Transforming Malaysian economy from production base to knowledge base using quadruple helix research collaborations

Abstract

The knowledge based economic transformation strategy in Malaysia is part of its broader economy competitiveness strategy developed to achieve the goals set for Vision 2020. However, Malaysia is facing hurdles in knowledge economy transformation such as weak education and training system, institutional support, and info-structure, deficient research and development capacity, unstable science and technology base, unskilled workers, and lack of techno-entrepreneurs. To discover the knowledge based transformation solution for these problems, a framework has been developed to check the impact of performance determinant variables on economic competitiveness of Malaysia using Quadruple Helix (university, industry, government and public/civil society) research collaboration as mediators. A quantitative, descriptive research design was used in which twenty nine economic performance determinant variables were tested for mediation with university, industry, government and public. Two hundred and eighty two questionnaires were distributed using the convenience sampling method to collect the data. The study validated the Quadruple Helix mediation impact using regression analysis. Mediation was further validated using the Sobel Test. The study confirmed that the performance determinant variables have a strong and positive role in determining economy competitiveness. The results also confirmed that a strong Quadruple Helix mediation is necessary; however, there exists a “weak link” between the key stakeholders in the economy of Malaysia. The results established that the university and government are comparatively strong contributors whilst civil society’s contribution is moderate and the industry is the weakest link in the competitiveness of an economy. It is therefore, concluded that a successful knowledge based transformation depends upon the collaborations between university, industry, government and civil society sector. It is recommended that a strong Quadruple Helix innovation based collaboration should be the focus and the tool for knowledge based economic transformation to strengthen the economic performance and competitiveness of Malaysia.