Education and Research via the Open University Malaysia : An Opportunity for Local Government

Siew , Nooi Phang and Loo, Sze Wei (2009) Education and Research via the Open University Malaysia : An Opportunity for Local Government. Commonwealth Journal of Local Governance (CJLG), 4. pp. 138-142.

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Abstract

In this era, the provision of education and dissemination of research-based knowledge need not be restricted to conventional methods such as classroom settings and face-to-face interactions. Advancements in communications via improved technologies enable people from all over the world to seek knowledge to support their needs, conduct global research via teleconferencing, and study at their own pace wherever they are and according to their level of ability. Naturally governments, too, are aware of this flexibility to increase their effectiveness and improve the capacity of their staff. In this context, local government can move towards a more knowledge-intensive and professional entity that can deliver its services more efficiently to the public through open and distance learning. This is especially so for local government in Malaysia where the employees of local authorities may be located in various parts of the country and training via open and distance learning means increased access and flexibility in a combination of work and education without the hassle of having to attend training at a fixed locality. Generally, the Malaysian public is aware of the need for a better quality of life and this has impacted on the services provided by local authorities, which have to be developed and upgraded according to their target groups. Hence local government has to ensure that its workforce is given the support to enhance the quality and relevance of people's skills. However, using only conventional and existing educational structures may limit the effectiveness and increase the cost of training local government staff. Meanwhile, the Malaysian government is supporting the use of relevant technology to promote innovation and cooperation between departments to upgrade public facilities and services, exchange information, and enhance the skills of employees.

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