Management Research Journal (MRJ) [ISSN 2232-0660 eISSN 2600-9315] is an international peer-reviewed journal publishing high-quality, original research. It is an online international academic journal published twice a year (June & December started 2025). Please note that this journal only publishes manuscripts in English or Malay. The journal is devoted to promoting scholarly empirical work that uses mainstream approaches to examine accounting, entrepreneurship, finance, human resources, and multifaceted drivers of management change. Papers may broadly cover the above-mentioned areas, but are not limited to those example topics. We welcome original conceptual and empirical research articles with novel perspectives and/or managerial approaches that would appeal to an international readership. We do not accept unsolicited conceptual and theoretical papers. MRJ supports Open Access. The electronic full-text version of the journal is available Free of Charge (FOC).
Hubungan Kepimpinan Situasi Dengan Kepuasan Kerja Dalam Kalangan Guru Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Di Negeri Sarawak
Kajian ini bertujuan untuk mengenal pasti tahap dan hubungan antara kepimpinan situasi dan kepuasan kerja dalam kalangan guru sekolah menengah kebangsaan di negeri Sarawak. Kajian ini dijalankan secara kuantitatif, kaedah tinjauan menggunakan soal selidik bagi mengutip. Kajian ini menggunakan instrumen kajian Leadership Orientation Instrument (LOI) dan Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ). Pensampelan rawak berstrata dan rawak mudah digunakan untuk mendapatkan 375 orang responden kalangan guru sekolah menengah kebangsaan di negeri Sarawak. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan tahap kepimpinan situasi pada tahap tinggi (M=4.27, SP=0.57). Selain itu, tahap kepuasan kerja juga tinggi (M=4.23, SP=0.48). Hasil kajian menunjukkan terdapat hubungan positif sederhana dan signifikan antara kepimpinan situasi dan kepuasan kerja (r = .594, p < .001). Kesimpulannya, kepimpinan situasi mempunyai hubungan yang positif terhadap kepuasan kerja dalam kalangan guru-guru sekolah menengah kebangsaan di negeri Sarawak. Implikasi kajian memberikan indikator bahawa kepimpinan situasi perlu digalakkan dan dipraktikkan dalam usaha untuk meningkatkan kepuasan kerja.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nur Ruzaini Branking Abdullah, Khalip Musa http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
A Content Validity Study of the Middle Leader Digital Leadership Instrument in Malaysia Primary Schools
This study evaluated the content validity of the newly developed Middle Leader Digital Leadership instrument, which was designed to measure seven dimensions of digital leadership among middle leaders in Malaysian primary schools. Quantitative content validity design was employed, and seven experts in educational technology, curriculum design, educational leadership, and psychometrics were selected through purposive sampling. The experts independently reviewed 35 items for relevance, clarity, and construct alignment using a four-point rating scale. The Item-Level Content Validity Index (I-CVI) ranged from 0.71 to 1.00, while the Scale-Level Content Validity Index based on average agreement (S-CVI/Ave) was high across all seven dimensions (0.94-0.97). Modified kappa statistics further indicated substantial to perfect expert agreement for most items, although one item in the Vision and Goal Setting dimension required revision due to low chance-corrected agreement. Overall, the findings provide strong preliminary evidence that the instrument is content-valid and contextually appropriate for assessing middle leaders' digital leadership competencies in Malaysian primary schools. The instrument may support self-assessment, targeted professional development, policy implementation, and school-level digital transformation planning. However, the study is limited to expert-based content validation. Future research should conduct pilot testing, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, reliability testing, and assessments of convergent and discriminant validity using a larger sample of middle leaders.
Copyright (c) 2026 Goh Kok Ming http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Improving Halal Food Performance: Scrutinising the Technology Acceptance Model and Halal Traceability System Adoption among Malaysian Food and Beverage SMEs
Halal Traceability Systems (HTS) play an important role in enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), preserving halal integrity, and improving supply chain transparency. However, limited empirical evidence exists on how cognitive beliefs influence HTS adoption and whether such adoption contributes to financial performance. This study examines the effects of perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) on the intention to adopt HTS and investigates the impact of adoption intention on the financial performance of halal food among Malaysian food and beverage (F&B) SMEs. The mediating role of HTS adoption intention is also assessed. A quantitative research design was employed using survey data collected from 225 Malaysian F&B SMEs. The sampling frame was obtained from Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) and SME Corp Malaysia. Data were analysed using SPSS and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that PEOU significantly influences HTS adoption intention, whereas PU has no significant effect. HTS adoption intention positively affects halal food financial performance and mediates the relationships between PU, PEOU, and financial performance. These results indicate that ease of use is a stronger driver of HTS adoption than perceived usefulness among SMEs. The study extends the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to the halal supply chain context and highlights the importance of user-friendly systems and support mechanisms in promoting HTS adoption and improving business performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Haslinda Hadis, Masran Tamin, Shahrizin Abd Sharhadat, Azaze@Azizi Abdul Adis http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Keperluan Pembangunan Model Kepimpinan Berpusatkan Murid: Persepsi Pemimpin Sekolah Agama
Keberkesanan kepimpinan sekolah semakin diukur berdasarkan keupayaannya untuk memfokuskan pembangunan murid secara menyeluruh. Namun, dalam konteks sekolah agama di Malaysia, amalan kepimpinan berpusatkan murid masih dilaksanakan tanpa panduan yang jelas dan khusus. Keadaan ini menimbulkan jurang antara tuntutan dasar pendidikan dan realiti kepimpinan di sekolah agama. Justeru, kajian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis keperluan pembangunan model kepimpinan berpusatkan murid berdasarkan pandangan pemimpin sekolah agama sebagai asas kepada pembinaan kerangka kepimpinan yang lebih kontekstual dan relevan. Kajian menggunakan reka bentuk kualitatif melalui temu bual separa berstruktur melibatkan empat orang pemimpin sekolah agama dari Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama (SMKA) dan Sekolah Agama Bantuan Kerajaan (SABK) yang dipilih secara persampelan bertujuan. Data dianalisis menggunakan analisis tematik berasaskan prosedur Braun dan Clarke (2006). Dapatan mengenal pasti tujuh tema utama yang menggambarkan keperluan terhadap model sebagai panduan yang membimbing pemimpin sekolah, menyokong penambahbaikan sekolah, berfungsi sebagai penanda aras, memenuhi piawaian, bersifat holistik, berasaskan konteks tempatan dan didokumentasikan secara sistematik. Secara keseluruhan, dapatan mencadangkan bahawa kekurangan garis panduan yang sistematik dan kontekstual menyebabkan pelaksanaan kepimpinan berpusatkan murid di sekolah agama cenderung kurang seragam dan bergantung kepada inisiatif individu. Justeru, pembangunan model yang berpaksikan nilai pendidikan Islam serta disesuaikan dengan realiti sekolah agama berpotensi memperkukuh keseragaman amalan kepimpinan, pemantauan prestasi dan pembangunan murid secara menyeluruh.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sharifuddin Suhaimi, Muhammad Faizal A.Ghani, Norfariza Mohd Radzi, Hasifah Hassan http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Relationship between Female Directors and Foreign Directors on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Disclosure: A Case Study in Indonesia
This study investigates the impact of board gender and nationality diversity on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) disclosure among Indonesian listed companies. It also explores the interaction effect between female and foreign directors on SDG disclosure. Employing a fixed-effects panel regression approach, this study investigates 270 publicly listed firms on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) during the 2020–2023 period. The results reveal that the presence of female directors has a positive influence on SDG disclosure, indicating that gender diversity enhances the board’s commitment to sustainability and transparency. Conversely, the presence of foreign directors negatively affects SDG disclosure, suggesting that differences in cultural or institutional contexts may reduce disclosure levels. However, the interaction between female and foreign directors significantly strengthens SDG disclosure, implying that the combination of gender diversity and international experience fosters more comprehensive sustainability reporting.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yeni Melia, Norimah Rambeli, Nor Hanani Ahamad Rapani, Nooraisah Katmon http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Mediating Role of Technopreneurial Knowledge in the Relationship between Technopreneurship Education and Technopreneurial Intention among Business Education Students in Edo State
Given the increasing levels of graduate and non-graduate unemployment in the country, the need to explore digital approaches to creating and sustaining businesses has become a necessity. The focus of this study was to establish the mediating role of technopreneurial knowledge in the relationship between technopreneurship education and technopreneurial intention among business education students in Edo State. Four research questions were posed, each with a corresponding hypothesis, which were tested at the 0.05 level of significance. The study used a correlational survey research approach. The study's population included 382 business education students from the University of Benin and Ambrose Alli University in Ekpoma. A questionnaire termed ‘Technopreneurship Education, Technopreneurial Knowledge and Technopreneurial Intention Questionnaire (TETKTIQ)' was used. Two experts validated the instrument. After administering the instrument to 15 business education students at Delta State University, Abraka, Cronbach's alpha was used to assess the instrument's reliability, yielding a coefficient of .85. The data collected were analysed using simple linear regression and the SPSS Process Macro. The findings revealed that technopreneurship education and technopreneurial knowledge were significant predictors of technopreneurial intention among business education students in Edo State. The finding also revealed a significant relationship between technopreneurship education and technopreneurial knowledge. The finding further revealed that technopreneurial knowledge significantly mediates the relationship between technopreneurship education and technopreneurial intention among business education students in Edo State. Based on the findings, it was recommended that there is an urgent need to restructure.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kennedy Ediagbonya, Tracey Obehi Uguru, Charles Oghenero Erhirhie http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Analisis Pengaplikasian Pendekatan Pengurusan Dan Teori Semiotik Dalam Novel Kemelut Karya Shahnon Ahmad
Kesusasteraan Melayu ialah amalan sebuah peradaban yang menjadi tempat alirannya jiwa dan naluri bangsa, tempat tilikan wajah dan keperibadian yang juga memberi erti makna dan nyawa nilai masyarakat. Novel acapkali dijadikan cerminan masyarakat, maka pantas kiranya novel itu dijadikan platform bagi pengarang untuk memberikan pandangan, pendapat, kritikan mahupun sindiran mengenai perkara yang dilihat kurang menepati peradaban Melayu itu sendiri. Naratif mengenai kepincangan pengurusan teknologi telah digarap oleh Shahnon Ahmad dalam novel Kemelut. Kritikan yang ditonjolkan diharapkan mampu untuk membuka mata setiap lapisan masyarakat agar lebih prihatin dan berhati-hati dalam retorik kemajuan dan kemodenan yang dibawa oleh teknologi, Kritikan dalam novel Kemelut ini jelas menunjukkan ketidakprihatinan pengurusan teknologi akan menyebabkan kegagalan dalam membendung impak negatif teknologi dalam realiti kehidupan. Novel Kemelut telah dikaji dengan kaedah kualitatif naratif teknologi yang dikenalpasti dengan pengaplikasian pendekatan pengurusan dan teori semiotik. Penggunaan teori semiotik telah mendedahkan tema utama novel Kemelut yang berasaskan teknologi. Seterusnya, pendekatan pengurusan dengan semua prinsip perancangan, pengorganisasian, kepimpinan, penstafan dan kawalan diperkenalkan. Maka, objektif analisis yang dijalankan berjaya mengenal pasti naratif teknologi melalui terapan semiotik dan prinsip-prinsip pendekatan pengurusan yang telah digarap oleh Shahnon Ahmad.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohd Taha Abd Wahab, Azhar Wahid, Rahmanyasin Jaafar http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Influence of Values-Driven Learning-Centered Leadership on Educators’ Attitudes and Professional Learning in Empowering Assessment Practices
This research investigates the influence of values-oriented learning-focused leadership (LCL) on educators’ attitudes, professional growth, and assessment practices within Malaysian universities underpinned by Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory. Using a multistage sampling approach, feedback was collected from 400 university instructors across Malaysia through organised surveys. Structural equation modelling (SEM) demonstrates that LCL notably shapes educators’ attitudes (β = .37) and fosters professional learning (β = .35), while educators’ perspectives also strongly forecast learning (β =.54). Nevertheless, LCL insignificantly affects assessment practices (β = .09). Furthermore, both attitudes (β = .31) Professional development (β =.40) act as important indicators of successful assessment practices, emphasizing the potential, for mediating functions. The model exhibits a good fit (RMSEA = .078, CFI = .948, TLI = .933, χ2/df = 2.534) and explains 49% of the variance in evaluation methods, shaped by the impact of leadership, ongoing professional development, and perspectives. These results validate Bandura’s claim that both environmental encouragement and self-regulatory frameworks influence professional conduct in educational settings. The findings provide insights for leadership development programs and organisational policies that advance quality assessment and educator growth, aligned with the MADANI principles of integrity and accountability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Noor Asiah Hassan, Nor Hasnida, Emilia Man, Norhashimah, Zailatul Nazirah Zakaria http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Mediating Role of Trust in the Relationship Between Perceived Leadership Integrity and Work Engagement Among Chinese Primary School Teachers in Johor Bahru
Headmasters play a crucial role in shaping teacher work engagement and retaining quality educators in schools through their daily leadership practices. Existing studies have highlighted the relationship between perceived leadership integrity and work engagement in organisational settings, with trust identified as a key driver of work engagement. However, limited attention has been given to how headmasters’ integrity in leadership influences teachers’ work engagement. Addressing this gap, the present study examined the relationship between perceived leadership integrity and teacher work engagement, with trust as a mediating variable, among 1,358 Chinese primary school teachers in Johor Bahru. Using probability sampling, 338 teachers were randomly selected to participate in this quantitative study. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analysed with SPSS and Smart PLS 4.0. Findings revealed that trust significantly mediated the relationship between perceived leadership integrity and teacher work engagement. Results also showed high levels of perceived leadership integrity, trust in headmasters, and work engagement among the participating teachers. These findings suggest that trusted school leaders foster more resilient, motivated, and committed teaching staff, which in turn enhances teacher retention, student performance, and overall school achievement.
Copyright (c) 2026 Foo Fung Lan, Yek Yew Ing http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Digital Leadership Among Heads of Departments at The Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia
The growing integration of digital technologies into educational paradigms requires a shift in leadership approaches, especially in digital leadership. This descriptive survey was conducted to assess the state of digital leadership among Heads of Departments (HoDs) at an Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) campus in Malaysia. Answering the data in a structured questionnaire across all 14 Head of Departments showed a high level of agreement on why digital leadership is significant, with predominantly positive views (M=4.81). Despite the above, the belief-practice gap can be recognised: strong beliefs were not realised well in practice due to substantial systemic hurdles (M=4.24). The chief challenges mentioned were a shortage of time to prepare for digital upskilling (M=4.00), a lack of technological infrastructure (M=3.57), and staff reluctance to change (M=3.57). The Heads of Departments prioritised strategic interventions for improvement, specifically increased funding for digital technology (M=4.64), the creation of a clear institutional digital policy (M=4.43), and repeated hands-on training (M=4.36). The results of this study are significant to IPG and the Ministry of Education, as they provide research-driven insights to support the development of focused professional development, targeted policy initiatives, and the rational allocation of resources. Through this research, we emphasise that while middle-line leaders possess capabilities, they also face institutional challenges related to time, infrastructure and support.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fauziah Ismail, Zaitun Ghazali http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Relationship Between School Leadership and Organisational Culture in Educational
This study takes a deeper look at school leadership practices and organisational culture, and at the impact of different leadership styles on schools' cultural dimensions. The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between transformational leadership behaviours and positive organisational culture attributes within primary and secondary educational institutions. A quantitative research design was applied, using a cross-sectional survey of 285 teachers working in 45 schools across urban and suburban locations. The data set was obtained through the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ-5X) and the Organisational Culture Assessment Instrument (OCAI), and descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis were performed in SPSS 28.0. Analysis indicated a direct positive correlation (r = 0.742, p < 0.001) between transformational leadership practices and collaborative organisational culture, with transformational leadership accounting for 55.2% of the variance in positive organisational culture outcomes. Schools with higher transformational leadership scores scored significantly higher on clan and adhocracy culture characteristics, teacher collaboration, and student achievement indicators. The implications are that educators who follow a transformational leadership style can be an important factor in developing organisational culture for leadership development programs, succession planning, and school improvement. School-based leadership behaviours predict organisational culture in educational institutions. However, transformational leadership behaviour is a powerful determinant of positive, collaborative, and innovative organisational settings that support educational excellence and teacher satisfaction.
Copyright (c) 2025 Saiful Hisham Yaakob http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Enhancing English Proficiency in Education Through the Role of Digital Transformation Leadership
The changing technology and globalisation have rapidly brought global changes to the way education is delivered. Therefore, digital transformation models need to be integrated into leaders’ thought processes and programs to support national language policies. In Malaysia, the “Upholding the Malay Language and Strengthening the English Language” (MBMMBI) policy seeks to protect the status and reputation of the Malay Language while promoting English as a competitive language. This qualitative study examines the engagement of digital transformation leadership in implementing an educational reform agenda that aligns with MBMMBI objectives to promote the use of technology in English language learning. Leaders of digital transformation are strategic, visionary leaders who drive educational and technological change by advancing pedagogical innovation towards more effective, bilingual, and equitable high-quality education. Utilising digital media, online resources, and evidence-based language assessment solutions, these leaders can lead the way to an enriched, interactive learning environment that enhances student engagement and English language learning without sacrificing national linguistic identity. The paper further develops how digital leadership can address teacher readiness, equitable access, and content and curriculum fit, thereby securing the survival of the Malay language and English in the national learning system. The study concludes by emphasising the critical role that visionary, technology-led leadership plays in achieving the ambitions of MBMMBI and in increasing Malaysia’s global education role.
Copyright (c) 2025 Masdiana Che Jamil, Senthamarai A/P Subramaniam, Norziana Nasir, Zuriah Mad Ali http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Governing Faith and Knowledge: A Comparative Study on Leadership, Management and Institutional Dynamics in Pesantren, Madrasah and Islamic Schools in Indonesia
This comparative study examines leadership and management practices across three major types of Islamic educational institutions in Indonesia: pesantren (non-formal Islamic boarding schools), madrasah (formal Islamic schools under the Ministry of Religious Affairs), and Islamic schools (under the Ministry of Education). This study aims to identify how institutional form shapes leadership style, governance, curriculum integration, and responses to contemporary challenges. Drawing on historical and institutional analyses, program documents, and case studies, the research develops a typology of leadership orientations (traditional charismatic, bureaucratic/instrumental, and hybrid & transformational). It links these to management mechanisms (decision-making, governance, resource mobilisation, teacher development, and quality assurance). The study finds that pesantren leadership remains highly relational and custodial (centered on the kyai’s moral authority and community embeddedness), supporting spiritual formation but facing capacity limits in formal management and scaling. Madrasah leaders navigate dual accountability to religious communities and national education authorities, resulting in hybrid administrative practices and a stronger orientation to standardised curricula and teacher professionalisation. Islamic school leadership combines academic governance with state accreditation demands, increasingly adopting managerial and strategic approaches but struggling with identity tensions between faith commitments and educational modernisation. The paper concludes with policy and practice recommendations for strengthening leadership development, quality assurance, and cross-sector learning while preserving distinctive religious missions. Implications are drawn for policymakers, institutional leaders, and researchers seeking to harmonise tradition and modernity in Islamic education.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Anis, Hussain Othman http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Integrating Instructional and Digital Leadership As ACatalyst For Transformational Change in Secondary Education
This research aims to examine the importance of instructional and digital leadership for transformative change in secondary schools. Current research seeks to understand how the combined effectiveness of these two leadership dimensions may enhance the quality of teaching and learning, enable teachers, and drive change within school systems. The quantitative research sought to gather information from secondary school teachers through a survey. The survey instrument was adapted from well-accepted leadership principles regarding instructional leadership, digital leadership, and transformational change, and was utilised with a stratified sample of 200 respondents. To examine relationships among the variables, descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis were used to analyse the extracted data. The results indicate that, with respect to instructional and digital leadership, positive effects on transformational change are significant, and that digital leadership is especially potent as the primary driver of instructional innovation. The study concludes that a synergistic approach to the two domains of leadership could contribute to a sustainable model for school transformation. Some implications highlight the need for professional development programs, digital literacy, and leadership skills to sustain educators' roles in the 21st century.
Copyright (c) 2025 Zizi' Azniza Mohd, NaTengku Norzyazwani, Nur Azrin Mohd Noor http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Bridging Culture and Leadership: Strengthening School Effectiveness in Orang Asli Communities
In schools where the student population is made of mainly Orang Asli children, the job of a principal is much more than administration such as schedule or meeting management. The principal needs to understand and appreciate the culture and traditions of the local community. This cultural respect is important as without it it is very hard to create genuine trust amongst teachers, parents and community members. This paper focuses on the effect of culturally responsive leadership to school effectiveness. The research population consisted of 450 teachers from seven states in Peninsular Malaysia with the use of a multi-stage cluster sampling technique to collect the data. Structural equation modelling showed that the higher the level of cultural responsiveness of principals, the greater the overall performance of the schools (b = 0.457, p < 0.001). A positive effect like this is seen in a number of ways. Teachers become more committed to their work, students become more interested in learning, and the community begins to put more trust in the school. This result is not only a statistical finding, but it is also reflected in what is going on in schools. When cultural respect, inclusive teaching and positive relationships with the community are practised by school leadership, the schools become more successful, harmonious and supportive places for all.
Copyright (c) 2025 Amutha Anathuri, Bity Salwana, Aida Hanim Hamid http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Exploring The Intellectual Structure of Mindful Leadership Research: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis
This research identifies the primary areas and current trends in mindful leadership and proposes future directions for exploration. Based on the Scopus database from 2016 to 2025, a bibliometric analysis of 898 studies related to mindful leadership was conducted to identify and reveal current publication trends, the most active source titles, the top 5 highly cited documents in the leadership and management area, and the top 10 most influential and productive authors in the field of mindful leadership. We also examine the key themes and topics that emerge from co-occurrence analyses of author keywords in the mindful leadership literature. The analysis reveals that the most prominent cluster focuses on the psychological aspects of mindful leadership, with keywords such as emotional intelligence, stress, well-being, and mental health being prominently linked. Although research activity on mindful leadership is emerging globally, there is a notable scarcity of research and collaboration in Asian countries, where ninety per cent of current research activity is concentrated in Western countries. We recommend an in-depth analysis and propose potential research directions within the field of mindful leadership.
Copyright (c) 2025 Wan Nurfarahiyah W. Liah, Husaina Banu Kenayathulla, Hutkemri Zulnaidi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Menggilap Pemikiran Futuristik Pelajar di Universiti Berfokus Menerusi Pendekatan Keusahawanan Sosial: Mitos atau Realiti?
Keperluan untuk menzahirkan pelajar yang berilmu dan berwawasan bagi masa depan negara semakin kritikal dalam landskap pendidikan tinggi pada masa kini. Sehubungan itu, kehadiran keusahawanan sosial dalam kurikulum pengajian tinggi amat dialu-alukan dengan harapan agar pendekatan keusahawanan sosial tersebut dapat membantu membina pelajar yang peka terhadap keperluan masyarakat dan mengamalkan inovasi untuk menyelesaikan sebarang isu yang berkaitan. Pelajar di universiti dituntut untuk menggilap pemikiran futuristik agar mampu mengenal pasti keperluan dan peluang pada masa akan datang. Oleh yang demikian, kertas konsep ini akan mengupas persoalan sama ada pendekatan keusahawanan sosial sebagaimana yang dihasratkan mampu menggilap pemikiran futuristik dalam kalangan pelajar universiti, atau sekadar menjadi retorik pendidikan moden. Pendekatan keusahawanan sosial yang dilaksanakan secara strategik dan berstruktur berpotensi menjadi pemangkin pembangunan pemikiran futuristik pelajar, selain mendorong pemikiran kreatif dan empatik. Justeru, kertas konsep ini membincangkan dan merumuskan beberapa cadangan praktikal untuk penggubal dasar serta penyedia program pendidikan tinggi bagi memperkukuh keberkesanan pendekatan keusahawanan sosial dalam menggilap pemikiran futuristik pelajar di universiti.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hariyaty Ab Wahid, Rafiduraida Abdul Rahman, Wan Salmuni Wan Mustaffa, Wan Mohd Nazri Wan Daud http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Graduate Attributes and Employability Skills in TVET in Malaysia: A Systematic Review towards Holistic and Future-Ready Graduates
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has been increasingly recognized as a crucial pathway in preparing skilled human capital for Malaysia’s socio-economic development. However, persistent concerns regarding graduate employability have highlighted the need to revisit the graduate attributes and employability skills that TVET institutions aim to nurture. This study conducts a systematic review to synthesize existing literature on graduate attributes and employability skills in Malaysian TVET contexts. The review followed the PRISMA 2020 guideline, using electronic databases including Scopus, ERA, MyCite, and Google Scholar, covering studies published between 2010 and 2024. Articles were screened based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, yielding a final sample of 42 empirical and conceptual studies. The findings reveal that technical competencies remain the dominant focus in Malaysian TVET curricula; however, industry and policy documents consistently emphasise the importance of soft skills, digital literacy, entrepreneurial orientation, communication, teamwork, and ethical values. The review also identifies several gaps, including limited integration of holistic attributes such as sustainability, civic responsibility, and adaptability to Industry 4.0 demands. The study concludes that while significant progress has been made in embedding employability skills in Malaysian TVET, a more balanced framework that integrates both technical and holistic graduate attributes is required to ensure the production of future-ready graduates. This review provides useful implications for policymakers, curriculum developers, and TVET institutions aiming to enhance graduate employability and competitiveness. This review contributes by synthesising the evidence into a pyramid model of graduate attributes, offering a holistic and policy-relevant framework for strengthening employability in Malaysian TVET.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur 'Adnin Syamil Halik Basah, Mohd Asri Mohd Noor, Abdul Muqsith bin Ahmad http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Organizational Resilience in Educational Institutions: A Stakeholder Perspective Using Nominal Group Technique
Organizational resilience is essential for institutions to navigate disruptions such as policy changes, pandemics, and rapid technological advancements. However, research on resilience has primarily centered on business and management, leaving the education sector underexplored and limiting its ability to develop resilience effectively. This study addresses this gap by identifying key determinants of organizational resilience in educational institutions using the Nominal Group Technique (NGT), a structured method for achieving expert consensus. Nine educational stakeholders including administrators, lecturer, principal, headmaster, teachers, school staff, and parent participated in structured NGT sessions. Findings reveal that stakeholders demand a supportive institutional culture and positive communication as fundamental pillars of resilience. They also emphasize the critical need for proactive management, flexibility, and effective leadership to drive long-term growth and adaptability. The study concludes that educational institutions must adopt a proactive and inclusive approach to resilience-building, leveraging diverse stakeholder input to create strategies tailored to unique challenges. Furthermore, this study proposes an organizational resilience framework for educational institutions, offering guidance for future researchers, school management, educators, policymakers, and other stakeholders. This framework aims to cultivate a culture of resilience, ensuring the sector's sustainability and capacity to thrive amidst evolving challenges.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ariff Zakwan, Zuraidah Abdullah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Work Attitude, Ethics and Performance: Exploring Organizational Influences on Health Workers Performance in Selected Healthcare Institution in Nigeria
Issues regarding work ethics and staff attitudes in Nigeria's healthcare sector have a profound impact on service delivery. This study examines the complex relationship between work attitudes and the performance of health workers at University College Hospital, Ibadan, emphasising the organisational, cultural, and individual elements that impede ethical conduct. A quantitative methodology was employed to gather data through structured questionnaires distributed to 200 intentionally selected healthcare workers. Analysis was performed with descriptive and inferential statistics, Structural Equation Modelling, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis through SPSS v22. The findings indicate a robust direct correlation between work ethics and employee behaviour (β = 0.769, p < 0.05), implying that even slight enhancements in ethical conduct can markedly improve workplace behaviour. The impact of work ethics is partially mediated by dedication, attitude, and integrity (β = 0.110, p < 0.05), suggesting that intrinsic qualities influence ethical outcomes. Organisational, cultural, and individual barriers were identified as major contributors to unethical behaviour (p = 0.012), with each further increase in these limitations correlating with heightened negative conduct (β = 0.669). The study highlights the pressing necessity for systemic reforms to foster a culture of professionalism and ethical excellence, providing significant insights for policymakers, administrators, and scholars in healthcare management and organisational behaviour.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lawal Bakare, Leke K. Onabanjo, Oluwafisayo O. Falowo, Oladepo O. Owoladed http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
A Bibliometric Analysis of the Corpus of Studies on Healthcare Workforce Turnover Intention in the New Millennium
This bibliometric analysis examines research evolution on turnover intention among healthcare employees from 2000 to 2023. Using the SCOPUS database, 299 original research articles and conference papers were shortlisted through a PRISMA method of screening process. The data included were exported into CSV format and quantitatively analysed using VOSviewer and Microsoft Excel applications. The analysis techniques in place were publication trend evaluation, keyword occurrences, citation trend, and authorship mapping. Statistically, results show a significant publication surge in 2019, associated with the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. The United States leads the most productive countries and prolific authors. Over time, the authors’ keywords shifted from organisational factors and circumstances to healthcare personnel's well-being outcomes. This signified that research has evolved to a more inclusive approach, incorporating organisational systems and individual aspects. Medicine and nursing were the key subject areas dominating the publications, with English as the main language used. The multi-disciplined and inter-affiliative research activities offered insights across diverse healthcare systems. Overall, this study presents valuable insights into the current scholarly landscape in the corpus of turnover intention studies. Nevertheless, areas such as intrinsic values and employer–employee relationship qualities remain underexplored.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ahmad Rafeein Mohamad, Kalsom Ali, Khairunneezam Mohd Noor http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Justice Equation: What Drives Doctor Turnover in Malaysia’s Public Hospitals?
This study examined the effects of distributive, procedural, interactional, and temporal justice on turnover intention among medical doctors in Malaysian public hospitals. Data was collected from 380 permanently employed doctors across ten public hospitals in Klang Valley and analysed using structural equation modelling. The results showed moderate overall turnover intention (adjusted mean = 3.135). Despite this moderate level, 58.16% of doctors intended to leave the public sector, highlighting a potential sustainability challenge in Malaysia’s public healthcare system. The analysis revealed that distributive justice (β = -0.493, p = 0.001) and temporal justice (β = -0.126, p = 0.007) had significant inverse effects on turnover intention. In contrast, neither procedural nor interactional justice exerted significant effects. These findings suggest that fair organisational outcome distribution and individual discretion in balancing time for work and personal life play a more crucial role in doctor retention than procedural fairness or supervisor interactions. The study underscores the need for tangible, outcome-based retention strategies in Malaysia’s public healthcare system, specifically suggesting policymakers should prioritise fair reward systems and work-life balance initiatives to reduce attrition. Overall, the findings of this study contribute to broader academic discussions about organisational justice practices that may contribute to prolonged healthcare sustainability.
Pembentukan karakter kepimpinan murid sekolah rendah melalui amalan pedagogi terbeza
Pedagogi Terbeza merupakan pendekatan pengajaran kontemporari yang memanfaatkan kepelbagaian murid di bilik darjah. Kajian ini bertujuan untuk mengenal pasti amalan Pedagogi Terbeza dalam pembentukan karakter kepimpinan murid serta mengenal pasti kebolehgunaan Pedagogi Terbeza dalam pembentukan karakter kepimpinan murid sekolah rendah. Metodologi kajian adalah berbentuk kualitatif dengan menggunakan protokol temu bual separa struktur. Sampel kajian terdiri daripada 2 orang guru pelatih IPGM Kampus Raja Melewar. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan Pedagogi Terbeza dapat membina karakter kepimpinan murid seperti hormat menghormati dan bekerjasama. Secara spesifik, murid didapati lebih menghargai kepelbagaian rakan sebaya dan lebih cenderung untuk bekerjasama dalam aktiviti kumpulan. Dapatan juga menunjukkan Pedagogi Terbeza boleh digunakan dalam pembentukan karakter kepimpinan kerana ia dapat memberi keseronokan kepada murid dan memberi impak yang positif seperti wujudnya toleransi antara guru dan murid. Kajian ini memberi implikasi yang besar kepada pelbagai pihak berkepentingan dalam pendidikan termasuk Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia, Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri, Pejabat Pendidikan Daerah, serta pihak sekolah yang melibatkan guru dan murid.
Copyright (c) 2024 Zurina Mustaffa, Zaharah Hussin, Azni Yati Kamarudin, Abdul Hadi Sulaiman, Zuraini Yaakub http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Factors Influencing Academic Staff's Intention to Invest in Financial Markets: Extending the Theory ofReasoned Action
This study aims to understand the factors influencing investment intentions among Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) academic staff by extending the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) with knowledge and awareness variables. A quantitative survey design was used, collecting data from 300 randomly selected respondents via Google Forms. The data were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression (MLR) with SPSS version 26.0. The findings show that attitude, subjective norms, knowledge, and awareness significantly relate to investment intentions. Pearson correlation analysis revealed strong relationships between attitude and investment intention (r = - 0.437, r = - 0.437), subjective norms (r = 0.439, r = 0.439), and awareness (r = 0.689, r = 0.689), while knowledge showed a weaker significant relationship (r = - 0.215, r = - 0.215). Multiple linear regression confirmed that these factors are primary predictors of investment intention, with awareness exerting the strongest influence (β = 0.554, p<0.01, β = 0.554, p<0.01). The study suggests that increasing awareness and knowledge about investments can positively influence academic staff's investment intentions, highlighting the need for enhanced education and awareness initiatives. It contributes empirically to consumer behavior literature in investment contexts, offering insights for investment service providers, policymakers, and investors. Additionally, it makes theoretical contributions by illustrating how knowledge and awareness influence investment intentions, helping policymakers develop policies that enhance financial literacy and support informed investment decisions.
Copyright (c) 2024 Meor Azim, Mohd Yahya Mohd Hussin, Fidlizan Muhammad http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Expert Consensus on Digital Leadership Competencies for School Principals in Malaysia: A Fuzzy Delphi Approach
In today's rapidly evolving digital era, school principals must possess strong digital leadership competencies to effectively manage and lead educational institutions. Digital transformation in education requires more than just technological infrastructure; it demands leaders who can integrate digital tools strategically while fostering an innovative learning environment. Keeping this in mind, the goal of this study is to identify the essential digital leadership competencies for school principals in Malaysia. Using the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM), this study aims to obtain expert consensus on the key dimensions and elements of digital leadership. A total of 15 experts, including Senior Lecturers from Institut Aminuddin Baki (IAB), Senior Officers from PPD, JPN, and KPM, as well as experienced school principals, participated in this study. An instrument containing four competency dimensions: Personal Competencies, Job Requirement Competencies, Organizational Environmental Competencies, and Social Role Competencies was presented for expert evaluation. The findings indicate that all proposed elements were accepted, with the fuzzy scores meeting the FDM threshold (d≤0.2), achieving expert agreement above 75% (87% to 100%), and passing the alpha cut value (α-cut ≥0.5) with scores ranging from 0.918 to 0.960. The defuzzification process ranked competencies based on expert consensus, identifying Personal Competencies as the most critical dimension. Among the key elements, technological mastery, risk-taking, resilience, and exemplary technology use were found to be the most crucial for school principals. Additionally, competencies related to digital data management, ethical digital practices, and stakeholder collaboration were highly prioritized. In conclusion, this study successfully validates a framework for digital leadership competencies in the educational sector. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers in designing professional development programs and leadership training. Schools can utilize these results to enhance principal training, ensuring they are equipped to lead in a technology-driven educational landscape. Future research should explore the implementation of these competencies in various educational settings to further refine digital leadership strategies.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nur Hafiza Hamzah, Intan Marfarrina Omar, Norfariza Mohd Radzi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Kompetensi Keusahawanan Personal Pelajar KKTM/MJII/IKM Ke Atas Aktiviti Pembelajaran Subjek Keusahawanan Digital
Keusahawanan Digital (KD) merupakan subjek yang diajar dan diberikan penekanan bagi institusi pendidikan TVET MARA pada masa kini dalam usaha memotivasikan pelajar dalam bidang keusahawanan. Dalam mengukur keberkesanan pembelajaran subjek keusahawanan digital, kompetensi keusahawanan personal (KKP) digunakan sebagai kaedah atau teknik dalam melihat keberkesanan subjek berkenaan sama ada berjaya membentuk keperibadian dan ciri-ciri keusahawanan di kalangan pelajar KKTM/MJII/IKM. Soal selidik telah digunakan sebagai instrumen dalam mengukur pembolehubah kajian yang melibatkan 70 soalan yang perlu dijawab oleh pelajar. Prosedur pensampelan melibatkan 117 orang pelajar KKTM/MJII/IKM yang menjawab soal selidik berkenaan. Dalam membuat analisa kompetensi keusahawanan personal, perisian Microsoft Excel dan format ini juga menggunakan pendekatan yang dibangunkan oleh Butt & Thechatakerng. Hasil dapat kajian mendapati secara keseluruhan pelajar KKTM/MJII/IKM mempunyai kompetensi keusahawanan personal (KKP)yang lemah dan ini menunjukkan aktiviti pengajaran dan pembelajaran bagi subjek keusahawanan digital tidak mampu menarik minat pelajar dalam bidang keusahawanan. Implikasi penemuan ini adalah antara cadangan yang boleh dibuat adalah berkolabrasi dengan pihak usahawan melalui konsep dropship atau affiliate, penambahbaikan modul pembelajaran yang lebih menarik dan interatif dan pendedahan dengan ekspo atau aktiviti perniagaan di luar institusi.
Copyright (c) 2025 Asrul nizam Abd rahim, Siti Zuraidah Md Osman http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Naratif Kepimpinan Instruksional dalam Aspek Pendidikan
Kepimpinan adalah bersifat kemahiran yang merujuk kepada proses interaksi antara pemimpin dan staf bawahan dalam mencapai sesuatu matlamat. Memahami peranan sebagai pemimpin dan cara pengendalian staf bawahan amat penting dalam tampuk pemerintahan pemimpin dalam memacu organisasi ke arah kecemerlangan. Justeru itu, kepimpinan telah mengalami evolusi yang bersesuai mengikut peredaran zaman dan telah dikaji dalam pelbagai perspektif, teori dan keberkesanannya terhadap perkembangan dalam mencapai matlamat. Kajian ini akan membincangkan definisi kepimpinan instruksional, model-model kepimpinan instruksional dalam aspek pendidikan mengikut zaman, perbezaan model, pembaharuan model serta kompetensi pemimpin instruksional kepada bidang pendidikan dalam merealisasikan matlamat yang ingin dicapai oleh organisasi.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anisah Samihah, Norlia Mat Norwani http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Analisis Tahap Organisasi Pembelajaran dalam Kalangan Penguatkuasa di Selangor
Organisasi pembelajaran merupakan elemen penting dalam meningkatkan kecekapan dan keberkesanan penguat kuasa pihak berkuasa tempatan (PBT). Kajian ini bertujuan untuk mengenal pasti tahap amalan organisasi pembelajaran dalam kalangan pegawai penguat kuasa Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan (PBT) di Selangor serta menganalisis perbezaan tahap amalan antara Majlis Daerah Sabak Bernam (MDSB) dan Majlis Perbandaran Kuala Selangor (MPKS). Selain itu, kajian ini juga meneliti faktor yang mempengaruhi tahap amalan organisasi pembelajaran dalam kalangan pegawai penguat kuasa. Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan kaedah soal selidik yang diadaptasi daripada teori organisasi pembelajaran oleh Senge (1990). Seramai 60 pegawai penguat kuasa dari kedua-dua PBT telah dipilih sebagai sampel kajian. Analisis deskriptif menunjukkan bahawa tahap amalan organisasi pembelajaran secara keseluruhan berada pada tahap sederhana (M=3.20, SD=1.18). Ujian-t tidak menunjukkan perbezaan signifikan antara MDSB dan MPKS dalam amalan organisasi pembelajaran. Analisis regresi linear berganda pula mendapati bahawa dimensi Visi Bersama, Penguasaan Peribadi, dan Pembelajaran Berpasukan mempunyai pengaruh signifikan terhadap tahap organisasi pembelajaran. Dapatan ini mencadangkan bahawa kepimpinan yang menyokong budaya pembelajaran, penyelarasan visi organisasi, serta peningkatan kompetensi individu dapat memperkukuhkan amalan organisasi pembelajaran dalam kalangan penguat kuasa PBT. Oleh itu, usaha penambahbaikan seperti program latihan berstruktur, peningkatan komunikasi organisasi, dan penggunaan teknologi pembelajaran perlu diterapkan bagi memastikan keberkesanan pembelajaran dalam organisasi.
Copyright (c) 2025 Siti Norzaidah Mokhtar, Rosnah Ishak http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Hubungan Antara Gaya Kepimpinan Transformasi dengan Kepuasan Kerja dalam kalangan Penolong Pegawai Perubatan
Kajian ini meneliti hubungan antara gaya kepimpinan transformasi dan kepuasan kerja dalam kalangan Penolong Pegawai Perubatan di hospital pakar negeri Selangor. Kajian kuantitatif ini melibatkan 304 responden yang dipilih secara persampelan rawak berstrata. Data diperoleh melalui soal selidik Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) dan Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ) dan dianalisis menggunakan perisian SPSS IBM versi 23.0. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan tahap kepimpinan transformasi penyelia dan kepuasan kerja Penolong Pegawai Perubatan berada pada tahap tinggi. Analisis korelasi Pearson pula menunjukkan hubungan positif sederhana yang signifikan antara kepimpinan transformasi dan kepuasan kerja (r=0.572, p<0.05). Dimensi pertimbangan individu dalam kepimpinan transformasi didapati mempunyai hubungan paling kuat dengan kepuasan kerja Penolong Pegawai Perubatan. Kajian ini menegaskan kepentingan kepimpinan transformasi dalam meningkatkan motivasi, kesejahteraan, dan kepuasan kerja Penolong Pegawai Perubatan, sekali gus menyumbang kepada kualiti perkhidmatan kesihatan yang lebih baik. Implikasi kajian mencadangkan keperluan untuk latihan dan pembangunan kepimpinan bagi memastikan penyelia Penolong Pegawai Perubatan dapat mengamalkan kepimpinan transformasi secara efektif. Kajian akan datang disarankan untuk meneroka faktor lain seperti beban kerja, keseimbangan kerja-hidup, dan sokongan organisasi yang turut mempengaruhi kepuasan kerja Penolong Pegawai Perubatan serta menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif bagi mendapatkan pemahaman yang lebih mendalam mengenai cabaran yang dihadapi oleh Penolong Pegawai Perubatan.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ahmad Fauzi Md Amin, Rosnah Ishak http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Strategic Leadership as a Catalyst For Organizational Culture Transformation in Sarawak’s TVET Institutions
This study aims to examine the relationship between Strategic Leadership and Organizational Culture transformation in Sarawak’s TVET institutions, recognizing its critical role in ensuring institutional adaptability and long-term sustainability. The research specifically examines the correlation between Strategic Leadership and various dimensions of a Learning Organization, emphasizing its impact on fostering a responsive and innovative organizational culture in vocational education. A quantitative correlational research design was adopted, involving 150 teachers from three vocational colleges in Sarawak. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed through Pearson’s correlation analysis. The findings reveal a strong positive correlation (r = .72, p < .001) between Strategic Leadership and Organizational Culture transformation, highlighting that institutions with effective strategic leadership exhibit higher adaptability, improved collaboration, and a stronger learning-oriented culture. The study concludes that Strategic Leadership is a key driver in navigating institutional challenges, fostering continuous improvement, and ensuring TVET institutions remain aligned with evolving industry needs. The results provide valuable insights for policymakers, institutional leaders, and educators on the importance of leadership in cultivating an agile and progressive learning environment. These findings reinforce the need to integrate strategic leadership practices into TVET governance and professional development programs, ensuring the future sustainability and competitiveness of vocational education in Sarawak.
Copyright (c) 2024 Julia Cliffton, Marinah Awang, Mahaliza Mansor http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0