Human Resource Management in an Emerging South Asian Economy: The Case of Brunei

This book focuses on human resource management (HRM) in the country context of Brunei Darussalam, analysing, comparing and contrasting domestic enterprises (DEs) with multinational enterprises (MNEs), and oil and gas with non-oil and -gas sectors, and draws out the comparative lessons for understanding the potential and performance consequences of HR interventions in resource-centred national economies. Work carried out more recently drawing a contrast between Asian capitalisms has established a number of important defining aspects inherent in economies in Asia; this helps to present approaches to establishing the way in which Brunei may be seen to be aligned with, and depart from, other business systems and frameworks in Asia.

The existing literature highlights a trend towards focusing on the Asian context; however, most studies have focused on specific Asian countries, and research conducted in other contexts remains scarce. As the region gains economic prosperity, it is increasingly important to conduct some work that will be able to highlight the relevant HRM system(s) for other Asian contexts. Although some emerging Asian economies are still quite far from achieving developed nation status, it is however essential to understand the HRM systems prevalent in such economies as they can contribute greatly to the economic development there. Hence, this book highlights the importance of viewing the development and nature of HR in Brunei and locates the practice of HRM within the wider economic and political context, and draws out the theoretical and practical implications for understanding continuity in change in HR practice, and similarities with and differences from other emerging markets. It will be of interest to researchers, academics, and students in international and comparative human resource management.

Tamer K Darwish is a Reader in Human Resource Management (HRM), and the Head of HRM Research Centre in the Business School, University of Gloucestershire.

Pengiran Muda Abdul Fattaah is the Chairman of Baiduri Bank, Brunei.