Title:
EXPLORING COMIC RESEARCH IN MALAYSIA: OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND SCHOLARLY IMPLICATIONS

Authors:
Ameer Fuhaili and Ahmad Zulfadli

Abstract:
This article explores the trajectory of comic-based educational research in Malaysia, focusing on its pedagogical potential, prevailing challenges, and broader implications. Drawing on a systematic thematic analysis of locally published academic articles, the study highlights a growing recognition of comics as legitimate tools for enhancing conceptual understanding, student motivation, literacy, and character development across diverse disciplines. Despite this progress, research in Malaysia remains constrained by conservative perceptions, limited funding, a lack of interdisciplinary collaboration, and the absence of dedicated publication platforms. The study identifies key thematic gaps—particularly in inclusive education, vocational training, and alternative assessment—and proposes strategic interventions to strengthen the national research ecosystem. These include expanding institutional support, fostering interdisciplinary networks, and promoting visual narrative pedagogy through targeted academic programmes and journals. Overall, the findings underscore the need to reposition comics as reflective, inclusive, and contextually relevant pedagogical media aligned with 21st-century educational goals.

Keywords:
Educational comics, inclusive education, interdisciplinary approaches, Malaysian education research, multiple intelligences theory, student-centred learning, visual narrative pedagogy.

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37500/IJESSR.2025.8602

Date of Publication: 15-11-2025