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Abstract

Numerous reforms in the Malaysian academia in recent years have resulted in academic work intensification which produces work-life balance and turnover intention in the higher education sector. This effect, however, has received limited research. This study aims to examine the relationships between work intensification, work-life balance and turnover intention among academics in Malaysian universities using the theory of Job Demand-Resources. The mediating effect of work-life balance on the relationship between work intensification and turnover intention was also explored. Data were collected through a survey from 190 respondents in public and private universities in Malaysia. As hypothesized, the PLS-SEM results revealed that the path relationships among the constructs were in the expected directions. Work intensification and turnover intention were found to be positively related, whereas work intensification and work-life balance were negatively related. In addition, work-life balance was negatively associated with turnover intention and it partially mediated the relationship between work intensification and turnover intention. Several important implications of the study findings for future research and practice were also discussed Contribution/ Originality: Malaysian academics have experienced work intensification due to various work reforms. Using the JDR framework, this study examines the effects of work intensification on the academics' worklife balance perceptions and turnover intention. The findings confirm the JDR theory that achieving work-life balance is instrumental in decreasing academics' turnover intention.