This study aims to investigate potential means to bridge the digital divide between person with and without disabilities in Malaysia. A conceptual framework with one endogenous variable (digital divide) and two exogenous variables (government initiatives and assistive technology) was developed. The study applied quantitative survey research through the distribution of self-administrated questionnaires. The Department of Social Welfare reported that the total population of persons with disabilities in Malaysia was 453 258 and 497 390 in 2017 and 2018, respectively. The sample size of this study was 398. A total of 450 questionnaires were distributed and 438 questionnaires were returned, with a response rate of 90%, exceeding the total sample size initially required. The collected data were analysed through structural equation modelling using SmartPLS 3.0. The findings reveal a significant relationship between government initiatives, assistive technology and the digital divide. Eight exogenous constructs are found to be of high predictive relevance, whereas two present low values, indicating that assistive technology and government initiatives have a minor effect on the digital divide.
Falls, including falls from height and the same level, have among the highest occurrence rate in the construction industry. They are also the highest contributor to fatalities in the construction industry. The objective of this research is to determine the factors that contribute to a falling hazard. This research was conducted by distributing a survey questionnaire among OSH regulators in the northern region of Malaysia. A total of 130 respondents from enforcement bodies were involved in the study. From the factors contributing to occupational accidents and illnesses in general, worksite conditions (3.92), worksite arrangements (4.08) and resource management (4.07) were perceived as the most significant variables by the respondents. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) analysis was applied to validate the relationship between the observed and latent variables in testing the hypothesis. Falls from height (R2 = 0.214; T = 5.600; p = 0.000) and falls at the same level (R2 = 0.150; T = 5.061; p = 0.000) had the most significant relationship with worksite, management and external elements.
Malaysia, a dynamic and heterogeneous democratic nation in Southeast Asia, has undertaken a progressive endeavor in recent years by embracing digital governance. They are employing substantial amounts of data and advanced analytics to bolster decision-making and facilitate interactive communication with their citizens. This shift towards a digital government underscores the nation's commitment to efficiency, transparency, and citizen-centric services. This work delves into Malaysia's journey towards digitization, focusing on the formulation of policies, strategies for implementation, evaluation, and the importance of digitization for public engagement. Malaysia is currently exploring the possibilities of the digital government revolution and actively working to utilise open data to enhance public service delivery and accountability. By implementing strategic initiatives and fostering collaboration, Malaysia is not only improving citizen services but also establishing itself as a proactive participant in the global digital economy.
19 May 2025 in JeDEM - eJournal of eDemocracy and Open Government
E-democracy is born of the undeniable transformation that has occurred in governance as a result of digital technologies, constituting part and parcel now, even more than ever before. It proposes to improve citizen participation, transparency, and inclusiveness in decision-making practices. However, its implementation faces various challenges, including the digital divide, cybersecurity and privacy concerns, institutional resistance, and socio-cultural barriers. In this paper, we critically scrutinize these barriers and their strategic resolutions that are well discerned in the ecosystem of sustainable digital governance (SDG) by considering the technology development of democratic values. Grounded in multiple theoretical frameworks and illustrated by recent case examples, the paper argues for a more holistic set of considerations, including inclusivity, transparency, security, adaptability, and collaboration. The study concludes that addressing these challenges is essential for ensuring that e-democracy contributes to more equitable and resilient governance systems. The paper closes by proposing directions for future empirical research to validate and refine strategies for sustainable digital governance across varied socio-political contexts.
E-democracy emerges from the undeniable transformation in governance brought about by digital technologies, promising increased citizen participation, transparency, and inclusiveness in decision-making. Yet its implementation faces challenges such as the digital divide, cybersecurity and privacy concerns, institutional resistance, and socio-cultural barriers. This paper examines these barriers and their strategic resolutions within a framework of Sustainable Digital Governance (SDG), exploring how technology development can align with democratic values. Drawing on empirical data and theoretical insights, we propose a holistic approach encompassing inclusivity, transparency, security, adaptability, and collaboration. Expanded case studies from Estonia, Singapore, and developing nations illustrate how proposed solutions can be tested in diverse contexts. We conclude that addressing these challenges is essential for ensuring e-democracy fosters equitable and resilient governance systems. Future research directions focus on leveraging big data architectures, advanced computing tools, and secure platforms to broaden participation, enable real-time decision-making, strengthen data protection, and uphold ethical standards. Public-private partnerships and civil society engagement are also highlighted as crucial for overcoming implementation barriers and achieving SDG goals. Specific, actionable recommendations are provided for policymakers and stakeholders to guide effective adoption of the SDG framework.
30 January 2024 in Journal of Information Systems Engineering and Management
This study examines how Big Data might improve Chinese public hospital management. A comprehensive study examines how data diversity, storage efficiency, analytics tools, and information system complexity affect decision-making. A carefully selected quantitative dataset from Chinese public hospitals is used in the study. Analyses use structured medical records, semi-structured billing data, and unstructured patient comments. The sample size of 115 was chosen for statistical robustness and multiple regression analysis best practices, which recommend 10-20 observations per predictor variable for estimate. Multiple linear regression analysis highlights amazing correlations and stresses data diversity, storage efficiency, analytics tools, and information system sophistication in decision efficiency. The study helps healthcare executives and regulators understand the complex relationship between regression coefficients and modified R-squared value. Also evaluated are Chinese public hospitals' strengths and weaknesses. Strengths include data integration, analytics, and advanced information systems. The report emphasizes data quality and cultural transformation, which impact Big Data and decision-making. The report emphasizes data consumption and advanced analytics to empower healthcare decision-makers. This research informs Chinese public hospital strategic reforms to improve resource allocation, patient care, and efficiency. This paper demonstrates how Big Data can impact healthcare decision-making. It enriches academic discourse and guides healthcare stakeholders through modern management with relevant insights and practical advice.