Upholding integrity in scientific publishing: A call to authors

Abstract

Scientific publishing thrives on trust, transparency, and adherence to established standards. For journals such as the Asian Journal of Medical Sciences, editorial guidelines are not mere formalities – they are the backbone of ethical scholarship and the assurance of quality for readers, reviewers, and the wider academic community. Unfortunately, instances of authors disregarding journal instructions – whether through improper formatting, incomplete ethical disclosures, plagiarism, ghost corresponding author or failure to follow submission protocols – continue to challenge editorial workflows. Such practices not only delay peer review but also compromise the credibility of the research enterprise. WHY GUIDELINES MATTER • Consistency and clarity: Uniform formatting ensures manuscripts are accessible and comparable across disciplines. • Ethical safeguards: Requirements for informed consent, conflict-of-interest statements, and ethical approvals protect patients, participants, and the integrity of science. • Efficiency: Adherence to submission protocols allows editors and reviewers to focus on scientific merit rather than technical corrections. CONSEQUENCES OF NON-COMPLIANCE Authors who neglect guidelines risk: • Delays in review and publication. • Rejection of manuscripts irrespective of scientific merit. • Damage to professional reputation and future collaborations. A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY The journal’s editorial team remains committed to supporting authors through clear instructions, templates, and responsive communication. However, responsibility lies equally with contributors to respect these standards. Compliance is not optional – it is a professional obligation that reflects respect for peers, readers, and the scientific record. MOVING FORWARD We urge all authors to: • Review and internalize the Instructions for Authors before submission. • Utilize available resources such as manuscript checklists and reference managers. • Recognize that adherence to guidelines is an ethical commitment, not a bureaucratic hurdle. By honoring these principles, authors contribute to a culture of integrity, efficiency, and excellence in medical sciences publishing. The Asian Journal of Medical Sciences stands firm in its dedication to uphold these values and expects the same from its contributors.