Bayview Beach Resort, Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang, Malaysia

27-30 September 1999

Preparing Graduates for Workplace Communication: A Lost Cause or a New Challenge?

Nor Azni Bt. Abdullah

Centre for Preparatory Studies, MARA Institute of Technology, Malaysia

Abstract

Approximately 2,000 English language professionals in Malaysia are directly involved in preparing students for the communication activities they will face when they join the workforce. However, these professionals struggle to satisfy a variety of conflicting demands. On the one hand, many employers place a premium on 'good' English skills as globalisation exposes many more Malaysian organisations to international markets and information sources. On the other hand, students, general command of English is declining, and graduates complain that the preparation they receive at institutions of higher learning is inadequate or inappropriate. In addition, to complicate matters further, the Malaysian workplace itself is changing rapidly.

This paper draws on findings from a number of studies to discuss these issues and to gain a better understanding of the language skills required in Malaysian organisations. Some trends in changing workplace characteristics are then identified and their implications for language training are discussed.

Finally, the paper argues that fresh approaches are needed to meet the communication challenges posed by the Malaysian workplace in the 21st century.