Young researchers in higher educational institutions in Malaysia should possess the drive to involve actively in research activities. The efforts should be done continuously and rigorously since involvement in research is one of the contributions of higher educational institutions to the society. However, strong support needs to be given to young researchers in Malaysia. Thus, to excel in research, young researchers should be provided with support in order for them to remain motivated and committed to the responsibilities assigned. Undoubtedly, continuous involvement in research activities among young researchers will fulfil the expectations set by stakeholders in which university lecturers are regarded as agents of change. Investment in human capital has been proven as one of the factors of success among established brands in the market today. For example, Howard Shultz, former CEO of Starbucks highlighted that, “We’ve built the Starbucks brand first with our people, not with consumers. Because we believe the best way to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations is to recruit and train great people, we invest in hiring”. In addition, Air Asia founder Tan Sri Tony Fernandes stressed that “Employees come number one, customers come number two. If you have a happy workforce, they will take care of your customers and institution.”
Great universities around the world possess an environment which fosters competitiveness, continuous scientific research activities, critical thinking, innovation and creativity. Accordingly, young researchers need to be provided with supportive human resource environment (role-model), appropriate financial and logistical resources. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has introduced UTMShine initiative with the mission to empower and inspire UTM’s top young scientists and researchers. It is one of the strategies introduced by Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research & Innovation) to motivate young researchers in UTM in conducting high -impact research and producing high quality research output. UTMShine recipients will be awarded with research grants and this initiative is eligible for lecturers who are less than 40 years old. In order to enhance their competency as researchers and lecturers, UTMshine recipients will not only focus on the output of their research grants, the young scientists are expected to be involved in other forms of activities deemed appropriate by the UTMShine selection committee. In addition, UTMShine recipients will get the opportunities to undergo leadership training programs. Currently, several UTM young researchers have been appointed as liaison officers to coordinate projects, resolve issues and needs of the community, local authorities and industries.
To be continued…
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