Exploring the Potential of Mobile Applications in Enhancing Religious Engagement and Accessibility

Subramaniam, Jevasini (2025) Exploring the Potential of Mobile Applications in Enhancing Religious Engagement and Accessibility. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.

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Abstract

This study explores the potential of mobile applications to enhance religious engagement and accessibility among Indian cultural explorers in Malaysia. Recognizing the limitations of existing religious apps, such as a lack of cultural sensitivity, poor user interface (UI), and communication gaps, this research adopts a User-Centered Design (UCD) framework to develop a prototype mobile application, Temple4U, tailored to the needs of the Indian community. The app integrates features such as GPS-based navigation to nearby temples, an event calendar for checking and booking temple events and weddings, multilingual support, and culturally relevant content. A quantitative research methodology was employed, utilizing the System Usability Scale (SUS) survey to assess the app’s usability, accessibility, and effectiveness. Findings from 20 Indian participants revealed high user satisfaction, emphasizing the app’s ease of use, intuitive design, and usefulness in navigating religious spaces and managing event participation. This study contributes to the field of multimedia design by demonstrating how mobile applications can foster religious participation, bridge communication gaps, and accommodate cultural diversity. Limitations include a small sample size and prototype-level testing, with recommendations for future enhancements such as the integration of augmented reality (AR), AI-based personalization, and expanded religious inclusivity. Overall, this research offers a foundational framework for designing culturally sensitive mobile applications that support religious engagement in multicultural societies.