Assessing the factor structure of the Eating Attitude Test-26 among undergraduate students in Malaysia.

The objective of this study was to assess the factor structure of the 26-item Eating Attitude Test (EAT-26) through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) among 1,084 undergraduate students in Malaysia. The initial findings indicated a lack of support for the proposed three-factor structure. Model modifications were made due to the inadequate initial fit. The fit of the model was significantly improved by excluding items with factor loadings below 0.40 and integrating residual covariances. In conclusion, it is necessary to make contextual modifications to the EAT-26 in order to effectively utilize it among Malaysian undergraduates. This highlights the significance of cultural adaptations in psychological instruments.

Psychometric Properties of the Coronavirus Stress Measure with Malaysian Young Adults: Association with Psychological Inflexibility and Psychological Distress.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in multiple physical and psychological stressors, which require quantification and establishment of association with other psychological process variables. The Coronavirus Stress Measure (CSM) is a validated instrument with acceptable validity and reliability. This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the CSM in a Malaysian population. University participants were recruited via convenience sampling using snowball methods. The reliability and validity of the Malay CSM (CSM-M) were rigorously evaluated, utilising both confirmatory factor analysis and Rasch analysis, in relation to sociodemographic variables and response to the depression, anxiety, and stress subscales of the Malay validation of the DASS-21, and also perceived stress (measured by the PSS) and psychological flexibility (AAQ-II). The sample comprised of 247 Malaysian participants. The McDonald's omega value for the Malay CSM was 0.935 indicating very good internal reliability. The CSM was significantly correlated with stress, anxiety, depression, perceived stress, and psychological flexibility. The Malay CSM properties were examined also with Rasch analysis, with satisfactory outcomes. There was positive correlated error between items 1 and 3, as well as negative correlated error between items 1 and 4. Hence, item 1 was excluded, leaving with 4 items. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated good data-model fit, and model fit statistics confirmed that Malay CSM showed a single-factor model. The Malay CSM hence demonstrates good validity and reliability, with both classical and modern psychometric methods demonstrating robust outcomes. It is therefore crucial in operational and research settings in establishing the true extent of stress levels as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Correction to: Malay Version of the Fear of COVID-19 Scale: Validity and Reliability.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1007/s11469-020-00355-4.].

The framework of socio-religious harmony in Sabah, East Malaysia: An application of Fuzzy Delphi method.

The reality of socio-religious harmony in Sabah is undeniable. Some visible evidence, and its distinct social environment foster religious tolerance and encouraging people to accept others as they are. On what grounds does this harmony persist, given that situations in Malaysia show that interfaith disputes have never been silent? Examining this phenomenon considers the community, even attempting to disrupt Sabah's long-established harmonious relations. Therefore, the study goal is to develop a framework of socio-religious harmony in Sabah which is unique in its own diverse culture and religions. This study employs the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM), prioritizing expert consensus in determining the investigation results. The study has selected seventeen experts from various professional backgrounds: academicians, policymakers, community leaders, non-government (NGO), and religious leaders. The results have identified three constructs, nine elements, and 43 of the 62 expert-agreed-upon criteria, which were then displayed hierarchically as a model of socio-religious harmony framework in Sabah. The finding also reveals the top ten highest ranking criteria agreed upon by experts for considering variables of establishing socio-religious harmony in Sabah. Ultimately, the study gives a clear framework for future studies to measure a level of social harmony in Sabah, and significantly contribute as a guideline throughout Malaysia as a whole.

Development of a scale to measure shared problem-solving and decision-making in mental healthcare.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to create a measure of collaborative processes between healthcare team members, patients, and carers. METHODS: A shared decision-making scale was developed using a qualitative research derived model and refined using Rasch and factor analysis. The scale was used by staff in the hospital for four consecutive years (n = 152, 121, 119 and 121) and by two independent patients' and carers' samples (n = 223 and 236). RESULTS: Respondents had difficulty determining what constituted a decision and the scale was redeveloped after first use in patients and carers. The initial focus on shared decision-making was changed to shared problem-solving. Two factors were found in the first staff sample: shared problem-solving and shared decision-making. The structure was confirmed on the second patients' and carers' sample and an independent staff sample consisting of the first data-points for the last three years. The shared problem-solving and decision-making scale (SPSDM) demonstrated evidence of convergent and divergent validity, internal consistency, measurement invariance on longitudinal data and sensitivity to change. CONCLUSIONS: Shared problem-solving was easier to measure than shared decision-making in this context. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Shared problem-solving is an important component of collaboration, as well as shared decision-making.

The Development and Validation of the Comprehensive Assessment of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Processes (CompACT)-Malay Version.

OBJECTIVES: psychological flexibility is a crucial construct highly correlated with psychological wellness. There is a need for a tool to measure psychological flexibility in order to accurately ascertain the effects of treatment. The existing industry standard, the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ-II), has issues with conflating psychological flexibility with distress; moreover, it does not cover the hexaflexes. The 23-item CompACT was designed to surmount these limitations. METHODS: the classical test theory (CTT) and Rasch measurement theory (RMT) were used to check the validity and reliability of the Malay version of the CompACT Scale. Cronbach's α, McDonald's Ω, and greatest lower bound were used to measure internal consistency. A Pearson's correlation test was used to measure test-retest reliability of the Malay versus the original English version. For validity, convergent validity was established by using the Malay AAQ-7 Scale. The dimensionality of the Malay version of the CompACT Scale was explored using exploratory factor analysis. For the RMT, weighted fit statistics (infit) and outlier sensitive fit statistic (outfit) mean square (MnSq) values were used at the item level, while item and person separation reliability values and item and person separation indices were applied at the scale level. RESULTS: the internal consistency measures, including Cronbach α and McDonald's Ω, passed the suggested cutoff points. Convergent validity with the AAQ-II was 0.693. The quality of the Malay version of the CompACT Scale was also satisfactory, as all item and person reliability values and indices exceeded the suggested cut-off points. CONCLUSIONS: the Malay CompACT is a psychometrically sound instrument to assess psychological flexibility in both clinical and research settings.

A Review of Factors Affecting Ganoderma Basal Stem Rot Disease Progress in Oil Palm.

In recent years, oil palm has grown on a major scale as it is a prominent commodity crop that contributes the most to almost every producing country's gross domestic product (GDP). Nonetheless, existing threats such as the Ganoderma basal stem rot (BSR) disease have been deteriorating the oil palm plantations and suitable actions to overcome the issue are still being investigated. The BSR disease progression in oil palm is being studied using the disease progression through the plant disease triangle idea. This concept looks at all potential elements that could affect the transmission and development of the disease. The elements include pathogenic, with their mode of infection in each studied factor.

Adaptation and Validation of the Malay Version of the Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-6 Items Scale Among the General Population.

The coronavirus disease pandemic has caused untold distress owing to both its physical and psychological sequelae, and such distress is further exacerbated by multiple socioeconomic ramifications. The Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-6 Items (SAVE-6). Scale was developed to specifically assess the anxiety response of the general population to viral epidemics. This study aimed to establish the psychometric properties of the Malay version of the SAVE-6 Scale in the general population. Herein, a total of 257 individuals participated. World Health Organization instrument validation protocols were used to translate and back-translate the Malay SAVE-6 Scale. Subsequently, the classical test theory and Rasch analysis were used to ascertain the validity and reliability of the scale. Cronbach α was used to measure the internal consistency, which was found to be satisfactory (α = 0.866). The correlations between the SAVE-6 Scale and other scales, including the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 Items Scale (r = 0.421, p < 0.001) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Items (r = 0.354, p < 0.001) were significant. Taken together, the Malay version of the SAVE-6 Scale is valid and reliable for use in the general population and is psychometrically suitable for assessing stress and anxiety specific to viral epidemics.

Adaptation and Validation of the Malay Version of the SAVE-9 Viral Epidemic Anxiety Scale for Healthcare Workers.

Viral epidemics have surfaced frequently over the past quarter-century, with multiple manifestations of psychological distress. This study sought to establish the psychometric properties of the Malay version of SAVE-9 among healthcare workers. A total of 203 healthcare workers across Malaysia participated in the research. The Malay version of SAVE-9 was translated and back-translated using the WHO instrument validation protocols. Classical Test Theory (CTT) and Rasch analysis were used to assess the validity and reliability of the Malay version of the SAVE-9 scale. The analysis was run using IBM SPSS 26.0 and JAPS. Cronbach's alpha was used to measure the internal consistency of SAVE-9, which was found to be satisfactory (Cronbach's α = 0.795). The correlations between the SAVE-9 and other measured scales (GAD-7 and PHQ-9) were statistically significant. A score of 22 was defined as a cut-off point with good sensitivity (0.578) and specificity (0.165). The Malay version of the Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-9 (SAVE-9) scale is valid and reliable after testing among healthcare workers. It is psychometrically suitable to be used in assessing healthcare workers' stress and anxiety specific to viral epidemics.

Factors Contributing to Burnout among Healthcare Workers during COVID-19 in Sabah (East Malaysia).

The third wave of COVID-19 in Malaysia has significantly strained the healthcare system of the country and increased the level of burnout among the healthcare workers (HCWs) in the country. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the various factors associated with burnout among HCWs. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 HWCs in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. An online survey was administered using the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Brief COPE, and Fear of COVID-19 scales. Pearson correlations were assessed amongst all variables. Subsequently, a multiple linear regression analysis was performed using burnout dimensions as dependent variables. Multiple linear regression results showed: (a) lower work-related burnout (ß = −0.217, p < 0.01) among married HCWs; (b) higher personal-related burnout (ß = 0.228, p < 0.01), work-related burnout (ß = 0.425, p < 0.01), and client-related burnout (ß = 0.359, p < 0.01) among doctors; (c) fear towards COVID-19 was significantly associated with client-related burnout (ß = 0.243, p < 0.01); (d) an avoidant coping strategy was significantly associated with personal-related burnout (ß = 0.322, p < 0.01); (e) social support from family was significantly associated with personal-related burnout (ß = −0.264, p < 0.01), work-related burnout (ß = −0.186, p < 0.05), and client-related burnout (ß = −0.326, p < 0.01);(f) and social support from friends was significantly associated with work-related burnout (ß = −0.202, p < 0.05). This study demonstrated significant theoretical contributions and clinical implications in the healthcare system in Sabah by addressing the impact of various factors on burnout among HWCs.

Relationship Between Fear of COVID-19, Psychopathology and Sociodemographic Variables in Malaysian Population.

COVID-19 has affected Malaysia in multitude aspects. Although Malaysia is on the right track to flatten the curve attributed to swift and decisive actions by the government, it is important to assess the psychological after effect that caused by the pandemic and the movement control order. This study performed in Borneo, Malaysia, was conducted using principles of snowballing, and by invitation through university students and staffs mailing list to participate. The survey collected data on sociodemographic, along with measuring psychological impact by using the newly validated Malay version Fear of COVID-19 Scale and DASS-21 scale. There were a total of 255 respondents. The majority of the respondents' age was 25 years and below, with a female male ratio of 2:1 and around 70% respondents were students. Below 25-year-old age group, and females are having significantly higher levels of fear of COVID-19, depression, anxiety, and stress. Single people have higher depression level. There was a significant difference between students and non-students for depression, anxiety, and stress, but not for fear of COVID-19. It is imperative to allay the fears and psychological sequalae of COVID-19, especially those individuals at higher risks. Psychological interventions as well as telepsychiatry mobilisation could prove useful in dealing with the distress.

Malay Version of the Fear of COVID-19 Scale: Validity and Reliability.

The newly developed Persian Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) is a seven-item uni-dimensional scale that assesses the severity of fear of COVID-19. A translation and validation of the FCV-19S in the Malay language was expedited due to the severe psychological sequelae of COVID-19 in Malaysia. Formal WHO forward and backward translation sequences were employed in translating the English version into Malay. Malaysian university participants were recruited via convenience sampling online using snowball methods. The reliability and validity properties of the Malay FCV-19S were rigorously psychometrically evaluated (utilising both confirmatory factor analysis and Rasch analysis) in relation to socio-demographic variables and response to the depression, anxiety and stress subscales of the Malay validation of the DASS-21. The sample comprised 228 Malaysian participants. The Cronbach α value for the Malay FCV-19S was 0.893 indicating very good internal reliability. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis showed that the uni-dimensional factor structure of the FCV19S fitted well with the data. The FCV-19S-M was significantly correlated with anxiety (r = 0.481, p < 0.001) and stress (r = 0.389, p < 0.001) subscales of DASS-21. The FCV-19S-M's properties tested using Rasch analysis were also satisfactory. Hence, the Malay FCV-19S is valid and reliable, with robust psychometric properties from classical and modern psychometric methods. It therefore is a highly crucial and timely addition to the psychological toolkit both in operational and research settings in identifying, managing and responding to the psychological distress engendered by COVID-19.

Monitoring the impact of Movement Control Order (MCO) in flattening the cummulative daily cases curve of Covid-19 in Malaysia: A generalized logistic growth modeling approach.

INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 has affected almost every country in the world, which causing many negative implications in terms of education, economy and mental health. Worryingly, the trend of second or third wave of the pandemic has been noted in multiple regions despite early success of flattening the curve, such as in the case of Malaysia, post Sabah state election in September 2020. Hence, it is imperative to predict ongoing trend of COVID-19 to assist crucial policymaking in curbing the transmission. METHOD: Generalized logistic growth modelling (GLM) approach was adopted to make prediction of growth of cases according to each state in Malaysia. The data was obtained from official Ministry of Health Malaysia daily report, starting from 26 September 2020 until 1 January 2021. RESULT: Sabah, Johor, Selangor and Kuala Lumpur are predicted to exceed 10,000 cumulative cases by 2 February 2021. Nationally, the growth factor has been shown to range between 0.25 to a peak of 3.1 throughout the current Movement Control Order (MCO). The growth factor range for Sabah ranged from 1.00 to 1.25, while Selangor, the state which has the highest case, has a mean growth factor ranging from 1.22 to 1.52. The highest growth rates reported were in WP Labuan for the time periods of 22 Nov - 5 Dec 2020 with growth rates of 4.77. States with higher population densities were predicted to have higher cases of COVID-19. CONCLUSION: GLM is helpful to provide governments and policymakers with accurate and helpful forecasts on magnitude of epidemic and peak time. This forecast could assist government in devising short- and long-term plan to tackle the ongoing pandemic.

A pilot project to introduce the multiple mini interview (MMI) at a Borneo medical school: The universiti Malaysia Sabah experience- a cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: The Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) demonstrates efficacy and superiority over traditional medical interviews in assessing non-cognitive domains during the recruitment of medical undergraduates. At Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), a five-station MMI was piloted in 2019, featuring a mix of three examiner-driven stations (assessing professionalism, ethics, and motivation to study medicine), and two roleplayer-driven stations (assessing empathy and science communication specifically, and communication skills in general). METHODS: 260 candidates were grouped into two separate geographical groups - urban and suburban/rural. Descriptive analysis, skewness and kurtosis were performed for normality assessment, whereas Cronbach's alpha, McDonald's omega, and Greatest lower bound assessed internal consistency. For validity measures, correlations were calculated between scores for separate stations, overall scores, urban and suburban/rural status. Also, exploratory factor analysis was performed on the five stations as validity measures. Difficulty and discrimination indices were calculated as quality measures. Qualitative analysis was performed on "red flag" comments detailing grossly unsuitable candidates. RESULTS: Roleplayer-driven stations yielded more red flags than examiner-driven stations. The three examiner-driven stations were significantly and moderately correlated (rho between 0.602 and 0.609, p < 0.001). The Empathy roleplayer-driven station was not correlated with two examiner-driven stations and only weakly correlated with the Ethics examiner-driven and the Science Communication roleplayer-driven station. Factor analysis suggests a three-factor model. The two roleplayer-driven stations stood as independent factors, and the three examiner-driven stations coalescing as one factor provided the best explanatory model. Quality measures suggest all five stations had suitable discriminatory properties (all >0.530), whereas the stations were distributed equally in difficulty index. CONCLUSION: The UMS MMI has identified specific skillsets that may be in short supply in our incoming medical students. Also, it illustrates the yawning gap between academic knowledge and 'translational' scientific knowledge and communication skills.

The Cross-Sectional Relations of COVID-19 Fear and Stress to Psychological Distress among Frontline Healthcare Workers in Selangor, Malaysia.

Previous pandemics have demonstrated short and long-term impacts on healthcare workers' mental health, causing knock-on effects on patient care and professional functioning. Indeed, the present COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented disruption in social interactions and working conditions. Malaysia has been under the Recovery Movement Control Order since June 2020; however, with the upsurge of cases, healthcare workers face pressure not only from working in resource-deprived settings but also from the increasing patient load. The primary objective of the present study was to examine the cross-sectional relationship of COVID-19 fear and stress to psychological distress (operationalized as anxiety and depression) in healthcare workers. The present sample included 286 frontline healthcare workers from three hospitals in Selangor, Malaysia. Self-administered questionnaires containing sociodemographic and occupational items, the Malay versions of the Coronavirus Stress Measure scale, the Fear of Coronavirus-19 scale, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 were distributed via online platforms. Hierarchical multiple regression findings suggest that age, shift work, and COVID-19 stress consistently predicted anxiety and depression among frontline healthcare workers after adjusting for sociodemographic and occupational variables. The present findings suggest that frontline healthcare workers are not only inoculated against COVID-19 itself but also against the psychological sequelae of the pandemic.