Respecting talent means acknowledging and recognizing the potential and capabilities of individuals. Are we lacking in this arena?

Respecting talent is the foundation of creating a conducive environment whilst encouraging growth, which in turn translates into creativity, innovation and productivity at workplace.

As such, employers may be losing out to foreign countries and the economy suffers a setback of growth and development.

As a working member of the Malaysian workforce, I am sure you are aware of this talent pool not accorded the respect they deserve, and more concerning is the fact they are given limited opportunity to discover and grow.

There is a need to appreciate and cultivate the young talents and direct them towards a development path that can serve the best interests of Malaysia.

In a survey done by a global recruiting firm, it is found that nearly 70% of business leaders surveyed worldwide believe the existing talent pool is shrinking while the competition for talent is increasing, and 54% say their companies have more open positions than ever before. This means the talent across sectors/industries are firstly not understood and secondly not developed in the required field.

There is excessive focus placed in the academic credentials over abilities and employability skills that further exacerbate the lack of regard for talent in Malaysian society.

The education system is a prime illustration of this, as it is mostly created to acknowledge and value academic success over other kinds of knowledge and experience.

This lack of recognition especially of the young talent in Malaysia, makes it a challenge for many youngsters to pursue their talents in this country, resulting in brain drain and resource migration.

This is a phenomenon which we as a nation cannot afford to be reactive but rather adopt strategic measures to retain talent rather than wooing those who left.

This also means in the medium term there is a stunt in the growth of individuals and of societal progress.

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysia’s 10th Prime Minister, unveiled the country’s policy framework and motto of Madani.

The philosophy primarily emphasizes racial harmony in the nation, sustainable development and good governance.

The principles behind Madani encourages inclusivity and development.

Could we not use that to develop our values in respecting the talent we have in Malaysia?

It has become imperative that respecting talents goes way beyond remuneration; it encompasses personal growth that encompasses balancing their home and work ecosystems, personal health and wellness considerations as well.

There is undoubtedly a Madani dimension to the labor market.

The Malaysia Madani notion of workers is in line with the ILO’s (International Labor Organization) agenda for labor, which aspires to provide productive labor in settings that respect freedom, equality, security and human dignity.

Let’s begin with the gaps in the education system.

Perhaps our Madani government can place emphasis and money in STEM fields, a highlighted area from time to time.

As such, respecting talent for innovative economic growth could enhance the country’s development as well.

To materialize this, the quality of educators not only from academic credentials but also mental and behavioral prowess should be emphasized.

Whilst the education focus on STEM can develop talent, what about addressing biasness at workplace? Would trusting your talent mean they work harder and be more productive?

A typical commute to work post-pandemic takes 30% more time than pre-pandemic conditions. Some reports have emerged of people spending hours in their cars for a 25 km commute has made it intolerable for us the working class folks.

Even though they make a valiant effort to leave their houses before sunrise, many drivers have gone to social media sites to express their frustration at being stuck in the never-ending traffic jam.

Is this then a way to mend and respect the working folks?

Would working at home be a viable option for employees who do not need to be at premise mean more work done than traveling over an hour to the workplace?

Are we now digressing from all the technology transformation we implemented in the two years of lockdown gone to waste? 

Back to work may not be a solution to the Madani society which wants to be innovative and progressive.

A key to a fundamental respect we can pay our talent in Malaysia.

Malaysia may realize its full potential and move towards a richer and more productive society by cultivating a culture that recognizes and respects talent.

The time has come for Malaysia to act and advance.