Institutional Theory and Employment of Persons with Disabilities in Service Industries: A Conceptual Framework

This conceptual paper is presented to study the low employment of persons with disabilities, which remains a critical global concern, as notable disparities continue to exist despite the implementation of various legislative and regulatory initiatives. The paper begins by reviewing the literature on the past employment of persons with disabilities and their challenges. Many quantitative studies discuss the above topic, however, the approach to using institutional theory is lacking. The findings can add value to today’s body of knowledge. Key findings can firstly be used to highlight the importance of implementing policies to address employment disparities of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Second, to offer valuable insights for governments and businesses to enhance employment of persons with disabilities by aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Decent Work) and Sustainable Development Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), while emphasizing the need for more robust institutional frameworks to harness the untapped potential of Persons With Disabilities’ and foster equitable economic growth aligned with Malaysia’s Madani agenda.