A conceptual examination of how support, knowledge sharing, and leadership drive academic innovation: The mediating role of individual innovation capability.

Abstract

The management of higher education institutions should prioritize the cultivation of innovative work behaviour among academicians as a primary and crucial concern, since IWB has become pivotal in academia. Therefore, the main objective of this conceptual paper was to examine the interplay between perceived organizational support, knowledge sharing, and transformational leadership on innovative work behavior within Malaysia's higher education institutions (HEIs), highlighting the mediating role of individual innovation capability. Grounded by Social Exchange Theory and Social Cognitive Theory, the study suggests that while POS, KS and TL are pivotal drivers of IWB, their impact is substantially mediated by the enhancement of IIC. The study provides valuable insights into how individual innovation capabilities serve as a bridge between these organizational and psychological constructs among academics and knowledge workers within organizational contexts.  The findings aim to inform and guide HEIs in promoting a culture of innovation and excellence in Malaysia.