In this study, we developed a modified version of the CRiteria Importance Through Inter-criteria Correlation (CRITIC) method, namely the Distance Correlation-based CRITIC (D-CRITIC) method. The usage of the method was illustrated by evaluating the weights of five smartphone criteria. The same evaluation was repeated using four other objective weighting methods, including the original CRITIC method. The results from all the methods were further analyzed based on three different tests (i.e., the distance correlation test, the Spearman rank-order correlation test, and the symmetric mean absolute percentage error test) to validate D-CRITIC. The tests revealed that D-CRITIC could produce more valid criteria weights and ranks than the original CRITIC method since D-CRITIC yielded a higher average distance correlation, a higher average Spearman rank-order correlation, and a lower symmetric mean absolute percentage error. Besides, additional sensitivity analysis indicated that D-CRITIC has the tendency to deliver more stable criteria weights and ranks with a larger decision matrix. The research has contributed an alternative objective weighting method to the area of multi-criteria decision-making through a unique extension of distance correlation. This study is also the first to propose the idea of a distance correlation test to compare the performance of different criteria weighting methods.

This paper compares the performances of four rank-based weighting assessment techniques, Rank Sum (RS), Rank Reciprocal (RR), Rank Exponent (RE), and Rank Order Centroid (ROC) on five identified e-learning criteria to select the best weights method. A total of 35 experts in a public university in Malaysia were asked to rank the criteria and to evaluate five e-learning approaches which include blended learning, flipped classroom, ICT supported face to face learning, synchronous learning, and asynchronous learning. The best ranked criteria weights are defined as weights that have the least total absolute differences with the geometric mean of all weights, were then used to select the most suitable e-learning approach by using TOPSIS method. The results show that RR weights are the best, while flipped classroom approach implementation is the most suitable approach. This paper has developed a decision framework to aid decision makers (DMs) in choosing the most suitable weighting method for solving MCDM problems.

${\lambda }^0$-measure is a special type of fuzzy measure. In the context of multi-attribute decision making (MADM), the measure can be used together with Choquet integral to model the interdependencies that usually present between the decision attributes. Unfortunately, the range of techniques available to estimate ${\lambda }^0$-measure values is too limited i.e., only four techniques are available to this date. Besides, the review on literature shows that each of these existing techniques either requires some initial data from the decision-makers or misrepresents the actual interdependencies held by the attributes. Thus, an alternate unsupervised technique is needed for the estimation of ${\lambda }^0$-measure values. This study has developed such a technique by integrating the idea of distance correlation and Shannon entropy. In this technique, the two inputs required to estimate ${\lambda }^0$-measure values, namely, the interdependence degrees and fuzzy densities are determined by utilizing the distance correlation measures and entropy weights, respectively. An evaluation to rank the websites owned by five different hospitals located in Sabah, Malaysia, was conducted to illustrate the usage of the technique. A similar evaluation was also performed with a few selected MADM techniques for comparison purposes, where the proposed technique is found to have produced the most consistent ranking. From the literature perspective, this study has contributed an alternate unsupervised technique that can estimate ${\lambda }^0$-measure values without necessitating any additional data from the decision-makers, and at the same time can better capture the interdependencies held by the attributes.

Homestay is one of the government’s products that promote the cultural tourism of country around the world. Homestay in Malaysia is not only thriving, but also its operation is moving gradually toward development of economic growth. Many homestays have been built throughout the country and this will give tourists an opportunity to enjoy the different and interesting environment in Malaysia. However, most of them receive less support from tourists and only certain numbers of homestays have operated consistently. This paper examines eleven sustainability criteria for homestay programme in Malaysia covering environmental, economic and sociocultural dimensions. The required data were collected through a survey of 246 homestay operators using a structured questionnaire. Data obtained was analyzed by utilizing percentage and arithmetic average. The findings revealed that the three most important criteria for homestay to remain sustained in this business area are ability and capacity, leadership and conservation of community resources. In order to improve the business performance of homestays in this country, homestay operators should focus on improving their ability and capacity and focus on enhancing their leadership skills.

Within the context of changing economic across Malaysia, measuring efficiency of a university faculty is important to ensure effective allocation of educational resources. The Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) technique has been widely used in measuring efficiency of higher education. However, the method can still be improved in accordance to the current education development. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to propose a framework of an extended hierarchical structure of a university faculty by taking several cases into consideration for the model. The proposed framework includes new inputs in sub-components and direct intermediate component. These new inputs together with the produced outputs are considered to measure the faculty’s efficiency by using a network DEA model. The framework consists of four phases: (1) Form a hierarchical structure; (2) Determine the input and output; (3) Develop efficiency model and (4) Validate the model. A university can be hierarchically structured into several functions for it consists of three major functions namely teaching, research and others. The main inputs of the educational system should reflect foreign and local academics of different ranks, non-academics, and the expenses. Besides, the number of international accredited programs is introduced as a new input. Subsequently, the outputs should measure the impact and quality of all major functions of a university which include the number of graduates from the accredited programs, the number of main researchers based on different types of grants, the number of expert lecturers and income from organizing conferences. Moreover, the number of collaboration activities is suggested as a new output of the system. In conclusion, the application of proposed framework with a proper mathematical model will enable the top management of the university to identify weaknesses of each function and thus plan suitable actions to improve the overall performance of the university.

Malaysian Homestay is very unique. It is classified as Community Based Tourism (CBT). Homestay Programme which is a community events where a tourist stays together with a host family for a period of time and enjoying cultural exchange besides having new experiences. Homestay programme has booming the tourism industry since there is over 100 Homestay Programme currently being registered with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism Malaysia. However, only few Homestay Programme enjoying the benefits of success Homestay Programme. Hence, this article seeks to identify the critical success factors for a Homestay Programme in Malaysia. An Arithmetic Average method is utilized to further evaluate the identified success factors in a more meaningful way. The findings will help Homestay Programme function as a community development tool that manages tourism resources. Thus, help the community in improving local economy and creating job opportunities.