“Danger gathers upon our path. We cannot afford—we have no right—to look back. We must look forward."—Winston Churchill

Many of the challenges faced by Human Resources prior to the COVID-19 pandemic have been amplified. We know from the near 1,300 worldwide HR leaders who took part in the KPMG 2020 HR pulse survey that the pandemic has exposed significant skill gaps, shifted priorities, and accelerated digital transformation.

Here are some highlights from respondents in Malaysia:

In Malaysia, in the next 12-24 months:

3 in 10 will likely need to be reskilled
39 % will continue working remotely
Almost 2 in 10 will be made redundant

Top Three HR Priorities in Malaysia

KPMG!
48 %

of HR executives prioritised taking steps to safeguard the experience and well-being of employees.


KPMG!
52 %

of HR executives prioritised redefining or further enhancing the culture to emphasise digital mindset, virtual working, agility, etc.



KPMG!
57 %

of HR executives prioritised upskilling or reskilling the existing workforce to meet the changing needs of the organisation.

The role of HR

While 87% of HR Executives said HR has played a leading role in responding to COVID-19 in Malaysia., HR’s role has undoubtedly shifted since, and HR leaders must learn to adapt to the challenges faced within their organisation to survive the volatile business and economic landscape.

Close to 7 in 10 HR Executives - Infographic
CEOs and EVPs - Infographic

What is particularly interesting is how an elite performing group of HR organizations—we call them Pathfinders —emerged again this year—roughly 10 percent of the survey population. They have reacted differently across areas that are critical to the HR function, despite facing similar environmental and economic challenges as others.

Connect with us