Page 149 - AJWEP-22-4

HR and logistics in flood response

for complex, multidimensional frameworks, no use data. The PLS method of SEM was chosen as the
10
cases combining HRM and logistics inside humanitarian primary analytical technique because of its effectiveness
organizations have been found, thus underlining the in managing complex models, accommodating small to
need of research in this field. medium sample sizes, and addressing non-normal data
Given these identified gaps, it is evident that a distributions. This study aimed to examine and validate
11
more integrated and empirically robust approach is the theoretical relationships between the independent
needed to better understand the dynamics at play variables (human resource and logistics coordination)
within humanitarian operations. Addressing the lack and the dependent variable (humanitarian operations
of context-specific research, the limited exploration of performance [HOP]).
interdependencies between HRM and logistics, and the
methodological shortcomings in previous studies, this 2.1. Questionnaires development
study seeks to bridge these voids by focusing on a critical A structured questionnaire was created using established
and recurrent challenge – flood disasters in Malaysia. literature to guarantee content validity and clarity of
Therefore, this study aims to examine how HRM constructs. Responses were evaluated using a five-
12
and logistics coordination influence the effectiveness point Likert scale, with options from “strongly disagree”
of humanitarian operations in response to flood to “strongly agree.” Before full deployment, the
disasters in Malaysia by investigating the individual instrument was subjected to a pilot test to identify issues
and combined effects of HRM practices and logistics concerning clarity and reliability. The completed survey
integration on operational outcomes in humanitarian was disseminated directly to staff at the headquarters of
organizations. The study concentrates on flood-related the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) and several
disasters to elucidate the operational challenges specific non-governmental organizations (NGOs) throughout
to Malaysia’s disaster landscape, aiming to provide Malaysia. A cross-sectional research design was
practical insights that align with the National Security employed for data collection at specific time points,
Council Directive No. 20 of the country. The study which is effective for the identification of existing trends
13
employs PLS-SEM to create and empirically validate and patterns. A total of 593 usable responses were
a conceptual framework that illustrates the interplay collected from 2000 distributed questionnaires between
among HRM, logistics coordination, and humanitarian February and May 2019, exceeding the minimum
performance. This analysis aims to provide strategic sample requirement determined by G*Power 3.0.
14
recommendations designed to enhance institutional The study does not involve subjective or experiential
capabilities and facilitate the attainment of Sustainable knowledge in the interpretative sense. Although the data
Development Goals (SDGs) 9, 16, and 17. were collected through self-reported questionnaires
using Likert scales, the responses were treated as
2. Materials and methods quantifiable inputs for statistical analysis rather than
narratives of personal experience. The constructs were
Quantitative methods were utilized within a positivist derived from established literature and standardized
research framework, emphasizing objectivity, empirical to ensure consistency, objectivity, and reliability.
validation, and the testing of causal relationships through There was no exploration of participants’ individual
observable data, to examine the causal relationships perspectives, emotions, or meaning-making processes.
between HRM constructs and logistics coordination, as Any potential subjectivity in responses was controlled
well as their effects on the performance of humanitarian through rigorous validation procedures, such as pilot
operations. Techniques, such as PLS-SEM were used testing, reliability checks, and structural modeling,
to statistically assess theoretical constructs without reinforcing the study’s commitment to a positivist, non-
involving interpretation or researcher subjectivity. interpretive approach.
Qualitative elements, such as interviews, thematic
analysis, or participant narratives, which are typical 2.2. Sample and data collection
of interpretivist or constructivist approaches, were not This study’s unit of analysis was the individual
included. Instead, measurable indicators, standardized participating in disaster response and affiliated with
instruments, and hypothesis testing were employed in humanitarian organizations in Malaysia. The sampling
this study to ensure its alignment with the principles frame was created using a database from the National
of positivism. This methodological approach enables Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), with
the objective evaluation of theory through observable 3,732 individuals registered as directly engaged in

Volume 22 Issue 4 (2025) 141 doi: 10.36922/AJWEP025220182