Discrimination in the Workplace: A Case of Discrimination at U Mart in Gelang Patah, Johor, Malaysia

This study investigates workplace discrimination at U Mart in Gelang Patah, Johor, Malaysia, and its impacts on employees and the organisation. Adopting a qualitative approach, the research involved in-depth interviews with five employees from diverse backgrounds, including administrative staff, cashiers, and supervisors. An interview protocol guided the data collection process to address the research objectives comprehensively. Thematic analysis, conducted using NVivo 12 Plus software, revealed that workplace discrimination at U Mart manifests in various forms, including gender, age, and religious discrimination. The findings indicate that these forms of discrimination stem from organisational biases, cultural stereotypes, and favouritism. Discrimination negatively affects employees by diminishing job satisfaction, mental well-being, and career growth opportunities. At the organisational level, it results in diminished staff productivity, increased turnover rates, and harm to the company’s brand. Notwithstanding these hurdles, the study underscores the need to combat prejudice by enacting inclusive policies, training staff, and cultivating an equal workplace. Future studies should investigate the broader ramifications of workplace discrimination at various organisational tiers through a mixed-methods approach to yield profound insights and practical recommendations.