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Volume 5 Number 3 March 2019

Analysis of Behavioral Factors that Cause Student Academic Fraud


Authors: Noer Sasongko ; Mahruf Noor Hasyim ; Dahlia Fernandez
Pages: 830-837
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.830.837
Abstract
This study aims to examine a number of behavioral factors from students committing academic fraud in university. The subject of this research is the factors that motivate students to commit academic fraud. The Fraud Pentagon Theory and Gone Theory are used. Behavioral factors include arrogance, pressure, opportunity, rationalization, competence, greed, need, and exposure. The population in this study was the undergraduate students in the Accounting Study Program in the Faculty of Economics and Business at Surakarta Muhammadiyah University who had taken courses in Accounting Information Systems and Auditing. This study uses the convenience sampling method as the sampling technique. There were 110 respondents involved. In this study, the hypothesis is subjected to the multiple linear regression analysis.The results of this study show that the factors related to student academic fraud are mainly arrogance and opportunity. Other behavioral factors namely pressure, rationalization, competence, greed, need, and exposure have no effect on student academic fraud.

The Driving Force of the Business Sustainability Model Among Co-Operatives in Malaysia


Authors: Mohammad Ismail ; Fakhrul Anwar Zainol ; Mohd Nor Hakimin Yusoff ; Muhamad Saufi Che Rusuli
Pages: 826-829
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.826.829
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to propose a business model, by reviewing the previous research work conducted and interviewed, related to business sustainability in co-operatives. There are a number of research papers that explore the sustainability of business and various authors discuss different points of view concerning the sustainability of business. However, this study specifically explores the business sustainability of co-operatives in five co-operatives in Kelantan and Terengganu Based on the interviews conducted with five board of co-operative members, there are five drivers which aid co-operatives to sustain their business; namely, strong support from the members, a good overall support system, better management, a viable business strategy and focus, and the overall knowledge of the board members. Hence, this study proposes a model as a tool to drive the co-operatives toward sustainable business. The limitations and contributions of the study are discussed at the conclusion.

Judicial Education Development Issues and Prospects in the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Light of the OECD Countries’ Experience


Authors: Zhumabek Busurmanov ; Aiman Kussainova ; Lazzat Nazarkulova ; Almas Kanatov
Pages: 819-825
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.819.825
Abstract
The relevance of the topic is determined by the needs of modern Kazakhstani society in an independent judiciary and highly professional judges, capable of being a genuine guarantor of human and citizen rights and freedoms. Based on the study of the OECD countries’ experience, it is argued that it is the judicial education that plays a key role in the formation of an independent, highly professional judiciary. The current state of judicial education in the Republic of Kazakhstan and its development issues are considered. Prospective directions of its development are justified based on the OECD countries’ experience. A number of measures for improving judicial education is argued to be undertaken: the need for compulsory special training of candidates for the position of a judge, the development of teaching staff through the involvement of the best sitting judges in the training process, and the need to remove judicial education from the executive authorities. The role of new technologies in the development of judicial education is particularly mentioned.

Cooperative Entrepreneurship in Malaysian Secondary Schools: A Review of Current Practices


Authors: Norliana Abd Majid ; Fakhrul Anwar Zainol ; Wan Norhayate Wan Daud ; Asyraf Afthanorhan
Pages: 812-818
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.812.818
Abstract
Cooperative entrepreneurship plays a significant role in the effort of developing future entrepreneurs. This type of entrepreneurship increases the economic and social interests of its members and brings substantial advantages to the community and society. Due to capital sharing and low risks in starting a business, cooperative entrepreneurship is a prominent way to generate job opportunities and reduce unemployment without depending on wage employment, especially among young people. In cultivating the entrepreneurial spirit, the Malaysian Ministry of Education (MOE) has introduced the school cooperatives since 1968, which aims to nurture entrepreneurial experiences and orientations among students. Hence, the primary purpose of this paper is to highlight the current practices of cooperative entrepreneurship in Malaysian secondary schools by reviewing the impact of the school cooperatives’ activities in instilling entrepreneurial knowledge and motivation among the youth. This conceptual paper also aims to foster awareness into the importance of school cooperatives in the Malaysian entrepreneurship education.

Comparing the lifestyle of Islamic and Western Students Based on the School of Secularism


Authors: Abas Ahmadi ; Mostafa Abasi Moghadam
Pages: 811-819
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.811.819
Abstract
Aim: The Aim of this article was to compare the lifestyle of Islamic and Western students based on the school of secularism. Lifestyle is a category that has been attended by scientists from different schools in the new age. Western scholars from the Renaissance later on have provided many articles on this subject and considered it a new category. Western scholars differed in their worldview and ideology, of which, including the secular school of thought. The secularist insight, which is a special and evolved form of nouns such as materialist and humanistic, has been devoted to the world and its followers. Methodology: The research method was a field study and a library study. By expressing concepts related to lifestyle by Western scholars, students turned into a particular lifestyle that they considered desirable according to their type of thinking. Because the kind of insight and type of ideology plays a very important role in choosing a lifestyle. But in traditional and religious societies such as Islamic society, Islamic lifestyle is based on Islamic worldview and ideology, and it has conflicts and differences with Western lifestyle and secularism. This article tries to "compare the lifestyle of Islamic and Western students based on the secularist school". Results and conclusion: western Secular Student Involves Four Characteristics in Lifestyle: 1) The human-centered worldview 2) A wise man in the world 3) Man is limited to the material world 4) Originality of consumption in determining lifestyle. But the characteristics of the student lifestyle from the perspective of the Quran and hadith are as follows: 1) Godliness and belief in the position of human caliphate on earth 2) Sense, Reason and Revelation, Elements of Human Knowledge 3) The close relationship between the individual and the community 4) The Origin of Spirituality and Humanity in Determining the Lifestyle 5) Component Science for Evolution. The principles of difference in these two are: 1) Differences in the type of worldview 2) Differences in the source and factors determining the type of lifestyle 3) Differences in anthropology 4) Difference in attitude towards science.

Emergency Operation and Coordination Center (EOCC) for Disaster Response Management


Authors: Nur Hidayah Roslan ; Haslinda Abdullah ; Maimunah Omar
Pages: 803-810
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.803.810
Abstract
Disaster management is often portrayed in negative rather than positive terms. Although, it is claimed that proper preparation for any disaster has been planned, it frequently fails to achieve positive outcomes from the planning itself. The emergency operation and coordination center (EOCC) which is the central point for all coordination and organising works is normally to be blamed for disaster response failure. Hence, the objective of this study is to examine issues with effective emergency operation and coordination center (EOCC) during disaster response. This study uses a qualitative research method. The researcher conducts an interview survey and focus group discussion for data collection in order to gain a comprehensive overview of the situation and understand the phenomena involved. The population for this study is infantry army officers. Purposive sampling is used such that only those personnel involved in disaster response are interviewed. This study found that the EOCC organization structure is clear and it follows the command and control military hierarchy. The leader with the relevant rank, having the experience and knowledge on managing disaster and having the respect and control from subordinates is appointed for the leadership role in the EOCC. However, inter-agency cooperation can be an issue as there is an overlapping of roles and responsibilities and inter-agency power struggle. Therefore, this issue leads to chaos and tension in the EOCC as there would be variance and inconsistency in the coordination and communication among infantry personnel and inter-agency.

Challenging the Giants: Factors Contributing to Local Homestay Competitiveness in Ubud Bali


Authors: Putu Diah Sastri Pitanatri ; I Gde Pitana
Pages: 796-802
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.796.802
Abstract
Tourism development in Ubud raises new paradigm that encourages city hotel and hostel investment in the area. Ubud, which was once secluded for the development of mass accommodation facilities, now has begun building various brands managed by hotel chains that threaten the existence of homestay owned by residents. The dilemma is not only these homestays must survive with market change, but they also must compete with the “giants” like Evitel (Asiawood Hospitality Management) and MaxOne (Milestone Pacific Hotel Group) offering relatively similar price. Looking into this phenomenon, the study conducted a survey to 163 homestays in Ubud to see what this local homestay has to support their existence: competing for the "giants" of the hospitality industry. Results of the survey were then being elaborated through an in-depth interview to selected homestay owners and administrator. Literature studies were also being conducted, ensuring five main factors that contribute to homestay competitiveness in Ubud, namely experience, digitalisation, innovation, market and location.

The Determinants of Foreign Direct Investments in Real Estate: Turkey Case


Authors: Mustafa ŞİT
Pages: 789-795
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.789.795
Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate the key factors affecting foreign direct real estate investment (FDIRE) in Turkey’s economy. A DOLS-FMOLS estimator model was developed to investigate the determinants of FDIRE in Turkey. Data was used between 2003Q1-2018Q2. This study differs from the previous ones in that this particular topic is being researched as regards the economy of Turkey for the first time. The results showed that the most important variables affecting foreign direct real estate investment in Turkey was openness and exchange rate. Furthermore, economic growth also has a positive impact. On the other hand, interest has been found to be the most negative factor affecting investments. Moreover, the increase in building construction costs directly reduce foreign real estate investment. The results show that the gradually increasing openness of Turkey’s economy contributes to the increase in foreign investments in the real estate market.

Investigating Factors Influencing Brain Drain of Citizens of Azad Kashmir Pakistan


Authors: Wajahat Ali Ghulam ; Waqas Ali ; Shujahat Ali ; Muhammad Masood Khan ; Raja Nasir Ali Khan ; Muhammad Farooq
Pages: 782-788
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.782.788
Abstract
The primary purpose of the paper to analyze the impact of Human Capital Migration on the social sector of Azad Jammu & Kashmir. Population of the study was the above matriculation (10th grade) migrants shifted from Pakistan to abroad. A sample of 300 people was request to fill the questionnaire out of which data collected from the 225 participants. To strengthen the study, we utilized both primary as well as secondary sources for data collection. Regression and correlation statistics utilized to identify the association between the predictor and outcome variables. Conclusively, there are numerous root causes of the Educated Human Capital Migration from the Mirpur Division Azad Jammu & Kashmir. This study finds that the Economic Factor, Social Factor, Job Opportunity Factor, Political Factor, Education System Factor, Pure Science Factor, Technological Factor has a significant impact on the phenomenon of Brain Drain. In the long run the migration of Educated Human Capital destructs the institution as well as the region.  Study is benificial for the policy makers of Azad Jummu and Kashmir to attract the skilled migrants back to their orgin. The acamdicians can further study thus topic to explore the Brain Drain at demographic level.

The Social Meaning of Rambu Solo Ceremony in Toraja (The Perspective of Symbolic Interactionism Theory)


Authors: Hasbi ; D. A. T. Pulubuhu ; Mansyur Radjab ; Asyraf Hj. Ab Rahman ; Andi Haris
Pages: 778-781
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.778.781
Abstract
Rambu solo’ has a significantly important role within Torajanese’s life cycle. The study aimed to elaborate the social meaning of Rambu Solo’ as viewed from the perspective of symbolic interactionism theory. The study was done qualitatively using case study approach. Techniques of data collection involved observation and interview. The study results show that there are two options of Rambu Solo ceremony types namely; bukan rapasan ceremony and rapasan ceremony. The two options of Rambu Solo’ ceremony poses social meaning in economic, cultural, solidarity, spiritual, affection and social status fields based on the aspects of imagining, interpreting and developing self-concept as viewed from the perspective of symbolic interactionism theory.

The Effect of Flipped Classroom Model on Students’ Achievement in the New 2016 Scholastic Assessment Test Mathematics Skills


Authors: Adeeb M. Jarrah ; Khaled Mohammed Abdel Baki Mohammed Diab
Pages: 769-777
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.769.777
Abstract
The flipped classroom model has become more popular and one of the focus of many researchers and teachers in the recent years. The aim of current study is to explore the effect of flipped classroom model on students’ achievements in the new SAT 2016 mathematics skills (Heart of Algebra, Problem solving and data analysis, and Passport to Advanced Math) for the eleventh grade Emirati female students in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. Specifically, this study aims at determining whether there was a statistically significant difference in student achievements in the new SAT mathematics skills between two groups of grade 11 students. Thus, pretest/posttest quasi-experimental design was applied. The experimental group was taught by flipped classroom model, and the control group was taught by traditional instruction methods. The results revealed that there is a statistically significant difference between the pretest and posttest of the experimental group over the control group the new SAT mathematics skills. Furthermore, the findings suggest that teachers who teach mathematics standardized test skills like SAT can use flipped classroom model to enhance students’ readiness and to improve their thinking skills to simulate the 21st-century skills.

Advantages of Loanwords of Latin Origin for Learning German and Dutch


Authors: Kazuhito Uni
Pages: 764-768
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.764.768
Abstract
Latin is the primary donor language to German and Dutch. In this study, a vocabulary survey was conducted to propose the advantages of frequently used German and Dutch vocabulary of Latin origin and their English equivalents for learners of German and Dutch. The Oxford 3000 was used as the primary reference for the 3,000 most frequently used English words, and the author analyzed the frequency of their German and Dutch equivalents. As a result, 432 loanwords of Latin or Greek origin were found to be included in the 3,000 most common German and Dutch words. Therefore, the present study concluded that possessing a knowledge of basic German and Dutch vocabulary of Latin or Greek origin effectively assists English speakers in learning German and Dutch.

Inventory Management and Organisational Efficiency


Authors: Henry Inegbedion ; Sunday Eze ; Abiola Asaleye ; Adedoyin Lawal
Pages: 756-763
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.756.763
Abstract
The study examined inventory management and organisational efficiency. The classical inventory management techniques were applied to an organisation’s inventory system. A door sales company in Ilorin, Nigeria that volunteered information on the basis of anonymity was used and relevant data were collected on six types of doors; panel, flush, sliding, folding and as well as manual and electronic garage doors. The company had no scientific inventory management strategy but the EOQ, inventory cycle time and reorder level were computed for the six doors using the average values of the data obtained for 2011-2017. The results show that the company can minimise its total inventory cost by consciously adopting an inventory management policy of ordering 55 panel doors, 41 flush doors, 41 sliding glass doors, 18 folding doors, 18 manual garage doors and 8 electronic garage doors respectively every cycle time of 17, 14, 17, 30, 35 and 34 days respectively or by placing the above orders each time the inventory level of panel doors, flush doors, sliding glass doors, folding doors, manual garage doors and electronic garage doors fall to 32, 24, 24, 5, 3 and 2 respectively and thus minimise the total cost of inventory.

Critical Thinking Skills Based–Physical Activities Learning Model for Early Childhood


Authors: Wujiati ; Toho Cholik Mutohir ; Nining W. Kusnanik ; Zukhairina ; Sri Hidayati ; Emosda ; Ekawarna ; Yennizar ; Amirul Mukminin
Pages: 738-755
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.738.755
Abstract
This research aimed to develop a physical activities learning model (MPAF) based on critical thinking skills (CTS) among children aged 5 to 6 years old and to evaluate its validity, practicality or commitment, and effectiveness in implementing the CTS based –MPAF among those children. The data were collected from 14 students of TK (Kindergarten) Negeri Pembina Surabaya through both qualitative and quantitative methods. The finding revealed that teachers played a vital role in learning process and could be confirmed by a successful achievement of valid, practical and effective critical thinking according to the determined standards. Conclusion: CTS based – MPAF can successfully work if the teachers precisely realize the learning principles in early childhood education and CTS based – syntax referred to available references.

Studying the Effect of Mental Calculations Training with Abacus on the Learners' Cognitive and Psychological-Emotional Characteristics (Intelligent & Creative Children Institute)


Authors: Rohollah Mokhberian ; Elaheh Abedini
Pages: 733-737
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.733.737
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to study the effect of mathematical mental calculations training on increasing the cognitive and emotional abilities of children and students. Two sample groups with 306 people (148 ones in the group of mathematical mental calculations training at the intelligent children’s institution and 158 ones in the formal training group) were selected among male and female children and students in Tehran City who were selected by stratified sampling method. Based on three groups of age 6 old, 7 - 8 years old and 9-11 years old, mathematical ability tools, Toulouse concentration test, standard tests of mathematics, science and Persian literature, basic mathematical skills, contemporary self-control scale, Pope self-esteem and reading progress. Results based on factor analysis of variance, multivariate factor analysis of variance and t-student methods showed that there was a significant difference between the groups of mental calculations training and formal training in different age groups and these differences were related to gender in some groups.

Prevalence and Preventive Measures for Fibroid Among Celibate-Women in South-Western, Nigeria


Authors: Chisaa Onyekachi Igbolekwu ; Ogadimma Arisukwu ; Joseph Nwogu ; Festus Asamu
Pages: 723-732
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.723.732
Abstract
Uterine fibroid has been identified as one of the most prevailing health challenges among African women. Previous studies focused on the prevalence and prevention of fibroid among women in general, especially with regards to the biomedical science perspective. However, little attention has been given to social dimension of this medical condition particularly among Celibate-women. This study therefore investigated the prevalence and prevention of fibroid among Celibate-women, in the Catholic Ecclesiastical Province of Ibadan, Nigeria. The Data collection technique was triangulated, hence 375 questionnaires were administered on the Celibate-women through a total population sampling technique while key informant interview were conducted for 28 purposively selected respondents.  Findings revealed a prevalence rate of 48.0% among the Celibate-women. No specific preventive measure against fibroid was reported; however 48.3% reported that they would have preferred traditional preventive medicine, while 35.2% indicated preference for orthodox medicine. There is high prevalence of fibroid among Celibate-women and its prevention is characterized by uncertainties among this group of women in the Catholic Ecclesiastical province of Ibadan. There is need to sensitize Celibate-women on the risk of fibroid.

Does Performance Homophily Matter in Acquisition Decisions? Evidence From Acquisition Network in the Global Electricity Industry


Authors: Mohamed Bin Abderrazek Boukhris
Pages: 715-722
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.715.722
Abstract
In this paper I use data, that I have collected on corporate acquisition transactions among electricity companies worldwide during the period 1994-2004, to test the hypothesis of organizational performance homophily as an acquisition network-selection mechanism for firms in the electricity industry. I report clear evidence that performance considerations are taken into account by international electricity firms while choosing their network partners. The methodology used in this study is based on the stochastic actor- oriented models for social network analysis.

Overview of Migrant Women’s Health in South Korea: Policy Recommendations


Authors: Manka Eunice Fuh ; Brice Wilfried Obiang-Obounou
Pages: 709-714
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.709.714
Abstract
Every year, the Republic of Korea (Korea) welcomes new immigrants, thereby transitioning from a homogenous society to a multicultural country. Of these immigrants, migrant workers represent the largest group, followed by women who immigrate as spouses to Korean men. One great concern of Korea’s policymakers and healthcare providers is how Korea’s healthcare system can handle the deterioration of health observed among married Asian female immigrants. The health care system, mediated by the competitive relationship between local clinics and hospitals exacerbate the problem. The authors present possible solutions to the problems through a conceptual model of the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES), Korean healthcare system, food insecurity (FI), and health status. Different policies are proposed including: before you/she come (s) policy, foreign women workforce participation policy, poverty alleviation policy, health insurance policy for migrant women, health professional training policy, food insecurity policy and dietary acculturation policy. More government owned hospitals or private clinics should be built in rural areas. Married migrant women with good income seem to enjoy better health. Developing rural areas though economic empowerment will certainly create job opportunities.

Self-Concept Schemata Organization to Cope With Social Stressors: A Chronometric Assessment


Authors: Claudia Castro-Campos ; Ernesto Octavio Lopez-Ramirez ; Maria Elena Urdiales-Ibarra ; Maria Guadalupe Villarreal-Treviño ; Jennifer Aidé Rodríguez-Rey
Pages: 700-708
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.700.708
Abstract
A sample of 583 individuals of different ages and from different social and cultural backgrounds took part in a semantic priming study to explore their self-concept and self-esteem mental organization and structure in the human lexicon. Findings yielded by separating the sample into four groups showed that age and cultural background affect how humans organize self-esteem content and structure. Specifically, word recognition of physical attributes related to self-esteem provides support for the idea of a fractured mental representation of the self to cope with demands of ideal body stereotypes. It is suggested that meaning formation related to physical self is different from that based on abstract self-concept and self-esteem. This conceptual organization seems to help individuals to cope with ideal body stereotype demands and to avoid possible psychological disorders related to self-esteem affecting the so-called schematic individuals.

Tax Strategies Employed by Overseas American Individuals and SMEs


Authors: Dr. Alfred Howard Miller
Pages: 690-699
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.690.699
Abstract
A study of the tax behavior of overseas Americans, both individuals and small firms is proposed. The researcher aims to discover and model behavior, through text analysis of data collected from a wide range of sources using interviews, surveys, blog and forum postings, published reports as well as personal communications, to demonstrate and inform using the pattern matching method initially proposed by Trochim (1989). Text mining and modeling techniques, using unsupervised machine learning facilitate large-scale analysis, and have been widely deployed in a range of language-based studies, driven by human-machine interaction. Major multinational corporations are excluded, and the study focuses on individuals and the smaller-scale juristic persons such as small and medium enterprises (SME). Behavioral approaches to taxation will motivate a better understanding of the phenomenon tax avoidance and tax evasion, once quantitative modeled. Overseas Americans are taxable, no matter where they reside globally, on the basis of having American citizenship. Non-citizens with a USA connection may also be subject to US taxes. The range of US taxable entities operating overseas include corporations, individuals, estates and trusts, and many of the small businesses filing as flow-through entities under the individual code, namely S-corporations, sole proprietorships, and partnerships, will be included in the study. There are an estimated 9 million taxable overseas Americans corporations and business entities. The Congressional Research Service (Gravelle, 2015), reported that as many as 100 billion U.S. dollars may go uncollected, due to tax evasion and a similar tax shortfall figure of 100 billion dollars is due to tax avoidance. Avoidance tends to be attributed to U.S. origin, multinational corporations and evasion by the smaller entities. The tax collection is exacerbated by changes to the 2018 tax code, which encourages compliance through tax cuts to a fixed 21% rate for the corporate sector, and reduced taxes for individual , opening up new avenues for aggressive tax avoidance strategies. A gap in the literature is the uncertainty regarding changing of the U.S. tax code in 2018 and how it will affect overseas American tax entities.

The Impact of Organizational and Professional Development on Human Resource Development Practitioners in Malaysian Organizations


Authors: Kahirol Mohd Salleh ; Nor Lisa Sulaiman
Pages: 683-689
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.683.689
Abstract
Competencies are skills set required for effective working performance in a real-world’s task or activity at the workplace. To develop competent workers in organizations, Human Resource practitioners need to establish training and development for their workers. In the context of an organization, organizational and professional development refers to any types of educational experiences, learning opportunities and competencies related to workers’ task. This paper provides an overview and framework for designing effective organizational and professional development systems towards better workers’ competencies. A non-experimental, descriptive, cross-sectional, web-based survey design was used to examine structure, process, and outcome variables associated with organizational and professional development. The findings suggested that HRD practitioners perceived the importance of organizational and professional development with regard to workers’ developmental process and organizational performance.

Islamic Economic Orientation Model for Microfinance Institution


Authors: Ahmad Wira ; Hulwati ; Huriyatul Akmal ; Riandy Mardhika Adif ; Jufriadif Na`am
Pages: 676-682
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.676.682
Abstract
This study formulated a model of Islamic economic orientation towards microfinance institutions (MFIs) in Solok Indonesia. The approach method used is Participatory Action Research (PAR) on Islamic economics in social change. This study produces three models of Islamic economic orientation, namely social, profit and social-profit. Thus, this research helps the community in implementing a more reliable Islamic economy.

The Impact of Religious Education Subjects on the Formation of Muslim Girls’ Identity: A Comparative Study of Girls’ Secondary School in Kedah, Malaysia and Leeds, Britain


Authors: Rukhaiyah Binti Haji Abd Wahab ; Shukri Bin Ahmad ; Musa Yusuf Owoyemi
Pages: 665-675
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.665.675
Abstract
The Religious Education (RE) subject is one of the ways to transmit beliefs, practices, and values as well as to develop an Islamic identity to the students. The literature on Islamic schools and students’ identity points to the continuing importance of Islamic education subjects. The main aim of this study is to explore how the RE subjects shaped students’ identity at schools. The methodologies employed are participant observations and 72 semi-structured interviews. Thereafter this study embarks on two case studies; Maktab Mahmud Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia and New Horizon Community School (NHCS), Leeds, the United Kingdom as they offered Islamic education for Muslim girls.  Although the ideas of culture, belief and policy have influenced the wider framework, the findings show that in different contexts and countries majority of the students agree that the RE has influenced their identities. This study also shows the negotiations that take place between the culture, belief, policy and the Islamic schools in the formation of girl’s identities, the process of inculcation of self- identity and how different it is in comparison to Leeds.  This study helps the Islamic schools to offer a better syllabus for RE subjects, guide the students to be a good Muslim and make the RE’s syllabuses suitable to the contemporary society.

Antecedents of Employee Retention in the Pharmaceutical Industry of Pakistan


Authors: Muhammad Naseer ; Muhammad Farooq ; Waqar Younas ; Valliappan Raju
Pages: 655-664
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.655.664
Abstract
This study has been conducted to probe the relationships among job satisfaction, supervisory support, organizational commitment and employee retention in the pharmaceutical industry of Pakistan. Based on an extensive literature review an instrument was adopted from different studies. Study respondents were employees of the pharmaceutical sector in the four big cities: Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Peshawar.  Responses of total 260 employees of the pharmaceutical industry were recorded and analyzed.  After analysis of collected responses using SPSS and AMOS, it has been concluded that organizational commitment, supervisory support and Job satisfaction of employees has a significant positive impact on Employee retention. Supervisory support is the top most important variable in the retention of employees. Job satisfaction has the least impact on employee retention. Findings of the study can be implemented in the pharmaceutical sector and other economic sectors as well for retention of employees. This study is beneficial for the practitioners as it’s the empirical evidence of a widely used management statement that “People don’t leave companies, they leave the managers.”

Exploring Ambient Discriminatory HRM Practices: An Insight From Kingdom Telecom Company


Authors: Dr. Zafrul Allam
Pages: 646-654
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.646.654
Abstract
The current paper was intended to determine the ambient discriminatory practices pertaining to human resource management (HRM) in two different telecom company situated in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Hundred and twenty employees working in the company were contacted for this investigation randomly to get the ideas about discriminatory human resource management (HRM) practices. Questionnaire related to discriminatory human resource management (HRM) practices including biographical information blank sheets were administered to the subjects to determine the discriminatory practices related to human resource management (HRM). Mean and graphical symbol were used to examine the data and the results of the investigation discovered that discriminatory  HRM practices existed in terms of training & development, job analysis, recruitment & selection, intention to stay in the company, compensation & benefits, co-workers relation, performance appraisal, working condition, communication and security & health but in a marginal form. The researcher has recommended further study to eliminate ambient discriminatory HRM practices to make the employees more enthusiastic and vigorous to perform well and play important role in the developmental process of organization.

Employee Ownership and Financial Performance of State-Owned Entities: A Mediating Role of Employee Loyalty


Authors: Tariq Javed ; Mohd Faizal Basri
Pages: 640-645
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.640.645
Abstract
The paper examines the mediation impact of employee loyalty in the relationship of employee ownership and financial performance of state-owned entities of Pakistan.  Employee ownership is measured as percentage holding in state-owned entities, and financial performance is assessed trough profitability ratios; net profit margin and return on assets. Employee loyalty is determined through questionnaire circulated among the employees covered under the scheme. Meanwhile, secondary data is collected from already published sources. The study reveals that employee loyalty partially mediates the impact of employee ownership on the financial performance, which will support the policy makers to design corporate policies.

Corporate Performance and Executive Compensation in Indonesia


Authors: Retnoningrum Hidayah ; Anwar Zahid ; Trisni Suryarini ; Sara R. Basher ; Eko Handoyo
Pages: 634-639
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.634.639
Abstract
The performance of a company can be determined by several factors like corporate governance and risk management. Adequate corporate governance will create a good corporate climate that makes company able to achieve its maximize profits. The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of the size of audit committees, audit committee expertise, institutional ownership, corporate performance and its impact on executive compensation. This study uses purposive sampling method. The research sample is 86 of manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange from 2013 to 2015. Data analysis method used structural equation modeling (SEM) with WarpPLS 6. The results showed that the number of audit committee personnel and audit committee’s expertise had no effect on company performance. However, institutional ownership affects the performance of the company. Furthermore, company performance does not contribute significantly to executive compensation. This study is useful for corporate internal system and gives policy makers a better understanding of corporate performance from management perspective. Furthermore, this paper contributes to the literature by identifying the role of audit committee characteristics, institusional ownership, and executive compensation  in company performance.

Impact of Strategic Planning on Human Resources Management Practices: An Empirical Study of Iraq


Authors: Ali Hassan Haraj ; Mohammed Hameed
Pages: 626-633
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.626.633
Abstract
The main aim of this study is to investigate the impact of strategic planning on human resources management practices. 100 questionnaire was distributed among the managers in the Ministry of Electricity in Iraq and only 59 questionnaire was received. SPSS software was used to analysis the data. The study examines the relationship of strategic planning on HRM practices. The strategic planning has three constructs i.e. Strategic Analysis, Strategic Attitude and Strategic Selection while Human resource practices has four constructs i.e. Selection, Training, Incentives, Performance Evaluation. The findings indicted that significant positive relationship of strategic planning with human resource practices. Hence showing that better strategic planning will result in better HRM practices.

Redesigning Assessment for Holistic Learning


Authors: Charanjit Kaur Swaran Singh ; Eng Tek Ong ; Tarsame Singh Masa Singh
Pages: 620-625
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.620.625
Abstract
This paper discusses the importance of holistic assessment in the teaching and learning process at all levels of education, both in schools and in higher education institutions. Redesigning classroom assessment for holistic learning to improve student learning is not a new idea. Educators conduct assessment for a variety of purposes such as determining the level of student academic achievement or identifying weaknesses and strengths of students. Educators need to be equipped with ways to maintain these processes to determine the quality of student achievement. Assessment should reflect the understanding that learning is a complex process by engaging a varied selection of techniques, comprising those that require real and authentic performance, utilising them over a period so as to disclose evolution, progress, and emergent steps of integration. The assessment should be continuous and balanced. Implementing holistic assessment benefits the students, teachers and stakeholders. Educators should develop courses with diversified teaching and learning materials that enrich students’ learning experiences with appropriate and authentic activities. Holistic assessment ensures that curriculum is developed to relate to the real world requirement of the tasks and setting that demand thought-provoking conditions to challenge the students. This paper focuses on applying various assessment methods that need to be mastered by educators to ensure students benefit in terms of their personal growth, strength and their learning process. It also offers some recommendations that could help in augmenting assessment, teaching and learning.

How Firms’ Tax Incentives Affect Their Corporate Social Responsibility Activities: Evidence From Thailand’s Tax Cut in 2012


Authors: Poonyawat Sreesing ; Zhuoran Zhang ; Kai-Ping Huang
Pages: 615-619
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.615.619
Abstract
This study aims to examine whether and to what extent tax incentives given to firms affect their corporate social responsibility activities. We use a corporate tax cut which took place in Thailand during 2012 and 2013 to explore the corporate tax allowance on corporate social responsibility activities. Such a tax cut constitutes a nature experiment that allows us to study precisely the behaviors of firms before and after the policy shift. Our analysis reveals the importance of tax incentives in explaining the corporate social responsibility activities. That is, we find that corporate income taxes and the CSR activities are negatively correlated. A large-scale tax cut led to potential higher profitability, which makes firms becoming financial more capable of investing in larger CSR projects which they would not, be able to consider under the tougher tax scheme. This result provides important implications to policymakers, not only in Thailand but also elsewhere, on whether benefits of tax-shielding serve as a key motivation to the firms’ corporate social responsibility activities.

Comparison Between CB-SEM and PLS-SEM: Testing and Confirming the Maqasid Syariah Quality of Life Measurement Model


Authors: Mahadzirah Mohamad ; Asyraf Afthanorhan ; Zainudin Awang ; Morliyati Mohammad
Pages: 608-614
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.608.614
Abstract
Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) is a powerful multivariate statistical analysis technique which combines both factor analysis and multiple regression analysis. It is capable of analysing the inter-relationships among latent constructs simultaneously in a model. These latent constructs are measured using certain number of items in a questionnaire. Covariance-based SEM (CB-SEM) or full SEM have become the choice for many researchers in a variety of disciplines because of their ability to evaluate complex relationships using parametric statistical approach. Researchers could also opt for Variance-based SEM (VB-SEM) or Partial Least Square-SEM (PLS-SEM) when their data failed the parametric assumptions such as multivariate normality distribution and minimum sample size. However, the approach of VB-SEM or PLS-SEM is a non-parametric instead of a parametric approach in CB-SEM. This article compared the performance of both SEM approaches using the same dataset to validate the Measurement Model for Maqasid Syariah Quality of Life (MSQoL). The findings of both analyses suggested that CB-SEM or full SEM is more appropriate to validate and confirm the MSQoL measurement model.

Syuf'ah in Islamic Laws and its Significance Under the Land Law of Malaysia


Authors: Mohd Marbawi Taha ; Mohd Badrol Awang ; Jasni Sulong ; Zulaipa Ruzulan ; Asjad Mohamed ; Mohd Kamal Azman Jusoh ; Mohd Nasir Ayub
Pages: 603-607
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.603.607
Abstract
In Islamic law, al-syuf’ah affords the co-proprietors of undivided shares in a property the preferential right to purchase the shares of other co- proprietors before the shares can be offered to outsiders. In the context of Malaysian land law, the study on al-syuf’ah has its own significance as it is closely related to the concept of co-proprietorship of land (CPL) under the National Land Code, 1965 (NLC). It is well known that many issues are confronting the CPL. Most of the problems accrue from unhealthy relationships among the owners which then develop into developmental and economical aspects of the land. On the above facts, this study examines the potential of al-syuf’ah in addressing these problems as well as the possibility of employing the rules of al-syuf’ah alongside the country’s land law. To undertake the research, the data is collected from the library-based literature which then analysed using inductive, deductive as well as comparative methods. The study finds that there are leeways that allow for the implementation of the rules of al-syuf’ah alongside the existing land law. The rules of al-syuf’ah if implemented would be able to solve some of the existing problems and to prevent the problems from recurring in the future.

On the Comparative Study of African American’s Blues and Korean’s Arirang


Authors: Mi-A Kim
Pages: 596-602
DOI: doi.org/10.32861/jssr.53.596.602
Abstract
There are diverse cultures which have been expressed and sublimed into the form of art when we look into the world history. When it comes to African American culture and Korean culture, African American’s blues, spirituality, and Korean’s Arirang have been in the deep ideological root of the two nations. Under unilateral dominance and colonization, African Americans and Korean nations needed something that could embrace and burst out their agony and sadness. It was the African-American spirituality, blues, and Arirang that sometimes became their mother, their partner and their social company, consoling their despair. Although the early African-American spiritual and blues and Korean’s Arirang didn’t have any specific musical form, they were the reflectors of the two nations’ emotion and culture. It is a legacy that best reflects the sentiment of two nations. The analysis on blues, Black spiritual and Arirang in this paper will be looked into the same viewpoint of Ayana Smith and J Rhee who claimed that African American’ and Korean’s positive power was originated from their singing of blues and Arirang. This paper will unceasingly try hard to analyze the traces of their positive identity through their history and their life story. Blues and Black spiritual were sung anywhere of their life to express their true story. Arirang and other folk songs were also sung anywhere Koreans scattered to burst out their anger, sadness and joy. Likewise, the examination of the history of blues, Black spiritual and Arirang let the readers face up African American’s and Korean’s real life in the form of art. The finding in this paper will supply people with more understanding of blues and Arirang for African Americans and Koreans who were in unique historical and cultural situation.  This paper will look into how the musical foundation of these two nations could become the cornerstone of rebuilding up their positive identity in the harsh reality. It will be researched and analyzed in the view of Ayana Smith and J Rhee. This study will explore and analyze the history of blues, Black spiritual and Arirang, which played a crucial role in establishing the positive identity of the two peoples.