Identification of facilitating factors for implimentation of Islamic work ethics in Islamic banking institutions

Abstract

Work ethics are essential in organisations because they are not only used to guide employees to behave ethically, but they could also affect employees’ performance and efficiency. Such considerations necessitate a clear and effective strategy for implementation of workplace ethics policies in general, and Islamic work ethics, in particular. However, little systematic evaluation of the implementation process of workplace ethics has been made. Using a qualitative approach, this study explored what is known regarding the factors that facilitate the implementation of Islamic work ethics and how these factors could affect the implementation process in organisations, particularly in Islamic banks. More specifically, a series of semi-structured interviews with Branch Managers and Assistant Branch Managers from six Islamic banks in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor (n = 16) was conducted. Data saturation was reached after 12 interviews, with four additional interviews undertaken to ensure a broadly representative sample. Using thematic analysis, nine important themes and 30 sub-themes were revealed as factors that influence the implementation of Islamic work ethics. These factors vary from personal and organisational to managerial and environmental factors. Improvements in these factors may have positive effects on successful implementation of work ethics policies in organisations. The thesis then concludes by discussing the implications of the findings and recommendations of the study. Future research potential to explore this issue is also provided.