DYNAMIC NATURE OF LEADERSHIP IN MALAYSIAN UNIVERSITIES: NURTURING QUALITY EDUCATION AND GLOBAL EXCELLENCE

Abstract

This quantitative research explored the intricate connections among servant leadership, leadership competency, self-efficacy, and job performance among leaders in Malaysian public universities. Employing quota sampling, participants provided data through self-administered Google Forms. The research particularly emphasised the mediating role of the working environment in these relationships. Results indicated that the working environment solely mediates the relationship between servant leadership and job performance, with no significant mediation observed for leadership competency and self-efficacy. Although the coefficient determinant (R²) for the total indirect relationship (0.295) exceeded the direct relationship (0.147), it is crucial to interpret this value with caution. The indirect effect suggests that 29.5% of the variance in job performance can be attributed to the working environment, which may be considered relatively weak. This finding points to the potential influence of other mediating factors that could be explored in future research. These findings hold significance for policymakers formulating leadership selection strategies and contribute to a contemporary understanding of effective leadership, particularly within higher education institutions. This understanding is vital for propelling Malaysia's progress toward achieving SDG4 (Quality Education) and reinforcing its vision of becoming a global educational hub by 2025. Ultimately, these research outcomes set the foundation for the development of robust leadership practices and the cultivation of a conducive educational environment, both of which are essential for Malaysia's educational advancements and international reputation.