Introduction
- How do we describe an Islamic corporate culture?
- What are the values and shared practices which should be observed in an Islamic based organization?
- What are the key competencies of an Islamic leader/manager to function effectively at the workplace & how are they measured ?
- Do Malay Muslim CEOS have a ready made template to evolve a work culture that is truly Islamic?
- What is the role of religion at the workplace in Malaysian organizations?
The above mentioned questions will be discussed at a panel discussion cum workshop on Religion at the workplace .
During the three hour session, panel members will share their research, findings and observations on what is considered to be a truly Islamic work culture and organization. They will share their experiences working in both Malaysian and foreign multinational organizations and the issues and challenges faced by management to promote an all inclusive workplace where religious observations are respected and appreciated.
Panel speakers:
- Professor Dr. Mohammad Hashim Kamali, Founding Chairman & CEO, IAIS Malaysia.
- Emeritus Professor Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar, Deputy CEO, IAIS Malaysia.
- Dr Hamidah Marican
- Dr Asma Abdullah
Moderated by: Puan Zarina Nalla, COO, IAIS Malaysia.
Summary of the workshop
The workshop conducted by Dr. Asma aimed to clarify some misunderstandings about the role of religion in the workplace. Among the questions discussed were the following: What is the role of religion in the workplace? What is an Islamic corporate culture? What are the shared values that should be observed in an Islamic organisation? Is there a truly Islamic culture in the workplace today? What are the implications of Islamic corporate culture in multi-ethnic Malaysia? The views of a number of scholars and the influence of Western education on local culture were examined. The presentation cautioned against “blind imitation” and wholesale, uncritical importation of western culture and concepts. It highlighted the importance of shared values, which must be consciously chosen rather than externally imposed.