Great expectations – CEOs’ perception of the performance gap of the HRM function in the Malaysian manufacturing sector

This study examines the variations in HRM practice among Malaysian manufacturing firms. A typology of HRM practices is first identified, management expectations towards the HRM function and the performance gap of the HR departments are then examined. The findings obtained are then compared with various theoretical models. A comparison with the empirical finding of a US study is also made. Further, the implications of the findings of this study are examined. Finally, a number of suggestions are proposed to improve HRM practice.