Leadership in Malaysia: Traditional values, international outlook

Abstract

Executive OverviewMalaysia, once known primarily for its commodity exports of tin and rubber, has grown rapidly into an important trading partner of both the United States and Europe. A large Islamic nation with a diverse population of Malays, Chinese, and Indians, it preserves many traditional values while adopting an increasingly international outlook. In this article, we use findings of the GLOBE study to identify important values of Malays, relating them to preferred organizational leadership styles. Malaysians place particular emphasis on collective well-being and display a strong humane orientation within a society that respects hierarchical differences. The culture inhibits assertive, confrontational behavior, giving priority to maintaining harmony. Effective leaders are expected to show compassion while using more of an autocratic than participative style. Expatriate managers need to avoid actions that are incompatible with these values and expectations.