A REVIEW OF BIG DATA MANAGEMENT IN MALAYSIAN POLYTECHNICS: STATE-OF-THE-ART, APPLICATIONS, CHALLENGES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Abstract

This review study looks at the existing condition, uses, problems, and future directions of big data management in Malaysian polytechnics. As part of Malaysia’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) ecosystem, polytechnics are increasingly expected to adopt data-driven approaches to enhance teaching, institutional efficiency, and graduate employability. Drawing on global research and guided by the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) and Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) frameworks, this study critically explores how big data tools such as learning analytics, predictive modelling, and dashboards are applied in polytechnic settings. Despite promising developments, polytechnics face persistent challenges: outdated infrastructure, fragmented systems, limited staff competence, and weak governance. National initiatives such as the TVET Digitalisation Strategic Plan and Dasar TVET Negara 2030 can help address these gaps by promoting centralized data governance and institutional readiness. The paper recommends strengthening infrastructure, staff capacity building, pilot analytics projects, and integrating graduate employment data. Future trends include AI-powered analytics, smart campus technologies, and inter-institutional data sharing. With strong leadership and coordinated governance, Malaysian polytechnics can evolve into agile, data-driven institutions aligned with national digital transformation goals.