International Journal of Management studies and Social Science Research

Bakht Muhammad Khan 1, Anura Widana 2 and Sadia Batool 3

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5401

ABSTRACT: Background This pioneering study examined the dynamics of food habits and consumption patterns among people affected by construction of the Dasu Hydropower Project in Upper Kohistan District, Pakistan. Project implementation began in 2016 and completion is planned for 2028. As of 2024 about 3,000 households from 47 of 520 villages in the district have been relocated, and the local economy has changed dramatically. Methods Three food-related surveys were conducted: (i) in 2022, interviews with male adults from 42 households, (ii) in 2023, a detailed survey of 400 affected households, and (iii) in 2024, in-depth interviews with 55 women. All respondents were drawn from relocated households. Quantitative data were analysed using statistical tools and qualitative information was analysed thematically. Results The study found that the majority of affected households (61%) have at least one member in paid employment, a significant contrast with the pre-project period when only 27% of households did so. Consequently, purchasing power has significantly increased. In parallel, working and living together with the inmigrant project workforce has changed residents' attitudes and behaviour regarding food. Local agricultural production has decreased, food purchase has increased, meat, eggs and milk are consumed more frequently, there are more restaurants with a wider and better variety of food, eating-out has increased, and the market is now stocked daily with a much wider and fresher variety of food products than was available before the project started. Food consumption remains highly gendered, but there are signs of a trend towards more equality. Conclusions This study analysed the food habits, dietary intake and consumption patterns of households directly affected by the Dasu Hydropower Project. It found that the consumption of basic staples and high-value food items significantly improved from 2015 to 2024. In parallel, men from affected households eat-out frequently now. The sector has responded to the new demand with more food outlets, a wider cuisine and an improved supply of fresh produce to the market. The changes in food consumption and eating habits have been enabled by increased household incomes and assisted by attitudinal change resulting from close work-association with the outside workforce. The changed food habits, dietary composition, eating-out behaviour and food value chains all indicate a higher standard of living amongst the surveyed population. The conclusion of the study is that dietary transition in the affected households has occurred and is the result of growth in household incomes and behavioural change. On this note, it can be argued that some affected people’s lifestyles have improved as a result of the hydropower project. The study recommends gender-sensitive promotion of horticulture and livestock husbandry, a continuation of food-related monitoring, and applied research with a focus on the food status of the most vulnerable households, women and children.

Keyword: Dasu Hydropower project; food and nutrition; dietary composition; dining pattern; food value chain; poverty

Vasiliki Tsilimpokou

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5402

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this research is to study sports tourism in the Balkan countries. The forms of sports tourism are analyzed, as well as their economic and innovative impact. Then, case studies from the Balkan peninsula where sports tourism is found are reported. Finally, the final conclusions follow, where emphasis is placed on the participation of the local community and the improvement of infrastructure with sustainable ways for beneficial results.

Keyword: Balkan countries, sports tourism

Dr. Gubara Said Hassan 1 and Aaisha Rashid AL Zaabi 1

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5403

ABSTRACT: This research paper argues that human culture and cultural heritage or property are of rising prominence in international relations and security studies in a rapidly globalizing and securitizing world. However, despite the tremendous security threats they encounter, they represent an arena of inquiry, somewhat overlooked and understudied in place of developing a critique of conventional security paradigms. The paper aims to address a host of questions, including: what are culture and cultural heritage or property? And what are the tremendous security threats they encounter? The paper utilizes qualitative research methodology and a constructivist theoretical approach to examine the eminence of culture and cultural heritage and the role they contribute to the construction and reconstruction of societies, human identities, collective memories, and governance institutions. It also sheds light on the various security threats and risks, culture and cultural heritage face especially in times of violent conflicts and natural disasters, and the security policies that could be adopted to respond to such threats and risks at the national, regional, and international levels.

Keyword: Culture, Heritage, cultural heritage, threats, cultural security, policy options/measures, protection.

*Faizan Hj Abd Jabar 1, Nor Hidayatun Abdul Razak 2, Mohd Faizal Azrul Azwan Muhamed@ Che Harun3, Muhammad Zainuddin Mohamed Azudin 4, Mohd Nazri Mohd Noor 5

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5404

ABSTRACT: The challenges of the global economy today affected much household expenses. Thus, this circumstance leads to varieties of household problems especially activities related to financial matters. The household is forced to struggle in life to make sure they can fulfil the basic needs. The increment of products and service pricing would become a burden to them. Therefore, this study examines the socioeconomic dynamics of women in rural Malaysia, focusing on their roles, income sources, and family structures. Utilizing demographic data from a diverse group of women, findings reveal significant reliance on informal employment and entrepreneurship, with monthly incomes ranging from RM300 to RM2,600. The respondents are taken from Majlis Agama Islam Pahang asnaf (poor people) listing. Ten families are chosen who meet the researchers’ criteria. The data collected by using the interview method and employed the latest version, Atlas.ti to transcribe and interpret. The findings show many informants juggle multiple roles as primary earners, caregivers, and entrepreneurs, especially among single mothers who bear the full economic burden. Education is a priority for most families, with children enrolled in primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. However, financial constraints often challenge their ability to support larger families, particularly for single mothers. Spousal contributions vary, with many engaged in manual labor or farming. Adult children also play a small role in supporting household incomes. With this information, hopefully their contribution as small entrepreneurs have been concerned by the appropriate agencies to help them move from poverty.

Keyword: Socioeconomic, Entrepreneurship, Self-efficacy, Low income, Women

Gurmel Singh*

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5405

ABSTRACT: Despite significant progress in gender equality, women, particularly in countries like India, continue to face disparities in rights and opportunities compared to men. This paper examines the role of education in empowering women and its impact on societal development. Empowered women contribute substantially to economic, social, political, and personal growth, but to unlock their potential, they must have equal rights and opportunities. The study highlights the role of education in breaking barriers and fostering self-confidence, essential for women's participation in all spheres of society. Women's economic empowerment is crucial for national development, with India's GDP growth significantly impacted by the low participation of women in the labor force. The paper also discusses social, political, and personal empowerment, emphasizing the need for awareness and legal literacy to combat social and cultural barriers. Key findings suggest that enhancing women's empowerment can boost GDP and promote sustainable growth, with education being a powerful tool in this transformation. Recommendations include strengthening education systems, promoting girls' education, ensuring political representation, and providing economic opportunities. The paper concludes that empowering women is not only a moral imperative but also a critical factor in achieving societal and economic progress, as highlighted by Pt. Nehru’s belief that empowering women is essential for national advancement

Keyword: Women's Empowerment, Education, Gender Equality, Economic Development, Societal Progress

Nurlis, Nurlis 1; Putri Renalita S.T 1; Deden Tarmidi 1; Junarti 2

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5406

ABSTRACT: Tax compliance is one of the obligations of taxpayers, especially in terms of paying and reporting taxes owed. A person who approaches life with trust will make sensible decisions. A person's attitude in carrying out his obligations reflects such intelligent behavior. This study aims to explore the impact of taxpayers' religious values on positive attitudes of tax compliance as measured by voluntary tax compliance and enforced tax compliance in increasing understanding of taxpayer complexity attitudes from different perspectives on MSME taxpayers in the Jakarta area. The respondents in this study are MSME actors who already have tax ID number. The research method used is a survey method using questionnaires as a tool in data collection. Data analysis uses multiple linear regression tests on Taxpayer compliance consisting of 2 (two models), namely model I which tests intrapersonal religiosity variables and interpersonal religiosity on Voluntary Tax Compliance variables and model II which tests intrapersonal religiosity variables and interpersonal religiosity on Enforced Tax Compliance variables. The results prove that intrapersonal religiosity has a positive effect on Voluntary tax compliance and Enforced tax compliance. Interpersonal religiosity does not affect Voluntary tax compliance but interpersonal religiosity has a positive effect on Enforced tax compliance. This study does not separate between religious attitudes and ethical values in measuring the source of inner value of taxpayers, it is possible that the inner value of respondents comes from both sources. Therefore, comparing the influence of individual religiosity with individual ethical values, which do not stem from attendance at places of worship on voluntary tax compliance and enforced tax compliance, is recommended for future research. Future research may include several demographic variables (education, age, gender, etc.) in the analysis. Thus, we can see how demographic factors affect religiosity and the level of tax compliance. Despite its limitations, this study has provided evidence that religiosity, especially intrapersonal religiosity, is one of the factors that can shape the willingness of taxpayers to comply with tax regulations, as well as those that need to be enforced

Keyword: Voluntary Tax Compliance, Enforced Tax Compliance, Intrapersonal Religiosity and Interpersonal Religiosity

Anay Kumar

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5407

ABSTRACT: This study examines the socio-economic and cultural challenges faced by tribal communities in Himachal Pradesh, India, with a focus on issues such as poverty, limited access to education and healthcare, land rights, and the erosion of cultural identities. Using an extensive review of literature and analysis of existing data, the study explores the root causes of these challenges and their interconnections. It highlights how historical marginalization, lack of access to modern economic opportunities, and the pressures of globalization have contributed to these difficulties. The paper emphasizes the need for an integrated, culturally sensitive approach to development that balances economic progress with the preservation of tribal heritage. The findings underscore the importance of addressing issues such as education, healthcare access, land tenure security, and cultural conservation to promote sustainable development and improve the quality of life for Himachali tribal communities. Policy recommendations include enhancing educational programs, improving healthcare infrastructure, securing land rights, and fostering economic opportunities tailored to the unique needs of these communities.

Keyword: Himachal Pradesh, Tribal Communities, Socio-Economic Challenges, Education Access, Traditional Livelihoods

Rosemarie C. Cerbo

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5408

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to determine which domain of learning environment best influences academic achievement goal orientation of the students. This study utilized the non-experimental quantitative research design using descriptive technique involving teachers in one District of Davao Occidental Division, Philippines. The study was conducted on the second semester of school year 2021-2022. Research instruments on learning environment best influences academic achievement goal orientation of the students were used as source of data. Using mean, pearson-r, and regression as statistical tools to treat the data, the study showed the following results: the level of learning environment is very high, the level of academic achievement goal orientation of the students is very high, there is a significance on the relationship between learning environment and academic achievement goal orientation of the students, the domains of learning environment best influence academic achievement goal orientation of the students are Teaching for Understanding and Support Learning for Understanding.

Keyword: Learning Environment, Academic Achievement Goal Orientation, Educational Management, Quantitative Research, Philippines

Faisal U. Manalas

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5409

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to determine which domain of metacognitive strategy best influences student course engagement. This study utilized the non-experimental quantitative research design using descriptive technique involving teachers in one District of Davao Occidental Division, Philippines. The study was conducted on the second semester of school year 2021-2022. Research instruments on metacognitive strategy and student course engagement were used as source of data. Using mean, pearson-r, and regression as statistical tools to treat the data, the study showed the following results: the level of metacognitive strategy is high, the level of student course engagement is high, there is a significant relationship between metacognitive strategy and student course engagement, and domain of metacognitive strategy best influence student course engagement is Perceived Academic Efficacy.

Keyword: Metacognitive Strategy, Student Course Engagement, Educational Management, Quantitative Research, Philippines

Rhea Jade C. De Arce

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5410

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to determine which domain of technology proficiency of teacher best influences student learning and satisfaction in an online learning environment. This study utilized the non-experimental quantitative research design using descriptive technique involving teachers in one District of Davao Occidental Division, Philippines. The study was conducted on the second semester of school year 2021-2022. Research instruments on technology proficiency of teacher best influences student learning and satisfaction in an online learning environment. were used as source of data. Using mean, pearson-r, and regression as statistical tools to treat the data, the study showed the following results: the level of technology proficiency of teachers is very high, the level of student learning and satisfaction in an online learning environment is very high, there is a significance on the relationship between technology proficiency of teachers and student learning and satisfaction in an online learning environment, and domain of technology proficiency of teachers best influences student learning and satisfaction in an online learning environment is Emerging Technologies for Student Learning.

Keyword: Technology Proficiency of Teachers, Student Learning and Satisfaction in an Online Learning Environment, Educational Management, Quantitative Research, Philippines

Foong Chui Yean

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5411

ABSTRACT: Early retirement among teachers is a pressing issue affecting education systems worldwide, including Malaysia. Its impacts are far-reaching, leading to teacher shortages, disruptions in student learning outcomes, and increased costs associated with replacing and training educators. This study examines the factors influencing teachers’ intentions to retire early and explores the role of school principals in mitigating these factors, with a particular focus on transformational leadership. Employing a qualitative case study approach, the research investigates the experiences of a mid-career teacher in a Malaysian public school, who also serves as an interim principal, providing perspectives as both a teacher and a leader. The findings indicate that early retirement intentions are driven by contextual factors (such as workload and policy changes), personal factors (including ageing, health, and family commitments), and organisational factors (notably leadership and work environment). Transformational leadership emerges as a pivotal strategy for addressing these challenges. Principals exhibiting transformational leadership traits—such as inspiring confidence, fostering motivation, encouraging innovation, and offering individualised support—were found to significantly reduce burnout and enhance teacher retention. This study underscores the importance of principal leadership in cultivating supportive environments that empower teachers and enhance their job satisfaction. It recommends equipping future principals with transformational leadership skills and calls for systemic reforms, including workload reduction through digitalisation and the provision of adequate administrative support, to ease the pressures faced by teachers. The research contributes to the discourse on teacher retention by highlighting the critical role of leadership in countering early retirement trends. It suggests future investigations into the mechanisms of effective principalship and the scalable application of transformational leadership practices. Addressing this challenge is essential for ensuring the sustainability of high-quality education systems and national development.

Keyword: Early retirement, transformational leadership

Davina Indriana 1, Fitri Indriawati 2

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5412

ABSTRACT: This research explores the influence of corporate governance mechanisms and free cash flow on earnings management within infrastructure companies listed on the IDX from 2018 to 2022. The committee overseeing audits, independent commissioners, and board of directors are the proxies that are used to assess excellent corporate governance. This study makes use of a quantitative approach to descriptive research. This information is derived from secondary sources, including the firms' annual reports and financial statements, with the sample selection utilizing purposive sampling based on specific criteria. Before excluding outlier data, the sample consisted of 40 companies over a 5-year observation period, resulting in 200 sample data points. After excluding outlier data, the number of qualified samples is 150 data points from 30 companies. Descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, model feasibility, and classical assumption testing are some of the analytical methodologies used. This study's findings show that independent commissioners and audit committees do not significantly impact earnings management, although free cash flow and the board of directors do positively.

Keyword: good corporate governance mechanisms, free cash flow, earnings management, board of directors, independent commissioners, audit committee

Pham Van Tuan 1, Dinh Truong Thanh Xuan 2 and Nguyen Thi Thao 3*

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2025.5413

ABSTRACT: This study assesses the direct impact of income satisfaction on organizational commitment of young employees and explores the mediating role of work motivation. The quantitative study was conducted on a sample of 339 randomly selected young employees. Data were collected through self-report questionnaires and processed using statistical software. The results of the study show that income satisfaction has a positive impact on organizational commitment of young employees and work motivation plays a mediating role in this relationship. The results of the study not only contribute to a deeper understanding of employee psychology and behavior but also provide a solid basis for developing human resource management policies and strategies to optimize employee performance and commitment, contributing to the sustainable development of the organization.

Keyword: Income satisfaction; Organizational commitment; Work motivation; Young workers; Organizational behavior.