Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding ergonomic principles among allied health sciences undergraduate students in International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan: an Islamic perspective

Ergonomics is a multidisciplinary field that applies scientific principles to optimise human interaction with the environment, enhancing health, well-being, and system performance. It is crucial in preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDS) and improving productivity, particularly for students engaged in prolonged sedentary activities. Despite its significance, there is limited research on undergraduate students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding ergonomics, highlighting the need for greater awareness and education. From an Islamic perspective, ergonomics aligns with fundamental principles such as balance (mīzān), moderation (wasatiyyah), and health preservation (hifz al-nafs), which are part of Maqasid al- Shariah. Islam encourages the integration of knowledge and technology to enhance well-being, promoting structured guidance in daily activities, including study and work environments. This study investigates the KAP of ergonomics among 121 undergraduate students at the Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences (KAHS), International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Kuantan. A cross- sectional study was conducted using an online survey via Google Forms. The data were analysed using IBM SPSS version 20. While 75.2% of students have a positive attitude, 52.9% demonstrate poor knowledge, and 56.2% exhibit inadequate ergonomic practices. The findings emphasise the need for integrating Islamic-based ergonomic education with modern technological advancements to improve student well-being and productivity. Future research should explore Islamic approaches to ergonomics in science, technology, and education to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and contemporary scientific practices.