Factors Influencing Turnover Intention among Malaysian Unskilled Workers in Oil Palm Plantation

Abstract

The turn over intention has dramatically caused high turnover among Malaysian unskilled workers in oil palm industry. Therefore, this study was to determine the level of local unskilled workers perception of turnover intention and provide additional insight for the industry players and policy maker to identify the needs and characteristics of the Malaysian employees to them to work in the oil palm plantation in future. This research used quantitative approach and cross- sectional method to address the current scenario in the oil palm plantation. Data were obtained from a field survey of 347 oil palm plantation employees all over Malaysia. A descriptive and cross-tab analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings of the research revealed the workers’ demographic characteristics namely age, gender and work tenure have the intention to leave. This research described that majority of respondents (58.5%) has intentions to leave from present job to another industry. Finding also found higher salary and allowance and free health service are keys to higher motivations. It was also suggested that employers should provide an attractive benefits package as a strategy to attract and retain workers.