Journal of Tropical Resources and Sustainable Science (JTRSS)
Journal of Tropical Resources and Sustainable Science (JTRSS) is published by Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) Press and managed by Faculty of Agro based Industry (FIAT). The editorial office is located at FIAT, UMK Jeli Campus. Experts from various academic backgrounds contribute ideas, time and expertise towards successful and quality publication of Journal of Tropical Resources and Sustainable Science. An Article Processing Charge (APC) of RM 500 or USD 120 will apply to all accepted articles submitted on or after 15th July 2025. Starting from 2026, JTRSS will publish four issues annually in March, June, September, and December.
The bioconcentration of metals in Oreochromis niloticus and Pangasius sp. from a commercial fishpond
The accumulation of metals in aquatic organisms is a growing environmental and public health concern, often linked to contamination from industrial and agricultural sources. This study investigated the concentrations of iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) in Oreochromis niloticus and Pangasius sp., collected from a commercial fishpond in Marang, Terengganu. Metal concentrations in fish tissues were determined using acid digestion followed by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (FAAS). Results showed that Pangasius sp., a bottom-dwelling species, accumulated significantly higher levels of Fe (271 mg/kg), Zn (50.6 mg/kg), and Cu (16.2 mg/kg) as compared to O. niloticus, a column feeder. These differences are likely due to species-specific habitat preferences and feeding behaviours, with Pangasius sp. being more exposed to sediment-associated metals. To evaluate potential human health risks, Target Hazard Quotients (THQs) were calculated, indicating possible non-carcinogenic effects. Importantly, the concentrations of all metals exceeded the permissible limits set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Malaysian Food Act. These findings highlight the need for ongoing monitoring of aquaculture environments and the implementation of effective management strategies to minimise metal contamination and ensure food safety.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Tropical Resources and Sustainable Science (JTRSS)
Spatiotemporal analysis of rainfall and water levels in Kuala Krai, Kelantan, from 2009 to 2020: interpolation, trend assessment and flood risk mapping
Kelantan experiences annual flood events, many of which are triggered by rainfall exceeding historical norms. This study investigates the spatiotemporal patterns of rainfall and water levels in Kuala Krai, Kelantan, Malaysia, using data collected from 2009 to 2020 by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID). Missing data were addressed through arithmetic mean interpolation, and trend analyses were conducted using the Mann-Kendall test. The total rainfall ranged from 28,698.3 mm to 30,610.4 mm across Dabong, Ldg. Kuala Gris, Kg. Laloh, Ldg. Lepan Kabu, Ldg. Kuala Nal, and JPS Kuala Krai, reflecting spatial variability in precipitation within the district. Among these stations, Dabong recorded the highest average monthly rainfall at 212.572 mm, followed closely by Ldg. Kuala Nal at 210.868 mm. The comparison between interpolated and missing rainfall datasets was minimal at Dabong station (average 0.286 mm; total 41.4 mm), indicating that the observed data were largely complete and reliable. By contrast, Kg Laloh station recorded the highest difference (average 7.287 mm; total 1049.3 mm), suggesting substantial gaps in the original dataset and a heavy reliance on interpolation to reconstruct rainfall values. According to the map created in the present study, the high-risk flood-prone area is concentrated in the central part of Kuala Krai, where almost 70% of the district was inundated during major flood events. The findings emphasise the significance of precise rainfall monitoring and underscore the wider effects of extreme weather on hydrological systems and community readiness.
Sustainable eating begins with youth: exploring organic food consumption intentions among young adults in Malaysia
As Malaysia moves towards more sustainable food practices, organic food consumption has gained traction, especially among young adults. This study discusses the factors that have been found to be most significant in determining the intentions of young adults to consume organic food. The model is based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) but adds two more constructs to this framework, health consciousness and environmental concern, to explain more about the behavior. The online survey in Malaysia included Sabah and Sarawak (n = 324) was employed to gather the data based on a purposive sampling method and analysed via Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Here, the outcomes reveal that attitude, perceived behavioral control, health consciousness, and environmental concern significantly predict intention to consume organic food, with health consciousness emerging as the strongest determinant. However, subjective norms were found to be statistically insignificant in shaping intention. These results underscore the relevance of personal health orientation and environmental values in driving organic food choices among Malaysian youth, while suggesting a diminishing role of social influence. The study offers valuable implications for policymakers, marketers, and organic food producers in crafting effective strategies that align with health-driven and eco-conscious consumer motivations.
A study on food waste utilization for fertilizer production: Analysis of physical and chemical properties
Food waste is generated daily in every household worldwide, posing significant challenges to waste management. Disposal in landfills consumes substantial land, water, and fertilizer resources while releasing methane gas that contributes to global warming. This study investigated the nutrient content and physicochemical properties of biofertilizer produced via the Bokashi composting system. Physical characterization focused on liquid fertilizer concentration and moisture content. Results showed that liquid fertilizer from the Bokashi bin had a higher concentration at outdoor temperature, although the yield was lower (0.0073 ratio) than at room temperature. Moisture content in samples at the room temperature was 99.27% higher than those stored outdoors. However, degraded film samples at outdoor temperature had a greater average weight (9 g) compared to room temperature (5 g). The fertilizer was analyzed for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) concentrations. For chemical characterization, total nitrogen content was measured using the Kjeldahl method according to Malaysian Standard MS 417: Part 3: 1994. The results showed that the thin film fertilizer contained 0.3% nitrogen, which is higher than that of the liquid fertilizer. Phosphorus content was determined using UV-Visible Spectroscopy at 740 nm, with the liquid fertilizer at room temperature showing a higher phosphorus concentration of 4.117 mg/L. Potassium concentration in the film fertilizer was found to be 156.1 mg/L, as analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). These findings highlight the potential of Bokashi-based and films bio-fertilizers as a sustainable solution for nutrient recovery and food waste reduction.
Abundance of microplastics in coastal area surface water at Tok Bali, Kelantan
Plastic is a man-made material made up of polymers, which are long molecules structured around carbon chains. Microplastic pollution affects the environment by altering habitats and natural processes. Human activities produce plastic waste, which causes pollution to the environment. Tourism areas are one of the highly exposed areas for microplastic pollutants since a lot of activity is held. Tok Bali Beach is a tourist attraction and a resort area for residents around Tok Bali Beach. Therefore, this study is needed to assess the abundance, distribution, and characteristics of microplastics in the surface waters of Tok Bali beach, Pasir Puteh, Kelantan. In this study, 10 sampling points were selected in the beach area to determine the presence of microplastics in the surface water. Photomicroscopic examination, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were used to identify the presence of microplastics in surface seawater samples. Five types of microplastics in the surface seawater such as pellets, fibers, fragments, filaments, and films were identified in this study. Photographic microscopy revealed that flakes were the most dominant form, followed by pellets and fibers. These findings highlight the significant presence of microplastics in the surface waters of Tok Bali Beach, emphasizing the need for pollution mitigation and sustainable coastal management.
Study of thorium retention using different functionalized resins
Thorium (Th⁴⁺), a naturally occurring radioactive element often co-existing with rare earth elements (REEs), poses significant environmental, radiological, and regulatory concerns during REE extraction but also presents potential recovery opportunities as a valuable by-product. Effective thorium removal and retention are therefore essential for sustainable REE purification processes and for ensuring safe radioactive waste management. This study investigates the thorium adsorption behaviour and kinetic characteristics of three functionally distinct ion exchange resins which is WA21j (a weak base anion exchange resin), PE-F (a fluoride-based chelating resin), and PM401 (an iminodiacetate-functionalized chelating resin). Batch adsorption experiments were conducted using a 10 ppm Th⁴⁺ solution and 0.5 M ammonium sulphate under controlled agitation and temperature conditions by using the agitation shaker to evaluate performance consistency. Thorium concentrations were quantified by inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), while adsorption data were analysed using non-linear pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models to determine the rate-controlling mechanisms. Among the tested resins, PE-F exhibited the highest thorium uptake and the strongest correlation with the pseudo-second-order model (R² = 0.9921), confirming chemisorption as the dominant mechanism. PM401 showed comparable performance (R² = 0.9896), attributed to multidentate chelation via iminodiacetate groups, whereas WA21j demonstrated weaker retention due to limited amine interaction. The results emphasize the critical role of functional group chemistry in determining adsorption efficiency and selectivity. These findings highlight the potential of fluoride- and iminodiacetate-based resins for thorium recovery, radioactive waste remediation, and REE purification, providing valuable guidance for future development of efficient and sustainable ion exchange systems.
Determination of the macroinvertebrates benthic ecological index for river health assessment
Conventional river assessments often rely on physico-chemical parameters, which cannot fully capture ecological integrity or long-term impacts of human activities. Benthic macroinvertebrates, however, provide reliable bioindicators as they integrate responses to both short-term and cumulative stressors. This study investigated three rivers in Johor, Malaysia of Sungai Mengkibol, Sungai Dengar and Sungai Madek representing different land-use influences including reference conditions, oil palm plantations and logging activities. Eight sampling stations were established, with benthic macroinvertebrates collected using a Surber net and identified to family or genus level where possible. Four ecological indices were calculated using Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index, Simpson’s Dominance Index, Margalef Richness Index, and Hill’s Evenness Index that purposely to evaluate river health. Threshold values were developed by comparing reference and impaired stations, leading to the establishment of a Recommended Ecological Index for River Health Assessment. Results showed that healthy rivers consistently displayed high diversity (>1.8), high richness (>2.0), low dominance (<0.2), and strong evenness (>0.8), reflecting balanced and resilient communities. In contrast, impaired rivers exposed to anthropogenic pressures recorded low diversity and richness, high dominance, and poor evenness. The proposed framework sets out clear ecological thresholds to help categorize rivers as healthy, slightly unhealthy, or polluted. This is a significant step, as it’s the first time we’re developing reference values for Malaysian rivers using macroinvertebrate indices. The findings emphasize how innovative and practical benthic macroinvertebrate-based biomonitoring can be cost-effective and meaningful from an ecological standpoint. By using these indices, we can strengthen our national river management strategies and promote evidence-based approaches to preserving our tropical freshwater ecosystems.
A review: amino acids, biogenic amines, and microbial diversity in traditional asian fermented shrimp-based products
Fermented shrimp-based products, primarily derived from Acetes spp., are globally consumed and play a crucial role in food quality and extending shelf stability. Fermentation establishes an environment that is unfavourable to spoilage microorganisms; however, natural fermentation stimulates the growth of different microorganisms derived from the shrimps or salts applied in the fermentation. Thus, the primary free amino acids and biogenic amines (BAs) were produced as a result of shrimp-based fermentation. This review aims to describe knowledge on biogenic amines, amino acids, and microbial diversity within fermented shrimp-based products, with a focus on those produced in Asia. Proteinases produced by fermenting microorganisms break down the proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids, and the microbial decarboxylation of amino acids causes the formation of biogenic amines (BAs), which pose health risks. Various analytical approaches have been studied, including high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for quantifying amino acids and biogenic amines. The profiling of diversity and function of microbes present in a wide range of fermented shrimp-based products can be examined in detail using molecular and next-generation sequencing (NGS). Additionally, this review examines the functional contributions of these elements, addresses challenges, and proposes future research directions. Further research on fermented shrimp-based products is essential for advancing food science and promoting human health benefits.
Evaluation of nutritional profiles, phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activities in Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench (red vs. white)
Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) is the fifth most widely cultivated cereal grain globally. It is valued for its rich nutritional profile, gluten-free nature, and health-promoting properties, particularly its antioxidant potential. However, limited comparative data exist on the nutritional content, phytochemicals, and antioxidant activities between the red and white sorghum. This research aims to compare these characteristics between the two variants of sorghum, which is red sorghum and white sorghum. Red and white sorghum were dehydrated at 60 °C for 1 hour. Proximate analysis was performed to determine the nutritional content, Folin-Ciocalteu assay for total phenolic content (TPC) and aluminum chloride colorimetric method for total flavonoid content (TFC). Antioxidant activities were assessed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH+) and 2,2'-azino-bis [3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid] (ABTS+) assays. The results were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and differences with p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Red sorghum exhibited significantly higher protein (p = 0.001), while white sorghum exhibited higher ash content (p = 0.036). Although red sorghum showed slightly higher TPC (235.03 ± 59.82 µg GAE/g) and TFC (6.53 ± 3.27 µg QE/g) than white sorghum (214.03 ± 74.08 µg GAE/g and 4.95 ± 2.8 µg QE/g, respectively), the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The DPPH assay showed that WS exhibited significantly higher radical scavenging activity with 87.4% inhibition (IC₅₀ = 260.01 µg/ml) compared to RS at 77.4% inhibition (IC₅₀ = 268.67 µg/ml). Conversely, the ABTS assay revealed stronger antioxidant activity in RS, which had a higher inhibition percentage (67.6%, IC₅₀ = 326.00 µg/ml) than WS (49.0%, IC₅₀ = 827.27 µg/ml), indicating cultivar-dependent differences in antioxidant efficacy. Thus, red and white sorghum each exhibit distinct strengths, with significant differences in protein, ash content and free radical inhibitions (DPPH and ABTS). However, their comparable TPC, TFC suggest equal potential for functional food applications.
Therapeutic potential of topical black ginger (Kaempferia parviflora) against naturally occurring Notoedres cati infestation in cats
Mange or scabies in cats, caused by Notoedres cati and Sarcoptes scabiei, is a highly contagious parasitic skin disease. Research efforts have been intensified in both developed and developing countries to evaluate the use of clinical and scientifically validated herbal drugs on humans and also animals. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of black ginger (Kaempferia parviflora) paste against mange in stray cats naturally infested with N. cati. Twelve cats exhibiting clinical signs of mange were captured in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, and housed in isolation. Infestation was confirmed via deep skin scrapings, and lesion severity scores were recorded before treatment. Cats were randomly assigned to four treatment groups (n=3 per group). Results indicated that a higher concentration of black ginger paste (0.7 g/ml) demonstrated superior efficacy compared to a lower concentration (0.5 g/ml). However, no significant differences (P-value = 0.105) were observed among the four treatment groups (extra virgin coconut oil, 0.5 and 0.7 g/ml black ginger pastes, and ivermectin). No viable mites were revealed from cats treated with the paste and with a concentration of 0.7 g/ml. Black ginger paste in this concentration was able to achieve an efficacy percentage of almost 30% of Notoedres-induced skin lesion score reduction. These preliminary findings suggest that K. parviflora may offer a promising plant-based alternative for managing notoedric mange in cats, pending further confirmatory studies with larger sample sizes.
Exploring the association between mindful eating, food choice and health wellbeing: Evidence from Malaysian adults
The increased prevalence of non-communicable diseases, especially those associated with poor diets, highlights the need for alternative behavioural measures to promote healthy food intake. Focussing on eating behaviours with awareness and non-judgment improves self-regulation and diet. However, data on its use and effects in Malaysian adults are scarce. Mindful eating (ME), food choice reasons, and health-related well-being among Malaysian adults are examined in this study. The Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ), Food Choice Questionnaire (FCQ), and self-reported well-being indicators were completed by 1,002 respondents. Variable associations were assessed using descriptive and correlation analysis. The results showed no gender difference in total MEQ scores; however, subscales did vary. Men scored higher in awareness and external signals, whereas women scored higher in emotional response and disinhibition. Mindful eating had positive effects on health, mood, sensory appeal, natural content, and weight control. Mindful eating lowers Body Mass Index (BMI) by reducing disinhibition and emotional reactivity. Higher BMI participants were more conscious and sensitive to external signals. Wellness parameters like physical and mental health, lifestyle, and diet were associated with mindful eating. Mindful eating greatly affects healthy food preferences and may improve physical and mental health. The findings support targeted public health and educational interventions to encourage sustainable eating in Malaysian adults.
Advertisement calls of seven species of Sarawak frogs from the family Megophryidae
The vocalization patterns of frogs in the family Megophryidae from Sarawak, Malaysia, play a crucial role in their behavioral ecology. This study aims to document and analyze the advertisement calls of seven Megophryidae species across diverse habitats in Sarawak. Using field recordings and acoustic analysis, distinct call characteristics, including frequency, duration, and temporal patterns, were identified. Advertisement calls were recorded and analyzed using SoundRuler Acoustic Analysis (ver. 0.9.6.0) and Praat Acoustic Software, allowing for species differentiation based on call parameters. The results revealed species-specific variations in vocalization, with pulse note count, note repetition rate, and dominant frequency emerging as the most distinguishing features. Leptobrachium ingeri exhibited the highest number of pulsed notes per call, while Leptobrachella gracilis demonstrated the highest note repetition rate, and Leptobrachella mjobergi produced the highest dominant frequency. These findings enhance our understanding of species-specific vocalizations and their ecological significance, particularly in mate selection, territorial defense, and environmental adaptation. This study underscores the importance of acoustic monitoring in biodiversity conservation and provides a foundation for future research on amphibian communication in tropical ecosystems.
Avian species of Sungai Sedim Forest Eco Park: Boost for ecotourism activities
Sungai Sedim Forest Eco Park is a forest amenity situated within the Gunung Inas Forest Reserve in Peninsular Malaysia, known for its abundant biodiversity and ecotourism activities. The ongoing documentation of fauna richness in the amenity forest could be a crucial element for supporting conservation and promoting sustainable tourism development. Hence, this study aimed to document avian species richness and highlight its role in enhancing ecotourism activities at Sungai Sedim Forest Eco Park. Bird surveys were conducted over five sessions from July 2022 to October 2022, utilizing mist-netting, direct observation, and bird vocalizations. The surveys successfully identified a total of 61 species belonging to 30 families. The diversity indices consistently indicated high species diversity across sessions (Shannon index: 2.045 - 3.912), with peak richness occurring in the fourth session. These findings highlight that Sungai Sedim Forest Eco Park supports a rich and dynamic bird community, reinforcing its significance as a birdwatching destination. Continuous biodiversity monitoring is therefore essential, both to safeguard ecological integrity and to provide a scientific foundation for sustainable ecotourism planning in Malaysia.
Consumer trust in local meat supply chains and its impact on willingness to pay: advancing sustainable food systems in Malaysia
Trust plays a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior within food systems, particularly in the context of local meat supply chains where concerns over food safety, authenticity, and sustainability are growing. This study investigates the relationship between consumer trust and willingness to pay (WTP) for locally produced meat in Malaysia, aiming to assess how trust in locality, quality, safety, labeling, certificate and packaging for local meat influences consumer purchasing decisions and willingness to pay. Using a Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), a Double Bounded Dichotomous Choice (DBDC) model was used to analyse an econometric model and survey data among 292 respondents. The analysis explores demographic and technical determinants of trust and WTP while considering price sensitivity factors unique to the Malaysian context. Certificate and packaging are statistically significant with WTP, and it reveal that consumers’ WTP at RM28.88. By advancing understanding of consumer behavior in emerging markets, this study contributes to the development of resilient and sustainable food systems aligned with Malaysia’s broader food security and environmental goals. These insights contribute to the development of resilient and sustainable food systems in Malaysia, encouraging trust-based purchasing.
Assessment of pesticide handling practices and the use of personal protective equipment among rice farmers in Pasir Mas, Kelantan
The extent to which rice farmers are exposed to pesticides is significantly influenced by their handling practices and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). This study collected contextual information from 20 rice farmers affiliated with the Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA) in Pasir Mas, Kelantan. The farmers were surveyed between July 2024 and April 2025. Data were collected through personal interviews and questionnaire surveys, and analysed using descriptive statistical methods. The farmers were aged 21 to 87 years, had 4 to 50 years of experience, and cultivated paddy fields ranging in size from 0.8 to 12.1 hectares. All of the farmers applied pesticides using manual and/or motorised backpack sprayers, with twelve of them having received KADA training between 2022 and 2024. However, none of them reported using alternative pest management methods. The most commonly used pesticides were liquid formulations (4-12 products per farmer), with insecticides being the most frequently used (2-7 products per farmer). All farmers reported using at least one product classified as WHO classes II or III, and some used unregistered and expired products. The most common method of disposing of empty pesticide containers was burying them in the ground (13 farmers). While all farmers wore basic protective clothing (long sleeves and long pants), only 14 wore non-absorbent gloves and boots. These findings suggest gaps in safe pesticide handling practices and PPE use, indicating the need for targeted training and behavioural change interventions, as well as improved access to appropriate protective equipment and waste disposal facilities for the rice farmers in the region.
Gender-Based Assessment of Indigenous People towards Conservation, Management, and Perception in Taguibo Watershed, Butuan City, Philippines
The Taguibo Watershed is a key biodiversity area in Caraga Region, providing a source of water to the entire city of Butuan. A gender-based analysis of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in Taguibo watershed aims to determine the socioeconomic, conservation, environmental management practices and perception of male and female respondents. Following a mixed-method approach, the data were gathered through the use of structured survey questionnaires, key informant interviews, and validation through a focus group discussion. Data were analyzed using Spearman Correlation to determine the relationship. A total of 323 IP respondents, 113 (35%) were male and 210 (65%) were female. Most had low education and family income, high percentage of the occupation were housewives and farmers. Gender had a very highly significant (p.<0001) relationship on occupation, but household members (p 0.4460), educational attainment (p 0.0335), and family income (p 0.1299) have no significant relationship. The study reveals that gender should not be a basis for determining one’s ability to participate in the conservation and effective management of the Taguibo Watershed. Respondents expressed confidence that continued direct management and conservation of the watershed by members of the indigenous cultural community can lead to sustainable outcomes.
A study on the collaborative governance constructs towards sustainable farming in Kelantan, Malaysia
Sustainable farming has become imperative to harmonize economic growth, environmental conservation, and social equity. Kelantan farming sector faces critical challenges, including land degradation, water scarcity, climate vulnerabilities, and technological gaps. While collaborative governance (CG) is touted as a transformative approach to multi-stakeholder alignment, empirical evidence on its drivers and operational constructs in developing agrarian economies remains limited. This study bridges this gap by identifying the critical CG constructs and their drivers for sustainable farming in Kelantan. Through stratified sampling of 117 farmers across ten districts, the results show joint action (3.65) as the most vital CG component, followed by shared motivation (3.55) and principled engagement (3.53). Consequential incentives (3.73) and leadership (3.69) emerged as primary drivers, outperforming interdependence (3.46) and uncertainty (3.37). These findings demonstrate how incentives participation and strong leadership can enhance agricultural resilience against climate threats and provide a governance framework to improve stakeholder engagement in sustainable practices. The study offers policy-relevant insights for strengthening Kelantan's agricultural productivity and its contribution to Malaysia's food security.
Sustainable dining revisited: exploring consumer intentions towards green restaurants in Malaysia
The global food sector is evolving greatly towards sustainability. This is primarily because more and more individuals are growing aware of environmental problems. Nonetheless, there is a scarcity of studies concentrating on green restaurants among consumers in Malaysia. To fill this gap, our study tries to clarify the elements influencing consumers' intentions to return to green restaurants. Using a survey method with purposive sampling, data on consumers’ intentions to revisit green restaurants were collected. The study adopted a model based on the Value-Belief-Norm (VBN) theory and analysed survey data from 249 adults using SmartPLS version 4.1.1.4. The results indicate that green consumerism along with product pricing contributed to consumers' intentions to return to green restaurant. Conversely, perceived value and quality did not demonstrate a significant impact on revisit intention. These insights hold valuable implications for green restaurant managers and policymakers who are seeking to foster sustainability within the food service sector. Furthermore, the findings contribute to the advancement of theoretical understanding, offering an extension to the VBN theory.
Assessing the relationship between walkability factors and walking behaviours among university students using structural equation model
Walkability in university campuses has attracted more attention in Malaysia due to its influence on student health, mobility, and environmental sustainability. However, few studies have examined the determinants of walking behaviour in local higher learning institutions. This study investigates the relationship between determinants of walkability and walking behaviours among students at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), Bachok Campus. A quantitative approach was adopted to gain deeper insights into the determinants of pedestrian behaviours. Quantitative data were collected from a purposive sample of 300 students through a structured survey in May and June 2024 and were analysed using SPSS Version 28.0 and AMOS. This study reveals that among the three factors encouraging walkability on campus, only Amenities and Environmental Factors significantly influence student walking behaviours. In contrast, despite high ratings, Pedestrian Safety and Infrastructure factors showed no statistical effect. These findings highlight the importance of campus environments enriched with amenities and environmental features in shaping students' walking behaviours. Prioritising such elements can promote more active, sustainable, and engaging mobility patterns across the campus.
Ultrasound-assisted extraction of antioxidants from watermelon rind using green solvent for food and cosmetic applications
Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) rind often discarded as agricultural waste, contains valuable bioactive compounds such as citrulline, phenolics and flavonoids. This study investigates the impact of solvent polarity on the efficiency and phytochemical profile of watermelon rind extracts using ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). Extractions were performed with ethanol, ethyl acetate, and hexane under fixed conditions (30°C, 70 minutes, 1:10 solid-to-liquid ratio). Extracts were analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Ethanol yielded the highest TPC (4.47 ± 0.03 mg GAE/g) and antioxidant activity (IC50: 4.56 μg/mL), while ethyl acetate exhibited the highest TFC (1.292 ± 0.02 mg QE/g) with comparable antioxidant potential. The results demonstrate that solvent polarity significantly affects the recovery of bioactive compounds, with ethanol and ethyl acetate efficiently extracting hydrophilic and moderately lipophilic constituents. By demonstrating that watermelon rind may deliver high antioxidant recovery utilizing UAE, this study demonstrates its potential as a value-added source rather than a waste product. When combined with UAE, ethanol excels out as a safe and practical green solvent, presenting a scalable and environmentally responsible approach to develop watermelon rind into useful ingredients for food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic applications.
Landscape design guidelines for ecotourism-oriented rural homestays based on environmental, social and governance performance
Ecotourism-oriented homestays are a significant driving force for rural revitalization. The landscape is instrumental in distinguishing homestays from one another and enhancing their allure, contributing to cultural heritage and sustainable economic development. However, the current homestay development landscape is marred by several challenges, including a lack of diversity in landscapes, a disconnect from local cultural roots, overdevelopment, ecological protection imbalances, a dearth of interactive experiences, and unregulated service standards. This study uses six representative cases in Zhejiang Province, China, integrating publicly accessible government environmental performance data, tourist review texts sourced from online travel platforms, and insights gleaned from semi-structured expert interviews. A multi-dimensional evaluation framework is established based on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Quantitative text semantic analysis techniques were applied to parse the review texts, subsequently utilizing statistical methods to ascertain the relative importance of dimensions and indicators and explore their relationships. A significant correlation was observed between the prevalence of ecologically favorable language in user reviews and official environmental assessment scores. The frequency of culturally specific references in guest reviews exhibited a statistically significant positive correlation with tourist ratings. Drawing upon the preceding analysis, the study formulates landscape design guidelines that emphasize green technology, cultural empowerment, and social identity.
Towards developing the circular economy framework in managing common agricultural waste: The case of Caraga Region, Philippines
Agricultural waste management remains a critical aspect of sustainable agriculture in Caraga Region, Philippines. Agricultural waste is generally not reused or recycled for economic purposes and for reducing gas emissions due to lack of institutional and technical support. This study aims to develop a circular economy (CE) framework reflecting the local realities to guide the management of common agricultural waste. Using qualitative research design, data were gathered from 41 respondents through key informant interviews, 100 stakeholders in the focus group discussions, and documents from secondary sources. Using NVivo, the study revealed that common agricultural wastes come from rice farming, corn farming, coconut plantation, banana plantation and from livestock and poultry. These wastes are predominantly managed through informal and not environmentally friendly practices, including open burning and dumping. Key challenges include limited policy support, lack of appropriate technologies, and weak institutional coordination. Nevertheless, opportunities for waste valorization abound in Caraga Region, including reuse into mushroom beds, composting for organic agriculture, and biochar production. From the findings, the proposed CE framework will encompass waste characterization, stakeholder collaboration, policy and institutional support, technology and innovation, and capacity building for the key actors, the rural women. The framework supports a strategic approach to transition to sustainable agricultural waste management in Caraga Region through circularization, with potential applications in the entire Philippines.
Exploring plant-based coagulants for turbidity reduction: case study of Pandanus amaryllifolius and coconut husk
Coagulants are essential in water treatment processes particularly in coagulation and flocculation for reducing suspended solids and improving water clarification. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of plant-based coagulants from coconut husk and pandan leaves in reducing turbidity of river water. The study used jar test to determine the optimal coagulant dose and solution pH for coconut husk and pandan leaves coagulants in reducing river water turbidity with alum used as a benchmark for comparison. In addition, a comparison between these plant-based coagulants and alum was made to see the potential of the coagulants. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to observe the morphology of the plant-based coagulants while phytochemical tests confirmed the presence of tannins and flavonoids through colorimetric observation. Results indicated that pandan leaves coagulants achieved up to 90% turbidity removal of river water at an optimal dose of 40 mg/L and pH 9, whereas coconut husk coagulant reached 60% removal at 10 mg/L and pH 4. SEM analysis revealed fibrous structures with rough surface textures, suggesting good potential for particle adsorption. Overall, both plant-based coagulants demonstrated promising performance in turbidity reduction, supporting their potential as sustainable alternatives to conventional chemical coagulants.
Comparative Analysis on Carbon Stock of Rubber Trees (Hevea brasiliensis) based on Different Allometric Equation Models
Rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) plantations represent both an economic resource and a potential carbon sink, yet reliable estimation of their carbon storage capacity remains challenging due to variability among allometric models. This study evaluated aboveground biomass and carbon stock in a rubber plantation at Kampung Pasir Dusun, Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia, using four established allometric equations (Schroth et al., 2002; Castillo et al., 2016; Saragih et al., 2016; Omar et al., 2013). Diameter at breast heigh (DBH) was measured for 1,588 trees within a 9.2 ha plot, and biomass was converted to carbon stock using a standard conversion factor (0.47). Estimated carbon stocks varied widely, ranging from 21.72 MgC/ha (Saragih et al., 2016) to 41.05 MgC/ha (Schroth et al., 2002). One-way ANOVA indicated significant differences among models (p < 0.05), while Tukey's HSD post-hoc test identified Schroth et al. (2002) and Omar et al. (2013) as consistently producing higher estimates compared to Castillo et al. (2016) and Saragih et al. (2016). These discrepancies reflect differences in model calibration, ecological context, and stand conditions. This findings highlight that model selection substantially influences carbon stock estimation, and emphasise the important of employing site-and-species-appropriate equations to minimise systematic error. Accurate carbon accounting in rubber plantations is therefore essential for understanding their contribution to climate change mitigation and for guiding sustainable forest management practices.
Rubber trees, carbon stock allometric equation, climate change mitigation
Assessment of physicochemical and microbial water quality in rivers of Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia
Rivers in Jeli, Kelantan serve vital ecological, recreational, and socio-economic roles, yet their water quality faces growing threats from expanding tourism and associated land-use changes. This study aimed to assess the physicochemical and microbial quality of water in four major tourism rivers, Lata Janggut, Lata Keding, Lata Kashmir, and Lata Renyuk, by applying the Malaysian Department of Environment’s Water Quality Index (WQI) and quantifying Escherichia coli as an indicator of faecal contamination. In-situ and ex-situ analyses measured parameters including dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammoniacal nitrogen (NH?-N), total suspended solids (TSS), and pH. Results indicated that all sites exhibited WQI values within Class I and Class II, corresponding to excellent and good water quality suitable for recreation. However, E. coli enumeration revealed sporadic contamination events, suggesting intermittent faecal pollution likely linked to human and animal activities near the rivers. The findings underscore a potential disconnect between physicochemical water quality and microbial safety, highlighting the need for integrated monitoring approaches. This study provides new insights into the status and challenges of river water quality at rural tourism destinations in Malaysia, informing recommendations for targeted pollution control, enhanced public awareness, and sustainable river management to protect both public health and ecological integrity.
Land suitability Analysis for Sustainable Agriculture Development using Multi-Criteria Analysis and Machine Learning Techniques: Case Study of Shibpur Upazila
Assessing the suitability of crops is crucial for determining a plot of land's capacity for producing crops sustainably. The primary objectives of this study are to conduct a land suitability analysis for sustainable agricultural development and to develop a land information system with crop recommendations. In this study, land suitability categorization and crop recommendations were produced while taking into account many criteria such as slope, elevation, land cover, low flood risk, soil moisture, and favorable soil. Land suitability is categorized into three categories: most suitable, suitable, and less suitable. The results of the land use map analysis show that agricultural land is 57% of total land. Out of total agricultural land, 19.44% is most appropriate for agriculture, while 32.22% is suitable and 48.34% is less suitable. The research conducted here developed a Mouza Plot-wise Land Information System (LIS) that is placed on a cloud server, providing simplicity of use and flexibility. This system helps people or local authorities to know if this land is suitable, less suitable, or not suitable for Agriculture.
A Case Survey on the Living Habits and Awareness of Food Waste Composting in Layang-Layang, Johor
Food waste management is a critical issue in modern urban landscapes. This study investigated the living habits and awareness of food waste composting in Kampung Jaya SC Sepakat community, Layang-Layang, Johor. An analysis of 273 participants in the survey study revealed that the community had varied living habits and the rates of food waste composting ranged from 40% to 80%. There was a clear correlation between knowledge about composting and the adoption of sustainable behaviors that minimized food waste within this community. A significant number of participants also demonstrated knowledge of household composting equipment and stated a strong inclination to make use of it. The study has generated valuable insights for potential food waste management practices and environmental organizations in the efforts of food waste reduction and composting.
Groundwater quality assessment around Lake Mkpitime, Nigeria, using integrated geophysical and hydrochemical approaches
Groundwater quality assessment around Lake Mkpitme has not received any investigations. The goal of this study was to apply integrated geophysical and hydrochemical approaches to investigate the suitability of the groundwater around the lake for domestic, agricultural and industrial sustainable use. Ten vertical electrical soundings (VES) were conducted within the lake vicinity, while four groundwater samples and seven lake samples were collected for water quality assessment. The VES result revealed an aquifer depth range of 14.8 – 108 m, located within the fourth layer, while the aquifer resistivity ranged from 645 – 5287 ?m. Dar-Zarrouk parameters evaluation revealed values of longitudinal conductance (0.03-0.213 ?-1), transmissivity (1.94-98.62 m2/day), transverse resistance (47247-313525 ?m2), indicating an aquifer with poor to intermediate protective capacity and low to intermediate potential. The hydrochemical analysis of groundwater samples revealed dominant Ca2+ - Na+ - HCO3- - Cl- - SO42- water facies, while the lake samples revealed Ca2+ - Na+ - HCO3- Cl- - SO42- water facies, indicating water mixing and suggestive of lake and groundwater interaction, as groundwater close to the lake has higher concentrations and possible stratification of water chemistry with depth. The fresh water nature of groundwater was revealed by the maximum TDS range of 10.8-19.3 mg/l, while that of the lake ranged from 10.8-31.3 mg/l, implying fresh-moderate subsurface mineralization, with groundwater that is within the permissible limit of the World Health Organization. The results showed that the groundwater quality around the lake is suitable and sustainable for both domestic, agricultural and industrial needs.
Comparative Growth Performances of Saanen Does in Traditional Wooden and Aluminium Galvanized Iron Housing System
Growth performance can be used as indicator to utilize the general adaptability of the farm animal in the housing system. This study was done to evaluate the impact of traditional wooden and aluminium galvanized iron houses on growth performance of Saanen does for a period of three months. Twelve, aged nine to twelve months old Saanen does with average weight 24.6 ± 1.2 kg was randomly were assigned to each housing types (n = 6 per group). Live weights were recorded weekly, and total weight gain and average daily gain (ADG) were analysed using non-parametric tests. The results revealed no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) in weekly weight gain or average daily gain (ADG) between the two housing types. However, the traditional wooden house (weekly weight gain: 0.69 ± 0.2 kg, ADG: 98.22 ± 23.4 g) demonstrated slightly higher compared to the aluminium galvanized iron house (weekly weight gain: 0.60 ± 0.1 kg, ADG: 85.32 ± 16.4 g). Weekly growth trends revealed steady weight increases with temporary stagnation around weeks 4–6 due to feed supply challenges. These findings confirm that both housing systems provide adequate environments for the physiological development of Saanen does. The study supports the feasibility of aluminium galvanized iron housing as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative for small ruminant farming in Malaysia.
Sensory evaluation of four red hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis Sp.) strains among fish consumers
The viability of tilapia in the aquaculture industry is due to the market demands that consumers decide. Since every aquaculture species had distinct sensory attributes, a hedonic sensory evaluation was performed to assess the sensory characteristics of the flesh of four red hybrid tilapia strains: (i) ?O.niloticus x ?O.niloticus (A)(MF280061), ?O.mossambicus x ?O.mossambicus (B) (MF509596), ?O.niloticus x ?O.mossambicus (C)(MF509597) and ?O.mossambicus x ?O. niloticus (D)(MF509598). Hedonic and ranking tests were carried out by 120 participants who assessed each strain's 25 g steamed flesh. The sensory analysis was carried out by using five hedonic scales. They participated through a volunteer invitation. The surveyed population participated by 62.50% and 37.50% females and males, respectively. Participants were asked to complete the questionnaires, including demographic questions hedonic scores, and rank according to their preferences. Means of sensory attributes were analysed using the Kruskal-Wallis test at p<0.05. No significant differences (p>0.05) exist between strains in the sensory attributes related to taste, odour, and juiciness. Strain D had the highest scores in all sensory attributes compared to other strains. However, only the texture (3.97±0.71) attribute was found to be significantly different (p<0.05). Overall acceptability by participants demonstrated that the variations between strains were not statistically different (p>0.05). Nevertheless, strain D (141.00) was ranked significantly higher compared to other strains. Thus, the participant's distinct, undistinguishable sensory attributes revealed that all strains could be commercialised as table fish.
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