A linear structural modelling of total quality management practices in manufacturing companies in Malaysia

This paper discusses and reviews total quality management (TQM) practices i n the public listed manufacturing companies in Malaysia. It also investigat es the relationship between TQM practices, customer satisfaction, competiti ve advantage and the bottom line financial performance using a linear struc tural equation modelling. The findings indicate that training and top manag ement commitment play very important roles in TQM implementations. In addit ion, rivalry (competition) is a significant element in gaining and sustaini ng competitive advantage of the manufacturing companies in Malaysia. The re sults also show that product quality, product features and timely delivery are very crucial in promoting customer satisfaction.