Technical training in the MNCs in Malaysia: a case study analysis of the petrochemical industry

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to gain insight into some of the types of training and development practices that are carried out in the chemical industry for technical workers. A salient focus of the study is to make a comparative analysis of four MNCs, which were selected based on equity ownership, to ascertain whether T&D practices are similar regardless of equity ownership.Design/methodology/approach – Specifically, four MNCs in the chemical industry were analysed to ascertain the types and intensity of T&D practices in these MNCs in Malaysia. In‐depth interviews were conducted with some of the HR practitioners in each organisation.Findings – Regardless of ownership, T&D practices of technical workers in the chemical industry in Malaysia are rather similar, though it differs in terms of intensity. On the whole, European MNCs place more importance on T&D, but it cannot be concluded that European‐owned MNCs have better T&D practices than Asian‐owned MNCs.Research limitations/implications – Similar re...