The Governance of Knowledge: Perspectives from Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia

This paper aims to explore the different perspectives and strategies evidenced in the evolving knowledge clusters in Malaysia and in Brunei Darussalam. It is based on empirical research carried out in Malaysia during 2009-2010, and in Brunei Darussalam during 2013 and pays particular attention to the spatial distribution of manpower in Penang and in Cyberjaya and the scientific networks of Universiti Sains Malaysia. Learning from the experience of the development of the Northern Corridor and Multi Media Corridor in Malaysia, our analysis shows differing trends in the construction of knowledge clusters in Peninsular Malaysia. The Cyberjaya knowledge cluster reveals the dominant role of the state and elite in its development. The Penang knowledge cluster however shows a historical trajectory and the intervention of diverse companies, alongside the involvement of state government. The Brunei-Muara district knowledge cluster in Brunei Darussalam is different again with its growing corporeal clustering of organizations including private companies and government agencies, yet has a distinct lack of knowledge sharing. This study is thus based on the empirical data and case studies of three significant knowledge clusters in Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam but also deals with wider macro issues relevant to both countries. By focusing on knowledge governance strategies in Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, this paper answers a question central to this paper: how can a country avoid the ‘knowledge trap’? We intend to contribute to the growing literature on the study of knowledge clusters and knowledge governance by presenting new theories and original comparative data based on field research.