Writing and publishing in high-indexed journals is essential for academicians, enhancing their visibility and credibility in the scientific community.

However, many academics and researchers face challenges such as high workloads, increasing responsibilities, and a lack of mentorship, making the journey to publication particularly daunting.

Young lecturers, in particular, may find it challenging to craft compelling manuscripts that meet the standards of Q1 and Q2 journals.

The competitive nature of securing research grants further complicates this landscape. Nevertheless, publishing in high-indexed journals contributes to university performance indicators (KPIs) and boosts global research visibility.

To support academics and researchers in overcoming these challenges, Persatuan Himpunan Ilmuan Universiti Malaysia Sabah (HiUMS) has organised a three-day workshop focused on Publishing in Hi-Impact Q1 and Q2 Journals.

Lead by Prof. Emeritus Dr. Lorna Uden from the University of Staffordshire, United Kingdom the event taking place from 19-21 October at the Sabah International Convention Centre in Kota Kinabalu brought together academics, lecturers and PhD candidates from both public universities, such as UMS and Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), as well as participants from private institutions like Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) and the Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL).

With an impressive publication record, Prof. Lorna has been recognised as one of the Top Scholars by ScholarGPS in 2024. She ranks among the top 0.5% of scholars worldwide due to her notable contributions.

Chairman of the workshop, Associate Professor Dr. Fauziah Sulaiman said the event aims to empower researchers with the skills and knowledge needed for successful publication in high-impact journals.

“Throughout the event, participants received comprehensive training on effective research methodologies and proposal writing in a supportive, mentoring environment.

“Under Prof. Lorna's guidance, participants engaged in detailed consultations that enhanced their understanding of research interests. She provided invaluable motivation and scaffolding, helping participants navigate the intricacies of article writing.

“Prof. Lorna emphasised the importance of linking any successful articles to the theoretical foundations relevant to the data obtained from their research,” she said.

Fauziah said the workshop's primary goal was to equip participants with clear strategies and insights for constructing high-quality papers well-suited for publication in reputable, high-index journals.

“Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vino from APU shared that the workshop fostered an energetic atmosphere, encouraging participants to generate ideas and draft papers effectively.

“Kamsia Budin from the Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) emphasised the vibrant, hands-on experience of the in-person workshop, which offers unique benefits that online formats can't replicate. “Meanwhile Dr. Surya Sumarni from UiTM emphasised the importance of extending such activities to provide more opportunities for young lecturers to develop their writing skills. Such activities are invaluable for researchers and lecturers, as they enhance writing skills and increase the chances of publication in high-impact journals,” she added.

As a result of the workshop, participants are now actively engaged in developing quality papers, with optimism for successful publication in high-indexed journals in the near future.