Informative Journal of Management Sciences (IJMS)

AN INVESTIGATION OF THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE FUTURE OF WORK IN MALAYSIA: ACCELERATING TRANSFORMATION THROUGH DIGITAL COMPETENCY

Stefan Chua Wen How — 2025-01-17

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major societal changes that have a dramatic impact on many facets of society, including the future of work. This research aims to examine the influences of the successful hybrid working model. The factors that will be discussed in this study included the internal factors such as digital talent, digital competency, worker competitiveness and the external factors, revolution of industry 4.0 in workforce. In this study, the primary data will be collected through questionnaire by using the online survey platform – Google Forms. The sampling method and technique for this study is convenient sampling of non-probability sampling method. Total 130 responds have been collected, in which the survey is circulated within Malaysia. The result of the study revealed that digital talent, digital competency, and worker competitiveness have significant on the success of hybrid working model. On the other hand, the external variable, revolution of industry 4.0 in workforce on the success of hybrid working model is insignificant.

THE INCREASING ADOPTION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES (EVs)

Yoong Li Yi — 2025-01-17

The increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) holds great promise for sustainable transportation, but it also poses significant challenges related to the strain on the electricity grid. This literature review explores the impact of EV adoption on the electricity grid and the measures required for a sustainable and efficient transition to EVs. The research context highlights the rapid growth of EVs globally and the potential strain on the grid due to their increasing demand for electricity. The problem statement emphasizes the need to address this issue comprehensively to avoid disruptions and ensure a smooth transition. The research gap analysis identifies the need for in-depth studies on grid management strategies and the integration of renewable energy sources and smart grid technologies. The study's objectives are to assess the drivers of EV adoption, examine the relationship between sustainable transportation and EV transition, assess grid strain's effects, and explore perceived impacts. This research contributes valuable insights to policymakers, utility companies, and stakeholders working towards sustainable EV adoption and grid management.

QUANTIFYING THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) APPLICATION ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) RETAIL BUSINESS

Leow Soon Hing — 2025-01-17

This study investigates the impact of Customer Satisfaction, Operational Efficiency, and Retail IT AI Applications on Retail Financial Performance. The findings reveal a negligible and statistically insignificant negative effect of Customer Satisfaction on financial outcomes, challenging conventional wisdom regarding its primary role in driving retail success. In contrast, Operational Efficiency emerges as a critical determinant of financial performance, with significant evidence supporting the notion that operational enhancements can lead to substantial financial gains. Additionally, the study underscores the pivotal role of Retail IT AI Applications, demonstrating their significant positive impact on financial performance. The use of AI in areas like predictive analytics, personalized marketing, and efficient inventory management not only represents a trend but is identified as a fundamental shift necessary for maintaining competitiveness and achieving financial robustness in the retail sector. These insights contribute to a nuanced understanding of the interplay between technology, operational strategies, customer engagement, and financial performance, offering a roadmap for retail businesses aiming for sustainable growth and profitability. The study provides valuable implications for retail management, emphasizing the importance of strategic investment in technology and process optimization, and lays the groundwork for future research in this dynamic field.

AN INVESTIGATION OF THE IMPACT OF TALENT MANAGEMENT, EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT, AND EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION ON EMPLOYEE RETENTION IN MALAYSIA INDUSTRIES

Wong Hong Ren — 2025-01-17

This research project investigates the dynamics of employee retention within the framework of Malaysian industries, by evaluating the influence of three potential determinants – talent management, employee engagement, and employee satisfaction. In this study, online questionnaires were deployed via Google Forms, and the survey link was distributed to 101 respondents via social media platform. The convenience sampling technique, which is a type of non-probability sampling method was employed. Surprisingly, the findings revealed that while employee satisfaction and engagement played a pivotal role in enhancing employee retention rates, talent management strategies did not manifest a significant relationship. This insight contradicts prevalent notions that talent management directly correlates with retention. The study's outcomes suggest a need for Malaysian industries to recalibrate their HR strategies, placing emphasis on ensuring employee well-being and active engagement in their roles rather than solely focusing on talent management protocols. This research serves as a beacon for organizations aiming to optimize their workforce stability in a competitive market.

A STUDY ON IMPACT OF CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINING ON EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION AND CUSTOMER LOYALTY IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

Ezhilselvan A/L Ezhilarasu — 2025-01-17

A customer is one of the most important visitors in any business premise because they are the key person who consumes and buys an organization’s products or services. In a nutshell, without customers any business entity will not survive as there will not be any profit to generate revenues. It is important to safeguard the internal and external customer, moreover in the hospitality industry where a customer falls in a very crucial and important segment. It proves that customer service is the most important department in an organization as it functions as a frontliner in dealing with customers. Being a human being, internal and external customer needs to be motivated and understand their needs to create a wonderful environment for both parties to be connected and preserved. Taken together, this study reinforced the importance and impact of customer service training with design thinking elements on employee’s satisfaction which will directly create customer loyalty in the hotel industry. Customer service training will provide all the survival tools to an employee to survive in any environment while motivating them to stay focused and positive, which an employer can give as a great investment. A contented and satisfied employee will provide a great service to customer and upon receiving a warmest service, a customer will always be a loyal visitor in a hospitality industry which creates a symbiosis environment for both parties while bringing prosperity to hotels by achieving their vision and mission easily with a guaranteed return of investment.

THE IMPACT OF EMPLOYEES TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT ON ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE

Azhar Zakaria — 2025-01-17

Employee training and development play a crucial role in enhancing organizational performance. For this reason, it is the responsibility of organizational leaders to comprehend the profound implications of training and development on various facets of organizational performance, including employee performance and productivity. Training and development serve as instrumental tools for both organizations and employees in accomplishing a diverse array of objectives. These encompass the elevation of morale, boosting employee engagement, and equipping individuals with the comprehensive competencies essential for the effective execution of their specific roles. In parallel, organizational leaders should employ systematic methodologies for evaluating employee productivity, with determinants stemming from personal attributes, organizational dynamics, environmental factors, motivation levels, skill proficiencies, aptitudes, and perceptions of one's role. Organizations can encourage their staff to effectively contribute to achieving a competitive edge in the modern global marketplace by offering training and development opportunities. On the other hand, organizations invest in employee training and development demonstrates their commitment to employee growth and success. This research investigation is dedicated to unravelling the impact of employee training and development on organizational performance. Moreover, it identifies the pivotal role of employee productivity as mediator factor in the relationship between training and development and organizational performance. The acknowledged significance of training and development in enhancing employee skills, knowledge, and job performance underscores the importance of aligning these initiatives with the overarching goals and strategic vision of the organization.

AN INVESTIGATION OF THE ROLE OF INFLUENCER MARKETING IN THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF FMCG BRAND

Ngo Chuan Long — 2025-01-17

In today's dynamic marketing landscape, influencer marketing has become an important driver of growth for Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) brands. This study focuses on the role of influencer marketing in enhancing FMCG brand growth, particularly in the Malaysian market. Influencers develop authentic connections with their followers, establishing trust that enhances brand reputation, which is critical factor for FMCG products where quick decisions are based on trust. Influencers skilled at targeting specific demographics, ensuring the brand's message reaches its intended audience, optimizing return of investment (ROI). Their original and engaging content effectively highlights FMCG product features, benefits, and usage, enhancing consumer education. This research identifies the impact of influencer marketing variables on FMCG brand sales, aiding marketers in optimizing strategies. A quantitative survey method was used, collecting data from active social media users. Variables examined include Number of Followers, Originality of Content, and Follower-Brand Fit. Results reveal that Originality of Content has the most significant positive impact on campaign success, followed by Follower-Brand Fit, while the Number of Followers has a minor or negligible effect. These findings provide marketers and researchers with valuable insights, highlighting the importance of content originality in influencer marketing success for FMCG brands. In summary, influencer marketing remains an important tool for FMCG companies to boost brand awareness and sales, with content originality as a key driver of success.

INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF PESTICIDE LABELLING INFORMATION ON FARMERS' PESTICIDE USE DECISIONS IN MALAYSIAN AGRICULTURE

Yap Shoo Yuen — 2025-01-17

This research investigates the impact of pesticide labelling information on farmers' pesticide use decisions in Malaysian agriculture. The study aims to examine the relationship between pesticide labelling information and farmers' decisions, explore the influence of farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices, and assess whether these factors mediate the relationship between labelling information and decisions. A positivist research philosophy, deductive research approach, and mono-method quantitative design are employed, utilizing surveys with a convenience sample of 100 respondents. The findings reveal a diverse demographic composition of the respondents, with a significant presence of Chinese farmers and a majority having tertiary education. Surprisingly, respondents exhibit a balance between new and experienced farmers. The analysis of research hypotheses indicates a significant relationship between pesticide labelling information and farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices, as well as between these factors and pesticide use decisions. However, the study fails to support the hypothesis that pesticide labelling information directly affects pesticide use decisions. Instead, it highlights the mediating role of farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices. This suggests that improving farmers' understanding of pesticide-related information and promoting responsible practices may be more influential in shaping their decisions. Overall, this research contributes to academic understanding and practical actions in Malaysian agriculture, offering insights for policy improvements and on-the-ground practices. Future research directions include longitudinal studies, comparative analyses, and behavioural economics principles to deepen our understanding of pesticide decision-making and enhance sustainable agricultural practices in Malaysia.

AN ANALYSIS OF FACTORS THAT AFFECT CONSUMERS’ ONLINE PURCHASE INTENTION FOR PREMIUM PRODUCTS IN MALAYSIA

Muhammad Mohsin — 2025-01-17

This study aims to analyze the factors influencing consumers' online purchase intention for premium products, particularly exploring the interrelationship between perceived risk, perceived quality, and customer reviews. The research holds significant value for businesses, retailers, and marketers as it provides insights into crucial aspects that can likely entice consumers to make online purchases for premium products. By understanding the importance of perceived risk, perceived quality, and customer reviews from the perspective of potential customers, businesses can enhance their marketing and promotional strategies to reinforce purchase intention effectively through e-commerce space. Additionally, the study highlights the significance of integrating customer cues in marketing initiatives, allowing businesses to tailor their approaches and boost purchase intention for premium products. Ultimately, the findings of this research are expected to permit businesses and retailers to enhance consumers’ purchase behavioral intentions and, hopefully, shift such intentions to actual purchase, leading to increased sales and improved customer satisfaction.

ANALYSIS FACTORS INFLUENCING MALAYSIANS ACCEPTANCE OF BUYING ELECTRIC VEHICLE IN THE NEXT 5 YEARS

Tay Hui Chong — 2025-01-17

This study deep dive into the factors influencing Malaysian consumers' acceptance of electric vehicles (EV) over the next five years. Amidst global shifts towards sustainable transportation, this research examines variables such as environmental awareness, technological advancement, cost and price consideration, trust on brand and quality, economic incentives, and infrastructural development. Through a deductive approach, the study incorporates quantitative data from mass market surveys. The findings aim to provide a multifaceted understanding of consumer attitudes and identify barriers to EV adoption. This research is expected to contribute to policy formulation and strategic planning for automotive industry stakeholders, facilitating a transition to greener mobility in Malaysia. In this study, the primary data will be collected through questionnaire using the online survey portal via Google Form. The sampling method and technique for this study is convenience sampling of non-probability sampling method. Total 101 responds have been collected, in which the survey is conducted within Malaysia. The findings and result of the study revealed that Electric Vehicles infrastructure and Social Influence have significant influence on the Electric Vehicles actual adoption. In additional, this paper outlines the current landscape of electric vehicle (EV) adoption globally and in Malaysia, highlighting the critical for sustainable transportation solutions. Despite growing interest, the adoption rate of EVs in Malaysia remains low. The purpose of this study aims to fill the gap in understanding the specific consumer attitudes and barriers that influence EV acceptance in Malaysia. By identifying these factors, the research seeks to inform effective policy and strategic interventions necessary to support the transition to greener mobility and to boost the adoption of electric vehicles (EV) in Malaysia over the next five years.

HOW CLOUD COMPUTING IMPACTS ON BUSINESS EFFICIENCY

Wong Mei Yi — 2025-01-17

The advent of cloud computing has ushered in a transformative era for businesses worldwide. This study delves into the profound impact of cloud computing on business efficiency, shedding light on both its benefits and potential challenges. The research explores the ways in which cloud computing enhances operational efficiency, providing organizations with the tools to optimize resource allocation, reduce costs, and adapt swiftly to dynamic market conditions. However, it also addresses the challenges posed by data security and privacy concerns, the need for specialized expertise, and the intricate decision-making processes involved in cloud adoption. By analyzing the factors influencing cloud computing adoption and examining strategies to overcome associated challenges, this study equips businesses with valuable insights to harness the power of the cloud effectively. Ultimately, it provides guidance to empower organizations to leverage cloud computing as a catalyst for improved efficiency and enhanced competitiveness in the modern business landscape.

ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION ON CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE CHANGES

Goh Chin Wee — 2025-01-17

This study delves into the impact of digital transformation on customer experience within a retail business environment, guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). It adopts a quantitative approach, focusing on the correlations between digital transformation aspects and customer experience changes in efficiency, customer service communication, and aftersales support. The research objectives include exploring the relationships between digital transformation benefits, perceived usefulness, and ease of use with changes in customer experience. Data is collected via structured surveys using a Likert scale from retail business customers, examining three independent variables (digital transformation benefits, perceived usefulness, ease of use) against changes in customer experience as the dependent variable. Anticipated findings suggest a positive correlation between digital transformation improvements and customer satisfaction, particularly in efficiency and communication. These results provide actionable insights for retail businesses to enhance their digital strategies and improve customer relations. Academically, the study offers a practical application of TAM in understanding the effect of digital transformation on customer experience in the retail sector, contributing to both commercial and scholarly knowledge.

DETERMINING THE KEY FACTORS INFLUENCING PERFORMANCE IN THE BAKERY SECTOR FOR SMALL-MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMES) IN MALAYSIA

Nor Hidayah Hassan Mydin — 2025-01-17

This research explores the determinants of SME performance in Malaysia's bakery sector, focusing on entrepreneurial skills, marketing strategy, and government support. Employing a pragmatic research philosophy and deductive approach, it utilizes a survey method with non-probability convenience sampling of 101 respondents aged 20-50. Smart data analysis integrates demographic information for filtering. The paper outlines the research methodology, covering design, data collection, and analysis. Employing a quantitative research design, it measures variables related to entrepreneurial skills, marketing strategy, and government support, assessing their impact on bakery SME performance. Influenced by the "onion" research design, the methodology embraces layers crucial for a comprehensive study. Ethical considerations ensure participant confidentiality, informed consent, and voluntary participation. The discussion and conclusion provide insights into findings, with practical and theoretical recommendations. The researcher's reflection contributes insights for future research, emphasizing ethical practices and methodological considerations

THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL MARKETING ON CONSUMER PURCHASING BEHAVIOR IN THE E-COMMERCE INDUSTRY IN Malaysia

Yip Suet Ling — 2025-01-17

This study investigates how digital marketing influences consumer behavior in Malaysia’s growing e-commerce sector. With the rapid expansion of e-commerce and the increasing relevance of digital platforms in everyday life, it is essential to understand how digital marketing strategies affect consumer choices and online purchases (Saura et al., 2020). This study aims to provide new insights by focusing on digital marketing’s specific impacts within Malaysia. The research will utilize quantitative methodology. This methodology will involve a survey of a broad group of e-commerce consumers in Malaysia, gathering data on their purchasing behavior, brand loyalty, and responses to various digital marketing channels. Findings from this research are expected to highlight the effectiveness of digital marketing tactics in shaping consumer behavior in Malaysia’s e-commerce context. By analyzing different digital marketing channels, this study will pinpoint key factors that influence consumer engagement, trust, and loyalty towards e-commerce brands. These insights will be valuable for both academics and industry professionals, enhancing understanding of the factors that drive consumer behavior online and aiding businesses in crafting more effective digital marketing strategies. Ultimately, this research will offer actionable guidance to optimize digital marketing practices to improve customer interaction and satisfaction in Malaysia’s competitive e-commerce environment.

THE IMPACT OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP ON EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT IN MALAYSIA

Foong Sook Hwa — 2025-01-17

This research paper investigates the impact of Transformational Leadership on three dimensions of employee engagement: affective, cognitive, and behavioral, within the Malaysian context. Using an online questionnaire-based method, data was collected from 126 respondents. The results indicate a significant positive relationship between Transformational Leadership and the levels of employee engagement across all three dimensions. This study underscores the importance of Transformational Leadership practices in enhancing and cultivating a deeply engaged workforce in Malaysia.

THE LEVEL OF ADOPTION OF BUSINESS ANALYTICS AND SIZE OF BUSINESS AS A PREDICTOR OF BUSINESS PERFORMANCE

Lieow Teck Siang — 2025-01-17

Business sectors have witnessed a remarkable transformation in recent years, with the emergence of big data and business analytics. Business sectors are increasingly adopting analytics tools and techniques to gain valuable insights into their operations, customer behavior, and market trends. In this study, we investigate the level of adoption of business analytics in business operations and examine its impact on business performance. We also explore the moderating role of business size on the relationship between business analytics adoption and business performance. The study adopts a quantitative research design and collects data from a sample of different businesses using a structured questionnaire. Stratified random sampling technique is used to select the sample size. The data collected are analyzed using multiple regression analysis to examine the relationships between the variables. The findings of this study contribute to the literature on business analytics adoption and business performance. The results indicate that business analytics adoption has a positive and significant impact on business performance in the sector. Moreover, the study finds that business size moderates the relationship between business analytics adoption and business performance. The implications of these findings for businesses are discussed, and recommendations are provided for future research in this area.

IMPACT OF MOTIVATION ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE WITH EXTRINSIC REWARDS AND EFFECTIVENESS TRAINING IN A COMPANY

Gan Pui See — 2025-01-17

This research delves into the multifaceted impact of motivation on employee performance within a corporate framework, specifically examining the interplay between extrinsic rewards and effectiveness training. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis through surveys and qualitative exploration via interviews and case studies. A comprehensive review of literature on motivation theories, extrinsic rewards systems, and effectiveness training sets the foundation for understanding the complex relationship between motivation and employee performance. The findings reveal a nuanced correlation between motivation, extrinsic rewards, and effectiveness training. Extrinsic rewards, including financial incentives, recognition, and benefits, play a significant role in enhancing short-term performance levels and fostering a sense of appreciation among employees. However, their sustained impact on long-term motivation and performance is contingent on complementing strategies such as effectiveness training. Training programs that equip employees with necessary skills, knowledge, and tools not only contribute to their motivation but also amplify the effects of extrinsic rewards by empowering individuals to utilize these incentives optimally. Furthermore, the research identifies the importance of intrinsic motivation factors, such as job satisfaction, autonomy, and meaningful work, which can significantly influence sustained high performance beyond the scope of extrinsic rewards and training. The implications of this research are manifold for organizations aiming to optimize employee performance. By understanding the intricate relationship between extrinsic rewards, effectiveness training, and intrinsic motivators, companies can design holistic motivational strategies tailored to their workforce, thereby fostering an environment conducive to enhanced performance, increased job satisfaction, and long-term organizational success.

IMPACT OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON CHANGING CONSUMER BEHAVIOR

Wong Tze Cheng — 2025-01-17

The COVID-19 pandemic which has hit the World since 2020 has changed how consumers behave. The changes have both positive and negative implications to businesses and are forcing them to transform to meet the needs and demands of the consumers behavior post-COVID-19 pandemic. This research studies the determining factors which lead to a change in consumer behavior due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The use of quantitative approach using online survey and data collected will be analyzed using Smart PLS 3. This study found a new insight which had not been studied before in Malaysia- It is found out that substitution buying and spending power is significantly correlated with change in consumers behavior during COVID-19 pandemic. Contrary to common belief, the other determinants studied in this research including impulse buying, luxury indulgence, increase demand for health-related products and desire for online shopping all did not show significant relationships with change in consumer behavior. As the world is continuously experiencing changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this study hopes to provide insight to businesses on how to position themselves to face the change in consumer behavior.

THE MEDIATING ROLES AND IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE (ESG) ON BUSINESS FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE IN MALAYSIAN BUSINESSES

Mohamad Zaman Morni — 2025-01-17

The primary objective of this research study is to assess the influence of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in the financial sector on performance outcomes in Malaysia. The concept of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) is undergoing a significant transformation in the contemporary business landscape, exhibiting a dynamic and ever-changing nature. The trend is driven by the increasing apprehensions of investors and stakeholders who are not solely focused on financial gains, but also prioritize societal benefits. The stakeholders express a need for enhanced disclosures pertaining to ESG matters, with the intention of gaining a comprehensive understanding of the company's operational framework, decision-making processes, and value creation mechanisms. ESG, pertains to conducting company operations in a manner that demonstrates respect for both individuals and the environment, while also prioritizing ethical profit generation. Ensuring the ability of enterprises to conduct their activities in a sustainable way holds significant importance. A sustainable company strategy has the potential to enhance productivity through the elevation of staff motivation and loyalty, as well as the facilitation of talent attraction and retention. There is a growing body of evidence that supports a positive correlation between sound corporate practices and financial performance, indicating the existence of an ethics premium. The integration of environmental, social, and governance factors has emerged as a significant and influential trend in the business world, contributing to the successful attainment of a firm's goals and objectives. There is a prevailing argument that companies engage in their activities with the objective of attaining financial benefits. However, contemporary corporations have also become cognizant of the non-financial rewards that can be obtained by the organization over an extended period.

UNDERSTANDING FACTORS INFLUENCING ONLINE CONSUMER PURCHASING BEHAVIOR FOR FASHION ACCESSORIES PRODUCTS

K. Senthaamarai Vani Kolandavaloo — 2025-01-17

Malaysia's e-commerce industry has exploded in recent years and online shopping has become increasingly popular among consumers. However, there is a noticeable lack of factors influencing online shopping behavior in the fashion and accessories sector, especially in the Malaysian context and especially among adults living in the Klang Valley. This study aims to address this gap by conducting an in-depth study of the determinants of fashion and accessory purchasing behavior among Malaysian adults in the Klang Valley region. Based on established theoretical frameworks such as the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and related literature on electronic business and consumer behavior, this study forms a strong conceptual framework to guide the study of factors influencing online purchase decisions. These factors include perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude, perceived risk, trust, website design, vendor characteristics, and purchase intentions. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships between these identified factors and online shopping behavior, which will provide valuable information to online retailers operating in the Malaysian online shopping market. Quantitative research will collect data through structured surveys conducted on a sample of Malaysian adults living in the Klang Valley. Analyzing this data enables a nuanced understanding of how these factors work together and influence consumer behavior when purchasing fashion and accessories online. Using quantitative research, data collected through structured questionnaires from Malaysian adults living in the Klang Valley. Analyzing this data provides insight into the interaction of these factors and how they influence consumer behavior when buying fashion and accessories online. The study helps both theoretically and practically by providing online retailers with information to improve online shopping and thus promote better customers satisfaction, trust and loyalty. The study, which uses advanced statistical techniques, provides a nuanced understanding of the hierarchical structure that influences online consumer decision-making. The study uses 153 responses collected over two months via Google Forms.