Assessing the output of funding for halal-related research projects in IIUM

Abstract

Research funding plays an important role in financing a research project. Besides covering the expenses of the research, it enables researchers to produce tangible output from their work. Research outputs not only demonstrate the productivity of the researcher but also provide valuable contributions to others in related fields. The objective of the study was to analyse the trend of research funding and output in halal-related research projects at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) and develop a framework for effective assessment of research funding trends and outputs. Content analysis method was performed to examine the funding trends and outputs from 41 projects (from the year 2012 until 2022) obtained from the Research Management Centre. Taking into consideration all the issues that arise during the process involved, self-reflection method was also used during the process to develop a framework for assessment of research funding trends and outputs. It was found that the amount of grant received was between RM10,000 to RM300,000. The Ministry of Higher Education was found to be the main funder. Most of the talents nurtured were at Master’s level. A total of 77 journals were published, of which 75% were indexed in either Science (WOS), Scopus, or MyCite with one journal article indexed as Q2. Only 12.5% of the projects were reported to have commercialization output. No significant correlation was found between the total grant (RM) and i) total publications, or ii) talent produced. The developed framework would be useful for other researchers in diverse fields to adopt hence facilitate the process of collection and analysis of the data. In conclusion, the halal-related research in IIUM is progressing. The findings will not only benefit the research centre at the university, but also the other parties to open more opportunities, particularly in the area of priority of halal research and development.