 out of 15). RPKO had a low impact contribution in the baseline scenario, albeit a much more critical one in the alternative scenarios. Deforestation and peat soil drainage (i.e. transformation and occupation) influenced two environmental indicators: Climate Change and Land Use. On Climate change indicator, deforestation caused an increase of about 9% of the cosmetic cream impacts and peat soil occupation an increase of 16%. On Land Use indicator, deforestation caused an increase of 3%, peat soil transformation and occupation caused increases of 938% and 41%, respectively. Methane capture from palm oil mill effluent treatment and conversion to electricity represented a low decrease of environmental impact of cosmetic cream (from −0.1% to −2.8%). This paper showed that the palm oil agricultural phase could have a non-negligible impact over the life-cycle of a cosmetic cream in case of deforestation and peat cultivation, despite its small contribution in both mass and economic terms. [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]

Continuing rapid developments in information communication technology has led to an ever increasing amount of personal information being collected, processed, stored and used, without the individual even knowing about it. For countries which have domestic legislation relating to privacy and data protection, it has afforded the opportunity for a review. For others, it has opened up the opportunity to legislate. The aim of the paper is three-fold. First, the paper aims to deal with data protection regime in Malaysia and in Hong Kong by examining the salient features of the newly enacted Malaysia's Personal Data Protection Act 2010 and the recent recommendations for legislative reform to the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance in Hong Kong. Second, it considers whether the laws are more concerned with legitimising data protection practices of organizations and busi-nesses rather than the protection of individuals' privacy interests. Finally, the paper briefly considers whether the laws adequately address the impact to individuals' data privacy brought about by technological advancements before providing a conclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Automobiles are considered as the main energy consumer in the transportation sector. According to the National Energy Balance, its accounted for about 36% of the total energy consumption in Malaysia. In order to reduce energy consumption in this sector, this country must consider setting fuel economy standards for motor vehicles sometime in near future. The first step toward developing fuel economy standards is to create a precise test and rating procedure for the automobiles. The test procedure is the technical foundation for all related programs namely; fuel economy standards, fuel economy labels and incentive programs. The test conditions should represent the driving situations and environment of the country. This paper is attempts to present a critical review on fuel economy testing procedure around the world and to propose a process for selecting a fuel economy test procedure for automobiles based on the conditions and requirements of the country. The internationally recognize test procedure adopted by several countries is also presented in this paper. Even though the paper only discusses the test procedure for automobiles, the methods can be directly applied for other types of vehicles and in other countries without major modifications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The process graph (P-graph) framework was introduced in the early 1990s as a graph theoretic approach to Process Network Synthesis (PNS) problems in chemical engineering. This framework has several advantageous features, such as mathematically rigorous generation of maximal structures (i.e., superstructures), elucidation of combinatorially feasible solution structures, and efficient search of solution space for optimal PNS compared to conventional branch-and-bound algorithms for mixed integer linear programming (MILP) models. In the three decades since its inception, the P-graph framework has proven to be a viable approach to a wide array of PNS and other structurally analogous problems; the methodology has also matured, as evidenced by the development of key software tools (PNS Draw, PNS Studio and P-graph Studio) and its appearance in modern textbooks. Nevertheless, the P-graph framework has yet to achieve broad, mainstream penetration among grassroots chemical engineering users, especially those without a strong mathematical programming background. In this paper, we discuss the implementation of instructional P-graph modules in undergraduate chemical engineering degree programs at the University of Nottingham, Malaysia Campus and De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines. These modules have primarily focused on the design of Green Processes. Results show that the visual nature of the P-graph methodology is an advantage for practical engineering decision-making, and that it complements the learning of mainstream techniques such as mathematical programming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in global warming, energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions has gained attention in various regions. In Malaysia, the government announced a voluntary commitment to reduce 40% of CO 2 emissions by 2020 and to refurbish 100 government buildings. Existing buildings make a large contribution to energy consumption and CO 2 emissions, therefore refurbishing existing buildings is an essential strategy to achieve the commitment. There is no single assessment scheme for building refurbishment in Malaysia and hence, this study aims to develop a comprehensive list of assessment themes and sub-themes for building refurbishment purposes. It examines and compares 10 assessment schemes from various countries: BREEAM, LEED, CASBEE, BEAM Plus, GBLS, Green Star, HQE, Green Mark, GBI and MyCrest. The findings revealed fourteen themes that were considered for assessment: management , sustainable site , transport , indoor environmental quality ( IEQ ), water , waste , material , energy , pollution , innovation , economic , social , culture and quality of services . Energy and IEQ are dominant themes in all assessment schemes. Most of the schemes are considered relatively weak in evaluating economic and social aspects, in comparison to environmental aspects. The assessment of quality of services is overlooked in most of the schemes, including GBI and MyCrest in Malaysia. Outcomes from this paper will form the baseline for a new environmental assessment scheme that aimed at non-domestic building refurbishments in Malaysia. A new model is proposed for the development of an environmental assessment scheme in the further stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crude oil price hikes have compelled governments of developing countries to let domestic prices of energy increase. Fiscal priorities made it impossible to fully compensate the hikes by raising energy subsidies. This paper examines the potential impacts of a limited deregulation of the petroleum price on the income distribution in Malaysia, paying specific attention to differences in impacts on major ethnic groups. We introduce an extended social accounting matrix (SAM) model, which not only incorporates substitution possibilities among production inputs and consumption goods, but also allows for the exogenous determination of the price of intermediate inputs. The results of simulations indicate that distributional impacts of rising petroleum prices tend to be regressive, affecting poor people more severely than richer people. All ethnic groups experience income loss with the real incomes of Malay households (which are relatively poor, on average) more than the Chinese and Indian households (which are the generally richer). [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]

This paper presents a comparative study on the electric field and its derivative parameters of negative lightning in Malaysia and other regions. This study is the first in Malaysia where the parameters of negative electric field and its derivative are thoroughly analyzed. 104 negative lightning flashes containing 277 negative return strokes occurring within 10–100 km from the measuring station and recorded during monsoon period in the state of Johor, Malaysia had been analyzed. It was found that 73% of the recorded flashes are multiple strokes with an average multiplicity of 2.6 strokes per flash. For first return strokes, the arithmetic mean (AM) of initial peak electric field and the AM of initial peak electric field derivative are 21.8 V/m and 11.3 V/m/µs, respectively. The initial peaks of electric field and its derivative for first return strokes are larger than those for the subsequent return strokes. Comparison of overall results with those obtained earlier in Sri Lanka, Germany, Sweden, Japan, Florida indicates that several electric field and its derivative parameters are affected by propagation media and geographical region. Similarity of results with other countries having the same climatic condition is also observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• GCAOA is applied for parameter extraction of the TD PV model to predict the output current of the PV model. • Non-dominated multi-objective principle is proposed for constructing sets of Pareto optimal solutions using three conflicting objectives. • A new integration based on MOO and MCDM aided by numerical methods are considered to choose the most desirable configuration. • MODA based on AHP-VICKOR-GDM method is used for validation of the proposed method. • Performance of optimum designs are evaluated using hourly meteorological data for one year. This paper presents a new optimum design for an off-grid hybrid solar photovoltaic (PV), wind turbine (WT), and battery storage system for power isolated dwellings in Malaysia and South Africa. Selecting a desirable design of the WT/PV/Battery system among a wide variety of configurations, particularly at a favorable level of reliability, lowering the total cost, and reducing the surplus energy, remains a challenging task. The procedure of this work is summarized as follows: First, the parameter of the three diode PV model is optimally extracted from datasheet information to forecast the output power of the Yingli PV module. Then, the upper and lower variables bounds of the WT/PV/Battery system are intuitively determined. Afterward, the numerical method is employed to identify every possible configurations inside the design space. The non-dominated multi-objective principle is then established to generate optimal sets of Pareto front solutions. Finally, an integration of the best worst method, technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution, and group decision making technique are employed to weight the objectives with complete consistency ratios and rank the optimal designs based on practical judgments. The performance results showed that the optimal designs are comprised of 1 WTs, 105 PV modules (21 in series and 5 in parallel), and 69 storage batteries with zero loss of load probability (LLP), 60185.47 ($) of life cycle cost (LCC), and 13548017.77 KWh of excess energy for Malaysian scenario. While the optimum configuration of the South African case study consists of 16 WTs, 80 PV modules (20 in series and 4 in parallel), and 69 storage batteries with a favorable LLP values of 0.00068, 59180.15 ($) of LCC, and 19174160.54 ($) of excess energy, respectively. It can be concluded that the proposed methodology for finding appropriate size of the WT/PV/Battery system is capable of operating with extremely confident dependability while minimizing the overall cost of the system and minimizing the surplus energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insight on how industrial's practices and commitments could affect better energy-efficient buildings implementation is still limited despite the emerging concerns over the demand to minimize energy consumption. This study aims to fill the gap by investigating industry behaviours and practices and recommending holistic energy-efficient management strategies in Malaysia. The study used an explanatory sequential mixed approach comprising 4 case studies of conventional buildings, 72 building stakeholders submitted a survey questionnaire, and 7 experts were interviewed to enable triangulation of information. The analysis revealed that current energy management strategies are based on low-hanging fruit measures. The results also suggest that financial, managerial, and knowledge limitations are the primary constraints to effectual energy-saving methods. This paper demonstrates three-tier intervention strategies in education, policy, and technology towards accelerating industry transition in achieving best practices in energy-efficient buildings. The outcomes of this study may advantage building interested parties in addressing relevant barriers to energy-efficient execution and designing effective efforts to encourage conventional building for the building advancement in Malaysia. This research offers findings by delivering greater practical perspectives on the extent of industry practises and behaviours regarding energy-efficient building implementation, including by presenting energy management approaches for benchmarks in energy-efficient buildings in Malaysia. • Financial, managerial and knowledge are the constraints to effectual energy-saving. • Intervention in education, policy and technology are the strategies for energy-saving. • Low-hanging fruit measures effective for simple behavioural changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Using RGibbs, CSTR, and PFR block of Aspen Plus for gasification process simulation. • The relative error for syngas composition prediction at ER 0.15 is lower than 40%. • 10 kW on power and 110 kg/h on steam production were observed for the case study. • Higher efficiency in steam generation 15% than in electricity generation 1.9%. • 100% and 5.4% of electricity and steam consumption of the integrated process are covered. This paper proposes an improved model to predict the performance of sewage sludge updraft gasification more accurately by using Aspen Plus. The reaction rate of gas-gas and gas-solid reactions as well as the formation and destruction of tar composition were not adequately accounted for in the previous models. To solve that, a pair of Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor and Plug Flow Reactor blocks was configured for reaction zones of the gasifier. The number of tar compositions inserted in the model was increased to 6 components including benzene, toluene, phenol, naphthalene, acid palmitic, and indene. In comparison to the previous model, the accuracy of syngas composition prediction increased by 10–20%, particularly, the error of prediction was below 40% for all compositions at an equivalence ratio of 0.15. To make the first comprehensive study on energy production from sewage sludge treatment in Malaysia, the validated gasification model was applied to develop an integrated waste-to-energy with gasification model for Pantai 1 sewage treatment plant. There was a higher energy generating efficiency for the steam generation of 15.5–16.5% than for electricity generation of 1.4–1.9%. The electricity demand for sewage sludge treatment was fully satisfied, while 5.4% of the steam demand was met. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides new insight on the complex interactions between regional tectonic evolution, differential subsidence across the basin, and variation in sediment supply based on a reconstruction of the gross depositional environment in the northern part of Malay Basin. In addition, the variation in sedimentary facies, established from an integrated analysis based on seismic interpretation, well-log analysis, and core evaluation, are used to establish the gross depositional environment for key surfaces within the Oligocene to Miocene succession. The basin fill comprises Oligocene syn-rift and Miocene post-rift successions. The syn-rift successions are Syn-Rift Unconformity (SRU)-Base of Syn-Rift (BSR), and Base Chattian Unconformity (BCU)-Syn-Rift Unconformity (SRU) sequences. Whereas, the post-rift successions represent by Intra-Aquitanian MFS (IAM)-Base Chattian Unconformity (BCU), Intra-Burdigalian MFS (IBM)-Intra-Aquitanian MFS (IAM), Miocene Transgressive-Regressive (MTR)-Intra-Burdigalian MFS (IBM), Intra-Serravalian MFS (ISM)-Miocene Transgressive-Regressive (MTR), and Intra-Tortonian (ITM)-Intra-Serravalian MFS (ISM) sequences. The Oligocene-early Miocene syn-rift succession in the study area is characterized by aggradational stacking patterns, with an indication of retrogradation in individual sand packages for SRU-BSR, and BCU-SRU intervals, whereas an overall aggradational stacking pattern can be observed within the IAM-BCU sequence. The depositional environment of the syn-rift succession is mainly deltaic, fluvial, alluvial fan, shallow and deep lacustrine at the basin center. The early-middle Miocene post-rift succession is characterized by mostly aggradational and fining upwards stacking within the IBM-IAM sequence. This gradually changed to a retrogradational pattern in the MTR-ISM sequence. Depositional environments for this succession consist of an alternation between fluvio-marine and sub-tidal to marine sedimentation. Depositional environments for the overlying late Miocene Intra-Tortonian to Intra-Serravalian (ITM-ISM) was estuarine or tidally-influenced environments comprising fluvial channel, tidal or distributary channel, tidal sand flat, and tidal flat deposition. This interval mainly consists of coarsening upward units that gradually changed to a stacked higher-order fining upwards package. The deeper stratigraphic units are generally more continental (non-marine) in character, but fluvio-tidally influenced marine environments became more dominant in the shallower sequences. • The sedimentary succession and paleo-depositional environment in MTJDA were related to the tectonic evolution of the Malay Basin. • Gross depositional environment in MTJDA are mainly; lacustrine dominated and tidal to fluvio-marine dominated settings. • The depositional sequences exhibit cyclical sedimentation which is similar to other Tertiary basins in South-East Asia. • The syn-rift and post-rift successions were deposited as deltaic, fluvial, alluvial fan, shallow lake and deep lacustrine. • The deeper successions are non-marine, whilst the shallower successions is dominated by tidal to fluvio-marine dominated environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing rubber price volatility has adversely affected smallholders – Malaysia's primary rubber producers' livelihood. This, in turn, has caused them to abandon rubber farming and led to the decline of Malaysian rubber production over the last few decades. In this paper, a rubber production model was developed using a participatory system dynamics modelling approach, involving multiple key rubber industry stakeholders. The study's objectives include: 1) to use the developed rubber production model to quantitatively assess the impact of interactions between key components of the rubber production system at the farm, national, and global levels on rubber production; and 2) to test the effectiveness of existing and proposed plausible policy and management scenarios to improve rubber production. We conducted structural, behavioural patterns, and statistical tests to evaluate and validate the performance of the developed model. We simulated key variables including smallholder and national productions, and farm-gate, national and global prices for a 30-year period. The model is set-up with time unit of years and time step of 0.25 years, using the Stella Architect software. Our analysis showed that the simulated outputs agreed well with the observed behaviour of the system. A sensitivity analysis indicated the model is reliable and robust to uncertainties in the major parameters. Five policy scenarios: (1) business as usual; (2) farm-level focused; (3) national-level focused; (4) global-level focused; and (5) balanced were simulated to assess their impact on smallholder and national production, smallholder net revenue, and global, national and farm-gate rubber prices. The results showed that the farm-level focused and balanced scenarios would significantly improve and double smallholder and Malaysian rubber production. Based on the scenarios analyses, Malaysian rubber production can be improved by (1) tightening rubber export restrictions at the global level; (2) increasing domestic rubber consumption and reducing rubber imports at the national level; (3) increasing rubber production incentive; (4) improving collaboration between agencies and increasing resources available to extension and enforcement agents, and rubber production incentive campaigns; and (5) finding additional income, through intercropping at the farm level for example. The model is flexible, and other rubber producing countries with similar features and environmental and socioeconomic conditions can adapt the system dynamics simulation model to understand and evaluate the impact of policies that can improve the livelihood of smallholders. [Display omitted] • Participatory modelling approach enabled the development of a comprehensive simulation model • The approach enhances stakeholders' understanding of the rubber production system • Interventions should focus on all three sub-systems of rubber production • Coordination between key rubber stakeholders is crucial to improve production [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper presents an optimization for hybrid PV/wind system based on loss of load probability (LLP) and system cost. This paper is divided into three main parts: optimization of PV array, wind turbine and battery, optimum PV array tilt angle and optimization of the inverter size. Firstly, the optimization performed is aimed to select the optimal capacities of the PV array and wind turbine that give minimum system cost. However, the optimization was done using a hybrid iterative/genetic algorithm. The iterative part of the proposed algorithm is applied to generate a set of possible configurations for the proposed system, while the genetic algorithm is applied to find the optimum configuration. Secondly, a model for optimizing the tilt angle of the PV array is presented based on the Liu and Jordan model. Finally, an iterative method for optimizing the inverter size in the proposed system is presented. The results showed that the optimum sizes of the PV array (C A ), wind turbine (C s ) and storage battery (C B ) are 1.1411, 0.7159, and 0.550, respectively, while the optimum inverter''s size (Rs) is 1.37. Lastly, by applying the calculated monthly optimum tilt angle, the collected yield of the PV array is increased by 7.96%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fatigue-related crashes have long been the topic of discussion and study worldwide. The relationship between fatigue-related crashes and time of day is well documented. In Malaysia, the possibility of banning express buses from operating during the early-hours of the morning has emerged as an important consideration for passenger safety. This paper highlights the findings of an impact assessment study. The study was conducted to determine all possible impacts prior to the government making any decision on the proposed banning. This study is an example of a simple and inexpensive approach that may influence future policy-making process. The impact assessment comprised two major steps. The first step involved profiling existing operation scenarios, gathering information on crashes involving public express buses and stakeholders’ views. The second step involved a qualitative impact assessment analysis using all information gathered during the profiling stage to describe the possible impacts. Based on the assessment, the move to ban early-hour operations could possibly result in further negative impacts on the overall road safety agenda. These negative impacts may occur if the fundamental issues, such as driving and working hours, and the need for rest and sleep facilities for drivers, are not addressed. In addition, a safer and more accessible public transportation system as an alternative for those who choose to travel at night would be required. The proposed banning of early-hour operations is also not a feasible solution for sustainability of express bus operations in Malaysia, especially for those operating long journeys. The paper concludes by highlighting the need to design a more holistic approach for preventing fatigue-related crashes involving express buses in Malaysia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract Applying Bourdieu's theoretical framework on the correspondence between mental structures and social structures, this paper examines the persistence of educational underachievement among working class Malay youths in Singapore. Accordingly, my first objective is to document the social structure, namely a largely working class neighbourhood where these Malay youths have grown up. My second aim is to analyse how everyday cultural practices and interactions among peers in the neighbourhood significantly reinforced these youths' levelled aspirations. I maintain that by believing in 'taking the gravel road', which is symbolically rough, uneven and uncertain, these youths justified the irrelevance of doing well in school. Succinctly, this essay demonstrates the close correspondence between the perceptions of the odds of success and the educational underperformance of the Malay youths. Hence, this paper would be of interest to scholars in the Malay Peninsula, as well as experts concerned with the intertwining of education with class and ethnicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper analyzed the potential implementation of hybrid photovoltaic (PV)/wind turbine/diesel system in southern city of Malaysia, Johor Bahru. HOMER (hybrid optimization model for electric renewable) simulation software was used to determine the technical feasibility of the system and to perform the economical analysis of the system. There were seven different system configurations, namely stand-alone diesel system, hybrid PV–diesel system with and without battery storage element, hybrid wind–diesel system with and without battery storage element, PV–wind–diesel system with and without storage element, will be studied and analyzed. The simulations will be focused on the net present costs, cost of energy, excess electricity produced and the reduction of CO2 emission for the given hybrid configurations. At the end of this paper, PV–diesel system with battery storage element, PV–wind–diesel system with battery storage element and the stand-alone diesel system were analyzed based on high price of diesel. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract Malay merchants and traders played an essential and significant role in the early modern history of trade and commerce in Southeast Asia. Nevertheless records on the history of their entrepreneurship has been hardly written and researched upon. Thus, the main objective of this paper is to trace back the dynamic of Malay trading communities in the late 18th and towards the early decades of the 19th century. The paper would also highlight the importance of Malay traders in early Penang and the survival of Melaka as an important port in the late 18th century. A focal analysis of this study is on the 18th and 19th centuries Malay merchant communities and how their active presence in the Malay waters had given a great impact to the intra-Asian trade in Southeast Asia prior to the period of European colonialism and imperialism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The democratization of education in Malaysia has come a long way since the early 1960s. In the early 1990s, the government decided to democratize secondary education in order to widen formal access to secondary education, especially at the upper secondary level. It is the contention of this paper that the widening of formal access to education may not lead to real access to education if effective measures are not put in place. It is also the contention of this paper that the democratization of education that leads to the massification of education or mass education should not be at the expense of educational quality and excellence if it wants to have a more significant impact on the actual outcomes of schooling. This paper is divided into two parts. The first part provides the background information on educational expansion that stems from the democratization of secondary education such as enrolment rates, number of schools and teachers as well as organizational adjustments. The second part examines the problems and challenges of the democratization of secondary education in relation to issues such as diverse needs of students, disciplinary problems, school dropouts, urban and rural disparity, preferential policy and educational quality and excellence. All these issues have an impact on the desirable outcomes of the democratization of secondary education as far as real access to education as well as equality and quality of education are concerned. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents the studies conducted on the effect of climate change on the air conditioner in terms of performance and reliability in the tropics. Basically, three aspects of impact were focused, which were cooling and heating load, electricity consumption and outdoor design conditions for the air conditioning system. The related papers were categorized into three groups and analysis of theoretical and experimental studies was made. A lot of researches had been carried out on the climate change impacts towards the air conditioner in the tropics since last few decades, but most of the researches were focused on existing cooling or heating demands, region overall electricity consumption and existing outdoor design conditions for the air conditioning system instead of the possible impacts on the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system in the future. Based on literature review, further substantial researches are needed in order to have a clearer picture on the climate variation effect towards the air conditioning system so that a complete guideline can be prepared for the future air conditioning system design in the tropics by taking consideration of possible climate change. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The best way to obtain the solar radiation data of a particular place of interest (POI) is to measure at the specific site continuously and accurately over the long term. However, due to financial, maintenance, calibration requirement of the measuring equipment or institutional limitations, these data are absent, incomplete or inaccessible in most areas of the world. Based on meteorological data from Chuping Station, Perlis which is at Northern Malaysia, there were several missing data of solar radiation for the year 2007 and 2008. This paper presents a new method to estimate the solar radiation which is a combination of Hargreaves method and linear regression. Normally, both regression coefficients, a and b of the linear regression are found based on the measured data, but using the proposed method, both regression coefficients based on the Hargreaves method with the correlated parameter, x is the difference of daily temperature. This paper also presents the basic knowledge of Hargreaves method before the proposed method is implemented. As validation, those solar radiation data that are measured by Chuping Station for the year 2006 and by Electrical Energy and Industrial Electronic System (EEIES) Cluster Station for the month of March–June 2011 and their estimated solar radiation data are compared and analyzed using coefficient of residual mass (CRM), root mean squared error (RMSE), Nash–Sutcliffe equation (NSE) and percentage error (e). The statistical analysis of the average monthly measured solar radiation data for the past 26years (1979–2006) is compared with the estimated solar radiation data for 3years (2006–2008). The proposed method result shows that the value of CRM is closer to zero which indicates that the proposed method is perfectly estimated, the values of RMSE are low value, this indicates that the method performs well, the value of NSE is closer to 1 which indicates that the estimated solar radiation match perfectly with the measured data taken for the past 26years, the value of e is closer to zero which indicates that the proposed method is acceptable and applicable. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Malaysia has an abundance of energy resources, both renewable and non-renewable. The largest non-renewable energy resource found in Malaysia is oil, and second, is natural gas, primarily liquefied natural gas. The production and consumption of oil, gas and coal in Malaysia are given in this paper. The energy demand and supply by source are also shown in relation to the country’s fuel diversification policy. In order to reduce the overall dependence on a single source of energy, efforts were undertaken to encourage the utilization of renewable resources. Forest residue and oil palm biomass are found to be potentially of highest energy value and considered as the main renewable energy option for Malaysia. Palm oil and related products represent the second largest export of Malaysia. The total oil palm planted area in Malaysia has increased significantly in recent years. This paper gives a detailed representation of oil palm planted and produced together with its yield from the year 1976 onwards. The large amounts of available forest and palm oil residues resulting from the harvest can be utilized for energy generation and other by-products in a manner that also addresses environmental concerns related to current waste disposal methods. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems are likely to become a dominant type of small-scale embedded generator (SSEG) on public low voltage (LV) distribution network in Malaysia due to the enormous amount of initiatives and efforts taken by the government to promote the use of BIPV. The growth of BIPV systems on LV distribution networks has the potential to alter the direction of power flow across the distribution networks, hence imposing several serious technical issues relating to power quality, distribution system efficiency and possible equipment overloading. Therefore, the utility companies need to study the following technical issues: (i) voltage regulation, (ii) voltage rise, (iii) voltage unbalance, (iv) network power losses, and (v) cable and transformer thermal limits. This paper describes research carried out to investigate and quantify the impacts of BIPV on LV networks with particular reference to developing countries striving to increase the utilisation of renewable energy. This paper presents and discusses the impacts of BIPV systems on two types of LV distribution network: a commercial LV distribution network and a residential LV distribution network in the state of Selangor, Malaysia. The results of these studies are compared with those from European networks to identify how the differences in the electrical network characteristics influence the allowable penetration of small-scale embedded generators. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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]

Abstract: The demand of increasing price in fossil fuel has prompted the global oil industry to look at the alternative sources of fuel from renewable energy source which is biodiesel. Biodiesel is considered as better option because of its environmental friendly characteristics while giving almost the same functional properties like fossil fuels. This paper will focus on the biodiesel produced in Malaysia. Palm oil is the main raw stock for biodiesel production in Malaysia as the country is one of the leading palm oil producers in the world. There are many advantages and disadvantages from the economical social and environmental aspects in the Malaysian biodiesel production in specific palm oil biodiesel. The aim of this paper is to analyze the past, current and future of palm oil biodiesel industry in Malaysia. This paper includes the technology aspect used in the palm oil biodiesel production and characteristics of pure palm oil biodiesel to meet the international market standard. Malaysia faces tough competition from other biodiesel producers like Indonesia and Brazil. The scope of this study covers the worldwide biodiesel development in brief in continuation with the challenges faced by Malaysia in becoming the top biodiesel exporter in the world with the advantages and disadvantage of using palm oil as the feedstock. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Oil palm is one of the major economic crops in many countries. Malaysia alone produces about 47% of the world''s palm oil supply and can be considered as the world''s largest producer and exporter of palm oil. Malaysia also generates huge quantity of oil palm biomass including oil palm trunks, oil palm fronds, empty fruit bunches (EFB), shells and fibers as waste from palm oil fruit harvest and oil extraction processing. At present there is a continuously increasing interest in the utilization of oil palm biomass as a source of clean energy. One of the major interests is hydrogen from oil palm biomass. Hydrogen from biomass is a clean and efficient energy source and is expected to take a significant role in future energy demand due to the raw material availability. This paper presents a review which focuses on different types of thermo-chemical processes for conversion of oil palm biomass to hydrogen rich gas. This paper offers a concise and up-to-date scenario of the present status of oil palm industry in contributing towards sustainable and renewable energy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: It is estimated that oil reserves will not last very much longer; thus, a switch to alternative energy solutions is crucial. The Malaysian government has already prepared to face the situation decades before. Many policies have been implemented, as well as programmes and initiative. Now, Malaysia is waiting for the ultimate solutions, the Malaysian Fit-in Tariff (FiT), which is scheduled to be implemented second quarter of 2011. This paper presents the main sources of alternative renewable energy in Malaysia and its potential as well as the main reasons Malaysia is turning to alternative energy solutions; to fully utilize its renewable energy (RE) resources, fulfill the energy demand in the future and to reduce carbon emissions. This paper also discusses the steps taken by the government in preparation for FiT and overcoming the barriers in RE development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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: The limited availability of fossil energy carriers and environmental impact of energy consumption demand mid- and long-term strategies both for the rational use of energy and for increased renewable energy utilization. Despite the establishment of the National Energy Policy, there is still an obstacle in reaching those objectives and targets. In the 7th Malaysia Plan for instance, the government has highlighted that a third of the Government''s total allocation of RM469 million for rural electrification programmes under the has been allocated for the provision of solar powered installations for rural and remote communities. This paper outlines a detailed description of various existing solar technologies, the understanding of each technology and its associated challenges, which will provide a suitable basis to recognize advantages and drawbacks in its implementation in Malaysia. The paper finally justifies some of the barriers in promoting the full scale utilization for the solar energy in Malaysia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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]