IIUM JOURNAL OF HUMAN SCIENCES

An Anatomical Description of The Quranic Verse: Three Veils of Darkness in Surah Al Zumar

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Human development is a complex process discussed in many texts, including the Qur’ān. One of the verses describing human embryology is Surah Al-Zumar, 39:6 (…He creates you in the wombs of your mothers: creations after creation in three veils of darkness…). Exploring the different anatomical aspects when translating Qur’ānic terms is essential. These nuances often carry unique interpretations and perspectives worth examining, revealing deeper layers of meaning not fully captured in traditional translations. This manuscript aims to present a biological perspective in translating the phrase or terms “three veils of darkness” used in the Qur’ānic verse with appropriate anatomical terminologies. The sources for this article include the Qur’ān, Hadiths, and published literature. Some Arabic words in the cited verse are elaborated from a slightly different biological perspective compared to available translations. In this manuscript, the “three veils” mentioned in surah Al-Zumar are defined as the uterine, chorionic, and amniotic cavities. By refining and expanding the anatomical correlates of each “veil,” this study intends to offer a clearer and more precise interpretation that builds upon and improves the original hypothesis, while maintaining its original context and significance across different linguistic settings. This additional viewpoint on the links between Qur’ānic words and modern anatomical terms highlights the remarkable language of the Holy Book, bestowed upon us by Allah the Almighty.

Culture & Trade: Revisiting Smart Power in the Digital Age

Rini Suryati Sulong, Hou Xiaoli — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This article explores how cultural trade can serve as a form of ‘smart power’. We examine how globalisation has developed to amplify the influence of digitalisation in the exchange of both tangible and intangible goods, thereby boosting cultural trade. We review how a nation’s cultural identity has been constructed and understood through a conceptual synthesis. This article investigates how a nation utilises the medium through which its culture is shared and considers the extent of its influence. We argue that although a nation’s cultural identity may be exchanged as tangible and intangible cultural products across borders, the underlying values and implicit assumptions of these artefacts are not always communicated as intended. Consequently, we seek to explore the role of advancements in telecommunications and digital technologies in shaping cultural identities and state power. From our analysis, while digital technologies enable quicker access and broader audience reach, digitalisation may not yet fully capture the nuanced understanding required for accurate cultural exchange. In this context, if a nation can effectively leverage digital technology to disseminate the cultural norms and values associated with its cultural products, then, and only then, can it utilise ‘smart power’ to influence public opinion and manoeuvre international relations to its advantage.

Parents’ Experiences with Communication and Perception of Childcare Quality in Malaysia: A Mixed-method Study

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Effective communication between parents and childcare providers is crucial for delivering high-quality childcare. This study explores the impact of communication satisfaction on parents' perceptions of childcare quality in Malaysia. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study collected 45 survey responses and conducted interviews with four parents whose children attend childcare. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis based on Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-step framework. In-person interactions and WhatsApp emerged as the most common communication channels, with parents mainly discussing health updates, daily activities, and developmental progress. Most parents were satisfied with the communication; however, some requested more frequent and detailed updates, while others expressed dissatisfaction due to limited developmental information and occasional insensitive language from providers. The findings also reveal that communication methods, frequency, and provider responsiveness significantly influence parents' satisfaction and overall perception of childcare quality. Additionally, the study highlights the role of cultural factors in shaping communication and childcare practices within Malaysia's diverse society. The results suggest that improving providers’ communication skills, enhancing digital engagement, and fostering cultural sensitivity can strengthen relationships between parents and childcare providers, thereby enriching the overall childcare experience. Future research should consider providers' perspectives and employ larger samples and longitudinal designs to monitor changes in communication practices over time.