Based on my 38 years of experience in the corporate sector and 12 years in graduate business schools, I found human resource development (HRD) and higher education (HE) are closely linked in society. HRD refers to the process of developing and enhancing the skills, knowledge, and abilities of individuals to meet the needs of the labour market and contribute to the overall development of society. HE plays a crucial role in HRD as it provides the foundation for individuals to acquire management competencies and leadership skills.
I am convinced that HE at the universities equip individuals with the necessary competencies and knowledge needed to enter professional management functions. It provides them with a solid foundation in subjects such as finance and accounting, sales and marketing, science and technology, and social sciences. This Knowledge forms the competency for further leadership development and specialisation in specific or concentration areas. These business learning programmes provide the knowledge required for various industries.
According to Roslan Razak, former Head of HRD Sime Darby, “Organisations with excellent use of management competencies are four times more likely to have a performance-driven culture. To achieve results efficiently & effectively, we need competent people. Competencies can be learned, developed & nurtured to achieve outstanding performance.”
Roslan added, “HRD is not limited to formal education. It also includes continuous learning and skill upgrading throughout one's career. HE institutions and training providers offer various programmes and courses for professionals to enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in their respective fields and for leadership development.”
I understand from Professor Dr. Azlinda Azman, Director General of Higher Education, Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia who has bestowed the Asia HRD Award, that “HE institutions play a crucial role in promoting research and innovation. We provide a platform for individual managers to conduct research, develop new ideas, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge. This research and innovation drive economic growth & development in a society. HE is a key driver of social and economic growth in Malaysia & Asia."
The quest for economic growth and better living standards is a common theme around the globe. But in Malaysia, which is facing an inflation-fuelled cost-of-living crisis, skills and talent shortages in some sectors, a bolder, broader strategy for growth is urgently needed. The HRD and HE professions are at the forefront of driving sustainable development.
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