A concept of quality of work life in the textile manufacturing industry / Anis Hafizah Nuzulizzwan, Nur Rifhan A. Rahim and Mohamad Faizal Ramli

The manufacturing sector is one of the important sectors of Malaysia's economy. In 2024, this sector is projected to grow, by 4.2%, a notable increase from the estimated 1.4% in 2023. This growth rate is higher than other sectors, marking a substantial difference of 2.8% between the years 2023 and 2024. Although it is forecast to expand in 2024 nonetheless, the textile industry within this sector has experienced limited growth, attributed to its perception as labour-intensive. In formulating New Industrial Master Plan (NIAfP) 2030, the government recognised 12 key challenges and one of them is the stagnation of labour productivity. This problem arises when the pace of improvement in worker productivity gradually slows down or stops. The Quality of Work Life (QWL) is one of the key factors that impact the workers' productivity. It is applied to ensure the workers can enjoy a good work environment and other practices to boost their job performance and reduce turnover. QWL encompasses various dimensions, including work environment, compensation and reward, job security, and development and opportunities. This paper aims to assess the concept of QWL within the textile manufacturing industry. The review highlights the necessity for textile manufacturers to implement effective QWL strategies to foster a motivated workforce and maintain competitiveness. By prioritizing QWL initiatives, organizations can create a supportive workplace to attract talent and retain skilled employees. This paper contributes to the understanding of QWL as a strategic Human Resource Management (HRM) practice and recommendations for future research and practical applications in this sector.