Impact of transformational and authentic leadership on innovation in private higher education institutions in Malaysia; the contingent role of trust in leader

Wong, Robin Woon Ping (2024) Impact of transformational and authentic leadership on innovation in private higher education institutions in Malaysia; the contingent role of trust in leader. Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

This study investigates the impact of transformational and authentic leadership on innovation in Malaysian private higher education institutions, focusing on the moderating role of trust in leaders. The higher education sector in Malaysia is facing increasing challenges due to rapid technological advancements, global competition, and evolving educational demands. Leadership plays a critical role in fostering innovation, and this research explores how different leadership styles influence the innovation process within these institutions. Using Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) theory as the theoretical framework, the study examines how the quality of leader-follower relationships, characterized by trust and respect, enhances the effectiveness of transformational and authentic leadership in promoting innovation. The research hypothesizes that trust moderates the relationship between leadership styles and innovation, with higher levels of trust leading to more significant innovation outcomes. Data was collected through surveys from academic staff in private universities, and the findings reveal that both transformational and authentic leadership significantly influence innovation, with trust acting as a key moderating factor. The results suggest that fostering trust-based relationships within academic settings is crucial for stimulating creative problem-solving and maintaining a competitive edge in higher education. This research contributes to the understanding of how leadership can drive innovation in the context of higher education and provides practical insights for educational leaders seeking to cultivate a culture of innovation in their institutions. Keywords: transformational leadership, authentic leadership, innovation, trust in leader, higher education

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