Exploring the need of wise human resource development practices: A qualitative study among public and private employees in Selangor

Abstract

Developing wise workers is essential for workplace excellence because it leads to wise decision-making, increased productivity, and a highly motivated and innovative workforce. This paper aims to explore the need for wise human resource development (WHRD) practice in the public and private organisations. It also explores the understanding and employees about the concept of WHRD. The WHRD practices refer to the implementation of the human resource development functions according to the guidelines stated in the Quran and Hadith. This study uses a qualitative research method and uses purposive sampling in selecting participants to be interviewed. Data collection through in-depth face-to-face interviews was conducted to obtain the views of the selected participants on the understanding, implementation, and challenges related to WHRD.  A total of 11 people participated in the study involving employees from private and public organisations in the state of Selangor, Malaysia. Participants who participated in the interviews were human resource development managers and 2 employees from both organisations. Two sets of interview questions were developed in this study. The interview data were transcribed and analysed using constant comparative analysis and thematic analysis. Findings show that some human resource development managers and employees in both the private and government sectors have heard and understood the concept of WHRD and there are also research participants who have heard the concept of WHRD for the first time. The findings of the study found that all participants emphasised the need and importance of WHRD in the organisation. Wise workers are not only knowledgeable but also possess practical wisdom, and contribute to a positive and ethical work environment as well as exhibit behaviour that is by religious demands and acceptable in the workplace.