The purpose of the article is to examine the changes in cross-border cooperation between Vietnam and China as a result of the development and connectivity of cross-border infrastructure between the two countries. This article is based on a mixed-methods study that includes desk research and surveys. The article explains how the two countries’ approaches to border shifted from ‘barrier’ to the border of ‘connectivity’. Accordingly, the article examines the changes in border management cooperation between the two countries, which serves as a vital basis for cross-border development cooperation. Furthermore, the article examines the perceptions of the two countries regarding the development and connectivity of cross-border infrastructure for comprehensive cooperation between the two countries and beyond. At the same time, the article examines how the two countries promote the development and connectivity of cross-border infrastructure, both hard and soft. The article also examined some initial results and some issues facing the two countries. The paper concludes with some findings. In particular, the article concludes that increased border connectivity will encourage cross-border cooperation and integration between the two countries and help to alleviate security concerns. Although the two countries have made efforts to open their borders, in the transition from a border of ‘barriers’ to a border of ‘connectivity’ remain partly to Vietnamese people’s memories of the 1979 Sino-Vietnamese border war, as well as the impact of the two countries’ unresolved South China Sea disputes. However, Vietnam also tries to promote cross-border cooperation within a controllable level.

This study explores the impact of Project-Based Learning (PBL) and locally sourced reading materials on improving speaking proficiency in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. The participants consist of college students aged 18 to 19 years. Forty-four participants from two groups—experimental and control—were evaluated using pre-and post-tests. The experimental group engaged with local cultural reading materials and followed a PBL framework, while the control group used standard commercial textbooks from Western publishers. The findings reveal that the experimental group demonstrated significantly improved fluency, vocabulary, and speaking confidence compared to the control group, with 37.04% showing improvement. PBL facilitated collaborative learning in real-life scenarios, reducing anxiety and fostering more significant participation in speaking tasks. In contrast, the control group showed minimal improvement, highlighting the limitations of traditional lecture-based methods. This study concludes that integrating PBL and locally relevant content into language instruction can enhance speaking proficiency, learner motivation, and engagement. The results suggest that PBL is a dynamic approach that supports developing linguistic and collaborative skills, providing a more holistic learning experience.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the performance of Indian Banks in terms of financial metrics. The study focused specifically on the NIFTY Bank Index. The paper also advocates that a greater transparency in disclosing AI related information in a Bank’s annual report is required even if it is voluntary. Design/Methodology/Approach: The paper uses a mixed method approach where quantitative and qualitative analysis is combined. A dynamic panel data model is used to understand the impact of AI of Return on Equity (RoE) of 12 Indian Banks in the NIFTY Bank Index over a five-year period. In addition to that, Content analysis of annual reports of banks was conducted to examine AI related disclosure and transparency. Findings: The paper highlights that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) significantly influences the financial performance of sample banks of India. Return on Equity the specific parameter positively influenced with adoption of AI. The profitability of banks is positively impacted by reduced errors and improved operational efficiency. The content analysis of annual reports of the banks indicates different approach for AI disclosure where some banks give detailed information and some are not transparent about AI initiatives. The findings suggest that a higher level of transparency could enhance confidence of all stakeholders. Theoretical Implications: The positive relation between adoption of AI and financial performance, specifically ROE, gives a foundation for academic research to explore the dynamics of emerging technology and financial systems. The study can be extended to explore the impact on other performance indicators in different sectors. Practical Implications: The findings of this study emphasize the importance of transparent AI related disclosures. A detailed reporting about integration of AI helps in enhanced stakeholders’ confidence in case of banking industry. The regulatory framework of banks may also consider making mandatory AI disclosure practices to ensure due accountability to maximize the benefits of AI in banking.

This study focuses on enhancing the maintenance processes of centrifugal pumps at Soekarno-Hatta Airport’s Water Treatment Unit in Indonesia, crucial for meeting the clean water needs of the airport, which served around 19.8 million passengers in 2022. Using a qualitative methodology, the research involved focus group discussions with the unit’s operators, technicians, and engineers to pinpoint maintenance challenges and devise solutions. Key findings reveal issues such as insufficient routine maintenance, unplanned repairs, and inadequate staffing, leading to operational disruptions and pump failures. The study highlights the role of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) in reducing machine breakdowns and improving efficiency. It emphasizes the critical role of centrifugal pumps in the airport’s water supply system. The research proposes several corrective measures, adhering to the 5W + 1H framework, including regular lubrication, bearing replacements, hiring more staff, and advanced training on PLC systems. These actions aim to rectify immediate maintenance problems and establish a foundation for the long-term effectiveness of the pump systems. Conclusively, the study underscores the need for a comprehensive maintenance strategy that aligns with standard operating procedures and preventive maintenance. This approach is essential for boosting the operational performance and reliability of the Water Treatment Unit. It has broader implications for similar infrastructure facilities, underscoring the importance of efficient maintenance management.

This study aims to develop a robust prioritization model for municipal projects in the Holy Metropolitan Municipality (Makkah) to address the challenges of aligning short-term and long-term objectives. The research explores How multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques can prioritize municipal projects effectively while ensuring alignment with strategic goals and local needs. The methodology employs the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to ensure methodological rigor and data adequacy. Data were collected from key stakeholders, including municipal planners and community representatives, to enhance transparency and reliability. The model’s validity was assessed through latent factor analysis, confirming the relevance of identified criteria and factors. Results indicate that flood prevention projects are the highest priority (0.4246), followed by road projects (0.3532), park construction (0.1026), utility projects (0.0776), and digital transformation (0.0416). The study highlights that certain factors are critical for evaluating and prioritizing municipal projects. “Capacity and Demand” emerged as the most influential factor (0.5643), followed by “Strategic Alignment” (0.2013), “Project Interdependence” (0.1088), “Increasing Investment” (0.0950), and “Risk” (0.0306). These findings are significant as they offer a structured, data-driven approach to decision-making aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. The proposed model optimizes resource allocation and project selection, representing a pioneering effort to develop the first prioritization framework specifically tailored to Makkah’s unique municipal needs. Notably, this is the first study to establish a prioritization method specifically for Makkah’s municipal projects, providing valuable contributions to the field.