KOTA KINABALU: Higher education institutions, such as Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), play an important role in assisting leaders to create a conducive environment for the younger generation joining the workforce.
Disclosing this, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said as an institution of higher learning, UMS should lead the way in helping the rest of the workforce better understand the new generation.
“This does not only mean implementing the latest digital technology at the workplace, but also to adapt to the changing modes of work and communication.
“The development of e-talent that includes innovative and relevant knowledge and skills, and most importantly, being ethically conscious, are not only crucial for the growth of human capital but also for creation of future leaders.
“This is why it is important to have an active working relationship between higher educational institutions and the industry, as well as various government and non-government agencies,” he said at the Empowering Diversity in Leadership: Navigating Complexities, Embracing Differences leadership conference at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here today.
Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship, Phoong Jin Zhe delivered the Chief Minister’s speech at the event jointly-organised by UMS, Higher Education Leadership Academic (AKEPT), Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE), and Invest Sabah Berhad.
Hajiji added that only through such engagement “will we be able to work through generational gaps”. Conferences such as this, he said, will also ensure that critical exchange of ideas takes place that will help identify and inculcate leadership qualities among members of all participating sectors.
“It is also undeniable that forums such as this can provide a platform for awareness and inspire all participants to learn from one another,” he said.
The Chief Minster also said the two-day conference would help in understanding how Sabah’s diversity is actually an enabling tool given the complexities being navigated on a daily basis.
“I firmly believe that our diversity is our strength because each of us brings our unique quality to the workplace, and together we grow towards a sustainable and progressive future.
“We not only need the right people to lead need but also those who are committed and effective in leading and managing to deliver work done with integrity,” he said.
And, according to Hajiji, another element of diversity is that of gender.
“In Sabah, we are happy that there are efficient women at the helm. Female leaders not only offer a different perspective, but they also bring with them rich experience, knowledge and skills that have guided Sabah on its path towards success.
“The multiple roles that women play as daughters, sisters, wives, and mothers are important to the work environment, especially as leaders, where we strive towards a compassionate work culture driven by hard work and excellence,” he said
