Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are pivotal in Malaysia’s food manufacturing sector. However, they often lack robust ergonomic practices, leading to a high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). This study aimed to evaluate ergonomic risk exposures using the Quick Exposure Checklist (QEC) in selected SME food processing environments. A cross-sectional study involving 151 participants was conducted through walkthrough observations, video recordings and QEC assessments. The results revealed substantial ergonomic risk exposures particularly in the shoulders/arms (64.2% very high exposure), static back posture (46.4%), and neck (38.4%). These results highlight the urgent need for engineering-based interventions, such as adjustable workstations, ergonomic tool adoption, and job task redesign. The integration of ergonomic risk assessment into SME practices is recommended as a practical and cost-effective strategy to enhance occupational health, boost productivity and support sustainable industrial performance.

Quick Exposure Checklist (QEC), small and medium enterprises (SMEs), workstation design, ergonomic risk; food manufacturing; workstation redesign

Hand grip strength (HGS) is a key biomechanical metric informing the design of tools, equipment, and manual tasks in industrial settings. Effective human centred design requires understanding of how posture and task demand affect muscular performance and fatigue. Although HGS is well-researched, few studies have explored the combined effects of shoulder posture and gripping frequency, especially among females who are often underrepresented in strength data. This study investigates the effects of shoulder posture and gripping frequency on maximal HGS among healthy Malaysian female young adults. A repeated measures experimental design was employed involving 60 participants. Participants performed maximum voluntary grip trials under eight conditions: two shoulder postures (180° overhead, 90° front-facing) and four gripping frequencies (baseline, infrequent, occasional, frequent). Maximum grip strength was measured using a calibrated Jamar hydraulic dynamometer. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA was conducted to evaluate the effects. Significant main effects were found for both shoulder posture (F(1,60) = 32.99, p < .001) and gripping frequency (F(3,180) = 396.99, p < .001), with higher HGS recorded at 180° posture and progressively lower values with increasing gripping frequency. Post hoc analyses confirmed a consistent and significant decline in HGS across all frequency levels (p < .001). Both elevated shoulder posture and increased gripping repetition significantly reduce HGS, underscoring the need to consider these factors in the engineering design of tools and manual tasks. These findings contribute to the application of ergonomic principles in early-stage design decisions, aligning with the Prevention through Design (PtD) philosophy to improve worker safety.

Hand grip strength; endurance; gripping; overhead posture

Teachers often face physical strain from standing for long periods, holding static positions, and performing repetitive movements. While there are ergonomic products designed to alleviate discomfort, current studies do not provide much information on how effective these intervention products are in real classroom settings. This study set out to assess the body discomfort level among school teachers and their ergonomic usability and practices in the school setting. This cross-sectional study of 200 primary and secondary school teachers in Terengganu, Malaysia, used a structured and validated questionnaire. This included Borg’s scale-10 to assess discomfort before, during, and after teaching, along with a Likert-scale checklist to track the use of ergonomic products. Findings showed that the most reported discomfort rating was in the lower back, 5.0 during and after teaching, followed by calf and upper back with rating, 4.0 during teaching sessions and ankle and feet rating of 4.0 after teaching process. The most common ergonomic practices included taking stretch breaks, (3.33+1.11), adjusting screen height (3.19+1.23), and adjusting chair height (2.95+1.43). Spearman’s correlation revealed moderate to strong negative correlations between ergonomic practices and discomfort during teaching, including stretch breaks (ρ= –0.50, p<0.001), ergonomic chair use (ρ= –0.45, p<0.001) and screen positioning at eye level (ρ= –0.46, p<0.001), suggesting that more frequent ergonomic practices are associated with lower levels of discomfort. In fact, the level of body discomfort among teachers was quite significant. To reduce discomfort and support long-term musculoskeletal health in teaching environments, it is crucial to incorporate adjustable, user-friendly product designs along with proactive ergonomic training and classroom assessments.

Discomfort; ergonomic usability; engineering; product safety; school teachers

Domestic kitchen tasks often involve prolonged standing and repetitive movements, leading to fatigue, musculoskeletal disorders, and other issues. Although modern households increasingly value comfort and efficiency, many kitchen environments have not evolved to match ergonomic needs. However, most kitchen tools remain conventional, offering limited ergonomic support. This study addresses the gap by proposing a multifunctional kitchen chair-desk that is both usable and efficient, aiming to reduce physical strain and enhance work efficiency. Using a systematic product design approach, including Design for Manufacturing and anthropometric-based industrial design, a prototype was developed through user interviews and ergonomic analysis. The results show that integrating a chair with a folding cutting board, utensil compartments, and waste disposal features significantly improves user comfort and minimizes unnecessary mobility. The final design accommodates various users through adjustable and anthropometrically appropriate dimensions, comprising a 40 cm chair width, a 26 cm first rack compartment and workstation distance, and a 46 cm second rack compartment to workstation distance. This multifunctional product has the potential to enhance kitchen ergonomics, especially for vulnerable populations in daily cooking activities. Future work may include a comprehensive cost analysis, lifecycle assessment, and long-term user testing to evaluate durability, affordability, and the real-world adoption potential of this solution in both domestic and small-scale commercial kitchens.

Kitchen chair; usable; comfort cooking; musculoskeletal disorders

Nurses working in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) are highly vulnerable to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) due to physically demanding tasks such as patient handling, prolonged static postures, and repetitive movement. This study aimed to assess ergonomic risk levels and identify predictors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among 82 ICU nurses using self-administered questionnaires and the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). The most affected body regions were the lower back (87.0%), neck (85.2%), and upper back (85.2%). Patient-handling tasks, particularly lifting from wheelchairs, were associated with the highest ergonomic risk (REBA score = 11, indicating a very high risk). Nearly half of the participants were classified as medium risk (48.1%), followed by high risk (44.4%) and very high risk (7.4%). Duration of employment, lifting to shoulder height, and high REBA scores (≥8) were significant predictors of total WMSD scores (p < 0.05). Demographic factors, including age, BMI, and gender, were not significant (p > 0.05). Cumulative ergonomic exposure is the main contributor to WMSDs among ICU nurses rather than personal factors. Therefore, engineering-based interventions, including the use of mechanical assistive devices, height-adjustable beds, and ergonomic training, are recommended to reduce biomechanical load and improve workplace safety.

Ergonomic risk assessment; work-related musculoskeletal disorders; rapid entire body assessment; ICU nurses; engineering-based interventions

According to the International Facility Management Association, facilities management is a profession that involves the convergence of operations from various disciplines to ensure the efficiency of the environment by incorporating staff, places, procedures and technologies. Space management is one of the keys to facilities management because space-related spending incurs the second-largest cost after staff wages in higher education institutions. Despite the significant financial investment in educational infrastructure, inefficient space operationalisation remains a persistent challenge. Inadequate monitoring and evaluation of teaching and learning space utilization can lead to underutilized resource, impacting institutional sustainability and operational effectiveness. Therefore, this study, aims to evaluate of the operationalisation of teaching and learning space in the School of Geomatics Science and Natural Resources, UiTM Shah Alam based on one of the selected semesters. The objective of this study is to examine the performance of space-based capacity and timetable information. Data was gathered from the School of Geomatics Science and Natural Resources, UiTM Shah Alam and the timetable was extracted from the Integrated Course Registration and Scheduling System (ICReSS) through Jupyter Notebook (Phyton). This data was used to determine the trend of the space utilisation rate (SUR) using Microsoft Excel for data entry and SPSS software to analyse the data. In addition to statistical analyses, qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with administrative staff to contextualize scheduling practices and identify operational challenges. The results from the analysis show that the space utilisation rate for 19 selected teaching and learning rooms varies from 10.96% to 88.37%.

Facilities management; frequency index; space management; space frequency; spatial planning

Mangrove ecosystems are seriously threatened by plastic pollution, which serves as vital shorelines buffers, carbon sinks, and habitats for diverse marine species. This study executes the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) model to investigate the local community’s awareness of plastic pollution in Tanjung Karang, Selangor. A quantitative approach was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire distributed to 430 residents. This survey instrument was carefully designed to accurately capture household waste disposal habits. Descriptive and correlation analyses were used to examine the collected data and determine the degree of awareness and relationships among KAP concerning plastic waste management. The outcomes reveal a significant level of community awareness, with a strong and positive correlation among KAP of plastics waste management, with average means of 4.01, 3.95, and 3.91, respectively. This demonstrates that a solid understanding of environmental issues is closely linked to positive attitudes and proactive behaviours, underscoring the vital importance of public awareness in mitigating plastic pollution and highlighting the need for targeted educational programs and policy interventions to address this issue. The findings of this study possess significant insights for researchers, policymakers, and environmental organizations in developing community-driven strategies to enhance mangrove conservation and reduce plastic waste pollution. Ultimately, safeguarding these coastal natural resources demands long-term commitment and continuous societal participation.

Plastic pollution; mangrove ecosystems; local community awareness; KAP model; waste management

Building Information Modelling (BIM) Execution Plan (BEP) offers numerous benefits to the Malaysian construction industry and plays a crucial role in improving communication and collaboration among project stakeholders. It clearly defines deliverables throughout the project lifecycle, offering a detailed and structured framework for construction projects that aim to successfully integrate BIM. However, many BIM practitioners face challenges in utilising BEP in BIM projects, making it difficult to fully harness the benefits of BIM. Therefore, this research was conducted to investigate issues with the current use of BEP in Malaysian construction projects. The research involved semi-structured interviews with eight respondents from the construction industry who possess experience using BEP. The findings reveal that the lack of understanding of BEP is a key issue, primarily due to the inexperience of BIM teams with BIM and BEP processes. Additionally, ambiguity in BEP process usage is another significant concern, as BEP is not initiated at the commencement of the project and lacks progressive updates. Therefore, this research is expected to advance BEP practices in construction projects, foster future studies related to BEP in Malaysia, improve BIM implementation and align with government policies to enhance BIM integration within the construction industry.

BEP; BIM; standardisation; issues; implementation

This study examines the key factors influencing the selection of residential homes as film locations within Bangkok’s shifting urban landscape. As younger generations favor urban living, suburban detached houses—once highly sought after—are increasingly left unoccupied, particularly in districts such as Ramkhamhaeng, On Nut, and Lat Phrao. In response, some homeowners have repurposed their vacant properties for film production, generating income while contributing to architectural conservation. Adopting a qualitative multi-case study approach, this research investigates three detached houses through in-depth interviews with homeowners, location providers, and film directors, alongside site analysis. Findings reveal that physical attributes—environmental context, accessibility, structural integrity, surface materials, available amenities, spatial configurations, and furnishings—significantly influence a property’s suitability for filming. The use of real homes offers practical advantages, reducing set construction costs while preserving architectural heritage. Moreover, repurposing vacant houses helps mitigate urban decay, lower crime rates, and minimize the environmental impact of new developments. While Boonprasong’s framework provides a valuable foundation for assessing residential filming locations, this study underscores the need for greater adaptability. Factors such as interior layout and homeowners’ emotional ties play a crucial role in decision-making. Furthermore, the study highlights a gap in the literature regarding the adaptive reuse of old houses for film production in Thailand. Future research should explore the economic, social, and conservation challenges of integrating historical architecture into the creative industries. By bridging urban development and film production, this practice fosters sustainable reuse while establishing a mutually beneficial relationship between homeowners and the film industry.

Film location; adaptive reuse; conversion; detach house; physical factor

The integration of Building Information Modelling (BIM) into Quantity Surveying (QS) practice is essential for supporting the construction industry’s digital transformation. Despite this, the absence of standardised and comprehensive BIM competency frameworks tailored to the QS profession has hindered consistent implementation and professional development. This study addresses this gap by conducting a systematic scoping review to map the existing literature on QS BIM competency frameworks and to identify key areas requiring further investigation. The review involved a comprehensive search of multiple electronic databases and grey literature sources, encompassing peer-reviewed articles, conference papers, technical reports, and industry publications. The analysis identified critical BIM competency domains and thematic trends, while also highlighting methodological diversity and inconsistencies in existing literature. Notably, the inclusion of grey literature enriched the findings by providing practical, industry-informed perspectives that complemented academic discourse. Despite emerging insights, the review revealed substantial gaps—particularly the need for empirical validation and the development of more coherent, adaptable frameworks. This study offers a consolidated foundation for advancing BIM competency development within the QS profession. It contributes valuable knowledge for researchers and practitioners and establishes a reference point for future empirical work aimed at supporting the QS profession’s role in the digital evolution of the construction sector and the broader built environment sector.

QS; BIM; competencies; BIM Competency Framework; QS BIM Competency Framework

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of wind speed and vegetation as factors in slope instability using datasets from the Global Wind Atlas (GWA) and the Global Forest Change database. The GWA is a database of wind speed and power density data developed by the Technical University of Denmark and provides wind speed data at a relatively high spatial resolutions, allowing for microscale analysis of meteorological phenomena. The Global Forest Change database is a web-based visualization of global forest cover developed by the University of Maryland, United States. The study focused on the township of Bukit Antarabangsa, an elite metropolitan suburb of Kuala Lumpur, known as a hotspot for landslides. Slope failures in this area have been primarily attributed to intense and prolonged rainfall coupled with various human-induced factors, such as deforestation and urban development. However, the influence of wind on slope stability has not been extensively researched in this context. The study analyzed 16 environmental variables in a weight-of-evidence susceptibility model in order to map slope instability within the landslide hotspot, and to evaluate the relative influence of landslide explanatory factors. It found that while wind speed had a negligible influence on the landslide susceptibility index, tree cover was one of three most influential factors. The study also optimized the susceptibility model to a cluster of seven factors yielding an Area Under Curve value of 0.825. These factors included slope, distance to lineament, tree cover, SP, flow accumulation, land use land cover and terrain wetness index. This study therefore provides a simplified framework for selecting the optimal set of conditioning factors and highlights the significance of tree cover in regulating slope stability in this area.

landslide susceptibility; wind influence; Global Wind Atlas; Bukit Antarabangsa; weights of evidence

The rise of radicalism poses a significant threat to societal peace and national stability. This has led to the need for effective predictive measures as an early prevention step. Using the Analytic Network Process (ANP) method, this study predicts the occurrence of radicalism in Peninsular Malaysia. The study identifies 15 indicators across four clusters—social, political, economic, and modernisation—that influence susceptibility to radicalism. By applying the ANP method, the study determines the weight of each indicator and develops a radicalism susceptibility map. Geospatial analysis is conducted using GIS tools to visualise the research findings. The accuracy of the generated predictive map is validated through the AUC-ROC method. The susceptibility model achieved an accuracy rate of 65% in AUC-ROC validation. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the factors driving radicalism in Malaysia and provides valuable insights to stakeholders for controlling and preventing radicalism threats in potential areas, thereby enhancing national security.

Radicalism prediction; geospatial; Analytic Network Process (ANP); radicalism susceptibility; Peninsular Malaysia

Modular construction system (MCS) is gaining traction in developed countries due to its ability to reduce carbon emission, construction time and costs while enhancing quality control. It is a promising solution for addressing housing shortages. However, the adoption in developing countries is limited by financial challenges such as restricted access to capital, high initial costs, and a lack of established financial institutions willing to support the system. This study aims to dive into the challenges of adopting MCS in Malaysia and explore strategies to improve the situation. Semi-structured interviews were performed with experienced MCS professionals across Malaysia and the data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal strong potential for MCS in Malaysia but identify major structural barriers, particularly the misalignment between conventional progress-payment financing systems and the factory-based production workflow of modular construction. Key challenges include limited modular-specific financing options, lack of institutional awareness among banks, shortage of technical expertise, design inflexibility, and low market acceptance. The study proposes policy and finance-oriented strategies including the development of modular-specific loan products tied to certified factory-stage progress, CIDB-led modular certification systems, government-backed incentives such as tax relief and grants, and Public–Private Partnership (PPP) models to share early-stage risks. With appropriate policy and financial reform, MCS adoption in Malaysia could be increased to 25–30% of selected public projects, potentially achieving 30–40% time savings and 10–20% cost efficiency. The study contributes by linking industry experience to financing model development and construction policy reform. Future research should pilot modular financing frameworks, evaluate incentive effectiveness, and conduct longitudinal case studies to assess long-term performance and sustainability.

Modular Construction System; construction; construction project management

Urban forest carbon sequestration is vital for environmental health, climate change mitigation, and enhancing the quality of life in urban areas. This paper presents a framework for high density point clouds production by integrating point data from aerial photogrammetry, UAV-based LiDAR and terrestrial LiDAR for individual tree measurements and carbon storage estimation. The aerial photos, UAV-based LiDAR and terrestrial LiDAR were observed based on common ground control points and combined using Iterative Closest Point (ICP) algorithm. The combined point cloud was iltered to separate ground points and normalized based on Digital Terrain Model (DTM). The normalized point cloud was used for individual tree segmentation from which individual tree measurements such as, tree height, Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) and crown diameter were estimated. The estimated tree parameters were used for individual carbon estimation. The results show that the individual tree segmentation method signi icantly underestimated the number of trees. The estimation of DBH, tree height, and crown diameter achieved the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) value of 0.107m, 1.385m and 2.650m respectively. However, in general the estimates experience underestimation as shown by Mean Bias Error (MBE) with 0.003m, -0.636m and 0.001m for DBH, tree height and crown diameter respectively. The estimated values for each individual tree were used for individual tree biomass and carbon storage recording the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) at 1970.236 kg and 886.606 kgC respectively while attaining the Mean Bias Error (MBE) measure of 140.019 kg and 63.009 kgC each. The proposed framework showed promising results for individual tree carbon estimation. Nonetheless, further attention should be given on individual tree delineation process.

LiDAR; individual tree segmentation; point cloud data integration; individual tree measurement

Within a few decades, there have been quite a number of rainfall-induced landslide events occurring in many parts of Malaysia, especially in the urbanised hilly areas. The changes in hilly morphology because of weathering activities in humid tropical climates have increased the potential for rainfall-induced landslides, especially during prolonged antecedent rainfall. In addition to the bedrock geology influencing geohazards, the weathering profiles, slope gradient and rainfall pattern also can be responsible for landslides. A series of site investigation works were undertaken in the designated landslide-prone study site to obtain data on the characteristics, composition and mechanical response of the soil as well as the groundwater table located below the ground surface. The numerical transient seepage analysis by applying recorded average annual rainfall of approximately 2440 mm and limit equilibrium slope stability analysis was carried out and simulated on the landslide area using commercial software GeoStudio of SEEP/W and SLOPE/W respectively. The simulation outcomes establish the occurrence of a landslide may not necessarily be dependent on a significant rainfall event, yet, the extended period of antecedent rainfall may exert a predominant influence in initiating failure of the landslide-prone area.

Rainfall pattern; landslide; weathering profile; slope stability; tropical climates; simulation

Vitiligo diagnosis in routine practice remains largely subjective, leading to inter-observer variability, while many existing computational approaches are limited by dataset heterogeneity and poor generalization. This study proposes an automatic vitiligo detection framework based on two pre-trained deep convolutional neural networks, Inception V3 and ResNet-50, fine-tuned via transfer learning. A dermoscopic dataset of 500 images, derived from clinically confirmed cases and expanded through augmentation (rotation, flipping, brightness variation, and zooming), was used to improve robustness and reduce overfitting. All images underwent standardized preprocessing including resizing, normalization, RGB-to-HSV conversion, and histogram-based enhancement to emphasize depigmented regions. The models were evaluated using accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, F1-score, and area under the ROC curve (AUC). Inception V3 achieved 92.7% accuracy, 91.5% sensitivity, 93.8% specificity, 90.2% precision, an F1-score of 90.8%, and an AUC of 0.927, consistently outperforming ResNet-50 across all metrics. Confusion-matrix analysis revealed remaining challenges in early-stage and low-contrast lesions and sensitivity to image artifacts. Despite constraints related to dataset size and anatomical diversity, the findings demonstrate that transfer learning with Inception V3 on carefully preprocessed and augmented dermoscopic images enables reliable, objective vitiligo classification and offers a promising tool to support dermatologists in clinical and teledermatology settings. This research establishes that deep learning, particularly through transfer learning on optimized datasets, offers a promising path for augmenting clinical dermatology by enabling more objective, accurate, and accessible vitiligo diagnosis.

Vitiligo; Inception V3; ResNet; machine learning; automatic detection

This study investigates the mechanical and structural properties of hybrid epoxy composites reinforced with rice husk (RH) and coconut fiber (CF), with a focus on sustainability and waste reduction. The research specifically examines the impact of Sodium Chloride (NaCl) treatment on these natural fibers, comparing the performance of both treated and untreated composites. Various composite formulations were subjected to rigorous tensile, flexural, hardness, and density testing, complemented by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis to observe microstructural characteristics. The findings reveal that NaCl-treated composites generally exhibit enhanced tensile strength, with the treated 80:10:10 sample achieving a tensile strength of 42.22 MPa. However, the treated samples demonstrated reductions in flexural strength and hardness compared to their untreated counterparts. Notably, the untreated 80:10:10 sample exhibited the highest tensile strength at 48.72 MPa, the highest flexural strength at 169.87 N/mm², and the highest hardness at 44.08 HV1. Density measurements remained consistent regardless of NaCl treatment, indicating minimal impact on composite density. SEM analysis highlighted microstructural defects, including voids, fiber pull-out, and poor adhesion, which adversely affected mechanical properties. In conclusion, while NaCl treatment can enhance the tensile properties of hybrid epoxy composites, further optimization is needed to improve other mechanical characteristics, contributing to more sustainable engineering practices.

Epoxy; coconut fiber; rice husk; hybrid composite; NaCl treatment

Hand grip strength (HGS) is an important indicator of upper limb function, muscle performance, and health status. However, limited research has examined grip strength in a supinated hand posture, particularly in standing position and across different Southeast Asian populations. This study aimed to compare supinated HGS between healthy young adult women in Malaysia and Thailand, and to examine the relationship between supinated HGS, age, and selected anthropometric measurements. A total of 184 right-handed female participants (92 Malaysian, 92 Thai), aged 20–39 years, were assessed. Grip strength of the dominant hand was measured in a standing posture with a fully supinated forearm using a Jamar handheld dynamometer (Sammons Preston, USA). Demographic and anthropometric data, including age, height, weight, body mass index, forearm circumference, and palm circumference, were recorded. Thai participants showed a significantly higher mean HGS (24.45 ± 5.21 kg) compared to Malaysian participants (20.38 ± 5.24 kg) (p < 0.05). No significant correlations or regression relationships were found between HGS, age, and anthropometric measurements in either group. This study provides the first comparative data on supinated HGS for young adult Malaysian and Thai women in standing position. The findings emphasize population-specific differences in HGS and highlight palm circumference and height as potential predictors, particularly among Thais. These results have practical implications for ergonomic design, clinical assessment, and occupational health, and contribute to the development of culturally relevant reference standards supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being.

Hand grip strength; supination; standing; young adult women; Malaysia; Thailand

This paper presents a new class of three-dimensional (3-D) flexible cross-correlation modified double-weight (FCC-MDW) optical code-division multiple access (OCDMA) codes. Existing 1-Dimensional and 2-Dimensional OCDMA codes face challenges such as high interference, limited number of users, and increased complexity. The proposed 3-D FCC-MDW code addresses these problems by integrating FCC and MDW coding properties in the wavelength, time and spatial-domains spreading, resulting in high number of users, better interference suppression, and optimum optical received power at receiver part. In contrast to traditional coding methods, the 3-D FCC-MDW code achieves minimal cross-correlation and high spectral efficiency while maintaining low complexity in design. While providing a BER of 10⁻⁹ and a transmission speed of 1.25 Gbps, the 3-D FCC-MDW OCDMA code is capable of supporting 310 users, corresponding to user capacity improvements of 3.9 times, 5.2 times, and 3.1 times over the 3D-multi-diagonal code, 3D-Single weight zero cross-correlation (ZCC), and 3D-Variable weight ZCC, respectively. Moreover, the performance is attained at a received power of -24 dBm, representing a 29 dB power saving compared with the other approaches. Additionally, the proposed code achieves superior spectral efficiency, requiring only 0.084 THz of bandwidth compared with up to 5.67 THz used by existing schemes. Transmission experiments confirm long-distance performance, providing reliable transmission over 100 km without amplification and achieving a BER as low as 1.54×10^⁻10. These results show that the 3-D FCC-MDW is a highly efficient, power-optimized, and scalable solution for future fiber-optic communication networks.

3 -dimensional; FCC; MDW; OCDMA; MAI; BER; PIIN

Digital Elevation Models (DEM) and Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) are critical inputs for the SWAT model, providing a spatial framework for hydrological simulations. However, the combined influence of their sources and resolutions on hydrological outputs such as streamflow and sediment yield remain not widely explored. This study systematically evaluated the impacts of seven DEMs and four LULCs, varying in spatial resolution and source, through 28 SWAT model configurations. These models underwent monthly calibration and validation to assess performance and the influence of input variables. Results highlighted that DEM resolution is crucial for watershed delineation, while source has minimal impact. Finer DEMs consistently delineated larger areas, with SRTM yielding slightly broader regions. Maximum altitude correlated directly with DEM resolution, whereas minimum altitude showed an inverse relationship. Finer DEMs generated more Hydrological Response Units (HRUs), with Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) yielding the highest HRU count. LULC resolution significantly influenced HRU numbers based on the number of classes. Streamflow analysis revealed no clear linear relationship between DEM and LULC resolutions; the most accurate predictions did not always stem from the highest-resolution data. For sediment yield, finer DEMs generally produced higher outputs, with ALOS-30 m and SRTM 90 m yielding the highest sediment levels, 0.4% and 0.2%, respectively. However, no consistent trend emerged for LULC’s impact on sediment yield. These findings underscore the importance of carefully selecting input resolutions for SWAT modelling and provide crucial insights to bridge existing knowledge gaps in hydrological modelling.

Climate Resilience; Environmental Sustainability; Hydrological Modelling; Sustainable Development; Water Resource Management.

This paper presents the development of a wind-powered generator designed to captures and converts residual wind energy expelled from an air conditioner condenser fan into usable electrical energy. Utilizing a compact Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbine (HAWT), the system is engineered to optimize energy harvesting from low-velocity airflow generated by the condenser. The study evaluates system feasibility, energy storage efficiency, and the effects of turbine blade design and airflow conditions on performance. A custom mounting fixture was also introduced to integrate the generator seamlessly with the condenser unit. The system achieved an output of 5.1 V and 0.1 A, which falls within the standard range for small-scale applications, making it suitable for powering low-power devices or recharging compact electronics. Measurements revealed that the HAWT significantly outperformed the VAWT, generating about 3 V compared to 1.5 V, while voltage output increased with blade number, peaking at 2.1 V with 7 blades. This work achieved the shortest charging time among similar generators by introducing a lightweight turbine fixture with disk edge cut-outs that maintains strength and optimises performance. The findings demonstrate that small-scale renewable energy harvesting is both viable and practical, particularly in urban environments where air conditioning systems are prevalent. Through performance testing and comparative analysis, this work highlights a sustainable and efficient approach to reclaiming wasted energy, thereby contributing to enhanced energy recovery in modern Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems.

Renewable energy; wind energy; wind turbine; electricity generator; HVAC systems

Petroleum is an important raw element utilised in a variety of sectors, including transportation, dyeing, cleaning, and polymers. However, its extraction, refining, and storage generate leftovers that harm the environment and present enormous waste management difficulties to the oil industry. Therefore, in order to obtain residues of crude oil in reservoirs, biological methods through microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) using bacteria are essential. Biosurfactants made from ecologically benign microorganisms are employed as agents in MEOR because of their hydrophobic and hydrophilic characteristics, which make them appropriate for surfaces in a variety of situations, including water and oil. Thus, this study was carried out to cultivate and determine the morphology of Bacillus sp. and evaluate the effectiveness of the bacteria in the recovery of crude oil. Bacillus sp. bacteria are cultivated in nutrient broth for one day at 30 °C and subsequently using scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis for morphological characteristics purposes. The GC-FID chromatographic analysis is used to verify the number of hydrocarbons recovered from petroleum sludge. Through SEM analysis, Bacillus sp. exposed to petroleum had a shrinkage in the cell shape. The results of GC-FID analysis revealed a potential of 91.85% long-chain hydrocarbon acquisition after the 10 days of treatment. After the 10-days, analytical data revealed that the short chain of hydrocarbons had increased in comparison to before the treatment. Overall, this work demonstrates that Bacillus sp. has the ability to extract crude oil from petroleum waste, which may subsequently be used in MEOR technology on a wider scale.

Biological treatment; bacteria; bacillus; Microbial Enhanced Oil Recovery (MEOR); petroleum waste

In Malaysia, intense floods such as flash floods are characterized by rapidly rising water levels and sudden onset, often overwhelming flood defences and evacuation routes. The Sungai Damansara catchment in Selangor has experienced frequent and severe flooding despite conventional structural mitigation measures, including flood walls and detention ponds. Rapid urbanization in the region has reduced natural infiltration, increasing peak runoff and surface discharge. This study explores the use of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), specifically Floodplain and Riparian Zone Restoration (Flood Resilient Redevelopment), to mitigate flooding. Critical factors such as water level and flow rate were assessed for their influence on flood severity and associated risks. A coupled 1D–2D hydrodynamic model was developed using InfoWorks Integrated Catchment Modelling (ICM) software to simulate flood behaviour under existing conditions and scenarios enhanced with NBS, flood walls, and pond modifications. Design storms with a 200year Annual Recurrence Interval (ARI) were used to evaluate extreme flood impacts. Simulation results indicated that NBS reduced water levels by up to 12% and peak flow by up to 78% for a 200-year ARI event compared to existing conditions. In contrast, flood walls had minimal hydrologic impact, while pond modifications reduced water levels by only 4% and peak flow by 10%. These findings demonstrate that NBS can outperform conventional measures in flood attenuation while enhancing ecological resilience. The study highlights the potential of NBS to complement or even replace traditional hard infrastructure, supporting integrated and sustainable flood risk management strategies in rapidly urbanizing catchments.

Nature-based solutions; Integrated Catchment Modelling; flood defences

This study introduces a new structure of spectral/spatial Modified Flexible Cross-Correlation (2-D Modified-FCC) code aimed at enhancing Optical CDMA system by addressing key issues such as MAI and PIIN. In contrast to traditional one-dimensional coding schemes, the proposed method employs a dual-domain approach leveraging both spectral/spatial dimensions to achieve superior cross-correlation characteristics and greater system scalability. The performance results indicated that, at a transmission rate of 1.1 Gbps, the proposed code supports up to 331 simultaneous users, significantly outperforming existing methods for example the 2-D Modified Double Weight and 2D Perfect Difference code which accommodate only 121 and 39 number of users, respectively. Furthermore, the 2-D Modified-FCC architecture maintains a bit error rate (BER) of 10⁻⁹ with low received power, Psr = −20 dBm, enabling reliable data delivery over 100 km fiber links without the need for optical repeaters. BER analyses for varying distances (10 km, 70 km, and 100 km) confirm the schemes robustness, yielding BER values of 1.272×10^-25, 1.166×10^-21, and 4.583×10^-9, respectively. These findings suggest that the 2D Modified-FCC code offers a highcapacity, energy-efficient solution suitable for next-generation broadband optical access systems.

2-D Modified-FCC; BER; PIIN; MAI; OCDMA

Mechanical workshop practices often expose individuals to awkward postures, repetitive motions and ergonomic risk factors that contribute to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This study assessed ergonomic risks in workshop tasks using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) validated the outcomes through human model simulations and evaluated agreement and disagreement between assessment methods. Fifteen male students with prior workshop experience participated. RULA results indicated that 78% of tasks posed low risk and 12% posed medium risk, whereas REBA classified all tasks as medium risk. Validation using CATIA v5 simulations demonstrated full agreement with the RULA outcomes where the high-risk factors were identified in the lower arm and muscle use dimensions of RULA and in the lower arm and activity score of REBA, while both methods consistently reported medium risk for the neck and trunk. The legs and upper arm displayed no risk across both tools. Survey responses further confirmed agreement on the lower arm, trunk and neck risks but revealed disagreement for upper arm and leg evaluations which suggest that incorporating simulations into ergonomic evaluation can enhance the efficiency and credibility of risk identification, support earlier interventions and reduce time and resource requirements. Overall, the study highlighted the presence of MSD related risks in mechanical workshop practices and demonstrates that integrating observational tools with simulation-based validation which provides a comprehensive understanding of ergonomic challenges, contributing to improved workshop safety, student well-being and the broader advancement of ergonomic risk assessment in manual machining contexts.

RULA; REBA; CATIA V5; ergonomics; mechanical workshop; MSDs

PT XYZ, an integrated poultry processing company and part of the chicken processing industry, faces production challenges such as bottlenecks, overtime, and product rejects that hinder efficiency. This study applies Lean Manufacturing using Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Waste Assessment Model (WAM), and Value Stream Analysis Tool (VALSAT) to the cut-up chicken production process, the company’s flagship product. This research aims to identify the types of waste in the cut-up chicken production process and determine the critical waste. Additionally, the study aims to categorize activities into value-added, non-value-added, and necessary non-value-added, analyze the root causes of critical waste, and design improvement proposals through the creation of Future State Value Stream Mapping (FSVSM) and calculate lead time reduction in the production process. The methods used in this study combine VSM analysis to map material and information flows in the production process, WAM to identify and measure the severity of waste, and VALSAT to analyze value-added and non-value-added activities. Data was collected through observation, interviews, and questionnaires completed by five employees knowledgeable about the overall production process. The implementation of the FSVSM design successfully reduced lead time in the production process. In Future State 1, lead time decreased by 2583 seconds, increasing the Process Cycle Efficiency (PCE) by 23.02% to 83.45%. Meanwhile, Future State 2 showed a reduction of lead time by 882.68 seconds, with a 6.29% increase in PCE, reaching 66.72%. These improvements accelerated the production flow, increased efficiency, reduced waste, resolved bottlenecks, eliminated overtime, and minimized product rejects.

Lean Manufacture; Value Stream Mapping (VSM); Waste Assessment Model (WAM); Value Stream Analysis Tool (VALSAT); cut-up chicken

The stability of infrastructures like earth-retaining structures “ERSs” under the shaking of earthquakes is an important matter of reconnaissance for geotechnical engineers. Lessons recorded during such reconnaissance are essential for enhancing the future design and analysis, which, in turn, improve stability and reduce the failure cases. In this paper, the stability and instability recorded in case histories of selected ERSs under the hit of past earthquakes were presented, and lessons from them were drawn so as to be considered in future design processes. The various factors affecting the performance of earthquake-prone retaining walls were reviewed and systematically examined according to the studied cases. According to the presented case histories, ERSs exhibited different levels of performance under earthquakes. They performed very well in some cases, while they exhibited lower performance in others. The ERSs that are well designed under static loads are found to perform very well under both static and dynamic loadings, even though they aren’t designed for the shaking loads. Many factors impact the ERS’s stability, like the constraint degree, flexibility, face inclination, wall geometry, loading condition, backfill basic-properties and compaction, seismic thrust, and the rigidity of foundation-soil. However, the main damages recorded are summarized herein to include, for reinforced-soil ERSs, (reinforcement strips pulling out and corrosion, failure of connection and geogrid internal slippage, facing-unit damage, etc.), and for concrete and gravity ERSs, (structural failure, lateral offset, sliding, outward movement, rotation or excessive displacement, etc.). Accordingly, new assessments may be introduced regarding the seismic performance based on failure (or damage) recorded in the reconnaissance during earthquakes.

Case histories earthquakes; earth-retaining structures; seismic load; seismic stability; retaining walls

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0) introduces twelve (12) core digital technologies aimed at improving productivity, safety, and sustainability in the construction sector. However, the pace of adoption in Malaysia remains slower compared to other industries, raising questions about industry readiness and implementation barriers. Therefore, this study investigates the familiarity, implementation levels, and key challenges associated with all twelve technologies identified in CIDB’s Construction 4.0 Strategic Plan (2021–2025). A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining a quantitative survey of 73 Grade G7 contractors with structured interviews involving three (3) senior construction experts. The survey captured contractors’ awareness and implementation levels, while the interviews provided contextual insights and validation of the quantitative findings. Results reveal that Building Information Modelling (BIM), Big Data, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are relatively mature, demonstrating high familiarity and moderate implementation. In contrast, technologies such as Blockchain, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtualisation Reality (VR), and Autonomous Construction remain in early implementation stages with limited practical use. The study identifies high initial costs, workforce skill gaps, interoperability issues, resistance to change, and policy limitations as the main barriers. The paper suggests customized training, financial and policy incentives, standardisation efforts, and stronger collaboration among stakeholders to broaden acceptance. The findings provide a structured framework of high, moderate, and low adoption categories, offering valuable implications for policymakers, contractors, and training institutions to accelerate digital transformation and enhance Malaysia’s competitiveness in the global construction industry.

Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0); digitalization technologies; technology adoption challenges

Low-cost force plate could potentially be used as a measurement system for recovery assessments. However, its validity in acquiring vertical ground reaction force (GRF) and center of pressure (CoP) obtained during recovery assessments must be validated first. This study aimed to validate the vertical GRF and CoP measurement with halfbridge strain gauge-based low-cost force plates during Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) assessments. Ten elderly and 13 stroke patients were recruited to perform BBS, TIS assessments, maximal trunk flexion, extension, and lateral bending on low-cost force plates. The vertical GRF and CoP readings were validated with Pearson correlation coefficient (ρ) and intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC (2, 1)] of more than 0.773 and 0.752 respectively except for anterior-posterior CoP readings acquired during TIS task to touch seat with healthy elbow. All CoP-derived metrics were validated with ρ > 0.903 and ICC(2,1) > 0.855, indicating high consistency and linearity. These findings confirm that the low-cost force plates were sufficiently accurate for measuring vertical GRF and CoP across TIS, BBS and other assessments tasks. As such, the low-cost force plate can be considered a viable, cost-effective alternative for integration into clinical and rehabilitation settings to support recovery evaluation, especially in scenarios where high-cost laboratory systems are impractical.

Force plate; validation; ground reaction force; center of pressure; recovery assessment

The Melastoma Malabathricum L. plant contains multiple bioactive components that can inhibit the growth of bacteria and was traditionally used to cure various diseases. The main objective of this study was to optimize the extraction of Melastoma Malabathricum L. leaf by using microwave technology at varying ethanol concentrations and microwave powers. Additionally, the study aimed to characterize the stability of the extract at various temperatures and their ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) in water-based emulsion. The extraction was done using different ethanol concentration (50%, 70%, and 95%) with varying microwave power level (300 W, 400 W, and 600 W) has been set to gain the extract. The stability of the extracts in water-based emulsion was determined by observing the pH value, color changes, and viscosity after 14 days of storage at different temperatures (4 °C, 25 °C, and 58 °C). The antibacterial activity of the extracts in water-based emulsion was tested using paper disc diffusion method against Escherichia coli (E. coli) as the bacteria. Based on the result of this study, ethanol with 95% concentration and 400 W microwave power used yields the highest amount of extract by 12.93%. The pH value and the viscosity of the extract in water-based emulsion decreases as temperature increases, and the colour turns darker when stored at high temperature of 58 °C. The biggest diameter of bacterial inhibition zone was measured at 11 mm which was obtained from the sample containing the extract (95%, 300 W). The result concludes that the extraction of Melastoma Malabathricum L. leaf by using microwave technology at various ethanol concentration and microwave power has been optimized, and the stability of the extracts at various temperatures and its ability to inhibit bacterial activity in water-based emulsion has successfully characterized.

Melastoma Malabathricum leaf extract; microwave extraction; stability test; bacterial inhibition activity; water-based emulsion

The epidemic growth of the textile industries over the years to meet human demands has exerted substantial pressure on the global environment, particularly in the synthetic dyes waste crisis. Herein, the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) synthetic dye was investigated using a ternary system of ZrO2 , TiO2 and chitosan in bead forms. The investigation parameters involved composition ratio, concentration of ppm and catalyst doses. The experimental data demonstrated that ZrO₂/TiO₂/CS achieved a remarkable MB removal rate of 94.3% at a ratio of 1:1:1. This photocatalytic system effectively removed the dye from the solution. Additionally, using 3 g of the photocatalyst, the adsorption process resulted in 94.8 % completion. Notably, the photocatalyst achieved efficient colour removal at a concentration of 5 ppm. The Artificial Neural Network (ANN) modelling also revealed that the predicated model perfectly fitted with the experimental data. This research provides valuable perspectives on utilizing ZrO₂/TiO₂-Chitosan beads for photocatalytic degradation and illustrates the efficacy of ANN modelling in forecasting photocatalytic efficiency.

Ternary system; photocatalytic degradation; artificial neural network; methylene blue; degradation mechanism

Granite waste increased rapidly throughout the year with the increase in manufacturing industries. nan0-silica extracted from granite waste can be used as filler in the composite to improve mechanical properties and efficiency of the logistic industries based on fuel efficiency that can be used in transferring the product. The truck body panel industry is crucial in the automotive sector, providing components that ensure commercial vehicles’ structural integrity, safety, and functionality. This study aims to create a new developed composite that can replace metal with a light and strong composite while exploring the advantages of adding nano-silica to these composites, particularly in impact scenarios. Different concentrations of nano-silica (1%, 3%, 5% wt.) were added during fabrication, and their impact properties were tested. Results were compared to a Carbon Tech Global (CTG) industrial sample. Incorporating up to 1wt% nano silica improved energy absorption, impact strength, and Quasistatic indentation (QSI) resistance. A composite with 1wt% nano-silica performed the best, significantly increasing the energy absorption, impact strength, and QSI value. The comparison between CTG and 1wt% nano silica in Basalt Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composite (BFRPC) displayed a remarkable 430% variation, showcasing a 128.2% boost in impact strength. These enhancements suggest the composite’s potential for commercial applications, especially as a material for truck body panels.

Vacuum silicon mould; nano silica; polyester, impact properties; quasi-static indentation

The synthesis of biofuels has been perceived as a safe option against COX emissions to lessen the greenhouse effects on the environment and thermochemical conversion of biomass via torrefaction or slow pyrolysis, is claimed to be one of the most efficient methods of producing solid fuels from renewable energy sources. The current study presents characterization of coal, raw, and torrefied biomass, and their blends which covers elemental and proximate analyses, as well as combustion characteristics and co-combustion behaviour of coal-torrefied biomass blends. Torrefaction of woody biomass samples from Acacia Mangium species, were performed at 300 °C with holding time of 1 hour as a pre-treatment process to primarily remove moisture and volatile contents from the biomass. Biomass/ torrefied biomass-to-coal blends with five weight ratios was prepared and combusted at a heating rate of 10 ℃ /min from temperature 25 ℃ to 900 ℃ using thermogravimetric analyser. The results showed that torrefied Acacia Mangium has a substantial calorific value of 21 MJ/kg comparable to Mukah-Balingian coal at 23 MJ/kg. As for cocombustion characteristics for the blends, coal to torrefied biomass blend of 50:50 showed the most promising combustibility with lower ignition temperature compared to coal at 323 ℃ and highest burnout temperature among the blends at 525 ℃ . The study demonstrated a promising application of torrefied woody biomass to be co-fired with coal for ecologically friendly and sustainable energy production.

Combustion; torrefaction; acacia mangium; sub-bituminous coal; thermogravimetric analyser

Greenhouse gases effect, particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂), has significantly resulted in an increase in climate change and global warming because of the uncontrolled combustion of hydrocarbon fuels. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology has been presented as an effective technique to mitigate CO₂ emissions by capturing and injecting back into subsurface geological formations for permanent storage. Geological formations consist of a diverse range of minerals such as olivine, pyroxene, amphibole, biotite and clays, among others, each with unique properties that influence their CO₂ adsorption capacity. This paper explores the carbon adsorption capacity of formation minerals, emphasizing clays, which plays a critical role in CCS. Minerals are categorized based on their crystal structure, chemical composition and physical characteristic originating from diverse geological environments, including magmatic, sedimentary, hydrothermal, and metamorphic systems. Understanding the physiochemical chemistry of these minerals is essential for evaluating their adsorption potential. This review highlights the significance of mineralogical diversity in influencing adsorption capacity and explains adsorption isotherms and kinetic models to aid in predicting adsorption behaviour. Aligned with Goal 13: Climate Action from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, this review advances sustainable development technologies to mitigate CO emission. By expanding the understanding of mineral-based CO₂ adsorption mechanisms, this review supports the advancement of CCS technologies that are pivotal in the global effort to tackle climate change and reduce atmospheric CO₂ concentrations. The findings underscore the potential of geological formations as viable long-term storage solutions, thereby promoting environmental sustainability and aiding in the conversion towards a low-carbon future.

Carbon capture; CO₂ adsorption; clay minerals; geological formations; mineralogy diversity

The Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is important for internet routing, enabling the exchange of routing information between autonomous systems. However, it remains vulnerable to cyberattacks such as hijacking, Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks, and network outages. Although the recent advancements in machine learning (ML) hold promise for accurate BGP anomaly detection, the existing publicly available datasets often contain outdated information regarding past BGP cyberattacks, hindering models of novel threat detection. Furthermore, the network topology criteria are also often neglected for most anomaly detection models. In a multi-stage approach, this work employs a real-topology simulation to analyze BGP traffic under attack scenarios, deriving 24 features to create datasets for a machine learning-based anomaly detection system. A comparative evaluation of eight machine learning (ML) algorithms determined that Random Forest (RF) was the most effective, achieving an accuracy of 94.6%. Among four deep learning (DL) models, Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM) demonstrated the highest accuracy at 98.9%. To further improve detection performance, hybrid ML models integrating RF-SGD, KNN-LR, and RF-QDA were developed, with the RF-SGD model achieving the highest accuracy of 99.3% and an Area Under Curve (AUC) of 0.988. The results indicate that hybrid models outperform standalone ML and DL approaches, providing a more robust and efficient solution for enhancing BGP security against advancing BGP cyberattacks.

BGP security; machine learning; deep learning; anomaly detection; cyberattacks

This paper presents a comprehensive welding analysis of a commercial container structure equipped with four lifting points, which are widely utilised in transportation and offshore operations. The primary objective is to design, model, and evaluate the welded joints at these lifting points to ensure compliance with safety and structural standards under heavy lifting conditions. A detailed 3D model of a standard 20-foot container was developed using SolidWorks, incorporating structural I-beams and reinforced lifting points. Static structural analysis and edge weld connector simulations were conducted to examine stress distribution, displacement, strain, factor of safety, and optimal weld sizes under a 30-tonne lifting load scenario. The analysis revealed that critical weld regions, particularly at the curved sections of the lifting points, experienced higher stress concentrations compared to other areas. However, the overall structural stress remained below the yield strength of the selected materials, S275 structural steel for the container frame and alloy steel for the lifting points. The design achieved a minimum factor of safety of 5.0, meeting the requirements of ASME B30.20, ISO 3874, and AWS D1.1 standards. Furthermore, variations in weld size across different weldments demonstrated an efficient layout, strategically reinforcing areas subjected to maximum stress. This study validates the structural integrity of the container design and emphasises the critical role of weldment analysis in enhancing safety and reliability during lifting operations. The findings provide valuable insights for engineers and manufacturers in optimising welded joint configurations for heavy-duty applications.

Weldment; commercial container; lifting point; safety factor; welding simulation

The increasing frequency of lightning phenomena, potentially intensified by climate change, presents serious risks to electrical infrastructure and public safety, mainly through lightning-induced voltage (LIV) affecting overhead distribution lines. This study examines the Lightning Electromagnetic Field (LEMF) behavior in Sabah using IEEE 1410-2010 guidelines and MATLAB simulations. Mathematical models representing lightning discharge processes were developed and implemented using the Heidler current model for the channel base current and the Modified Transmission Line with Exponential Decay (MTLE) model for the return stroke. The dipole method and the Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) technique were employed to evaluate spatial and temporal field distributions. Model validation shows strong agreement between measured and simulated waveforms, with percentage differences below 10%. Waveform parameters such as amplitude and rise time closely match empirical data, confirming the model accuracy. Analysis incorporating Sabah-specific lightning current data indicates that current magnitudes are about 10% higher than in Peninsular Malaysia, resulting in 5–10% increase in LEMF peak values, influenced by soil resistivity. The LEMF response contributes directly to LIV through electromagnetic coupling, increasing stress on electrical networks. These findings emphasize Sabah’s heightened vulnerability to lightning-induced overvoltages and the need for improved protection and grounding systems. The study advances understanding of regional lightning behavior and supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 by promoting safer and more resilient power infrastructure.

Lightning; electromagnetic field; induced voltage

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) enforcement is a critical mechanism for ensuring that development projects in Malaysia comply with regulatory requirements, particularly in relation to soil erosion and sedimentation control. Despite its importance, post-approval EIA enforcement remains constrained by manpower limitations, fragmented project information, manual reporting practices, and limited integration of digital tools. This study aims to evaluate existing EIA enforcement practices, assess enforcement readiness, and determine the need for a mobile-based enforcement solution to strengthen regulatory implementation. Guided by the ADDIE instructional development model, this research employed a quantitative needs analysis involving 45 enforcement and processing officers from the Department of Environment (DOE). The findings indicate that while officers demonstrate strong professionalism and technical competence in both field-based and desktop enforcement, operational effectiveness is affected by information gaps and administrative inefficiencies. Survey results further reveal high technological readiness among officers, with 98% using mobile devices during enforcement activities, 96% having more than five years of mobile device experience, and 93% supporting the development of a dedicated mobile EIA enforcement application. All respondents agreed that mobile-based reporting is more effective than existing manual methods. Reliability analysis from the pilot study confirmed high internal consistency, with Cronbach’s Alpha values ranging from 0.70 to 0.83 and a KR-20 value of 0.836. Key application features prioritised by officers include access to EIA approval conditions (mean = 4.78), LD-P2M2 inspection modules (mean = 4.71), structured checklists, and real-time field reporting tools (mean ≥ 4.76). Overall, the study demonstrates that a purpose-built mobile enforcement application is not only technically feasible but represents a strategic intervention to enhance enforcement efficiency, support evidence-based decision-making, and strengthen digital environmental governance in Malaysia.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA); enforcement; soil erosion; sediment control; mobile application; ADDIE Model

This study was conducted to evaluate the suitability of Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) alloy powder, a type of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA), for 4D fabrication using Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technology. NiTi exhibits remarkable properties such as superelasticity and the shape memory effect, allowing it to return to its original shape. These characteristics make it highly valuable in biomedical applications such as orthopaedic implants and vascular stents, as well as in aerospace systems. However, conventional manufacturing methods often face significant limitations when processing NiTi due to its complex thermomechanical behavior, including high thermal sensitivity, rapid work hardening, and low thermal conductivity. The study involved physical characterization of NiTi powder using Particle Size Analysis (PSA), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Energy Dispersive Xray Spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) to determine particle morphology, size, and element composition. Additionally, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) was used to analyze phase transformation behavior between the martensite and austenite phases. The powder characterization was performed to analyze the feedstock and verify its suitability for SLM processing before fabrication, while the numerical simulation was conducted to identify the optimal linear energy density for future experimental work. Numerical simulation was conducted via Flow-3D AM software to study the influence of various linear energy densities (P/V ratios) on melt pool stability. Results indicated that a P/V ratio of 0.2 J/mm produced the most stable melt pool profile, offering the optimal balance between melting depth and thermal distribution. Overall, the findings demonstrate that NiTi powder is suitable for SLM applications, and numerical simulation plays a vital role in optimizing processing parameters to achieve high-performance fabrication outcomes.

Nickel-Titanium (NiTi); Shape Memory Alloy (SMA); Selective Laser Melting (SLM); numerical simulation; 4D printing

Jalan Penarikan is an ancient 300 yards land route in the Malay Peninsula connecting the Muar river and Pahang river which serves as a vital cross peninsula trade corridor. Despite it’s importance in easing the movement of trade, culture and military, studies of this historical route are extremely limited due to the lack of cartographic and textual content of its existence. This study aims to reconstruct Jalan Penarikan’s historical importance and its usage in chronological order through critical analysis of ancient cartography, western and local manuscripts, archeological records, and oral studies. Sources of information are from Ptolemaic maps from the 1st century, manuscripts and maps by Eredia, as well as local writing by Buyong Adil and Norazuan. European cartographers Ptolemy and Eredia have documented Jalan Penarikan’s existence in their maps while narratives by local authors strengthen it’s socio-politics and regional economic impacts. Findings of this study shows that this overland route has existed since at least the 1st century and continues to the late 18th century AD, providing maritime route across the Malay Peninsula until the introduction of modern land transport. Jalan Penarikan plays a vital role in the history of the Malay Peninsula in accommodating the movement of ancient commodities especially gold and tin among others, and in facilitating the spread of culture and religion. The study also contributes to the historiography of Southeast Asia by combining multiple sources of information into a coherent narrative and in the effort to restore Jalan Penarikan’s heritage while becoming a historical benchmark to local authority in developing local heritage tourism.

Jalan Penarikan; The Malay Peninsula; maritime route; ancient cartography; cross peninsula route