The multi facets meaning of competence among Muslim professionals in Malaysia

Abstract

Muslim professionals must be professionally competent and well versed in Islamic rules and regulations in offering their services to the society. However, empirical evidence on Muslim professionals’ understanding of the competence concept is still insufficient and not well addressed in the Islamic literature as compared to the Western literature. Therefore, this study aims to develop an understanding of how Muslim professionals make meaning on competence. Fifteen Muslim professionals were interviewed. Data were analysed using content analysis and grounded theory analysis. Findings from Muslim Professionals’ understanding of the meaning of competence are simplified in two dimensions. Firstly, competence refers to the process of acquiring knowledge, skills and abilities to perform professional roles and tasks with amanah and taqwa. Secondly, competence is a personal endeavour for an individual to transform internally and externally as a Muslim. Based on the findings, it is implied that professional Muslims’ gave a holistic meaning of competence beyond their professional responsibilities and it is recommended that future studies should look into Muslim professionals of other countries as to obtain a global view on competence as well as investigating perspectives of non-Muslim professionals.