Wawasan Open University

Open cultural heritage platforms like Europeana are widely used to store and share the rich history of Europe. Access to such large collections of linked data is still not widely distributed due to technical difficulties and the poor usability of semantic search interfaces. This paper proposes a conceptual framework for improving information retrieval on cultural heritage knowledge graphs. The model is built on the EDM and RDF Schema and introduces weighted semantic relationships between resources. It encodes weights as contextual metadata on edges and uses category-based weighting, external linked data sources (DBpedia, Freebase, etc. ), and optimized graph traversal to improve the relevance and inclusivity of search results. By assigning relative relevance to each graph edge based on the similarity of shared metadata categories, the proposed method increases the accuracy of query results, while improving their coverage to include semantically similar entities, allowing non-domain expert users, educators, and underrepresented communities to browse and discover new information. This work is in line with efforts to create an inclusive digital public sphere in communication studies by building on the idea of enhancing active semantic and semiotic forms of participation rather than limiting users to passive and non-inclusive forms of access. The paper is theoretical in nature, providing a proof of concept and evaluating model characteristics; however, it also briefly describes the future evaluation strategy and use cases beyond the cultural heritage context.

Abstract One of the pressing challenges faced by modern cities is the conservation of cultural heritage buildings in the face of rapid urban development. Current frameworks often emphasize documentation and restoration but lack integration with emerging technologies and measurable sustainability indicators. The purpose of this study is to improve and conserve Wawasan Open University (WOU)’s Homestead, a colonial villa in Penang, Malaysia, hence proposing the Digital Heritage Sustainability Framework (DHSF), a novel approach that integrates Augmented Reality (AR) with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) components. Compared to the available heritage frameworks, the DHSF ensures that conservation activities are not just technologically enhanced but cautious about the environment, socially inclusive and governance-driven. The DHSF framework follows a six-phase process: (1) Heritage assessment, (2) Community co-creation, (3) AR design and development, (4) Deployment, (5) Sustainability planning, and (6) Impact evaluation. The framework contributes to Construction 4.0 by embedding digital transformation and participatory innovation within heritage conservation, while aligning with UNESCO’s Historic Urban Landscape approach and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 4, 11, and 16). By integrating AR-driven engagement with ESG metrics, DHSF provides a replicable model for balancing digital innovation, cultural authenticity, and sustainability policy objectives. Without requiring significant infrastructure changes, this structure enables mobile devices to access historical narratives, archival photos, and guided virtual tours. Replication across heritage sites of different sizes and contexts is made possible by scalability, and the use of publicly accessible consumer technology makes it cost-effective. The DHSF technique is the main topic of this study; future research will gather empirical data and carry out a thorough impact analysis.

This qualitative case study investigates the impact of multimodal feedback on the narrative writing development of undergraduate ESL students in an online learning context. Narrative writing requires the integration of linguistic accuracy, rhetorical organization, and emotional expression, areas where ESL learners often face significant challenges. Traditional written feedback, while useful, can lack the clarity, engagement, and personalization needed to support complex revisions. This study involved eight ESL undergraduates who completed three narrative writing tasks over a 14-week period, producing 48 essays in total. Each task included initial and revised drafts informed by multimodal feedback delivered via written comments, video conferencing sessions, and screencast recordings. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis guided by Labov and Waletzky’s narrative structure framework. The analysis focused on global aspects (e.g., coherence, story structure) and local aspects (e.g., grammar, vocabulary, and mechanics). Findings reveal that multimodal feedback enhanced grammatical accuracy, lexical sophistication, narrative coherence, and emotional depth. The dynamic nature of video and screencast feedback supported clearer understanding, deeper reflection, and more autonomous revisions. These results reinforce the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning, demonstrating how multimodal channels support more effective cognitive processing. The study offers insights into how multimodal feedback can be strategically employed to foster meaningful writing improvement and learner engagement in technology-mediated ESL instruction.

PurposeThis paper sets the foundation for the special issue of WHATT, focusing on the dynamic shifts in Asian tourism. It delineates the process of formulating key research questions that capture the essence of evolving tourist behaviours in Asia, driven by technological advancements, shifting preferences, and the impact of global events.Design/methodology/approachUtilising a comprehensive review of existing literature and recent studies, the paper synthesises key themes and emerging trends in Asian tourism. This synthesis informed the development of pertinent research questions to guide contributors in exploring the multifaceted nature of changing tourist behaviours in Asia.FindingsThe paper identifies several notable trends shaping tourism in Asia, including the rise of digitalisation, independent travel, sustainability, cultural and adventure tourism, medical tourism, and experience-based tourism. These trends underscore the need for adaptive strategies and innovative approaches in the tourism industry.Practical implicationsThe key research questions and identified trends offer a roadmap for academics and practitioners to investigate the evolving landscape of Asian tourism. The paper recommends a multidisciplinary approach to researching and addressing these trends, emphasising the need for sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven strategies. The insights gained from this thematic exploration can aid in shaping policies and practices that align with the changing preferences and behaviours of Asian tourists. The findings are pertinent to policymakers, tourism industry professionals, academic researchers, and destination marketing organisations.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to the field by systematically identifying and framing the critical research areas essential for understanding and responding to the changing dynamics of Asian tourism.

PurposeThis paper undertakes a comprehensive analysis to explore the strategic implications of the evolution of tourism in Asia, with a specific focus on innovation and sustainability. It synthesises findings from 13 critical studies from this special issue of the Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, ensuring that all key aspects of digital transformation, experiential travel, sustainable practices and wellness tourism are covered.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a qualitative synthesis approach, reviewing findings from critical Asian tourism studies. The selected studies were identified based on their relevance to digital transformation, experiential travel, sustainable practices and wellness tourism. Common themes, policy implications and, most importantly, practical applications that policymakers and practitioners can implement are integrated into a comprehensive framework.FindingsThe analysis critically reveals that digital transformation enhances customer engagement and market adaptation through technological innovations and data-driven marketing. It underscores the necessity of product diversification and cultural immersion in experiential travel, urging policymakers and practitioners to foster creativity. Sustainable practices demand robust policy development, ESG integration and community-based tourism. Furthermore, wellness tourism emphasises the importance of service innovation and personalised wellness journeys, catering to the needs of tourists’ holistic experiences. These findings call for strategic and creative responses to meet the evolving market and consumer demands.Practical implicationsThe findings provide actionable recommendations for policymakers and practitioners. Governments should support sustainable policies, encourage community involvement and play a crucial role in promoting digital literacy. This responsibility and empowerment to foster digital literacy should inspire policymakers and practitioners. Besides, tourism businesses should invest in digital platforms, create unique cultural experiences, integrate ESG principles and develop innovative wellness services.Originality/valueThis paper offers a comprehensive analysis of strategic implications for Asian tourism evolution, integrating findings from multiple studies to provide a holistic view of innovation and sustainability. It contributes to the literature by offering a roadmap for future tourism development that addresses current challenges and opportunities.

When individuals are absent from positive social experiences, feelings of apprehension known as Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) may emerge. It may be often accompanied by repetitive negative thinking (RNT) as they persistently dwell on and feel anxious about the missing experiences. However, limited research has been conducted on the predictive relationship between them due to their current emerging state in the field of literature. Thus, this study aimed to examine FoMO as a positive predictor of RNT in Malaysia, an understudied collectivist culture that values interconnectedness. In this cross-sectional study, 80 Malaysian emerging adults aged between 18 and 25 were recruited, whereby they were required to answer the Fear of Missing Out Scale (FoMOs) and Perseverative Thinking Questionnaire (PTQ). Using a simple linear regression analysis, the results found that FoMO significantly and positively predicted RNT. Hence, this study has advanced the scarce knowledge in this field of literature, urging educational institutes to introduce adaptive methods for emerging adults to reframe their FoMO experiences and eventually reduce RNT.