1.Attitude and Motivation Influence the Research Performance among Academicians at Malaysian Research University
Nurul Fatin Malek Rivan ; Suzana Shahar ; Norhayati Ibrahim ; Devinder Kaur Ajit Singh ; Wan Syafira Ishak ; Ruszymah Idrus ; Ishak Ahmad ; Melor Md Yunus ; Hatta Sidi ; Ahmad Kamal Arifin ; Adi Irfan Che An ; Neoh Hui-Min ; Roszalina Ramli ; Kuik Cheng Chwee ; Nur Faizah Abu Bakar ; Noor Shahida Sukiman
Malaysian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;24(No. 1):18-28
Despite publishing and securing research grants being obligatory in research universities, the literature on the
factors influencing academic productivity is relatively scarce. Thus, in this study, we aimed to determine the
personal and behavioural-related factors that influence the culture of publishing and securing research grants
among academicians with lower research-related performance. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 49
academic staff members of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). A self-administered questionnaire consisting
of personal, attitude and behavioural (barriers, perceived stress scale, work extrinsic and intrinsic motivation
scale, psychological well-being scale, and basic needs satisfaction scale) questions were distributed during a
workshop and online. Simple linear regression (SLR) analyses were performed for each variable, followed by
multiple linear regression (MLR) to identify the associated factors of research output. After adjusting for covariates,
having a doctoral degree (β=0.396, 95% CI=0.221-2.146, p<0.05) and integrated regulation (β=0.574, 95%
CI=0.036-3.612, p<0.05) were found to be associated with research grant acquisition (R2=0.273). Moreover,
increasing age (β=0.426, 95% CI=0.088-0.397, p<0.05), living alone (β=0.331, 95% CI=0.944-6.626, p<0.05),
having a doctoral degree (β=0.248, 95% CI=0.174-6.747, p<0.05), environmental mastery (β=0.318, 95%
CI=0.013-0.347, p<0.05), self-acceptance (β=0.284, 95% CI=0.010-0.242, p<0.05), satisfaction incompetence
(β=0.273, 95% CI=0.001-0.200, p<0.05) and relatedness (β=0.280, 95% CI=0.001-0.116, p<0.05) were found to
be the factors that influence the publications produced among participants (R2
=0.423). The findings of this study
could be used by management to formulate effective strategies to increase the productivity of academics in their
research-related performance.
2.Physicochemical Characteristics, Sodium Content And Sensory Evaluation Of Selected Commercialised Soy Sauces In Malaysia
Hasnah Haron ; Nur Huda Azahir ; Law Chai Jia
Malaysian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;24(No. 1):71-81
In Malaysia, the government has made it mandatory to label sodium content on food packaging effectively from 1st
January 2024. This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics, sodium content, and sensory evaluation
of selected commercial soy sauce without sodium labelling in Malaysia. 25 soy sauce samples were studied. Each
soy sauce has a significant difference (p<0.05) in physicochemical properties except for the pH value. Results
found that the sodium content in light soy sauce was the highest (5766.50±968.37mg) while sweet soy sauce was
the lowest (3289.09± 589.14mg). For total soluble solids, sweet soy sauce was the highest (52.73°B). The range
of pH values for soy sauce is between 4.90-5.19. Sweet soy sauce showed the highest viscosity (145.78cP) and
brightness (L* = 2.48). Light soy sauce showed the highest values for redness and yellowness (a* = 1.34 and b*
= 1.57). Soy sauce without caramel has a significantly higher (p<0.05) sodium content and is less viscous than
the one with caramel. The sensory evaluation shows that sweet soy sauce has significantly (p<0.05) the highest
score for overall acceptance. Sodium content information on all soy sauce available in the Malaysian market to
help consumers make smarter choices.
3.Kesan Dialisis Terhadap Prestasi Aktiviti Kehidupan Seharian dalam Kalangan Pesakit Diabetes di Wilayah Kuala Selangor: Satu Kajian Kualitatif
Nur Atikah Suib ; Farahiyah Wan Yunus
Malaysian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;24(No. 1):112-123
Dialisis merupakan rawatan yang lazim bagi pesakit kegagalan buah pinggang. Dari tahun ke tahun, bilangan
pesakit yang menjalani dialisis semakin meningkat dengan kadar yang membimbangkan. Tahap keupayaan
fungsi pesakit dialisis adalah lebih rendah berbanding pesakit diabetes yang tidak menjalani dialisis. Kajian
ini bertujuan untuk mengenal pasti bagaimana dialisis mempengaruhi prestasi Aktiviti Kehidupan Seharian
(ADL) dalam kalangan pesakit diabetes di Kuala Selangor serta faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi prestasi ADL
mereka. Kajian berkaitan prestasi ADL dalam kalangan pesakit dialisis yang menghidap diabetes masih terhad.
Oleh itu, kajian ini menggunakan kaedah kualitatif melalui sesi temu bual bersemuka secara separa berstruktur.
Seramai sepuluh peserta telah direkrut berdasarkan kriteria kemasukan yang ditetapkan. Lima tema utama telah
dikenal pasti daripada temu bual, iaitu: (i) meningkatkan kualiti kehidupan seharian: perspektif baharu terhadap
aktiviti harian; (ii) kesan diabetes terhadap aktiviti kehidupan seharian; (iii) kesan dialisis terhadap aktiviti
kehidupan seharian; (iv) prestasi fungsi dalam aktiviti asas kehidupan seharian; dan (v) aktiviti harian yang
dianggap penting. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahawa pelbagai jenis aktiviti kehidupan seharian telah terjejas
akibat kelemahan fizikal yang dialami oleh peserta. Kajian ini dapat memberi pemahaman yang lebih mendalam
kepada ahli terapi cara kerja dan bidang pemulihan lain mengenai keupayaan fizikal pesakit diabetes yang
menjalani hemodialisis
4.Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Towards Safety and Health Risks Among Food Manufacturing Workers in Malaysia
Nur Shahida Murad ; Nor Ashikin Sopian ; Nurud Suria Suhaimi ; Indah Lutfiya ; Wan Zaiton Wan Sulaiman
International Journal of Public Health Research 2026;16(1):2457-2467
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Towards Safety ; Health Risks ; Food Manufacturing
Introduction
Food manufacturing in Malaysia exposes workers to numerous potential hazards and health risks throughout the work process. This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) towards safety and health risks among food manufacturing workers and to examine the relationship between these domains.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was performed involving 80 workers from three food manufacturing factories in Negeri Sembilan. KAP was assessed through a validated questionnaire adapted from a previous study.
Results
All workers (100%) demonstrated a positive attitude, 98.7% show good practice, and 93.8% exhibit a good level of knowledge towards safety and health risks. The correlation study showed significant positive correlations between gender and attitude, and between education level and attitude, indicating that these sociodemographic factors influence safety attitudes. Work experience is significantly associated with knowledge, suggesting that work experience enhances knowledge. The study also reveals weak positive correlations among knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding safety and health risk, but a significant correlation is observed between knowledge and practice.
Conclusions
These findings suggest that fostering practical knowledge is essential for ensuring safe work behaviors. Prioritizing hands-on safety training can help bridge the gap between theoretical attitude and daily operational safety, ultimately reducing occupational health risks among food manufacturing workers.
5.A Literature Review on Risk Factors of Musculoskeletal Symptoms among Woodworker in Woodworking Station
Nurhanisah MH ; Ruhaizin Sulaiman ; Khairul Manami Kamarudin ; Rosalam Che Me ; Nur Athirah Diyana Mohammad Yusof
International Journal of Public Health Research 2026;16(1):2570-2580
A Literature Review on Risk Factors of Musculoskeletal Symptoms among Woodworker in Woodworking Station
Introduction
The wood industry is inherently hazardous, with workers frequently exposed to perils such as injuries, noise, and ergonomic strain. Therefore, ensuring workers' safety and health in such environments is critical. The objective of this review paper is to investigate the main factors affecting symptoms of MSDs among woodworkers in their workstations.
Methods
A literature search was conducted using work-related terms, such as musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), woodworkers, and carpenters. All studies on risk factors associated with WMSDs, published between 2014 and 2024, were included. Accordingly, databases searched were Google Scholar, Science Direct and PUBMED.
Results
501 articles that assessed postural problems in woodworking activities were found, and only 12 articles regarding WMSDs among woodworkers were selected for further analysis. India had the highest number of articles among countries, followed by Pakistan. According to the results, 19% of lower back and shoulder pain cases were associated with MSDs symptoms.
Conclusions
Woodworkers face an increased risk of MSDs, particularly in the lower back, shoulders and neck, due to poor workstation setup, awkward postures, manual handling, exposure to vibration, and other physical factors in the workplace. The findings of this review inform the design of evidence-based ergonomic interventions, such as modifications to workstations, redesigned ergonomics tools, or unsafe work practices identified among woodworkers in workstations.
6.Development of monitoring and evaluation guidelines for Indonesia’s national Early Warning Alert and Response System: aiming for a standardized and systematic assessment
Shingo Nishiki ; Irma Gusmi Ratih ; Nur Assyifa Daiyah Fillah ; Rizki Dinar Winiar ; Isamu Kuboki ; Rendy Manuhutu ; Lia Septiana ; Eka Muhiriyah ; Triya Novita Dinihari
Western Pacific Surveillance and Response 2026;17(2):01-04
The initiative to establish a systematic monitoring and evaluation (M&E) scheme for Indonesia’s Early Warning Alert and Response System began in 2024, with the development of guidelines and online tools through pilot activities. This can contribute to capacity-building in other countries, providing practical insights for structuring surveillance M&E systems.
7.Delayed Presentation of Oesophageal Perforation from Dental Prosthesis
Wan Nurul Fathihah Mohamad ZAFIRI ; Mohamad Masykurin MAFAUZY ; Wan Nur Shazwani Wan ROSSLY ; Afifah Sjamun SJAHID ; Mohd Hafizuddin HUSIN
Brunei International Medical Journal 2026;22():74-77
Dental prosthesis ingestion in adults is uncommon, and delayed presentation may complicate diagnosis and management. We report a 39 -year-old woman with epilepsy who accidentally ingested a broken dental prosthesis during sleep. She initially presented with a foreign body sensation and underwent laryngoscopy and oesophagogastroduodenoscopy 24 hours after ingestion and these were unremarkable with no foreign body identified. Four days later, she developed dyspnoea, chest pain, and sepsis. Clinical and radiological assessments revealed a massive left pleural effusion, pneumomediastinum, and contrast leakage from the distal oesophagus, consistent with an oesophageal perforation. The patient was referred urgently for surgical intervention and was successfully treated. This case illustrates the diagnostic challenges of radiolucent dental prostheses and the potential for mucosal injury that may not be immediately evident, which can lead to delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis resulting in severe complications. Awareness and early recognition, appropriate imaging with computed tomography or contrast studies, and high clinical suspicion are critical, particularly in neurologically compromised patients. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent serious complications such as mediastinitis, sepsis, and respiratory failure
8.Delayed Presentation of Oesophageal Perforation from Dental Prosthesis
Wan Nurul Fathihah Mohamad ZAFIRI ; Mohamad Masykurin MAFAUZY ; Wan Nur Shazwani Wan ROSSLY ; Afifah Sjamun SJAHID ; Mohd Hafizuddin HUSIN
Brunei International Medical Journal 2026;22():74-77
Dental prosthesis ingestion in adults is uncommon, and delayed presentation may complicate diagnosis and management. We report a 39 -year-old woman with epilepsy who accidentally ingested a broken dental prosthesis during sleep. She initially presented with a foreign body sensation and underwent laryngoscopy and oesophagogastroduodenoscopy 24 hours after ingestion and these were unremarkable with no foreign body identified. Four days later, she developed dyspnoea, chest pain, and sepsis. Clinical and radiological assessments revealed a massive left pleural effusion, pneumomediastinum, and contrast leakage from the distal oesophagus, consistent with an oesophageal perforation. The patient was referred urgently for surgical intervention and was successfully treated. This case illustrates the diagnostic challenges of radiolucent dental prostheses and the potential for mucosal injury that may not be immediately evident, which can lead to delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis resulting in severe complications. Awareness and early recognition, appropriate imaging with computed tomography or contrast studies, and high clinical suspicion are critical, particularly in neurologically compromised patients. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent serious complications such as mediastinitis, sepsis, and respiratory failure
9.Mental Health Problems and Burnout among Healthcare Workers in Brunei Darussalam During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Mikhail SOLIMAN ; Fauziyyah MANAP ; Nur Syahirah CHUA ; Rina RAHMAD ; Hjh Rozailah RAHMAN ; Hanif ABDUL RAHMAN ; Najib NAIBI ; Kartini TUDIN ; Hilda HO
Brunei International Medical Journal 2026;22():125-134
Introduction: The COVID -19 pandemic significantly impacted the mental health and wellbeing of healthcare workers worldwide. This study examined the prevalence and predictors of self -reported mental health problems, specifically depression, anxiety, stress, and burnout among government healthcare professionals in Brunei Darussalam during the second and subsequent waves of the pandemic. Materials and Methods : A cross -sectional online survey was distributed to all government healthcare workers employed by the Ministry of Health in Brunei Darussalam. The survey collected sociodemographic information and applied two validated tools: the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 -item version (DASS -21) to assess the depression, anxiety, and stress, and the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) to measure burnout. Results : Of 1,759 invited healthcare workers, 704 responded (response rate 40.0%). The prevalence of common mental health problems and burnout were 32.4% and 71.7%, respectively. Older age was protective against common mental health problems. Performing clinical duties outside one's training scope, and direct involvement in managing COVID -19 patients were significant predictors of common mental health problems. Expatriate staff had significantly lower odds of burnout compared to Bruneian nationals. Shift work and additional administrative duties independently predicted burnout. A history of mental health problems and difficulty accessing mental health support were strongly associated with both outcomes. Conclusions : This study identified a substantial burden of depression, anxiety, stress, and burnout among government healthcare professionals in Brunei Darussalam, with distinct vulnerable subgroups. These findings highlight the need for targeted mental health interventions, improved access to support services, and systemic workplace strategies to safeguard the wellbeing of the healthcare workforce. The Brunei International Medical Journal (BIMJ) is a peer -reviewed official publication of the Ministry of Health and Universiti Brunei Darussalam, under the auspices of the Clinical Research Unit, Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam. The BIMJ publishes articles ranging from original research papers, review articl es, medical practice papers, special reports, audits, case reports, images of interest, education and technical/innovation papers, editorials, commentaries, and letters to the Editor. Topics of interest include all subjects related to clinical practice and research in all branches of medicine, both basic and clinical, including topics related to allied health care fields. The BIMJ welcome s manuscripts from contributors but usually solicits review articles and special reports. Proposals for review papers can be sent directly to the Managing Editor. Please refer to the contact inf ormation of the Editorial Office. DISCLAIMER: All articles published, including editorials and letters, represent the opinions of the contributors and do not reflect the o fficial views or policies of the Clinical Research Unit, the Ministry of Health, or the institutions with which the contributors are affiliated, unless clearly stated. The appearance of advertisements does not constitute an endorsement by the Clinical Research Unit or the Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam. Furthermore, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for the c orrectness or accuracy of the advertisers' text, claims, or any bimjonline@gmail.com www.bimjonline.com Author Details: 1 Psychiatry Services, Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam 2 Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom 3 Community Psychology Division, Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam 4 PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam 5 Department of Forensic Psychiatry, NHS Forth Valley, United Kingdom 6 Primary Health Care, Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam 25 Mikhail SOLIMAN1,2*, Fauziyyah MANAP3, Nur Syahirah CHUA3, Rina RAHMAD3, Hjh Rozailah RAHMAN3, Hanif ABDUL RAHMAN4, Najib NAIBI6, Kartini TUDIN1, Hilda HO1,5
10.Delayed Presentation of Oesophageal Perforation from Dental Prosthesis
Wan Nurul Fathihah Mohamad ZAFIRI ; Mohamad Masykurin MAFAUZY ; Wan Nur Shazwani Wan ROSSLY ; Afifah Sjamun SJAHID ; Mohd Hafizuddin HUSIN
Brunei International Medical Journal 2026;22():74-77
Dental prosthesis ingestion in adults is uncommon, and delayed presentation may complicate diagnosis and management. We report a 39 -year-old woman with epilepsy who accidentally ingested a broken dental prosthesis during sleep. She initially presented with a foreign body sensation and underwent laryngoscopy and oesophagogastroduodenoscopy 24 hours after ingestion and these were unremarkable with no foreign body identified. Four days later, she developed dyspnoea, chest pain, and sepsis. Clinical and radiological assessments revealed a massive left pleural effusion, pneumomediastinum, and contrast leakage from the distal oesophagus, consistent with an oesophageal perforation. The patient was referred urgently for surgical intervention and was successfully treated. This case illustrates the diagnostic challenges of radiolucent dental prostheses and the potential for mucosal injury that may not be immediately evident, which can lead to delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis resulting in severe complications. Awareness and early recognition, appropriate imaging with computed tomography or contrast studies, and high clinical suspicion are critical, particularly in neurologically compromised patients. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent serious complications such as mediastinitis, sepsis, and respiratory failure


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