The impact of Ta‘awun on teacher retention in Islamic private schools in Malaysia

Mhd. Sarif, Suhaimi and Yahya, Rohaziah (2026) The impact of Ta‘awun on teacher retention in Islamic private schools in Malaysia. Journal of Islamic Management Studies, 9 (2). pp. 20-42. E-ISSN 2600-7126

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Abstract

Sustaining teachers in Islamic private schools has become a significant challenge due to rising socio-economic pressures. Guided by the concept of ta‘awun (mutual cooperation and collective support), this study examines how community support, ethical commitment, and shared responsibility influence teacher retention and sustainability in Islamic private schools in Malaysia. Although these teachers play an important role in nurturing students’ spiritual, ethical, and holistic development, many continue to receive low salaries and face financial difficulties due to the rising cost of living. This qualitative study used in-depth interviews with a total of 39 participants, 26 school teachers and 13 administrators in Kuala Lumpur (KL), Shah Alam (SA), Pengkalan Chepa (PC), Alor Star (AS), Kangar (KG), Permatang Pauh (PP), Simpang Pulai (SP), Kulai (KU), Alor Gajah (AG), Kuantan (KN), Marang (MR), Kuching (KC), and Kota Kinabalu (KK). The data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings show that many teachers depend on secondary jobs, including e-hailing and delivery services, to support their daily needs. This creates physical and emotional exhaustion and limits their involvement in school and community activities. However, ta‘awun through collegial support, community solidarity, and spiritual motivation encourages teachers to remain committed despite financial hardship. The study highlights the importance of compassionate governance and sustainable welfare support in retaining teachers in Islamic private schools.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Islamic education, teacher retention, gig economy, qualitative research, Malaysia
Subjects:	BPH Islamic Economics > BPH830.3 Social systems. Urban groups. Cities and towns. Sustainable urban development BPL Islamic education > BPL27 Aims and objectives of education. Sustainable education H Social Sciences > HF Commerce > HF5001 Business. Business Administration > HF5387 Business ethics H Social Sciences > HF Commerce > HF5001 Business. Business Administration > HF5549 Personnel management
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Economics and Management Sciences > Department of Business Administration
Depositing User:	Dr Suhaimi Mhd Sarif
Date Deposited:	03 Sep 2026 11:11
Last Update:	03 Sep 2026 11:11
Queue Number:	2026-08-Q4981
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/131087

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