Randwick International of Social Science Journal

Digital Financial Twins in Islamic Microfinance: Evidence from Conflict-Affected Rural Economies (2020–2025)

Fayaz Gul Mazloum Yar — 2025-07-14

Conflict affected rural microfinance faces data scarcity and repayment volatility, limiting sustainable outreach. No prior empirical study has evaluated Digital Financial Twin (DFT) analytics within Shariah compliant institutions under conflict conditions. We integrate cyber physical simulation with Islamic microfinance, offering the first large scale evidence of DFT impact on financial and poverty outcomes. We employ a quasi experimental design combining geospatial conflict data (ACLED), loan level records from five Islamic MFIs (N = 48,360 loans across 120 rural districts), and UNDP Multidimensional Poverty Index scores. Multivariate logistic regressions, structural equation modeling (SEM), and GIS mapping were implemented using R (v4.2.2) and lavaan (v0.6 12). DFT deployment correlates with a 5.8 pp increase in on time repayment (OR = 1.27, 95% CI [1.18, 1.37], p < 0.001) and a 5.9 pp reduction in default rates (OR = 0.72, 95% CI [0.64, 0.81], p < 0.001). SEM indicates a significant moderating effect of DFT on conflict intensity (β = 0.29, p < 0.01). GIS heatmaps demonstrate sustained outreach in high conflict zones. DFT analytics enhance Shariah compliant microfinance performance and resilience in fragile settings, informing policy on digital infrastructure investment in conflict affected economies.

The Aesthetic Authority of Sultan Hamengku Buwana X in the Creation of Traditional Dance: A Study on the Bedhaya Mintaraga at the Yogyakarta Court

Syahrial Syahrial — 2025-07-14

The bedhaya dance is a significant Javanese dance genre, often associated with royalty, serving as a means to showcase the majesty and authority of a monarch. Therefore, it’s customary for a Sultan, occupying the highest social status in the Yogyakarta Court, to have bedhaya dances as part of his repertoire. One way for a Sultan to acquire bedhaya dances is by commissioning the creation of new ones during his reign, as exemplified by Sultan Hamengku Buwana (HB) X’s creation of the Bedhaya Mintaraga dance. This research aims to describe the Sultan HB X’s involvement, considering his hierarchical status and aesthetic authority, in the creation process of the Bedhaya Mintaraga dance. Understanding the Sultan HB X’s significant role in determining a new bedhaya dance during his reign is crucial. This qualitative research employs an ethnochoreological approach, utilizing non-field study data sources. Findings indicate that the Sultan HB X plays a significant role as the creator, evident in the dawuh dalem (royal decree) and controlling actions he exercises. Through these decrees and controls, the Sultan HB X manifests his aesthetic authority, having the power to determine his creations within the Bedhaya Mintaraga dance, which stands as a significant addition to his reign’s cultural legacy.

Evaluating Cooperative Membership’s Impact on Rural Household Empowerment: A Mixed-Methods Study in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan

Mohammad Rahim Rahimi — 2025-07-16

Rural cooperatives are widely promoted as vehicles for socio-economic development and empowerment in low-income contexts. However, empirical evidence on their effectiveness in fragile, conflict-affected settings remains scarce. This study fills that gap by assessing how membership in agricultural cooperatives influences multiple dimensions of household empowerment in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. Employing a convergent mixed-methods design, we surveyed 420 households (210 cooperative members; 210 matched non-members) using Propensity Score Matching (PSM) and conducted 24 in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed to estimate the average treatment effect on the treated (ATT), while qualitative transcripts were coded thematically in NVivo. Cooperative membership yields a significant 17.4 percentage-point increase in women’s participation in farm decision-making and a 12.8-point rise in access to microcredit (p<.05). Qualitative insights reveal that social capital building, peer mentoring, and collective bargaining explain these gains. Findings demonstrate that cooperatives can serve as effective empowerment mechanisms even in unstable regions. The cross-sectional design limits causal inference beyond ATT estimates; future research should implement longitudinal or experimental approaches to track dynamic empowerment trajectories.

A Linguistic Study: Satire in Malam Baretong Ceremony of Minangkabau Pariaman Wedding Tradition

Johannes Jefria Gultom — 2025-07-29

ABSTRACT

Satire in Malam Baretong event within the Minangkabau Pariaman wedding tradition holds profound philosophical meaning and serves as an effective tool for social control. It does not only serve as a critique but also as a tool to teach customary values, strengthen cultural identity, and maintain social balance. This applies to the Pariaman community, especially the younger generation whose understanding of Minangkabau cultural values is beginning to fade away. The purpose of this research is to understand and gain a better understanding of how satire is used in Malam Baretong event within the Minangkabau Pariaman wedding tradition. In this study, a descriptive qualitative approach is used to examine how various types of satire are clearly depicted in the Malam Baretong tradition of Minangkabau Pariaman weddings. In addition to direct observation and video recordings of Malam Baretong traditional wedding ceremony, data were also collected from books and YouTube videos containing information about the language and cultural customs of the Minangkabau Pariaman regarding Malam Baretong traditional wedding ceremony, as well as interviews with three community leaders of Pariaman to confirm the data. The findings of this research are as follows: Irony=17 (39.5%), Cynicism=9 (20.9%), Sarcasm=4 (9.3%), Antiphrasis=6 (13.9%), Innuendo=7 (16.2%). The type of satire most frequently found is Irony=17 (39.5%), indicating that the use of ironic remarks during the Malam Baretong traditional wedding ceremony of the Minangkabau Pariaman is more subtle and polite, reflecting a sense of humor in familiarity and kinship. Sarcasm=4 (9.3%) is the least frequently found because it is rarely encountered in the speech of the Minangkabau Pariaman community, especially during traditional wedding ceremonies.

Deconstruction and Reconstruction of Femininity in Macbeth from the Perspective of Androgyny

Xinli Yang — 2025-07-31

Woolf’s theory of the "androgynous mind," Freud’s concept of "repetition compulsion," and Foucault’s theory of disciplinary power together illuminate the deeper causes of Lady Macbeth’s tragic fate in Macbeth. In her attempt to transcend traditional gender roles, Lady Macbeth represses her feminine ethical traits and excessively amplifies masculine qualities such as cruelty and decisiveness. This imbalance in gender characteristics leads to intense inner conflict. At the same time, the internalization of social disciplinary power infiltrates her thoughts and behaviors, distorting her understanding of power and identity. As a result, she becomes both a replication of patriarchal logic and a victim of psychological collapse due to her inability to escape gender constraints. The interplay between psychological structure and social discipline reveals the multilayered roots of her tragedy, offering a new theoretical perspective for gender criticism of Shakespeare’s female characters.

Cryptocurrency Meets IoT: Unlocking New Business Horizons with Machine Learning

Mbonigaba Celestin — 2025-07-31

This research investigates the integration of cryptocurrency, the Internet of Things (IoT), and machine learning to explore innovative business opportunities. Using a mixed-methods approach, secondary data were analyzed, complemented by interviews and case studies, to evaluate the operational and financial impacts of these technologies. The study found a significant rise in cryptocurrency adoption in IoT systems, increasing from 12% in 2020 to 50% in 2024, driven by the scalability and security of blockchain. Machine learning contributed to a 25% reduction in operational inefficiencies and improved predictive maintenance. Additionally, businesses leveraging these technologies saw annual revenue growth of 20% and operational cost savings of up to 25% by 2024. However, challenges such as regulatory barriers, environmental concerns, and regional adoption gaps remain. The study concludes that fostering clear regulatory frameworks, enhancing infrastructure, and adopting green energy solutions are pivotal for maximizing the potential of these integrations. Key recommendations include investing in advanced IoT and blockchain platforms and promoting global adoption initiatives.

Japanese Clause Relativization Strategy

Ngurah Indra Pradhana — 2025-07-31

This study is entitled Japanese Clause Relativization Strategy. The purpose of this study is to describe the structure, strategy, and previous functions of relative clauses in Japanese. The theory used in analyzing the formulation of problems related to relative clauses in this study refers to the theory developed by Dixon (2010) in his book entitled "Basic Linguistic Theory 2". This study summarizes the analysis in micro linguistics, namely syntax. Syntactically, the antecedent in the Japanese relative clause is positioned at the end. In Japanese relative clauses, there are no relative markers. Only antecedents that are attached directly to the predicate are part of the relative clause. The function of the relative clause is to explain nouns or noun phrases which in Japanese are called hishuushokumeishi. This research is included in qualitative research. The data analyzed in this study came from the media and publications from the site https://www.sukasuki.org/koran-sukasuki. This study produced several points, including that Japanese relative clauses precede the nouns that are described or known by the previous term. The basic structure of relative clauses in Japanese always begins with a clause that describes and ends with the noun being described. Antecedents in Japanese can be nouns, noun phrases, or particles such as no and koto. There are no conjunctions such as "yang" in Indonesian or "who/which" in English. In this study, pseudo-conjunctions such as ni kan suru and to iu were found. Predicates in Japanese relative clauses can be verbs, verbs conjugated with hojodoushi, nouns, and can also be adjectives.

Jordan throughout Civilizations

Amani G Jarrar — 2025-07-31

This study explores the historical evolution of Jordan throughout various civilizations, highlighting its role as cultural crossroads and strategic hub in the ancient and modern worlds. From prehistoric settlements to the rise of Canaanite, Nabataean, Roman, Byzantine, and Christian then Islamic civilizations, Jordan has continuously contributed to the shaping of regional identity and heritage. The research utilizes a historical-analytical methodology to trace the development of political, social, and cultural structures on Jordanian soil, emphasizing the continuity and transformation of governance, religious tolerance, and civilizational interaction. The study also sheds light on Jordan’s transition into a modern state under Hashemite leadership, grounded in the principles of the Great Arab Revolt. It underscores the Kingdom's current role in promoting peace, dialogue, and moderate governance in the Middle East. Additionally, the research reflects on the significance of Jordan’s Vision 2025 as a blueprint for national development, citizen empowerment, and sustainable progress. Ultimately, Jordan emerges as a model of continuity between past and present, leveraging its historical legacy to construct a forward-looking national identity rooted in stability, openness, and civilizational depth.

Leveraging IoT and AI Towards Customer-Centricity and Customer Satisfaction in CGD Business in India

Santanu Purohit — 2025-07-31

The retail petroleum industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by evolving mobility models, such as shared transportation and renewable energy, rising customer expectations for convenience and personalisation, and the adoption of alternative energy sources. Consumers increasingly demand tailored experiences, and digital technologies are at the heart of meeting these expectations. With rapid technological advancement, customer preferences and buying behaviours are shifting. In the Indian context, factors such as gender, income, and education have a significant influence on technology adoption in the retail fuel sector. Customers are increasingly responsive to technology-driven offerings, such as digital payments, automated fuel quality checks, transaction alerts, and tracking tools, demonstrating a growing acceptance of innovative solutions. This study explored the application of IoT and AI technologies in the City Gas Distribution (CGD) sector, focusing on enhancing customer recognition, personalisation, and satisfaction at fuel retail points. A solution was deployed at a CNG fuel station in Karnataka from August to October 2024, spanning a period of three months. Data collected during this time was analysed to assess the impact. Results revealed a 30% reduction in fueling time and an 81% increase in customer satisfaction, showcasing how technology-driven initiatives can significantly enhance operational efficiency and customer engagement. The integration of IoT and AI not only streamlined station operations but also contributed to improved customer identification, acquisition, and retention, ultimately boosting sales and revenue. This case illustrates the growing importance of digital transformation in the fuel retail sector and highlights the strategic significance of adapting to shifting consumer expectations through innovative technologies.