The Muamalat Newsletter Vol. 2 2023

FEM eNewsletter | Dec 2023 44 problem-solving skills, employers are also emphasizing interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team setting. These soft skills are seen as essential for graduates to navigate the demands of the modern workplace, where complex problem-solving often requires effective teamwork and communication. By addressing the deficiency in soft skills among graduates and aligning educational curricula with industry needs, Malaysia can better equip its marketing graduates to thrive in the competitive job market. This comprehensive approach to education has the potential to not only address the issue of unemployment among graduates but also contribute to the overall economic development of the nation. Marketing Graduates: Are They Competitive Enough? Developing a well-rounded set of skills is imperative for marketing graduates to navigate the competitive job market in Malaysia successfully. Beyond academic achievement, employers are seeking candidates who possess an array of soft skills, particularly, the ability to communicate effectively, solve problems, and work collaboratively(Gautam, 2016). The emphasis on soft skills is a response to the evolving needs of the workplace. In today’s dynamic and interconnected world, graduates must be equipped not only with technical expertise but also with the ability to adapt, think critically, and communicate ideas persuasively. Employers are looking for graduates who can navigate ambiguity, work in diverse teams, and contribute meaningfully to the organization(Ojo et al., 2022). By focusing on developing a well- rounded set of skills, marketing graduates can effectively address the evolving requirements of employers. This comprehensive approach not only addresses the issue of unemployment among graduates but also positions them to make significant contributions to the nation’s economic growth. The job market demands in Malaysia increasingly emphasize soft skills for marketing graduates, highlighting the importance of educational institutions in equipping them for success. However, concerns arise about the readiness of graduates to meet these demands, as an overemphasis on soft skills may neglect core knowledge and expertise. Additionally, there is a valid concern aboutthepotentialhomogenization of graduates’ skill sets. By placing a heavy emphasis on soft skills, there is a risk of producing a workforce that lacks diversity in specialized expertise, potentially limiting innovation and specializationwithin the marketing sector(Subedi, 2018). Employers might seek candidates who possess a balance of both technical knowledge and soft skills, but an exclusive focus on soft skills can lead to a lack of depth in the knowledge needed for specific roles. Furthermore, the immediate application of real-world scenarios and practical case studies might not align with the academic foundations required to build a strong understanding of marketing theories and principles. Striking a balance between theoretical knowledgeandpractical application is crucial to ensure that graduates possess a deep understanding of marketing concepts and strategies. As such, educational institutions need to reevaluate the balance between soft skills and technical expertise in their curriculum to ensure that graduates are well- prepared to meet the diverse demands of the marketing industry in Malaysia. While soft skills are undoubtedly important, a comprehensive and balanced approach that includes a strong foundation in marketing theories and technical knowledge can better equip graduates to excel in their careers. Despite the efforts made by universities and the Ministry of Higher Education to incorporate soft skills into programs, there is a gap between the skills possessed by graduates and the skills demanded by employers (Yong & Ling, 2023). Value-Added Skills for Marketing Graduates The debate surrounding the readiness of marketing graduates to meet the demands of the Malaysian job market is multifaceted. While soft skills are undeniably valuable, there are valid concerns about the potential overshadowing of technical Educational institutions need to reevaluate the balance between soft skills and technical expertise in their curriculum. “ “