Employee voice and the communication of dissent in an organisational setting in Malaysia: a case study

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to look at employee voice and in particular, how dissent is expressed in an organisation in Malaysia. The study draws upon current theories on employee voice, dissent and whistle-blowing to report on the findings of a preliminary study that used the qualitative approach by analysing semi-structured interviews. Six members of staff took part in the study. Fundamental information contained in the interview questions included communication style, management style and the organisational culture that would encourage employee voice and freedom of speech within the organisation. The preliminary findings show that the staffs are restrictive in expressing dissent to the top management. This highlights the lack of a culture for employees to express dissatisfaction at work to higher authorities due to limited openness of the top management, which results in a low level of articulated dissent. Possible reasons include the unavailability of an employee voice mechanism within the organisation including the legal support and protection where proper channels for employees to express dissent are not in practice. This study highlights the importance of employee voice within an organisation and that proper mechanisms should be in place as a sign of respect and appreciation of employee voice at the workplace.