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Article
Publication date: 5 June 2018

Md. Mahmudul Alam, Abu N.M. Wahid and Chamhuri Siwar

Sustainable food security at the household level is one of the emerging issues for all nations. It is expected that the patterns of household resilience factors and adaptation…

Abstract

Purpose

Sustainable food security at the household level is one of the emerging issues for all nations. It is expected that the patterns of household resilience factors and adaptation practices have a strong linkage with household food security. The purpose of this paper is to seek an effective technique of adaptation for food security and the required types of support for adaptation to food insecurity among the poor and low-income households in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was based on primary data that were collected in July-October 2012 through a questionnaire survey among 460 poor and low-income households from the Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu states of Malaysia. The samples were selected from E-Kasih poor household database based on a two-stage cluster random sampling technique. The study considered household food security as household food availability and food accessibility, and ran ordinal regressions to find out the linkages of household food security with household resilience factors, adaptation practices, and expected support for adaptation to food security.

Findings

The study concludes that several resilience factors and adaptation practices were statistically significant to household food security, and several external supports were statistically and significantly needed to ensure household food security. Therefore, to ensure sustainable household food security in Malaysia, the food security programs need to be integrated with sustainable development goals (SDGs) and climatic changes adaptation programs, and the involvement of relevant stakeholders are crucial.

Originality/value

This study is a pioneer work based on primary data that empirically measured the linkages of household food security with household resilience factors, adaptation practices, and expected support for adaptation to food security in Malaysia. This study also discussed some issues related to the climate change linkage, which would help future climate change research. The findings of the study will be beneficial for all the stakeholders, including policy makers related to the food security and climate change adaptation.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 29 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 May 2017

Md. Mahmudul Alam, Chamhuri Siwar, Basri Abdul Talib and Abu N.M. Wahid

Sustainable food security at the household level is one of the emerging issues for all nations. Several factors such as social, economic, political, demographic, natural and…

Abstract

Purpose

Sustainable food security at the household level is one of the emerging issues for all nations. Several factors such as social, economic, political, demographic, natural and livelihood strategies cause vulnerability in the status of household food security. This study aims to examine the vulnerability of the factors of household food accessibility and its linkage with the climatic changes in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on primary data collected in the months of July-October, 2012, through a questionnaire survey on 460 low-income households from the East Coast Economic Region (ECER) in Malaysia. The samples were selected from E-Kasih poor household database, based on the cluster random sampling technique. The questionnaire uses a five-point Likert scale, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA F statistics for chi-square two-sample test.

Findings

The study finds that the vulnerability of the factors of household food accessibility has increased statistically and significantly over the past five years in Malaysia, whereas the contributions of climatic factors are low on these changes. This study suggests that the food security programs in Malaysia need to be integrated with the climatic change adaptation programs to ensure more effective and sustainable household food security in the future.

Originality/value

This study is an original work based on primary data that empirically measures the vulnerability of the factors of household food accessibility, one of the important dimensions of household food security, and its linkage with climatic changes.

Details

International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management, vol. 9 no. 03
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-8692

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 November 2010

Abul Quasem Al‐Amin, Abdul Hamid Jaafar and Chamhuri Siwar

Climate change impacts and scientific evidence are now irresistible based on time scales, consequences and perspectives. Civil society leaders and business people are now agreed…

970

Abstract

Purpose

Climate change impacts and scientific evidence are now irresistible based on time scales, consequences and perspectives. Civil society leaders and business people are now agreed on emission reduction targets to mitigate the effects of climate change but the question remains: how to make sure that durable, lasting, and real mitigation options are taking place? The purpose of this paper is to ask, does climate change mitigation option (via carbon tax) exert a greater improvement within the tradeoff between climate change and economic values?

Design/methodology/approach

This study tries to lessen the gap between mitigation options and economic development activities using computable general equilibrium techniques focusing on alteration of carbon tax instruments.

Findings

The findings indicate that much strong carbon tax policy compensates GDP compositions, places economic burden, shrinks enterprise savings and investment.

Originality/value

This paper describes the most favorable policy option and may find use in formulation of climate change mitigation options and policy concerns for prioritizing needs.

Details

International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management, vol. 2 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-8692

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2001

Chamhuri Siwar and Basri Abd. Talib

Malaysia introduced its first micro‐financing programme in 1986 to replicate Grameen Bank's successful specialised delivery system, emphasising direct targeting, informality of…

Abstract

Malaysia introduced its first micro‐financing programme in 1986 to replicate Grameen Bank's successful specialised delivery system, emphasising direct targeting, informality of delivery, and delivering credit to the “doorsteps” of the poor. Since then, micro‐finance programs (MFPs) have been part of the poverty alleviation policies and strategies. MFPs became a popular approach, especially to reach the poor who would normally be excluded from the formal credit sector. This paper evaluates the performance of three MFIs, namely Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), Yayasan Usaha Maju (YUM) and Koperasi Kredit Rakyat (KKR). The paper provides a micro‐finance capacity assessment to identify issues and constraints especially with respect to outreach, viability or sustainability, resource mobilisation, and policy environment.

Details

Humanomics, vol. 17 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0828-8666

Article
Publication date: 17 April 2009

Chamhuri Siwar and Tareq Hossain

The purpose of the paper is to examine the relation between the concepts of Islam with the Malaysian managers' opinion regarding corporate social responsibility (CSR). Nearly, 1.6…

4711

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to examine the relation between the concepts of Islam with the Malaysian managers' opinion regarding corporate social responsibility (CSR). Nearly, 1.6 billion Muslims believe that Islam is not only a religion, but also a guideline for the complete way of life. As Islam is a complete code of life, it needs to discuss each and every part of life. Indeed, values and principles that have been central to Islam since the time of the holy Prophet Mohammed may serve as a foundation for the notion of CSR similar to those in the West.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper compares the perceptions of managers about the responsibility of a corporation to society in Malaysia with the Islamic concept. An open‐ and close‐ended questionnaire was distributed to 50 listed organizations in Malaysia, including multinational, government link, non‐government link and SME companies.

Findings

A similarity between the Islamic concept and top executives' opinion about CSR was found.

Originality/value

The survey findings and annual report analysis are expected to provide guidelines to the managers of other organizations for those who want to follow Islamic CSR.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 20 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 1997

Chamhuri Siwar and Mohd. Yusof Kasim

Reports that urban poverty in Malaysia is not considered a serious phenomenon; however, rapid urbanization and industrialization is expected to bring in rural migrants into urban…

19080

Abstract

Reports that urban poverty in Malaysia is not considered a serious phenomenon; however, rapid urbanization and industrialization is expected to bring in rural migrants into urban centres bringing along low incomes while putting pressure on urban services, infrastructure and the environment. Reviews past and present trends of urbanization and urban poverty, especially in the metropolitan city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and highlights evidence on the nature and causes of urban poverty based on a recent survey of urban poverty in Kuala Lumpur. Also assesses past policies on urban development and urban poverty alleviation programmes and makes recommendations for alternative policies.

Details

International Journal of Social Economics, vol. 24 no. 12
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0306-8293

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 August 2016

Md. Mahmudul Alam, Basri Abdul Talib, Chamhuri Siwar and Abu N. M. Wahid

The purpose of this paper is to examine the direct and indirect impacts of climatic changes as well as the effects of non-climatic factors on household food security in Malaysia…

1022

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the direct and indirect impacts of climatic changes as well as the effects of non-climatic factors on household food security in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on primary data collected in the months of July – October, 2012 through a questionnaire survey on 460 low-income households from East Coast Economic Region (ECER) of the country. The samples were selected from E-Kasih poor household database, based on cluster random sampling technique. The statistical estimation was done through two-stage formative path measurement model by using non-parametric bootstrap procedure under Smart PLS.

Findings

This study finds that household food insecurity ECER – Malaysia is not only related to social and economic factors, but also statistically significantly linked to the direct and indirect impacts of climatic factors. The policy implications of the study suggest that design of food security programs must be integrated with climatic change adaptation programs.

Originality/value

The government and other relevant agencies should jointly develop appropriate policies for poverty alleviation, household-level food security, and adaptation with climatic changes in Malaysia.

Details

Journal of Economic Studies, vol. 43 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-3585

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 21 November 2018

Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh, Chamhuri Siwar, Rozita Hod, Azmawati Mohammed Nawi, Idayu Badilla Idris, Izzah Syazwani Ahmad, Nor Diana Mohd Idris, Nurul Ashikin Alias and Mohd Raihan Taha

River flood exposes the population to multiple attacks from the physical, mental, health risks and its related negative effects. This study focused on the Pahang River and the…

Abstract

River flood exposes the population to multiple attacks from the physical, mental, health risks and its related negative effects. This study focused on the Pahang River and the three worst-hit district population (Pekan, Kuantan and Temerloh). Tools on areas of self-perceived health symptoms, QOL, depression, PTSD and community empowerment were assessed. Semi-guided questionnaires were distributed to a total of 602 victims. Questions on health symptoms were asked to respondents (R) and household members (HM). PTSD screening, i.e., the Trauma Screening Questionnaire, was used. Depression was assessed through the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). WHOQOL-BREF assessed four domains of QOL, i.e., physical activity, psychological, social relationships and environment. Community empowerment using the Individual Community Related Empowerment tool to assess five domains, i.e., self-efficacy, participation, motivation, intention and critical awareness. Prevalent disease showed that majority suffered from hypertension (11.0%) and diabetes (7.3%). Two main symptoms experienced were cough (R = 47.2%, HM = 43.7%) and flu (R = 42.7%, HM = 40.4). Monthly health expenditure was higher post flood. Purchase of prescription medications rose from MYR24.40 to 31.02. A total of 33 people were suspected to suffer from PTSD. Through BDI assessment, it was estimated that as many as 104 (17.3%) suffered overt (high) depression. The prevalence of QOL domains are as such: low physical activity was highest at 59%, low psychological activity at 53.3%, low social relationships at 43% and low environment at 45.2%. On community empowerment, low empowerment was seen on four domains: self-efficacy at 52%, participation at 55%, motivation at 54.2% and critical awareness at 74.4%. The domain with good intention and willing to participate was at 54%. Results indicate that the community was not adaptable to flood events. This is evident from high amount of experienced symptoms, low QOL (physical and psychological aspects) and empowerment (except intention). Proportion of PTSD and overt (high) depression was however quite low.

Details

Improving Flood Management, Prediction and Monitoring
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78756-552-4

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 21 November 2018

Nor Diana Mohd Idris, Chamhuri Siwar, Rospidah Ghazali and Nurul Ashikin Alias

This chapter explores the ways in which residents in Pekan, Kuantan and Temerloh districts dealt with extreme floods in the Pahang River Basin. The data were based on a survey of…

Abstract

This chapter explores the ways in which residents in Pekan, Kuantan and Temerloh districts dealt with extreme floods in the Pahang River Basin. The data were based on a survey of 602 respondents who were affected by the floods, using a set of questionnaire in a face-to-face interview conducted in June 2015. Results of the study show that the flood has destructed the livelihood, crops and small business activities of the affected communities. Vulnerabilities of the communities are linked to the lack of flood warning, landlessness, unstable housing and food insecurity, in addition to female-headed households with financial burden. Community empowerment is necessary for recovering and reducing the loss and damages incurred and improving the quality of life. The prevention and coping measures aim to reduce risk of disasters for the communities in areas that are most vulnerable and less resilient. Flood preparedness is a good preventive measure to limit the negative impacts of extreme flooding in the future. Upgrading of communication system, diversification of income and strengthening of social institution networks are most appropriately recommended for flood adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Details

Improving Flood Management, Prediction and Monitoring
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78756-552-4

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 21 November 2018

Nurul Ashikin Alias, Chamhuri Siwar, Mohd Khairi Ismail and Nor Diana Mohd Idris

Flood is one of the most common disasters in Malaysia especially during northeast monsoon season (November–March). This chapter analyses flood disaster management strategies in…

Abstract

Flood is one of the most common disasters in Malaysia especially during northeast monsoon season (November–March). This chapter analyses flood disaster management strategies in Pahang on preparations and vulnerabilities of the local communities along the Pahang River Basin, especially in Temerloh. In Malaysia, the National Security Council (MKN) is the organisation that is fully responsible in managing the national disaster management system, which provides an effective relieve mechanism for flood disaster. This study utilises two type of sources which are primary and secondary sources to collect the data. The primary data were collected in June 2015 through a survey of 202 respondents affected by the flood by using semi-structured questionnaires through an interview conducted in person. Meanwhile, the secondary data were collected from the local authorities. From both sources, the survey shows that 31% of the population in Temerloh did not get an early warning notification, more than half involving those in the rural area. Lack of efficient early warning system became one of the vulnerability factors affecting local community. About 78% of respondents have been relocated to the relief centres around Temerloh. Agricultural income dropped by 31.2% as the result of damaged crops and cessation of small businesses, which contributed to the increase in hardcore-poor category by 6.5%. The study concludes that it is essential to review the effectiveness of flood disaster management strategies in Pahang to minimise the aftermath impact of flooding to the community.

Details

Improving Flood Management, Prediction and Monitoring
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78756-552-4

Keywords

1 – 10 of 36