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Foreword
It is my pleasure to write the foreword to the primer on Teleworking in Malaysia. The materialis based on the policy-oriented research project entitled Teleworking and Development inMalaysia, which UNU/INTECH co-ordinated between June 1997 and April 1999.The study project’s aim was to explore the way in which this new mode of work could enhancethe competitiveness of Malaysian companies and improve employment opportunities fortraditionally disadvantaged groups, such as women. The project fulfils the mandate of myinstitute. think-tank within the UN system, my institute caters to the research needs of thosewho are involved in making policies. It is for this reason I am delighted that my colleagues,Professor Swasti Mitter and Dr. Cecilia Ng, together with Cheah Siew Hoon, the consultant,have compiled, in this primer, the insights gained from this research project for a wideaudience. It will be rewarding if this primer is used by different sections of Malaysian societyfor evaluating and implementing telework.I would like to express my gratitude to MIMOS Bhd, the Economic Planning Unit, andUNU/INTECH consultants for their collaboration in research and related activities. Finally, Iwish to express my sincere appreciation to UNDP and the Malaysian government, for withouttheir generous support, financial and otherwise, we could not have undertaken and completedthe assessment of telework in Malaysia.Professor Charles CooperDirectorUnited Nations University/Institute for New TechnologiesThe publication of this primer is timely and opportune as it comes at a time when Malaysia ismaking concerted efforts to become a knowledge-driven and information rich economy. It isimportant for Malaysia to keep abreast of developments in teleworking since it is increasinglygaining worldwide acceptance, not only because of the economic rewards that it can bring, butalso because of the benefits that society can derive from adopting it. Teleworking is a mode of working that, by virtue of its inherent qualities, can transcend geographical limitations, while atthe same time be a conduit for jobs and knowledge to flourish. These characteristics can bringsocial equity to many disadvantaged groups in our society today. Teleworking can be aliberating tool for the physically challenged, retirees, and workers who may otherwise havehad to drop out from the labour force due to social obligations at home or otherwise.The Ministry of Human Resources recognises the need to promote teleworking, including aconducive environment for it to thrive and grow. Employers will be encouraged to considerand introduce teleworking in the workplace. I would like to thank the UNU/INTECH researchand consultancy team for their excellent work and to record my appreciation to all those whohave contributed towards making this project and primer a success.Dato’ Lim Ah Lek Minister of Human Resources, Malaysia
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