UNIVERSITY CAPACITIES AND RESOURCES FOR ADVANCING DIGITAL EDUCATION IN MALAYSIAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

This article investigates how the capacities and resources of Malaysian public universities influence the implementation of digital education policies. Utilizing a qualitative research design, the study collected data from interviews with 32 stakeholders, including university leaders, academic staff, students, and Ministry of Higher Education officials. The findings reveal that institutional capacity in terms of human resources, infrastructure, and internal governance significantly shapes digital education outcomes. Universities with robust ICT infrastructure, proactive leadership, and structured training programs are better equipped to align with national policies such as DePAN 2.0. Conversely, institutions facing staffing shortages, outdated systems, and limited autonomy struggle to adapt. The study emphasizes that effective policy implementation depends not only on funding but also on institutional readiness and collaborative governance models. Recommendations are offered to enhance institutional capacity for sustainable digital education.