Table of Contents

Special Issue: 8th International SEARCH Conference 2024 Abstract Proceedings
ABOUT THE JOURNAL
Aims & Scope: The aim of the SEARCH Journal of Media and Communication Research is to promote and enhance research development and debates in the field of media and communication research. It also serves as a forum for researchers and industry players who use research as the frame for social awareness and change. We welcome any submission of manuscripts throughout the year. Authors are invited to submit scholarly works on communication such as International Relations, Media...
The effects of gratification on continuance usage intention among Weibo users: A study in China
Zhou HongFei, *Ng See Kee
Abstract: Given the use of social media platforms that continues to rise worldwide, gratification is considered a key component for social media platforms to engage users. In this regard, social media platforms in China have rapidly increased their number of users and activities, allowing researchers to explore their unique characteristics. However, Weibo, one of China’s most popular social media platforms with millions of active users, has not been thoroughly researched in terms of user satisfaction and intention to continue using the platform. Drawing on the Uses and Gratifications Theory and the Stimulus-Organism-Response, this study investigated...
Meta-synthesising 5G and OTT transformation in radio broadcasting
Intan Soliha Ibrahim, Azhar Abdul Latif, Lorita Angeline, Asmady Idris, Syahruddin Awang Ahmad, Assis Kamu and Mohd Jannatul Firdaus, *Juliana Abdul Wahab
Abstract: A conceptual paper is essential as it is a potent tool for developing theory. However, researchers grapple to plan and write non-empirical articles due to the absence of well-recognised models to direct their creation. Thus, this study reviews the literature through a meta-synthesis method on the 5G and OTT concepts in radio broadcasting. Access to broadcast infrastructure is vital for every radio service. However, the switchover from conventional to digital, as envisaged by the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union and International Telecommunication Union, presents both challenges and opportunities for such stations. The saturation of FM frequency...
Concerns and behaviours of the Malaysian public regarding the proposed abolition of retirement pensions
Yuliandre Darwis, Ismail Sualman, *Sufian Hadi Ayub
Abstract: The proposed abolition of the retirement pension system in Malaysia has sparked concerns among the public, influencing their perceptions and behaviours. This study explores these concerns through a focus group discussion, analysing the sentiments, expectations, and reactions of Malaysian citizens. The research aims to understand the factors driving public apprehension, including financial security, economic stability, and trust in alternative retirement schemes. Participants expressed uncertainty about their post-retirement well-being, fearing potential financial burdens without a guaranteed pension. The discussion also revealed differences in...
Strategic communication and the role of food bank organisations in civic activism through social media during the COVID-19 pandemic
Sylvia Tan Huey Wen, *Muhammad Zaiamri bin Zainal Abidin, Md Azalanshah bin Md Syed, Rosya Izyanie binti Shamshudeen
Abstract: This study investigates the evolving roles of food bank organisations in civic activism during the COVID-19 pandemic, facilitated through social media. Using a qualitative approach, it analysed 309 social media posts and 15 in-depth interviews with key members of Food Bank Malaysia and Yayasan Food Bank Malaysia. Thematic analysis identified four critical roles food banks played during the pandemic: (1) building bridges among stakeholders, (2) supporting grassroots initiatives, (3) providing innovative CSR solutions, and (4) advocating for civic activism. These roles positioned food banks as central hubs, connecting underprivileged communities,...
Communication strategies in mitigating radicalisation on campus: A case study of Indonesian student organisations
*Dzikri Abdillah Adzimat Sukmayadi, Vidi Sukmayadi, Sarah Annisa Fadhila
Abstract: While religious radicalisation can occur at any age, youths seeking a sense of belonging, purpose, and identity may very well be highly vulnerable to radicalisation. While the digital landscape continues to evolve rapidly, the spread of the “radicalism virus” remains a pressing concern, particularly in the wake of accelerated online interactions. Much of the existing research focuses on top-down, state-led countermeasures, leaving a significant gap in understanding the role of grassroots, youth-led initiatives. This study addresses this gap by analysing the factors contributing to students’ radicalisation and exploring counter-radicalisation...
Making sense of relational communication among Malaysian secondary school students: Framing of self and other
*Norhafezah Yusof, Minah Harun, Nursafwah Tugiman, Che Su Mustaffa, Marini Kasim
Abstract: The central focus of this paper is on students’ meaning-making of relations with others in daily encounters. Making sense of how school students frame themselves and others requires understanding their well-being given that these students are considered academically competent and some of their peers are facing the risk of dropping out. Thus, drawing from the relational communication perspective, we argue that the way these students view themselves in daily relationships with others might affect or impact their attitudes towards schooling. This paper seeks to understand how school students who are considered achievers construct images of...
Idealization of knowledge communication ecosystem among AI development stakeholders: A project adaptation of shared mental model theory
*Faudyan Eka Satria, Dzikri Abdillah Adzimat Sukmayadi, Albertus Fani Prasetyawan, Rahayu
Abstract: A knowledge communication ecosystem is essential to resolving paradigm differences between AI development stakeholders and unifying their project orientations. For this purpose, this study aims to answer the question of how to build a knowledge communication ecosystem between stakeholders/AI developers in order to develop the AI products interdisciplinary. This question is the basis for our next analysis objective, namely to compare the steps taken by the government of Republic of Indonesian as well as the European Union in building the AI development communication ecosystem. To answer the initial question question, we applied...
AI-assisted media: Revolutionising storytelling in animation pre-production
*Mohamad Razeef Shah Mohmad Rafik, Safwan Anwar Azizan, Ahmad Md Redzuan, Naquefarhan Zainal Abidin
Abstract: The widespread adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed several production methods in the global creative industries, including Malaysia. The application of AI-assisted media is seen to be utilised as the initial tool in developing the early pre-production development from the conceptual process of developing an idea to the final script for the creative industry, specifically towards animation pre-production. Each component in the pre-production phase is seen to incorporate AI-driven technology as the primary catalyst for initial development. This transformative role is evident and can be specifically applied in conceptualising and realising...
A study of Chinese audience acceptance behaviour : A case study of remake Chinese films from South Korean originals
Li Chongjing, *Wan Norbani Wan Noordin
Abstract: In recent years, Chinese films have been extensively remade from South Korean films, but both reputation and box office collections have been underwhelming. To understand Chinese audiences’ attitudinal behaviour toward this type of film, this study collected textual materials reflecting Chinese audiences’ reception attitudes: Douban long reviews, short reviews, and questionnaires. This study analysed 220,264 words from long and short reviews, plus questionnaires using thematic analysis, and identified four themes: Films, Audience, Reality, and Expression. The study found that the localization strategies employed by Chinese films in cross-cultural...
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