Corporate social responsibility and SMEs: exploratory study on motivations from a Malaysian perspective

Abstract

PurposeThis paper investigates the need for corporate social responsibility (CSR) in SMEs. Also, it aims to explore the motivations for practicing CSR from the perspective of Malaysian SMEs.Design/methodology/approachInvestigating the need for CSR in SMEs is done through a literature review. For the purpose of identifying the motivations for CSR practice, ten exploratory interviews were conducted with SME managers in Malaysia.FindingsThe findings show that Malaysian SMEs were mostly practicing CSR because of their own beliefs and values, religious thoughts, and pressure and encouragement from stakeholders.Research limitations/implicationsBecause this is an exploratory study, a small number of interviews were conducted. Future studies can expand this and go more in‐depth.Practical implicationsThe findings of the paper provide a good understanding of Malaysian SMEs' motivations for CSR, which will be helpful for policy‐makers.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors' knowledge, this is among the first studies focusing on CSR in the Malaysian SME sector. Also, the exploratory qualitative approach of the paper can provide a better vision for future research.