"A Pilot Study for A Community-based Economic Model for a Su

The pilot project, led from October 2020 to September 2021, sought to address challenges of economic vulnerability and sustainability among local communities in Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang. Supported by Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia, the study adopted a community-based approach that placed emphasis on participation, collaboration, and shared responsibility in developing a sustainable livelihood framework.

The research involved engaging community members, local leaders, and small-scale entrepreneurs to identify existing strengths, gaps, and opportunities in the local economy. Data collection included interviews, focus group discussions, and economic activity mapping. Key areas of focus included agriculture, small businesses, cooperative ventures, and skill development.

Findings from the study highlighted the importance of strengthening community networks, diversifying income sources, and integrating environmental sustainability into economic practices. The proposed community-based economic model outlines strategies for collective resource management, micro-enterprise development, and capacity-building programmes.

By fostering self-reliance and resilience, the model provides a foundation for long-term economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods in Balik Pulau, while also serving as a reference for similar communities across Malaysia.

Conducted between December 2019 and December 2021, this research investigated the effectiveness of the Return-to-Work (RTW) Programme and its associated rehabilitation interventions. The study aimed to understand how structured rehabilitation and workplace support can facilitate the successful reintegration of employees recovering from injury or illness.

The methodology combined quantitative and qualitative approaches, including case analysis, interviews with employees and employers, and programme outcome assessments. Key factors explored included medical rehabilitation, psychosocial support, workplace adjustments, and employer engagement.

Findings revealed that early intervention, personalised rehabilitation plans, and supportive workplace policies significantly improved employees’ recovery and return-to-work outcomes. The study also identified gaps in programme implementation, particularly in sustaining long-term employment and ensuring employer readiness.

The research concluded with recommendations to strengthen RTW frameworks by enhancing rehabilitation services, promoting employer awareness, and establishing clear monitoring mechanisms. These insights provide policymakers, employers, and healthcare providers with practical guidance to improve the overall effectiveness of RTW initiatives in Malaysia.

The study, conducted from August 2019 to July 2021 under the leadership of the Principal Investigator, focused on addressing the rising number of commuting accidents in Batu Kawan, an industrial hub with high commuter traffic. Recognising that traditional top-down safety measures were insufficient, the research adopted a community-based approach to develop the Commuting Accidents Management Programme (CAMP) model.

The methodology involved stakeholder consultations, data collection on commuting patterns, accident case studies, and participatory workshops with workers, employers, and local authorities. Through these efforts, the project identified key risk factors contributing to commuting accidents, such as unsafe riding practices, lack of safety training, and inadequate awareness of traffic rules.

The CAMP model was subsequently designed as a holistic framework incorporating education, awareness campaigns, riding simulator training, policy recommendations, and monitoring mechanisms. By promoting shared responsibility between the community, industry, and policymakers, the model aims to reduce accident risks, enhance commuter well-being, and establish Batu Kawan as a safer commuting zone.

Conducted between January 2019 and March 2022, this study investigated the relationship between decision-making processes and risky riding behaviour among commuting motorcyclists in Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. With motorcyclists representing a large share of road accident victims, understanding their risk tendencies was crucial for developing effective preventive measures.

The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys, behavioural observations, and accident case analyses. It explored psychological drivers such as risk perception, decision biases, peer influence, and attitudes toward traffic regulations. In addition, demographic and socio-economic factors were considered to understand variations in commuting behaviour.

Findings highlighted that risk-taking decisions were often shaped by time pressure, peer norms, and overconfidence in riding skills, alongside gaps in safety awareness. Younger riders and daily commuters demonstrated higher susceptibility to risky behaviour, particularly speeding, lane filtering, and ignoring traffic signals.

The study concluded with recommendations for designing behavioural-based road safety campaigns, incorporating simulator training, and promoting community-driven awareness programmes. By addressing both psychological and social dimensions of decision-making, the research contributes to reducing motorcycle-related commuting accidents and enhancing overall traffic safety in Malaysia.

From March 2017 to February 2021, this research project focused on “Humanising Papermaking Practices” by addressing the environmental and health challenges posed by conventional toxic fillers used in paper production. Supported by the RUI Grant at Universiti Sains Malaysia, the study aimed to develop safer, sustainable alternatives through the use of nano and micro elements, while simultaneously assessing consumer acceptance of these eco-friendly papers.

The study integrated material science, industrial application, and consumer behaviour research. Laboratory experiments were conducted to test the effectiveness of nano and micro elements as fillers in improving paper quality while reducing toxicity and environmental impact. Parallel to this, surveys and consumer testing were carried out to evaluate public perception, willingness to adopt, and market potential for sustainable paper products.

Findings demonstrated that nano and micro element substitutes offered promising results in enhancing paper properties without compromising usability. Consumer acceptance was influenced by awareness of environmental benefits, product quality, and affordability. The research concluded with recommendations for scaling up sustainable papermaking practices, aligning industrial innovation with ecological responsibility and consumer demand.