Managing ICT Workers in the Malaysian Multimedia Super Corridor: Independent knowledge workers?

Abstract

This paper examines the development of the Malaysian Multimedia Corridor (MSC) and associated information, communication and technology (ICT) worker human resource management (HRM) issues. It considers the extent to which Malaysian ICT workers comply with previous research that suggests the development of an independent or nomadic ICT worker profile, suited to short term project work, as opposed to longer term career development within the firm. It further considers recruitment and human resource development issues, including supply side constraints that may hamper the Malaysian government's goal of creating a knowledge based society by 2020. This research is still ongoing however some initial conclusions may be made. Firstly, previous research on ICT workers has tended to be too generic, with much of it lumping ICT workers into one homogeneous group. But Malaysian ICT workers and firms form a heterogeneous group with different skills, requirements and expectations. Further, the continued development of Malaysia's ICT industry is not merely a function of its ability to produce more ICT graduates per se. Rather, Malaysia needs to produce ICT graduate with the skills demanded by the local ICT industry.