Middle East J. of Management (31 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• DETERMINING HEDONISTIC MALL SHOPPERS: A SEGMENTATION APPROACH  
  by Mehmet Haluk Koksal 
  Abstract: The main purpose of the study is to investigate hedonic shopping motivations in Lebanon, which is one of the Middle Eastern countries, and to cluster them based on those shopping motivations. The study also explores the characteristics of the customers in each segment. The data were collected from main shopping malls in Beirut in September 2017. Respondents were chosen by employing convenience sampling due to time and budget constraints in the study. Out of 550 people approached, only 450 surveys were collected. Factor analysis with varimax rotation was applied to hedonic shopping motivations. Based on factor analysis results, the hedonic shopping motivations were grouped under five headings: adventure and gratification shopping, idea shopping, value shopping, role shopping, and social shopping. Two-step cluster analysis is applied after factor analysis and identified four mall shopper segments, specifically, role, recreational, social and apathetic shoppers. Each segment was profiled in terms of hedonic shopping motives, mall attributes, shopping outcomes, visiting patterns, and demographics.
  Keywords: Mall shopping; hedonic shopping motivations; shopping outcomes; mall visiting patterns; Middle East; Lebanon.
  
  
• International Collaboration and Knowledge Creation: The Moderating Role of Absorptive Capacity  
  by Mahmoud Fallatah 
  Abstract: The study extends previous research on the knowledge creation literature. It discusses the impact of International Collaborative Partnerships Portfolio (ICPP) on knowledge creation at the group level. I propose a contingency perspective by considering the moderating role of absorptive capacity. Using a sample from the academic industry (i.e. colleges), I find that for colleges from developing countries, collaborating with international partners is positively related to knowledge creation. Additionally, when collaborating with international partners, colleges from developing countries with higher absorptive capacity are more likely to create new knowledge than those with lower levels. The paper concludes with managerial implications and directions for future research.
  Keywords: Knowledge Creation; Absorptive Capacity; International; collaboration; strategic alliances; Saudi Arabia.
  
  
• Protean career attitude, perceived internal employability and perceived external employability: Does self-efficacy make a difference?  
  by Razia Sultana, Omer Farooq Malik 
  Abstract: This research examines the mediation of self-efficacy on the linkages between protean career attitude, perceived internal employability, and perceived external employability. The study proposes that self-efficacy facilitates protean individuals to develop high perceived internal and external employability. Using a stratified random sampling method, a sample of 241 faculty members was drawn from ten major universities of Pakistan. Research findings confirmed the expectation of full mediation of self-efficacy on perceived internal employability. Yet partial mediation was noted for protean career attitude and perceived external employability relationship. The study provides fresh insight to managers and practitioners of contemporary careers.
  Keywords: protean career attitude; PCA; self-efficacy; perceived internal employability; perceived external employability.
  DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2020.10022181
   
  
• FACTORS AFFECTING STORE LOYALTY OF RETAIL SUPERMARKET STORES: CUSTOMERS PERSPECTIVE  
  by Mohamed Ismail Mujahid Hilal 
  Abstract: Retailers are now changing their retails shops into self-selection stores which are similar to supermarket so called retail supermarket stores. The main objective of the study was to examine the factors such as store image, store environment, store convenience, service quality on the creation of store loyalty of retail supermarket stores in the East Coast of Sri Lanka. The questionnaire survey among 389 respondents was used to collect the data. SMART PLS3 was used for analysis. Findings suggest that the structural model containing store image, store convenience, store environment, store attractiveness and service quality influence on the creation of store loyalty. However, store image, store environment, and service quality do not support the hypotheses formulated in this study. Service quality, service environment, and store image attributes also need more focus by the retailers to improve the loyalty and customer stores satisfaction.
  Keywords: store image; retail supermarkets stores; convenience; environment; store loyalty; retailing; store attraction.
  DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2020.10022379
   
  
• Expatriate Spouse Adjustment: An Analysis of Challenges Facing Western Female Expatriate Spouses in the United Arab Emirates  
  by Rizwan Tahir 
  Abstract: Researchers have debated at length the impact of accompanying expatriate spouses on the success of international assignments, yet very few studies have systematically applied existing expatriate adjustment frameworks to the understanding of the spousal cross-cultural adjustment process in the host country. The present study endeavors to strengthen the existing knowledge by investigating factors impacting the adjustment process of the western female expatriate spouses of the expatriates on their international assignments in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). We have conducted a qualitative research with fifteen western expatriate female spouses who were relocated due to their husbands international assignments in the UAE. Regardless of the very exploratory nature of this study, it is apparent that most MNCs failed to support expatriate spouses in the UAE. Additionally, the respondents considered that corporate support and cross-cultural training (CCT), if offered, were inadequate. The core findings reinforce the results of previous studies and this should be viewed as a warning signal for MNCs trying to expand their operations in the Middle East and in the UAE in particular. In this region, MNCs need to initiate support practices for expatriate spouses, as failure to do so could jeopardize their expansion activities in countries like the UAE. This has implications for training as well as for the management of foreign assignments and it creates new avenues for research on expatriate management.rnrn
  Keywords: Expatriate female spouses; international assignments; multinational companies and United Arab Emirates.
  
  
• Early Internationalisation and Networking: An Inquiry into Born-Global Firms in Pakistan  
  by Manzoom Akhter, Joseph Omoloba, Christophe Estay 
  Abstract: Abstract Purpose - The paper aims to examine the role of networks in the resource acquisition of Pakistani born-global firms, and the strength of ties that entrepreneurs use during critical stages of the early internationalization. Methodology/approach - The paper adopted both semi-structured interviews with a panel of experts and a collection of SMEs cases to explore whether findings from developed countries are applicable to small firms in developing countries and to give evidence of the born-global phenomenon in a developing country like Pakistan. Findings - The findings of our studies reveal that Pakistani SMEs, in their quest to become born-global firms, also use their networks to overcome the constraints related to rapid internationalisation. The paper found that an efficient network consists of both strong and weak ties, because different types of ties provide different resources. Practical implications - Since internationalization of firms has different contexts in terms of access to foreign markets and opportunities recognition, entrepreneurs and businesses should become more cognizant of the opportunities that these potential markets crete and look to generate wealth for these niches through social innovation. The paper provides a better understanding of born global firms, entrepreneurs can develop their business ventures through social networks and acquire resources for the development and survival of their business. Originality/Value - The research approach helps identify a distinct category of experts who have extensive knowledge on the subject as the respondents significantly increase the authenticity and reliability of the findings.
  Keywords: Keywords Born-global; International new ventures; International entrepreneurship; Internationalisation of SMEs; Network; Pakistani SMEs.
  
  
• Human Resource Management Practices and Project Success in hydel projects of Pakistan: Moderation of Islamic Work Ethics and Country of Origin  
  by Masood Elahi 
  Abstract: Recognition of Human Resource Management practices by professional bodies has continuously evolved since it has been realized that the employees play a pivotal role in the success of any project. The hypothesis of the study explores the direct impact amid relationship of selected HRM practices (Employee Recruitment & Selection(ERS), Employee Training & Development (ETD), Employee Performance Appraisal (EPA), Employee Compensation System (ECS)) and Project Success (PS) as well as the moderating effect of environmental factors of Islamic Work Ethics (IWE) and Country of Origin (COO) in hydel projects of Pakistan. The study is cross-sectional based on the survey questionnaire data collected from 357 personnel. The results of the study will help the national / multinational firms to focus on efforts for the hydroelectric generation in Pakistan in further strengthening their human resource productivity by extending attention to the factors of concerns vis-
  Keywords: HRM Practices; Project Success; Islamic Work Ethics; Country of Origin; Hydel Projects.
  
  
• Self-efficacy Belief and Perceived Career Barriers as a Predictor of Vocational Outcome Expectations  
  by Fatma Büşra Polat, Yasemin Özdemir 
  Abstract: With reference to social cognitive career theory, this study aims to detect the predictor role of demographic variables such as self-efficacy belief, perceived career barriers, gender, the level of participation to self-improvement activities, internship and academic success perception on the vocational outcome expectations of university students. In the study, the data were obtained from 281 university students, who were chosen by purposive sampling, and analysed by a statistical program. The findings of the research indicate that self-efficacy belief and perceived career barriers predict vocational outcome expectations meaningfully. Besides, the analyses reveal that there is a positive and medium-level relationship between self-efficacy belief and vocational outcome expectations; on the other hand, a negative and low-level relationship was figured out between perceived career barriers and vocational outcome expectations. Also the findings reveal that vocational outcome expectations meaningfully differentiate according to gender, the level of participation to self-improvement activities and academic success perception.
  Keywords: self-efficacy belief; perceived career barriers; vocational outcome expectations; social cognitive career theory.
  DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2020.10025308
   
  
• The Effect of Private Label Brand Credibility on Consumer Purchase Intention: The Mediating Role of Relational Variables  
  by Najeeb Ullah Shah, Rajni Selvaraj, Nik Mohd Hazrul Nik Hashim, Nor Asiah Omar, Arawati Agus 
  Abstract: In recent times, private label brands are seen as equivalent to multinational brands. The current study explores the role of private label brand credibility on consumers purchase intention, which has received less attention. Additionally, this study investigates the mediating role of relational variables i.e. private label brand commitment, private label brand loyalty and private label brand identification as the resultant of private label brand credibility which leads to multiple purchases. The analyses are based on a sample of 272 individuals, selected through mall intercept method from 5 different major stores carrying private label brands. The results revealed that private label brand credibility plays an important role in managing sustainable relationships with customers. Findings also suggested that private label brand commitment has proven to be strongest mediator in the presence of two other relational variables. The research limitations, implications for future research, practical and theoretical implications of this study are discussed.
  Keywords: Private Label Brand; Credibility; Signalling Theory; Relationship Marketing Theory; Relational Variables; Purchase Intention.
  
  
• Investigating the Mediating Role of Job Satisfaction on the Relationship between Internal Marketing and Job Performance: A Research within Services Industry  
  by Seçil Taştan, Seyed Mehdi Mousavi Davoudi 
  Abstract: The aim of this study is to examine the influence of perceived internal marketing practices on employee job performance and mediating effect of job satisfaction. A quantitative research paradigm was employed using a questionnaire survey method; the data was collected from 395 employees of three different services industries, comprising healthcare, banking-finance, and insurance organisations. Based on the results of structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis, positive influence of internal marketing on job satisfaction and the positive influence of job satisfaction on employee job performance were confirmed. Further, the findings revealed that perceived job satisfaction had a full mediating role on the relationship between internal marketing and employee job performance. These findings contribute to understanding how employees job performance in service organisations is influenced by structured internal marketing facilities. Finally, this study proposed managerial implications and suggestions for future academic research.
  Keywords: internal marketing; job satisfaction; job performance; service-profit chain model; services industry.
  
  
• Proposed Relationship of TQM System Practices and Joint Commission International Accreditation Using Structural Equation Modeling  
  by Amin Ahmad Amin Shaqrah 
  Abstract: This study aims to explore the relationship between total quality management (TQM) system practices and JCI Accreditation Standards. A conceptual framework developed after reviewing related literature of TQM practices regarding the six Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA) criteria and JCI Accreditation Standards. An empirical analysis was conducted to carry out the proposed framework validation using the PLS method. Data were gathered from 80 employees working in Yanbu general hospital through an online survey questionnaire. The findings revealed a high relationship between TQM system practices and JCI organisational management standards. Moreover, the positive relationship between process management practice and JCI Accreditation empirically demonstrated as the most significant practice. This helps decision-makers, and practitioners of TQM well considerate MBNQA criteria as a key practice especially process management for getting JCI Accreditation.
  Keywords: total quality management; TQM; MBNQA; JCI Accreditation; Smart PLS; Saudi Arabia.
  DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2020.10026673
   
  
• Employee retention and Unfair labour practices : Perspective from Malaysian Hotel Industry  
  by Ramesh Kumar Moona Haji Mohamed, Che Supian Mohamad Nor, Charles Ramendran SPR, Ramayah T 
  Abstract: The purpose of this research is to investigate whether union membership will moderate the relationship between Leader-Member-Exchange (LMX), psychological contract fulfilment and employee retention and also the impact of human resource management practices. A quantitative study with structural equation modelling is used on data for this research obtained through a survey of 258 frontlines hotel industry employees. It shows that frontlines hotel industry employees are more concerned with career development, rewards and incentives, and performance appraisal as the main objective for remaining in the organization. Trade union membership moderated the relationship between psychological contract fulfilment and employee retention and also moderate the LMX and psychological contract fulfilment relationship. The level of retention and psychological contract fulfilment among unionized workers is higher than the non-unionized workers. Hence, the employee should have awareness and give attention to this unfair labor practice issue so that none will be discriminated against and the hotel also could be safeguarded from any future litigation. The findings of this research provide new directions for future research and also enlightened the hotels management, Malaysian Association of Hotel and the government on the impact of human resource management practices, psychological contract fulfilment, LMX and the function of the trade union on employees retention in the hotel industry.
  Keywords: Employee retention; Leader-Member-Exchange (LMX); psychological contract fulfillment; SEM; hotel industry; Discrimination; Unfair labour practices.
  
  
• How Project Complexity Influence Project Success in IT sector of Saudi Arabia: A Moderated Mediated Analysis  
  by Sami Alzahrani 
  Abstract: It is generally perceived that Complex natured projects may cause poor project success, with minimal empirical proof supporting this debate. Hence, this research examine that how Project complexity influences project success having Project performance as a mediator and moderating effect of Emotional intelligence and Transformational leadership in IT sector of Saudi Arabia having 400 respondents. Data for current investigation is accumulated through Self-administrated online questionnaire. Structural Equation Modeling was used to analyze the data by using Smart PLS3. Results reveal that project complexity is negatively related to project success and project performance acts as a mediator between them as well. Results also show that Transformational leadership does not affect the project complexity and Project performance relationship while Emotional intelligence buffer the relationship between project complexity and project performance. Research work can be upgraded by considering different variables like financial performance, total quality management, environmental factors and project planning to investigate the effect of project complexity on project success.
  Keywords: Project Complexity; Project Success; Project Performance; Emotional Intelligence; Transformational Leadership.
  
  
• Exploring the impacts of Internal Marketing Practices and Employees Organizational Commitment: Special Reference to Hotel industry in Sri Lanka  
  by Mohamed Ismail Mujahid Hilal 
  Abstract: Major objective of this study is to explore the impact of internal marketing practices of hotel sectors in Sri Lanka on its employees commitment towards the hotels. Reward, development, internal communication and leadership were used as internal marketing components in this study. To meet the objective of the study, 244 employees of different categories in the Hotel sectors were taken as sample. SmartPLS3 was used to analyze the collected data. Findings reveal that the internal marketing model comprising rewards, development, leadership and internal communication is significantly influencing organizational commitment. However, when we analyzed each variable, leadership and internal communication are significantly contributing to the commitment of employees in the hotel sector in Sri Lanka. Internal marketing components rewards and development are not supported to influence the employees commitment in this study. As rewards and development are important components of the internal marketing, it is recommended to the hoteliers to implement reward systems to the employees and provide training and development activities to the employees to increase commitment of employees in the hotels in Sri Lanka.
  Keywords: Internal marketing; employees’ commitment; Hotels; Sri Lanka.
  
  
• Factors Affecting Brand Image and Commitment among the Air Travellers in Malaysia  
  by Noorshella Che Nawi, Abdullah Al Mamun, Syed Ali Fazal, Shah Iskandar Fahmie Ramlee, Muhammad Ashlyzan Razik 
  Abstract: The limited literature as well as the significance of commitment for airline brands in experiencing rapid growth and competition had motivated this study to examine the effects of social media activities, value-consciousness, and brand consciousness on brand image and commitment. This study adopted a cross-sectional design and collected the quantitative data from 400 air travellers from Kelantan, Malaysia. The findings revealed that social media activities such as entertainment, trendiness, value and brand consciousness had positively and significantly enhanced brand image and commitment among the air travellers in Malaysia. Moreover, brand image had significantly mediated the effects of social media activities, value consciousness, and brand consciousness on commitment across the sample of the study. Apart from extending the current literature and forwarding valuable empirical evidence, this study provided key policy implications and relevance of the study area which could be exploited by airline operators to improve brand image and enhance commitment among the air travellers in Malaysia.
  Keywords: Brand Image; Commitment; Air Travellers; Malaysia.
  
  
• Emotional Intelligence and Conflict Management: An execution of Organizational Learning, Psychological Empowerment and Innovative Work Behavior in Chinese Higher Education  
  by Zahid Shafait, Zhu Yuming, Umar Farooq Sahibzada 
  Abstract: Dynamic environmental challenges to create and improve value continuously urge the higher education institutions (HEI) to come up with and maintaining higher standards. This study intended to investigate the organizational learning, psychological empowerment and innovative work behavior as mediator in the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and conflict management. Data were collected from twelve educational institutes from Xian and Sichuan China. The survey was addressed to faculty members ranging from lecturers to Professors, 513 questionnaires were collected with a response ratio of 57 percent. Hence, con?rmatory factor analysis was applied to validate prescribed theoretical conjecture. The research found that the direct link between EI and conflict management is significant. The indirect relationship through organizational learning, innovative work behavior fully mediated the relationship while psychological empowerment is having no mediation between the two variables.
  Keywords: Emotional Intelligence; Organizational Learning; Psychological Empowerment; Innovative Work Behavior; Conflict Management; Chinese Higher Education.
  
  
• Governmental Intervention and Entrepreneurs Personal Values: Qualitative Evidence from Saudi Arabia  
  by Fawwaz Alhammad, Ghazi Al-Weshah 
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to fill a gap in our understanding of government interventions (GIs) and entrepreneurs' personal values in a non-western setting namely, in Saudi Arabia. To that end, a case study was undertaken to better understand how Saudi entrepreneurship perceives their government's engagement with entrepreneurship, and how this may affect their personal values. Using theoretical sampling, nine in-depth interviews were conducted with Saudi entrepreneurs from Jeddah city. Findings revealed that, from the entrepreneurs perspective, GIs creates complications, threats, and ambiguity for their entrepreneurial business ventures. The study proposed a model that explains the interaction between GIs and entrepreneurs personal values. Moreover, the study identified two types of connections the entrepreneurs used to solve the problems and obstacles face their entrepreneurial business, namely, Networking and Wasta (Nepotism), these different types of connections are associated with two different groups of personal values. Finally, the study provided an agenda to improve entrepreneurs personal values and enhance the interaction between governments and entrepreneurs.
  Keywords: Governmental Intervention; Entrepreneurship; Networking; Nepotism; Entrepreneurs’ Behaviour; Saudi Arabia.
  
  
• Ethical Leadership, Effectiveness and Team Performance: An Islamic Perspective  
  by Halil Zaim, Ahmet Demir, Taylan Budur 
  Abstract: Ethical leadership is one of the influential factors on the organizational success. According to Al-Ghazalis conceptualization Justice, Wisdom, Temperance, and Courage have significant impact on the leaders effectiveness and in turn on team performance. In this respect, this study aims to investigate the relationship between ethical leadership and team performance with these virtues. Data of the study were collected from 408 employees among private companies in Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Based on data analysis there is a positive correlation between ethical leadership (based on Islamic ethics) and leadership effectiveness and team performance. Regarding the dimensions of ethical leadership, justice, wisdom, and temperance are positively associated with leadership effectiveness and team performance whereas the relationship between courage and dependent variables is insignificant. The study contributes to ethical leadership and Islamic leadership literature by proposing a unique model based on Al-Ghazalis virtue of ethics perspective and providing empirical evidence regarding the effects of Islamic ethics on leadership effectiveness and team performance.
  Keywords: Ethical Leadership; Virtues theory of AL-Ghazali; Islamic Ethics; Justice; Wisdom; Courage; Temperance; Leadership Effectiveness; Team Performance.
  
  
• Proposing a model for work meaningfulness concept at business and technology incubators  
  by Gholamreza Malekzadeh, Alireza Khorakian, Mohamad Amin Malekzadeh 
  Abstract: This article considers conceptualising work meaningfulness at business and technology incubators as a fundamental solution for the expansion of knowledge-based businesses, in order to contribute to the building of a broader and more balanced theoretical framework for job crafting in this kind of organisations despite its' complexity. Data are reported from semi-structured interviews with 20 managers of business and technology incubators and analysed by using a grounded theory approach. The article recognises central phenomenon dimensions, causal, contextual and intervening conditions, strategies and consequences, and proposes a theoretical model for work meaningfulness at these incubators. These findings contribute to both academic research and practical implications, such as redesign, development of plans and supporting the programs of enterprises and management styles, redefine jobs at business and technology incubators, and theoretical approaches from academic disciplines are linked to the dominant viewpoints in the literature.
  Keywords: emerging organisations; work meaningfulness; work attitude; business and technology incubator; BTI.
  DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2020.10019857
   
  
• Customer engagement in collaborative innovation: investigating consumer motivation for participating in value co-creation  
  by M. Sadiq Sohail 
  Abstract: Firms engage customers to tap into product-related innovative ideas for future product development. This engagement of customers in co-creation activity provides unprecedented opportunities to create value offerings to customers. However, there is a dearth of understanding on what motivates customers to participate in co-creation activity. Based on the self-determination theory, this study proposes a model and investigates consumers' intrinsic and extrinsic motivators to participate in co-creation. The model was tested on a survey data from 235 respondents from Saudi Arabia. Results reveal that the intrinsic motivator, enjoyment, predicted attitudes towards co-creation as well as willingness to participate in co-creation. The extrinsic motivators, showcasing of personal ideas and monetary reward also predicted attitudes towards co-creation and willingness to participate. An interesting finding is that gaining knowledge is not directly associated with willingness to participate, unless it is also associated at the same time with attitude towards co-creation.
  Keywords: co-creation; intrinsic; extrinsic; motivation; willingness to engage; attitude.
  DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2020.10021176
   
  
• The influence of brand romance on Iranian youths' loyalty towards fast-moving consumer goods  
  by Amir Khazaei, Farhad Hanifi, Mohammad Javad Taghipourian, Vahid Reza Mirabi 
  Abstract: Brand romance is considered as an important construct in marketing especially in brand area leading to the occurrence of some behaviours in consumers; however, a few types of research have been conducted on the importance of brand romance in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). This study aim to identify sub-dimensions of brand romance through depth interview and then analysing the data by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. In qualitative phase, depth interview have been conducted by consumers (48 samples), and in quantitative phase questionnaire have been distributed among consumers of fast-moving consumer goods (400 samples) in Mazandaran province (north of Iran). Data were analysed using SPSS to measure exploratory factor analysis and Lisrel to test the hypotheses. This study has presented a 38-item scale with seven distinct dimensions, including pleasure, uniqueness, intimacy, arousal, liking, connection and indifference. Also, structural equation modelling (SEM) shows that brand romance has positive effect on cognitive, affective, conative and behavioural loyalty. So, brand romance is a good predictor for customer loyalty.
  Keywords: brand romance; cognitive; affective; conative; behavioural; loyalty.
  DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2020.10028058
   
  
• Sensory properties, purchase attributes and usages of date-syrup by expatriate consumers in Oman  
  by Shahid N. Bhuian, Irfan Butt, Maha K. Al Balushi, Amanat Ali 
  Abstract: In general, the research on consumer's preferences for date-syrup is scarce. Knowing and incorporating consumer's preferences in the development and promotion of date syrup is crucial for developing a world market for date syrup. The present study was conducted to investigate the sensory properties, purchase attributes and usages of date-syrup among the expatriate consumers in Oman. A total of 140 expatriate consumers, from various ethnical and regional backgrounds, participated in this study. The results showed that the preferred sensory properties among expatriate consumers were the best tasting, least thick and moderately sweet date-syrup. The main uses of date-syrup included as toppings on ice cream, toast, bagel, waffle and pancake. The purchase attributes were mainly based on taste, no added sugar, reasonable price and good packaging. The results indicated that the consumers of different ethnical backgrounds and coming from different regions of the world had different preferences for purchase-related attributes.
  Keywords: date syrup; sensory properties; purchase attributes; expatriate consumers; Oman.
  DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2020.10028059
   
  
• Elucidation of the concept of organisational silence  
  by M.M. Sulphey 
  Abstract: Organisational silence is defined as the motivation to withhold or express ideas, information and opinions about work-related improvements. This study discusses the conceptual, theoretical and methodological aspects of the elusive concept and its importance in the organisational setup. Fear, embarrassment, narrow conceptions of ethical responsibility, lack of opportunity for voice, lack of organisational political skills, etc. are factors that are identified as leading to silence. It has also been seen that a host of socio-cultural, political and structural characteristics within organisations could hamper the space for exercising voice and result in silence. The paper also, based on theoretical and empirical evidences, analyses the factors that lead to silence in organisations, it effects and outcomes. The paper has succeeded in identifying the gaps in literature and makes certain suggestion that could facilitate further examination of the concept in an objective manner.
  Keywords: silence; organisational silence; employee silence; voice.
  DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2020.10021471
   
  
• Technological innovation and strategic financial performance: the case of Jordan  
  by Haneen Allataifeh, Fuad N. Al-Shaikh 
  Abstract: This research aimed at investigating the level of technological innovation in industrial and service companies in Jordan and the impact of technological innovation on corporate financial performance of these companies. It also aimed at exploring whether size, age and structural complexity of the firm have moderating effects on the relationship between technological innovation and financial performance of these firms. The study sampled 113 industrial and service companies out of 125 listed companies on Amman Stock Exchange. The researchers utilised a quantitative approach in examining the relationship using Lev's model to measure technological innovation inputs, and financial ratios to measure strategic financial performance. Inferential analysis was conducted afterward. Results of the study showed low levels of technological innovation in the sampled companies, and a statistically insignificant relationship was found between technological innovation and financial performance. Slight positive moderation effects were found for organisational size, age and structural complexity on the relationship between technological innovation and performance, yet the relationship remained insignificant. An attempt was made to interpret the results and come up with some recommendations in light of the findings.
  Keywords: technological innovation; performance; Jordan; Lev's model.
  DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2020.10028061
   
  

Special Issue on: SAC-MESS 2019 South East Asia Business and Management Perspectives for Sustainable SMEs

• The role of Micro Takaful industry for the achievement of Islamic financial inclusion in Pakistan  
  by Sanaullah Ansari, Zakaria Bin Bahari 
  Abstract: Financial inclusion refers to the provision of financial services at reasonable and affordable costs to low income and disadvantaged groups of a society. Micro Takaful is a system to provide financial protection to the blue collared, low income and under privileged individuals at affordable costs under the principles of Shariah. It provides financial security against property, health, disability and life. Currently, only 5 Takaful companies are operating in Pakistan which are providing general Takaful and life Takaful services. These companies are also providing Micro Takaful services on very small scale which include financial coverage of low-cost houses, students healthcare in government schools, financial protection of factory workers and crops-Takaful. The findings of the study reveal that Takaful companies must increase the span of Micro Takaful services because it has very important and key role in the achievement of Islamic financial inclusion in Pakistan which is very limited at present.
  Keywords: Financial inclusion; financial services; Micro Takaful; financial protection; Sharia'h; span of Micro Takaful; Pakistan.
  
  
• Understanding Young Consumers Mindset Shift Toward Ride-Sharing Services  
  by Phuong V. Nguyen, Khang Le Duy Tran, Phuong U. Dinh 
  Abstract: As part of the sharing economy, ride-sharing services have become a global trend. This new business model is an attractive option for entrepreneurs and has been studied extensively in recent years. Ride-sharing services also hold potential as a model for understanding consumers' mindset shift from owning to accessing. This paper investigates this growing trend by examining the impact of various factors on consumers mindset shift toward ride-sharing services. A structural equation modeling approach is used to analyze a questionnaire survey conducted using snowball sampling of 451 respondents who have used Grab, the dominant ride-sharing service in Vietnam. The findings reveal that young consumers are willing to use Grab because it is useful and easy to use and has competitive prices. In addition, the use of Grab provides economic benefits and helps achieve the objectives of sustainable development. The findings of this study will enable companies in emerging markets like Vietnam to recognize current trends in the sharing economy in order to improve and change their business models. Finally, this study identifies several limitations and propose directions for further research.
  Keywords: ride-sharing service; consumer mindset; attitude; usefulness; ease of use; behavioral intention; sustainability; economic benefits.
  
  
• Dimensional Impact of Emotional Intelligence on Employee Performance: An empirical study of Banking Sector in Djibouti  
  by Jugindar Singh Kartar Singh, Noraini Ahmad 
  Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the dimensional impact of emotional intelligence on employee performance in the banking sector in Djibouti. In this quantitative research, a survey method was used to collect data. The study population were employees in the banking sector and primary data was collected from 121 respondents. Data collection was through convenience sampling method and self-administered questionnaires were delivered by hand to the respondents. The findings of this study revealed that the first two dimensions of emotional intelligence had a significant impact on job performance. However, social awareness and relationship management did have a significant impact on performance. Based on the results of this study, leaders and policymakers should explore and implement the adoption of emotional intelligence to improve higher levels of job performance. The paper's primary contribution is that it provides an understanding the dimensions of emotional intelligence and their influence on employee performance.
  Keywords: Employee's performance; self-awareness; self-management; social awareness; relationship management.
  
  
• THE ROLE OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP IN FACILITATING INTERNAL RESOURCES TO CREATE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES IN VIETNAM  
  by Kien The Mai, Phuong V. Nguyen, Tuyen K.T. Nguyen, Khoa T. Tran 
  Abstract: Transformational leadership plays an essential role in establishing a vision and creating a favorable climate for employee innovation and enhancing competition. This paper aims to identify the role of transformational leadership in facilitating internal resources to generate a competitive advantage for small and medium-sized enterprises in Vietnam. To test the research hypotheses, structural equation modeling is applied to survey data collected from 315 managers using the snowball sampling method. The findings reveal the positive and direct influences of entrepreneurial orientation and transformational leadership on organizational learning. In addition, information technology has a direct impact on knowledge management, and organizational learning and knowledge management positively influence organizational innovation. Meanwhile, organizational learning and knowledge management facilitate organizational innovation to create competitive advantage. The results also illustrate that transformational leadership does not directly stimulate entrepreneurial orientation, knowledge management, and organizational innovation but indirectly fosters organizational innovation through organizational learning. Some managerial implications for how managers can utilize internal resources to gain competitive advantage are proposed. The paper also points out some limitations and suggests directions for future research.
  Keywords: Entrepreneurial orientation; Organizational learning; informational technology; knowledge management; transformational leadership; organizational innovation; and competitive advantage.
  
  
• The Comparative Performance of Islamic and Conventional Banks: A Meta-Analysis  
  by Hishamuddin Abdul Wahab, Mohammed Nur Irfan Mohammed Roslan 
  Abstract: To date, several studies have been devoted to comparatively examine the performance of Islamic banks to its conventional counterparts with mixed results. Given these inconclusive findings, the purpose of the study is to systematically review 73 samples of past journals and published thesis related to the performance of Islamic and conventional banks subject to regional and period of study. The results reported from past studies are systematically analysed using meta-analysis approach to effectively estimate the size of effect of the implementation of Islamic banking system to the overall performance of Islamic banks relative to conventional banks. Based on meta-analysis, in overall, there is no significant difference of performance between Islamic and conventional banks. In term of regional aspect, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Malaysia showcase better performance of Islamic banks in comparison to conventional banks. Further, Islamic banks perform better during short term period while long term studies show the domination of conventional banks. From policy implication, this study suggests that Islamic banks can perform better than its counterparts in a region that has strong government initiatives and community awareness in Islamic finance.
  Keywords: Meta-Analysis; Banking Performance; Islamic Banks; Conventional Banks.
  
  
• Japanese Managers' Perspectives on Project Risks in the Energy Industry  
  by Masatoshi Kaimasu 
  Abstract: Japan has an energy mix policy which has been affected by epoch events. Nowadays, climate change, caused by emissions of greenhouse gas (GHG), has become a serious global issue. Japan needs to reduce GHG emissions. To reduce GHG emissions, the Japanese government has adopted a nuclear power development plan. However, when the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake occurred, the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant was hit by a tsunami. Since then, renewable energy (RE) has drawn more attention. The Japanese government adopted Feed-In-Tariff (FIT) in 2011 which has accelerated RE penetrations into Japan. The number of RE projects are very likely to increase. Project management is key to project success. There are some project risks that can cause delays. This paper focuses on RE projects in Japan to clarify the characteristics of the project and identify the project risks. Three hypotheses are finally proposed, that is, degree of rigidity/flexibility of project scope; understanding procurement and contract forms; and the influence of natural disasters and metrological aspects.
  Keywords: Renewable Energy; Project Management; Risk Management; Procurement Management; Japan’s Energy Mix Policy; Safety; Feed-in Tariff.
  
  
• Impact of Talent Management Practices on Financial Performance: Evidence from GCC Banking Sector  
  by Umara Noreen, Rabia Imran 
  Abstract: This paper attempts to address less researched but important sector of the financial industry providing insight of talent management practices. Purpose of this research is to examine talent management (TM) practices in banking sector of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Oman. A sample of 200 respondents was taken by using purposive from national and multinational banks of both countries. Impact of three dimensions of talent management, i-e competence training, development and reward management was measured on financial performance. rnConfirmatory factor Analysis was performed to measure the impact and Harman one factor/ Common Method Bias were performed for treating the biasness. It was revealed that competence training and reward management has positive impact on financial performance of banking sector. However, there is no affect of development on financial performance which is quite context specific.rnFindings have important implications for banking sector in the region. Banks should manage and deploy their talent appropriately for profitability, long term growth and sustainability. rn
  Keywords: Banking; Talent management; competence training; development; financial performance.