Evolving New Roles of Knowledge Managers in a Challenging Digital Environment in Malaysia

Abstract:

In the current trend, everyone is going through many occupational changes to face the future challenges. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has changed the role of not only knowledge centers but also Knowledge Managers (KMs) in the changing environment in which they now work. KMs are functioning under great pressure to become more efficient in delivering more valuable services to the clientele. As the role of KMs is changing to face the new challenges posed by ICT, they must be keen to stay at the forefront of innovation in the information world. KMs need to be confident and competent so that they can prepare for new challenges, deal with emerging technologies, manage, revolutionize effectively and claim new professional roles. KMs are one of the most challenging professions in the knowledge society. They face complex challenges posed by recent trends in digital information environment. The role of the KMs has become more dynamic and challenging in the digital world. This paper covers the new roles, tasks and opportunities of KMs that has undergone a large degree of change in digital environment in Malaysia. This paper outlines and discusses the professional skills and technological competencies necessary for KMs and considers how these are acquired and developed to survive in an ever changing technological environment and to meet the future challenges of the 21st century.