The Faculty of Economics and Business UGM organized a workshop Meet the Editor: Contemporary Issues in Business and Economics Research on February 12, 2025. The event featured Prof. Hiram Ting, a global academic and research expert, who shared in-depth insights on scientific publication strategies.
Prof. Ting is the Director of Responsible Borneo (REBORN), Editor-in-Chief of Young Consumers (a Scopus Q1 journal), an Emerald Publishing Ambassador for East Asia, and a panel expert on tourism at the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
In his presentation, Prof. Ting described publishing as a long journey with multiple stages. According to him, it is not just about completing and submitting an article but also about learning, networking, and making a meaningful impact.
“When you write, you truly understand what you have discovered. Feedback from others often opens up new perspectives and improves the quality of your research,” he added.
He shared his journey, starting as a volunteer reviewer, becoming an author, and eventually securing key editorial positions in prestigious journals. He has also been a guest editor for international journals such as Sustainability, the British Food Journal, and the Journal of Consumer Behavior.
According to him, scientific publications not only enhance an academic’s reputation but also help institutions achieve higher international rankings and secure research funding. However, he emphasized that the primary motivation should not be administrative requirements but a real contribution to the scientific community and society.
“The main goal should be to make a meaningful impact on research and society,” he stressed, reminding participants that academic publishing is not about quantity but about how research influences knowledge and decision-making.
Prof. Ting outlined several types of manuscripts that can be published in academic journals, including research papers, review articles, case studies, short communications, and commentaries.
During the session, he also addressed challenges in publishing, such as writer’s block and the absence of a supportive research environment. He advised academics to start early, become article reviewers, and involve students in research to enrich perspectives.
“Difficulties often arise from a lack of knowledge about the process. However, starting early, especially at the beginning of your career, significantly increases the chances of long-term success,” he explained.
Beyond internal challenges, Prof. Ting emphasized the importance of a supportive academic environment. Institutions that provide dedicated writing time, training, and access to research resources can significantly boost academic productivity. He also highlighted the valuable role of students in research projects, as they often contribute fresh insights that enhance research quality.
In addition, he offered practical tips for journal writing, including choosing the right journal, understanding the target audience, and ensuring the manuscript meets quality standards.
“Don’t be afraid to start. Publishing is not just about building an academic career; it’s about making a real contribution to society,” he concluded.
Report by: Orie Priscylla Mapeda Lumalan
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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