Competency-Based Learning for Future-Ready Governance: Functional and Behavioural Skills in Sarawak Local Councils

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine workforce competencies within Sarawak’s local councils and to explore how competency assessment can serve as an educational tool for Human Resource Development (HRD). Guided by Human Capital Theory, Strategic HRD, and Adult Learning principles, a mixed-methods design was employed combining survey data from 208 officers with four focus-group discussions and twelve semi-structured interviews. The principal results revealed a clear competency duality: behavioural competencies such as teamwork, cultural sensitivity, and communication scored higher (mean = 77.1%) than functional competencies (mean = 65.8%), where gaps were most pronounced in digital governance, crisis management, sustainability, and innovation. Qualitative findings elaborated on this disparity, identifying three recurring themes uneven digital and strategic proficiency, systemic barriers to continuous learning, and cautious optimism regarding future readiness and adaptability. The study concludes that integrating competency-based learning (CBL) within HRD frameworks is vital to cultivating a digitally literate, ethical, and future-ready workforce. Embedding CBL into HRD policy aligned with Malaysia’s Twelfth Plan (2021–2025), Sarawak’s PCDS 2030, and OECD’s Future-Ready Workforce recommendations can transform local councils into learning organisations capable of sustaining innovation and effective governance.