Local Roots, Global aspirations: Impact of culture on work environment and organizational culture in Malaysian Small and Medium Enterprises in the Information Technology Sector

Taylor’s University, Malaysia

^* Corresponding author: Vandana.Saxena@taylors.edu.my

Abstract

This paper investigates the role of culture in hiring, team formations and workplace interactions in Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SME) in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. This research used the case study approach, with multimethod data collecting instruments like observation, interviews, and analysis of the data available on the websites of the two ICT SMEs under study. The participants selected for the study were the owners, managers and senior employees of both firms. While both firms operated in similar fields, the workforce of one consisted largely of Malaysian employees, while that of second company consisted largely of foreigners. The findings revealed a considerable bias and preference towards cultural homogeneity.