Transforming Education toward K-Economy in Malaysia

Ramlee Mustapha

Abstract


ABSTRACT:  To advance Malaysia into the forefront of knowledge, investment in human capital is critical, as the K-economy demands creative, innovative, and knowledge human resources. Malaysians demand a better work-life balance and opportunities for career enhancement, social mobility, and self-development. In addition, Malaysia needs to enhance its social capital and community capacity by reinforcing social cohesion and reducing social exclusion. Thus, the purpose of this article is to review critical elements that are needed to transform Malaysia into Knowledge-based society. Promoting and upholding the universal values of multiculturalism, human rights, and zero tolerance to corruption in public and private sectors is absolutely crucial. This is a first step toward achieving true liberty and democracy that may spur an environment suitable for innovative culture to flourish. To support K-economy, schools and universities should be equipped with broadband and seamless internet connection. To date, however, most rural schools in Malaysia have problem with the Internet access. Innovation in pedagogies and curriculum development is required in order to assist teachers in schools to make significant improvements. There are complains about the lack of high-order thinking, English proficiency, cross disciplinary skills, and critical and problem-solving skills among teachers and students. For the innovation culture to flourish, granting flexibility and autonomy is a way of moving forward. In sum, Malaysia needs a strong framework or a roadmap for producing adequate number of world renowned scientists and scholars in order to sustain the knowledge economy.

KEY WORDS: K-economy, higher skilled and innovative workforce, education and social systems, transformative and innovative leadership, and Malaysians.

About the Author: Prof. Dr. Ramlee Mustapha is a Lecturer at the Faculty of Technical and Vocational Education UPSI (Sultan Idris University of Education), Tanjong Malim, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia. The author can be reached at: drramlee@yahoo.com

How to cite this article? Mustapha, Ramlee. (2013). “Transforming Education toward K-Economy in Malaysia” in EDUCARE: International Journal for Educational Studies, Vol.6(1) August, pp.1-16. Bandung, Indonesia: Minda Masagi Press owned by ASPENSI in Bandung, West Java; and FKIP UMP in Purwokerto, Central Java, ISSN 1979-7877.

Chronicle of the article: Accepted (June 1, 2013); Revised (July 5, 2013); and Published (August 17, 2013).  


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.2121/edu-ijes.v6i1.281

DOI (PDF): https://doi.org/10.2121/edu-ijes.v6i1.281.g280

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