International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science

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Leveraging Coffee Waste for Social Impact: A Sustainable Toolkit for Enhancing Sensory Skills and Therapeutic Exercises in Educational and Therapeutic Settings

  • Dinah Rakhim
  • Batrishia Rakhim
  • Verly Veto Vermol
  • 2427-2436
  • Oct 15, 2024
  • Creative Arts

Leveraging Coffee Waste for Social Impact: A Sustainable Toolkit for Enhancing Sensory Skills and Therapeutic Exercises in Educational and Therapeutic Settings

Dinah Rakhim1, Batrishia Rakhim2, Verly Veto Vermol3

1 Industrial Design Department, College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Kedah, Malaysia

2 MDPI, Manchester, United Kingdom

3 National Design Centre, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam, Malaysia

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2024.8090200

Received: 01 September 2024; Accepted: 12 September 2024; Published: 15 October 2024

ABSTRACT

In an era of increasing focus on sensory development, mental well-being, and sustainability, we present herein a Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit as an innovative solution to the intersecting challenges born out of these factors. This study aims to develop and assess a novel toolkit designed to integrate sensory stimulation with therapeutic hand exercises while promoting sustainable practices. The problem addressed is a gap in the literature regarding educational and therapeutic tools that are effective and eco-friendly, which simultaneously support sensory and cognitive development. The research employs a descriptive design which is intended to be carried out with a sample of 100 participants, including children with sensory processing issues, older adults with motor function decline, and educators. Data collection will involve both quantitative and qualitative methods, utilizing surveys, structured interviews, and observational data to evaluate the toolkit’s impact on sensory engagement, motor function improvement, and overall well-being. Statistical and thematic analyses will be applied to interpret the data. The aim of this intended research is to determine whether the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit, which aligns with sustainable practices by incorporating eco-friendly materials, effectively enhances sensory skills and motor functions by leveraging the tactile and olfactory benefits of coffee grounds, as well as its effectiveness in supporting therapeutic hand exercises. This study underscores the potential of integrating sensory enrichment with sustainability in educational and therapeutic settings, offering practical implications for educators and therapists. The toolkit is not only designed to foster cognitive and motor development, but also exemplifies how environmental responsibility can be embedded into therapeutic interventions. Future research should focus on empirical validation across diverse populations and explore the broader implications of sustainable practices in therapeutic tools.

Keywords: Coffee-Infused Soap-Making, Sensory Skills, Therapeutic Hand Exercises, Sustainability, Educational Tools

INTRODUCTION

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving educational paradigms, issues related to sensory skill development, mental well-being, and sustainability have gained increasing prominence. As emphasized by the World Health Organization, mental health and sensory stimulation are critical for overall well-being, particularly in educational and therapeutic contexts (WHO, 2023). Sensory enrichment activities are known to boost cognitive function and emotional health, especially among children with disabilities and older adults experiencing cognitive decline (Smith et al., 2024). Concurrently, the global push for eco-friendly solutions underscores the need for sustainable practices within educational tools and therapeutic interventions (Johnson & Lee, 2023). Incorporating innovative materials such as coffee into these practices addresses these global challenges while also aligning with the broader trend towards sustainability and environmental responsibility.

In Malaysia, there is a growing emphasis on integrating innovative and sustainable practices into educational and therapeutic frameworks. Recent data indicate that 48% of Malaysian educational institutions now utilize hands-on and sensory-enriching activities to support learning (Malaysian Ministry of Education, 2024). This reflects a broader recognition of the importance of sensory stimulation in cognitive and emotional development. Likewise, 55% of therapeutic centers in Malaysia have adopted creative activities, including crafting and sensory exercises, to enhance mental and emotional well-being (Health Ministry of Malaysia, 2024). The push towards sustainability is also evident, with 63% of Malaysian businesses now implementing eco-friendly practices, an increase from 50% the previous year (Department of Environment Malaysia, 2024). The proposed Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit aligns with these trends by merging sensory experiences with sustainable practices, thereby addressing both educational and therapeutic needs while supporting Malaysia’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Previous studies affirm the effectiveness of sensory enrichment activities and innovative educational tools in enhancing cognitive and emotional development. Taylor and Williams (2022) show that sensory activities, such as hands-on crafts and creative exercises, significantly improve fine motor skills and sensory processing in children, particularly those with developmental disorders. In the therapeutic domain, Hernandez et al. (2023) found that creative therapeutic interventions, including crafting and sensory exercises, effectively improve mental health outcomes and emotional well-being in older adults. Additionally, research on sustainable practices in educational and therapeutic tools supports the integration of eco-friendly materials. Green and Morris (2022) highlight that incorporating environmentally friendly materials into educational and therapeutic tools can boost environmental awareness and promote sustainability. Much like the enduring legacy of Malay folklore, which has been preserved and cherished through various forms of media for generations, our project seeks to create a sustainable toolkit that not only serves an educational purpose but also fosters a deep connection with cultural and therapeutic practices (Rakhim & Vermol, 2020).

Despite the growing recognition of sensory enrichment and sustainability, there is a notable gap in the development of innovative, eco-friendly tools that effectively combine these elements. Most current tools address either sensory stimulation or sustainability but rarely integrate both aspects. This study aims to bridge this gap by developing and evaluating a Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit designed for educational and therapeutic purposes. The specific research objectives are as follows: (1) to design and implement an innovative Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit that integrates sensory stimulation with sustainable practices; (2) to assess the toolkit’s effectiveness in enhancing sensory skills and supporting therapeutic hand exercises; (3) to evaluate the toolkit’s contribution to sustainability and its alignment with eco-friendly practices; and (4) to explore the toolkit’s potential applications in educational and therapeutic settings and its impact on users’ well-being.

The article is structured as follows, the introduction section provides an overview of the research background, highlighting the increasing significance of sensory skill development, mental well-being, and sustainability in educational and therapeutic contexts, both globally and within Malaysia. Following the introduction, the literature review delves into previous studies on sensory enrichment activities, the benefits of creative therapeutic interventions, and the role of sustainable practices in educational and therapeutic tools. Next, the methodology section outlines the design and development of the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit, explaining the research methods employed to evaluate its effectiveness. The results section presents findings from the toolkit’s implementation, focusing on its impact on sensory skills, therapeutic benefits, and contributions to sustainability. Finally, the discussion and conclusion sections interpret the results, draw connections to the broader field, and suggest future research directions, alongside the practical implications of integrating sensory and sustainable practices within educational and therapeutic environments.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Introduction to Sensory Stimulation and Therapeutic Hand Exercises

The integration of sensory stimulation with therapeutic exercises is increasingly recognized for its efficacy in enhancing cognitive and motor functions. Sensory stimulation, which includes both tactile and olfactory experiences, is crucial in therapeutic settings, especially for individuals experiencing cognitive decline, disabilities, or recovering from hand injuries (Smith et al., 2024). Activities such as soap-making, which involve engaging multiple senses and repetitive hand movements, are beneficial for developing fine motor skills and improving hand strength. Research has demonstrated that sensory-enriching activities can significantly support cognitive and motor rehabilitation (Guzelkucuk et al., 2007; Radder et al., 2017).

Coffee-Infused Soap-Making as a Therapeutic Tool

The Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit offers an innovative approach by merging the sensory benefits of ground coffee with therapeutic hand exercises. This toolkit leverages the tactile experience of handling coffee grounds, the aromatic qualities of coffee, and the manual process of soap crafting to provide a multifaceted sensory experience. The studies listed in Table 1 indicate that such multisensory activities can enhance both cognitive and motor functions, making them valuable in therapeutic interventions (Radder et al., 2017; Guzelkucuk et al., 2007). The effectiveness of this approach is attributed to its ability to simultaneously engage multiple senses while promoting hand exercises.

Table I: List of Relevant Studies Reviewed for This Work.

No Authors Year Citations Title Key Findings
1 Umut Guzelkucuk, I. Duman, M. Taşkaynatan, K. Dinçer 2007 60 Comparison of therapeutic activities with therapeutic exercises in the rehabilitation of young adult patients with hand injuries. Therapeutic activities that mimic daily activities are more effective than traditional exercises in improving hand function in young adult patients with hand injuries.
2 Bob Radder, Gerdienke B. Prange-Lasonder, A. Kottink, L. Gaasbeek, J. Holmberg, A. Melendez-Calderon, J. Buurke, J. Rietman 2017 2 User Acceptance of a Therapeutic System that Enables Hand Training Exercises in a Motivating Environment The ironHand therapeutic system shows promising usability for daily use, with a mean score of 66.4 on the System Usability Scale.
3 K. Glowacki, K. Arbour-Nicitopoulos, M. Burrows, Leslie Chesick, L. Heinemann, S. Irving, R. Lam, Soultana Macridis, E. Michalak, Aidan Scott, Adrian H. Taylor, G. Faulkner 2019 19 It’s more than just a referral: Development of an evidence-informed exercise and depression toolkit The Exercise and Depression Toolkit is a resource for health care providers, adults with depression, and exercise professionals to help make exercise an accessible treatment option for Canadians living with depression.
4 Ben Jelen, Annelise L. Freeman, Mina Narayanan, Kate M. Sanders, James Clawson, K. Siek 2019 24 Craftec: Engaging Older Adults in Making through a Craft-Based Toolkit System Craftec is an extendable toolkit system that engages older adults in maker technology by supporting common crafting skills, facilitating efficient circuit integration and reducing short circuits compared to a basic LilyPad Arduino kit.
5 A. Widyasanti, Arinda

Nur Ariva

2020 1 Karakteristik Fisik,

Kimia dan Organoleptik Sabun Cair Pencuci Tangan Handmade Berbahan Ampas Sisa Kopi Espresso

Handmade hand-washing

soap made from espresso coffee residue has good physical, chemical, and organoleptic properties, with potential for industrial scale application.

6 Mahboobeh Rafieepoor Chirani, E. Kowsari, Targol Teymourian, S. Ramakrishna 2021 42 Environmental Impact of Increased Soap Consumption During COVID-19 Pandemic: Biodegradable Soap Production and Sustainable Packaging During the COVID-19 pandemic, eco-friendly soap production and sustainable packaging were crucial to reduce environmental impact and promote safe handwashing practices.
7 Dão Pedro de Carvalho Neto, Xavier P. Gonot-Schoupinsky, Freda N. Gonot-Schoupinsky 2021 4 Coffee as a Naturally Beneficial and Sustainable Ingredient in Personal Care Products: A Systematic Scoping Review of the Evidence Coffee and its by-products can be beneficial and sustainable ingredients in personal care products, providing natural, non-toxic ingredients and economic alternatives to support sustainability in the coffee production chain.
8 DP Carvalho Neto et al. 2021 Coffee as a Naturally Beneficial and Sustainable Ingredient Coffee has beneficial uses in personal care products, contributing to sustainability and enhancing sensory experiences
9 Diah Dinaloni, Henky Muktiadji, A. Wahid 2022 0 Training on Making Hand Soap As An Alternative Income During The Covid-19 Pandemic In Karang Taruna Youth In Mayangan Village The training on making hand soap as an alternative income during the Covid-19 pandemic was successful, with 100 bottles produced and a profit of IDR 2,000 per bottle.
10 Edward Brial, R. Aunger, W. C. Muangi, Weston L. Baxter 2023 0 Development of a novel hand cleansing product for low-income contexts: The case of tab soap Tab soap, a single-use, decomposable product, could make handwashing more accessible and reliable in resource-poor societies.
11 D. Mulyani 2023 0 Formulation Of Solid Soap from Kerinci Arabica Coffee Beans Kerinci arabica coffee can be formulated into solid soap with suitable water content and pH, offering benefits such as preventing premature aging and improving skin health.
12 LT Asido et al. 2024 Antibacterial Activity and Sensory Profile of Liquid Hand Soap from Coffee Liquid soap made from spent coffee grounds exhibited strong antibacterial properties and a favorable sensory profile

The above-mentioned studies that were collectively reviewed support the development of the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit by integrating therapeutic, sensory, and sustainability aspects into the soap-making process. Guzelkucuk et al. (2007) emphasize the value of therapeutic activities in hand rehabilitation, while Radder et al. (2017) highlight the importance of engaging environments for therapeutic exercises. Glowacki et al. (2019) provide insights into creating evidence-based toolkits for mental and physical health, and Jelen et al. (2019) explore craft-based toolkits for engaging older adults. Widyasanti and Ariva (2020) focus on the characteristics of handmade coffee-based soaps, and Rafieepoor Chirani et al. (2021) discuss the environmental impact of soap consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic. Carvalho Neto et al. (2021) review coffee as a sustainable ingredient in personal care, and Dinaloni et al. (2022) investigate soap-making as a source of income. Brial et al. (2023) focus on affordable hand cleansing products, and Mulyani (2023) examines soap formulations from coffee beans. Finally, Asido et al. (2024) provide data on the antibacterial activity and sensory profile of coffee-based soaps, reinforcing the relevance of coffee in personal care products. These studies collectively inform the development of the toolkit by demonstrating how therapeutic, sensory, and sustainable practices can be effectively integrated.

However, while the literature provides a strong theoretical basis for the toolkit’s design, there remains a gap in empirical research whereby its combined impact on sensory skills, therapeutic outcomes, and sustainability is specifically examined. Existing studies often explore these elements in isolation, leaving a significant opportunity to investigate their interaction within educational and therapeutic contexts. For instance, the integration of sustainability into therapeutic practices is a relatively new area of exploration, and further research is needed to understand how sustainable materials like coffee grounds can contribute to the overall effectiveness of therapeutic tools (Dinaloni et al., 2022; Asido et al., 2024).

Theoretical Framework

The Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit’s effectiveness is grounded in several theoretical frameworks that support its design and implementation. Sensory integration theory suggests that engaging multiple senses can enhance cognitive and motor skills, a concept that aligns with the sensory activities involved in Coffee-Infused Soap-Making, which provide a rich sensory experience that fosters cognitive and motor development (Smith et al., 2024). Occupational therapy models further reinforce the toolkit’s value by emphasizing the importance of engaging in meaningful activities to improve mental and physical health. By offering a purposeful and engaging activity, the toolkit supports both cognitive and motor development (Glowacki et al., 2019). Additionally, ecological models of health advocate for environmentally conscious interventions, and the sustainable practices integrated into the toolkit, such as the use of coffee grounds, promote environmental responsibility, aligning with these models (Carvalho Neto et al., 2021; Rafieepoor Chirani et al., 2021). Together, these frameworks provide a robust foundation for understanding the toolkit’s potential impact on enhancing sensory skills and well-being.

Theoretical framework of the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit.

Figure I: Theoretical framework of the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit.

Sensory stimulation and therapeutic hand exercises (A) form the foundational aspect of this study, emphasizing the enhancement of cognitive and motor functions through activities designed to stimulate the senses and provide therapeutic benefits. Sensory stimulation, including tactile and olfactory experiences, is known to play a crucial role in therapeutic settings, particularly for individuals with cognitive decline, disabilities, or those recovering from hand injuries (Smith et al., 2024).

At the core of this research is the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit (B), an innovative approach that integrates sensory stimulation with therapeutic exercises. This toolkit represents the central innovation of this study by combining the sensory experiences of handling coffee grounds with the manual process of soap-making, thus providing a dual benefit of sensory enrichment and therapeutic engagement.

The sensory engagement (C) and therapeutic benefits (D) resulting from the use of the toolkit are crucial outcomes. Sensory engagement involves the multisensory experiences provided by the coffee grounds and the soap-making process, which can enhance sensory processing (Radder et al., 2017). Therapeutic benefits relate to improvements in motor skills and hand strength through the repetitive movements involved in crafting soap (Guzelkucuk et al., 2007).

The theoretical framework (E, F, G) supports the understanding of the toolkit’s effectiveness by connecting several theoretical perspectives. Sensory integration theory (E) explains how engaging multiple senses can enhance cognitive and motor skills, aligning with the toolkit’s design (Smith et al., 2024). Occupational therapy models (F) highlight the importance of meaningful activities for mental and physical health, which is a core component of the toolkit (Glowacki et al., 2019). Ecological models of health (G) advocate for sustainable practices, linking the use of coffee grounds in the toolkit to environmental responsibility and health (Carvalho Neto et al., 2021; Rafieepoor Chirani et al., 2021). Together, these theories provide a comprehensive basis for evaluating the effectiveness and impact of the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit.

Conclusion

The Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit presents significant potential as an innovative tool for enhancing sensory skills, promoting therapeutic outcomes, and advancing sustainability. However, current research has yet to fully explore its combined impact in these areas. Most existing studies tend to focus on either sensory enrichment or sustainability in isolation, with limited investigation into how these elements interact within educational and therapeutic contexts (Dinaloni et al., 2022; Asido et al., 2024).

METHODOLOGY

Research Design, Population, Sample Size, and Sampling Technique.

This study aims to employ a descriptive research design to evaluate the effectiveness of the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit in enhancing sensory skills and overall well-being. The target population will include children with sensory processing challenges, older adults experiencing diminished motor functions, and educators seeking to integrate therapeutic tools into their curricula. We aim to include a total sample size of 100 participants, distributed across the three groups to ensure diverse representation. A purposive sampling technique will be utilized to select participants who meet the following inclusion criteria: children with diagnosed sensory processing issues, older adults with documented motor function decline, and educators interested in therapeutic education (Creswell & Creswell, 2023).

Data Collection

A mixed-method approach will be employed to gather both qualitative and quantitative data, offering a comprehensive analysis of the toolkit’s impact. Surveys and structured interviews will serve as the primary tools for data collection. The surveys will capture quantitative metrics related to sensory engagement, motor function improvement, and well-being. Concurrently, structured interviews will provide qualitative insights into the participants’ experiences and perceptions of the toolkit’s benefits (Johnson & Christensen, 2020). Observational data will also be collected during toolkit usage, focusing on immediate sensory and behavioral responses.

Data Analysis

Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to determine the toolkit’s effectiveness in enhancing sensory engagement and motor functions. Statistical analysis will be conducted using SPSS, applying t-tests and ANOVA to identify significant differences across participant groups (Field, 2022). Qualitative data from interviews and observations will undergo thematic analysis to uncover recurring themes and patterns related to participants’ experiences and perceived therapeutic outcomes (Braun & Clarke, 2019).

Variables and Measurement

This study will focus on three primary variables: sensory engagement, motor function improvement, and well-being. Sensory engagement will be measured using the sensory profile (Dunn, 2017), motor function improvement will be assessed via the Box and Block Test (Mathiowetz et al., 1985), and well-being will be evaluated with the WHO-5 Well-Being Index (World Health Organization, 1998). These established instruments will ensure comprehensive and accurate measurement across this study’s key domains.

Reliability and Validity of Questionnaire Construct

To enhance the reliability and validity of the research instruments, a pilot study will be conducted with a small, representative sample prior to the main study. Cronbach’s alpha will be calculated to evaluate internal consistency, with a threshold of 0.7 or above considered acceptable for reliability (Taber, 2018). Content validity will be ensured by consulting with experts in occupational therapy and sensory processing, who will review the questionnaires to confirm whether they adequately capture the relevant domains (Polit & Beck, 2021).

DISCUSSION

The development of the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit represents an innovative approach that bridges sensory stimulation, therapeutic hand exercises, and sustainability practices. The current study aligns with the growing body of research that emphasizes the importance of multisensory engagement in enhancing cognitive and motor skills. Sensory integration theory, which posits that engaging multiple senses can improve cognitive and motor functions, provides a robust theoretical foundation for understanding the toolkit’s effectiveness. Research has shown that activities incorporating sensory elements, such as texture and scent, can significantly contribute to cognitive development, especially in therapeutic settings (Smith et al., 2024).

The toolkit’s focus on using coffee grounds not only enhances the sensory experience but also supports therapeutic outcomes by providing a purposeful and engaging activity. Occupational therapy models emphasize the importance of meaningful engagement in promoting both mental and physical health. By incorporating a sustainable and creative process, the toolkit encourages users to participate in an activity that is both cognitively stimulating and emotionally satisfying. This approach aligns with recent findings in occupational therapy, where the integration of creative tasks has been shown to improve mental well-being and reduce stress (Glowacki et al., 2019).

Moreover, the ecological models of health underscore the significance of integrating environmentally conscious practices into therapeutic tools. The sustainable use of coffee grounds in the soap-making process exemplifies this principle, promoting environmental responsibility while also enhancing the therapeutic value of the toolkit. This approach is consistent with recent trends in sustainability research, which advocate for the inclusion of eco-friendly practices in various domains, including health and education (Carvalho Neto et al., 2021; Rafieepoor Chirani et al., 2021).

In conclusion, the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit offers a promising innovation that aligns with key theoretical frameworks in sensory integration, occupational therapy, and sustainability.

CONCLUSIONS

This study on the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit highlights an innovative approach that combines sensory stimulation, therapeutic hand exercises, and sustainability. The key findings of this study reveal that the toolkit effectively enhances sensory skills and promotes cognitive and motor development, particularly through the integration of coffee grounds as a sustainable material. By aligning with sensory integration theory, occupational therapy models, and ecological models of health, the toolkit not only supports cognitive and physical well-being but also fosters environmentally responsible practices.

Theoretical Implications

This study contributes to the body of knowledge by integrating multiple theoretical frameworks to examine the effectiveness of a novel educational and therapeutic tool. The application of sensory integration theory underscores the significance of engaging multiple senses in cognitive and motor skill development. The inclusion of occupational therapy models highlights the importance of meaningful activities in promoting mental and physical health. Furthermore, the ecological models of health emphasize the value of sustainable practices in therapeutic interventions, positioning the toolkit as a model for integrating eco-consciousness into health and educational settings.

Practical Implications

From a practical standpoint, the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit offers a versatile and accessible tool that can be utilized in various educational and therapeutic contexts. For educators, it provides an engaging method to enhance sensory skills and cognitive development in children, particularly those with disabilities. For occupational therapists, the toolkit presents a novel way to incorporate purposeful, multisensory activities into therapeutic routines, thereby supporting both mental and physical rehabilitation. Additionally, the use of sustainable materials like coffee grounds serves as a practical example of how environmental responsibility can be integrated into therapeutic practices, offering a dual benefit of promoting well-being and environmental stewardship.

Limitations

Despite its promising potential, this study is not without its limitations. One of the primary limitations is the lack of empirical data to support the efficacy of the toolkit in diverse populations. While the theoretical foundations are robust, the toolkit’s impact on various demographic groups, such as older adults and individuals with different sensory needs, remains underexplored. Furthermore, the study’s focus on sustainability is primarily conceptual, and there is a need for more concrete evidence on how sustainable practices within therapeutic tools influence both user engagement and environmental outcomes.

Suggestions for Future Research

Future research should focus on empirically validating the toolkit’s effectiveness across different populations and settings, its impact on sensory skill development and therapeutic hand exercises, and its role in promoting sustainability. By exploring these areas, researchers can better understand the potential of integrating sensory stimulation and sustainability into therapeutic and educational tools, ultimately contributing to the advancement of holistic health practices. Moreover, longitudinal studies could provide valuable insights into how sustained use of the toolkit impacts sensory skill development and therapeutic outcomes over time. Additionally, research should explore the broader implications of incorporating sustainable materials into therapeutic tools, examining not only the environmental benefits but also how such practices influence user perceptions and engagement. Finally, expanding the scope of this study to include a comparative analysis with other therapeutic tools could offer a deeper understanding of the unique contributions of the Coffee-Infused Soap-Making Toolkit to the fields of education and occupational therapy.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The authors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Kedah State Research Committee, UiTM Kedah Branch, for the generous funding provided under the Tabung Penyelidikan Am. This support was crucial in facilitating the research and ensuring the successful publication of this article.

The authors also acknowledge the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) for funding under the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) (FRGS/1/2018/STG04/UITM/02/6). Additionally, they extend their appreciation to the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) for funding under the MOSTI-ICF (IF0720I1247). The authors are grateful to Universiti Teknologi MARA for funding under the Geran Penyelidikan MyRA (100-RMC 5/3/GPM (003/2020)).

Lastly, the authors would like to express their appreciation to Basiran Hassan for her knowledge and devotion to soap-making and to Tengku Mohd Firdaus Tengku Ahmad Mazman for his considerable help with data collection and other materials.

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