Enterprises In Malaysia Research Articles

Focus Group Interview: University-Industrial Collaboration

Business innovations can introduce novel and imaginative concepts, particularly within digitalization. Innovations have the potential to stimulate the advancement of enterprises, fostering market expansion, enhancing competitiveness, and optimizing profitability. Nevertheless, the implementation of innovation may be achievable in collaboration. Collaborations and interactions between academia and industrial entities may yield improved outcomes. Nevertheless, the presence of obstacles between academia and industries could harm the long-term viability of commercial innovation. The concerns and challenges faced by local institutions and enterprises in Malaysia are examined within the framework of a case study. Data was obtained from a random sample of Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) across several industries. A focus group was conducted with 15 representatives from Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) companies and one moderator to lead the discussion. The findings from the focus group have been transcribed and analyzed based on their sharing. The rationale for focusing on CEOs was their role as critical decision-makers responsible for driving corporate innovations. The collection of perspectives from academia and industries was facilitated through face-to-face interviews. The study provided suggestions for potential avenues of future investigation.

A survey measuring employee’s inclusion in Malaysia

Background Organizations recognized the importance of workplace inclusion. However, up to date, few organizations had developed strategic initiatives to improve workplace diversity. This research examines the impact of awareness of inclusion, inclusive leadership, psychosocial capital, and meaningful engagement on employee’s inclusion in the context of Malaysia. Methods The study employed a quantitative survey approach and collected data through a questionnaire survey administered to 204 participants. Descriptive analysis, reliability analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were utilized to explore the relationships between the independent and dependent variables. Results The findings indicate a significant correlation between awareness of inclusion and psychosocial capital with employee’s inclusion. However, no significant correlations were found between inclusive leadership and meaningful engagement with employee’s inclusion. These results underscore the importance of fostering an inclusive culture and nurturing psychosocial support to enhance employee’s inclusion experiences in the workplace. Conclusion This study contributes to the knowledge by being one of the pioneer research in Malaysia that provides insights into the factors influencing employee’s inclusion in Malaysia. The findings is important for organizations, particularly small and medium enterprise in Malaysia to promote employee inclusion in a multi-racial diversity society.

The Influence of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Performance on Financial Outcomes: The Moderating Role of Board Characteristics in Malaysian Firms

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are becoming more widely acknowledged as essential elements of corporate performance. The objective of this study is to explore the relationship between ESG performance and financial results, with a particular emphasis on businesses located in Malaysia. This study investigates the ways in which the characteristics of boards, specifically the size of boards and the gender diversity of board members, modify this relationship. Using data from 346 Malaysian enterprises, the study discovers a link between ESG performance and operating income. The association between ESG and financial results is strengthened by larger board sizes, whereas board gender diversity does not have a meaningful influence on moderating this relationship. The findings provide insights into corporate governance practices, suggesting that larger boards can amplify the financial benefits of strong ESG performance.

Factors Affecting Digitalization Acceptance Among Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Malaysia

Despite the increasing trend of digitalization in today’s organization and business environment, the acceptance of business digitalization by micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) remains uncertain. This study intends to investigate factors influencing digitalization acceptance focusing on e-commerce by utilizing the technology-organizational-environment (TOE) framework. This study employed a quantitative method where data was collected via a questionnaire survey among a sample of MSMEs in Kelantan, Malaysia, using the snowball sampling method. The results of this study show that all the variables in the TOE model have significant relationships with e-commerce acceptance. This study suggests that digitalization is very important for MSMEs to ensure the sustainability of a business in a predictable business environment. The findings offer valuable information for improving digitalization adoption among business communities, particularly in the context of MSMEs in developing countries.

Can industry 4.0 work together with lean? An investigation from Malaysian lean manufacturing sector

An examination of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and its impact on lean manufacturing (LM) is not yet detailed, properly evaluated or validated. Notably, there is a lack of recent studies that evaluated I4.0 technology mapping and prioritization in the LM industrial context in Malaysia. The study aims to evaluate how I4.0 technology enablers influence the use of lean tools. Moreover, this study evaluates the correlation between company type and I4.0 implementation maturity, familiarity, and sources exhibiting an inclination to advance skills. The study evaluated 208 respondents belonging to several LM enterprises in Malaysia. Self-administered questionnaires were used and association analysis, based on the independence test, was used to assess the consensus based on the devised hypothesis. The outcomes were obtained using correspondence assessment of the asymptotic significant correlation coefficient (p) in which to draw conclusions using the p determined during hypothesis evaluation, a 0.05 significance level indicates all null hypotheses must be accepted. Moreover, the three elements; I4.0, LMP, and LMSs are significant with 0.897, 0.980, and 0.876 values, respectively. The outcomes indicate a strongly positive correlation between I4.0 and LM system (LMS). This observation is expected to help Malaysian LM practitioners to anticipate the future lean landscape based on the boundless innovation provided by these Technologies as the anticipated outcome is a strong positive correlation between I4.0 and LM systems (LMS). This finding would empower Malaysian LM practitioners to anticipate the future of lean manufacturing, shaped by the boundless innovation potential of I4.0 technologies. By embracing this convergence, companies can unlock a future of enhanced productivity driven by autonomous operations and data-driven decision making. Therefore, using lean in the context of I4.0 is a promising combination for improving future productivity through autonomous operations.

Assessing the predictive benefits of Waqftech smart contracts on corporate waqf crowdfunding among Malaysian enterprises

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the adoption of waqf technology (Waqftech) using blockchain smart contracts for corporate waqf crowdfunding. Despite the growing interest in Waqftech, Malaysian enterprises have not fully embraced this emerging technology because of uncertainty regarding the benefits it offers to contributors. The research incorporates two theoretical frameworks: the electronic data interchange (EDI) model for firms’ technology adoption, and the triple bottom line theory (TBL) for corporate social responsibility.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative method using a cross-sectional survey design with a five-point Likert scale questionnaire was used. Data was collected from 210 decision-makers representing small and medium-sized enterprises and analyzed using partial least squares-structural equation modeling.FindingsThe findings from this research suggest that Malaysian enterprises are influenced by both corporate and social predictive benefits when using blockchain crowdfunding, but not by environmental benefits. The adoption of blockchain smart contracts does not correlate with predictive environmental benefits because of misconceptions about the disruptive technology’s impact on biological and digital environmental preservation.Research limitations/implicationsThis research focuses on organizational behavior rather than individual users of waqf crowdfunding, and it is limited, primarily focusing within Malaysia and regions with similar waqf structures.Practical implicationsThe Waqftech framework allows innovative mechanisms for executing corporate waqf investment returns to the intended beneficiaries through the smart contracts’ platform. In addition, this study supports relevant corporate social responsibility and creating shared value technology adoption theories, including EDI and TBL. Aside from this, the study provides empirical implications for waqf management using fintech platforms.Originality/valueThis groundbreaking study focuses on creating a Waqftech model for corporate waqf crowdfunding. The results of this study are important for the development of government policies that support the use of Waqftech in charitable fundraising. More research on biological and digital environmental perspectives is proposed to foster investors’ confidence in the visibility of digital tracking and lead to swift investments in future metaverse fundraising platforms.

Developing a Conceptual Framework Process to Understand the Implementation of Digital Supply Chain Management by a Food Manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprise in Malaysia

Developing a Conceptual Framework Process to Understand the Implementation of Digital Supply Chain Management by a Food Manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprise in Malaysia

Micro-multinational enterprises in Malaysia: the role of entrepreneurial orientation and regulatory institutions

Micro-multinational enterprises in Malaysia: the role of entrepreneurial orientation and regulatory institutions

Internal and External Factors that Boost the Performance of Social Enterprises During Covid-19 in Malaysia

The objective of this study is to examine the internal and external factors that contribute to the improvement of resilience and performance in social enterprises (SEs) operating in Malaysia, particularly in response to the unanticipated market conditions arising from the Covid-19 pandemic. Due to the unpredictable market conditions induced by the Covid-19 pandemic, this study aims to examine internal and external factors that can enhance the resilience and performance of social enterprises in Malaysia from the lens of Resource Dependence Theory and Resource-Based View Theory. This research is a quantitative-based study where an explanatory model was developed and statistically tested to analyse the data collected from an online survey conducted on 109 registered social enterprises in Malaysia. The statistical findings demonstrated that entrepreneurial orientation and network connections have a positive effect on the financial performance of social enterprises. Surprisingly, traditional business planning has a negative impact on financial performance during times of crisis. Moreover, this quantitative study affirms a notable association between fiscal performance and societal achievement, underscoring the pivotal importance of financial viability in fostering enduring social value. These observations provide valuable additions to the current body of knowledge on SEs and provide practical implications for individuals involved in the field, as well as policymakers and stakeholders.

Determinants Influencing Supply Chain Technology Adoption towards the Performance of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Malaysia

Supply chain technology (SCT) is a tool to improve MSMEs' performance. Although SCT is widely utilised in various industries, its adoption by MSMEs is limited. Hence, this study aims to determine the relationship and develop the framework of technological, organisational, and environmental factors and MSME's performance using SCT adoption as a mediator. This study will employ the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) and Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) theories. Data will be collected through a questionnaire and analysed using (PLS-SEM). This study will provide significant information for MSMEs to further utilize the benefits of SCT adoption for improving organisational performance.

Enlightening the Repercussion of Dark Data Management towards Malaysian SMEs Sustainability

The sheer volume of dark data impacts the costs for searching and producing appropriate information and imposes a wasted storage cost in operating budgets. Therefore, a grounded theory research was conducted to investigate the dark data phenomenon towards SMEs in Malaysia. Straussian Grounded Theory Methodology was deployed to analyze collected qualitative data to investigate the repercussions of dark data management towards sustainability of Small & Medium enterprises in Malaysia. Consequently, the study found that dark data is a precious asset to leverage and maintain sustainable business, and a model on the repercussions of dark data management was proposed.

The Effects of Job Demands and Job Resources on Work Stress among Workers in Small and Medium Enterprises in Malaysia

The Effects of Job Demands and Job Resources on Work Stress among Workers in Small and Medium Enterprises in Malaysia

Exploring the Role of Strategic Innovation Management Practices in Transforming State-Owned Enterprises in Malaysia: A Focus on Kuala Lumpur

Strategic Innovation Management is critical for firms that are in pursuit of improved efficiency and their reward is often an increase in their profits and their market share. Process of Strategic Innovation Management is strongly associated with organizational learning and refers to ability of organization to generate, accept and implement new ideas, processes, products or services. The primary goal of process innovation is to generate a notable increase in productivity or to drive down costs significantly. This approach can help organizations achieve major reductions in process cost, improvements in quality, service levels and other business objectives. Strategic Innovation Management is contributor to creation of new markets and products for the market, however even after the benefits of Strategic Innovation Management has been established the impact of Strategic Innovation Management on efficiency of State Owned Enterprises has remained misunderstood. The specific objectives of the study were; to establish the effect of Service innovation on the efficiency of State Owned Enterprises in Kuala Lumpur City, to establish the effect of product innovation on the Efficiency of State Owned Enterprises in Kuala Lumpur City. The study used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes. Result findings from literature-based review indicated that innovation had positive and significant influence on the efficiency of State Owned Enterprises. It was recommended that innovation information should be available particularly to regulatory and advisory bodies for guidance to the State Owned Enterprises on the need to craft and employ sound strategies geared towards continuously embracing innovativeness since innovation leads to improved financial efficiency. Keywords: Product Innovation, Service Innovation, Efficiency.

Lean Principles in Small-Medium Enterprises in Malaysia: Creating A Web-Based Training

Lean principles (LP) are well-established strategies for increasing the throughput of business organizations. Many large corporations have benefited from LP implementations in their organizations. However, acceptance of LP implementations among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) remained low, owing primarily to persistent prejudice and a lack of access to LP tools. This paper presents a Web-based Training (WBT) approach to alleviate such constraints and to accommodate the circumstances of SMEs in term of their financial, time and knowledge resources. The fundamental concepts of LP, SME, and WBT are presented in the first part of this paper based on a review of literature studies. Following that, the development of optimal WBT modules is elaborated on the basis of survey validations on the connectivity of LP and SMEs in Malaysia, emphasizing the use of simple words and terms for ease of comprehension by the targeted SME users.

Business network and balanced scorecard: an analysis of small and medium enterprises in Malaysia

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to characterise the association between business network and the balanced scorecard used by Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as a method for assessing firm efficiency. The business network takes into account both the dimensions of stability and efficiency. The business network can help SMEs, with fewer resources to remain competitive. By having a secure business network, the performance of SMEs in Malaysia can be further improved. A business network can facilitate swift coordination amongst distant geographies to create new competitive advantages by accessing market segments, resources as well as building strategic business alliances.Design/methodology/approachA total of 404 sets of data collected by using stratified random sampling and structured questionnaire as an instrument. The list of SMEs collected from the Malaysia Foreign Trade Growth Corporate Directory (MATRADE) directories. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was utilised to analyse the data.FindingsThe findings show that the business network plays a role in the balanced scorecard (BSC) outcomes of Malaysian SMEs.Originality/valueThis article provides the owners and managers with an awareness to rapidly achieve the company's efficiency. Finally, the new article often has some consequences for decision-makers and regulators.

Relational HR Practices in Malaysian SMEs: An Ethics of Care Perspective

Adopting an Ethics of Care theoretical framework, this paper aims to investigate the way in which the owner-mangers (OMs) of small and medium-sized enterprises in Malaysia engage in human resource management. Based on in-depth interviews with 48 OMs, the findings show that HRM practices occur within the remit of management but are described by the managers in terms of relational obligations and cannot be fully accounted for using a strategic, instrumental, or critical lens. The present study highlights the importance of the caring attitudes of OMs who adopt a humanistic management approach, responding to the varied needs of their employees and the obligations which are inherent to relationships between humans.

ENTERING SHANGHAI FREE TRADE ZONE: FROM MALAYSIA’S BUSINESSMEN PERSPECTIVE

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), introduced in 2013, has been strongly supported by various Free Trade Zones (FTZs). The pilot Shanghai Free Trade Zone (SFTZ) received much attention after a major reform in 2019. Malaysia’s enterprises consist of young and infant industries. Hence, this study has aimed to provide insights into the awareness among Malaysia’s enterprises towards SFTZ. In addition, hidden opportunities and challenges will be discussed in detail and further enlighten the concerns of Malaysian enterprises. A purposive sampling method has been applied to select the participants for the five focus group discussions. The results indicated a gap between government practices and industry players regarding the opportunities, challenges, and prospects in the SFTZ. Malaysia is expected to benefit from the SFTZ through comparative advantages in certain industries, with its talent, and through unique products with intellectual property rights. At the same time, Malaysian businesses have remained constrained by several obstacles, such as lack of information, exit policies and differences in regulations. Although MATRADE has stepped in as a bridge between local and Shanghai enterprises, more is needed to be done.

Governance for Sustainable Social Enterprise Performance: Moving Beyond Control Mechanisms

One of the prominent challenges of social enterprises is the inability to sustain their performance. In recent years, there have been instances where social enterprises have faced issues related to mismanagement, and these incidents have been associated with lack of effective governance. Therefore, this qualitative study engaged semi-structured interviews with representatives of social enterprises in Malaysia in assessing and examining the ideal governance framework that would suit the needs of social enterprise to attain sustainable performance. At first glance, the findings suggest that governance is achieved through effective control mechanisms and accountability practices. However, the respondents had also shared some insights that would suggest a forward-looking approach to social enterprise governance that prioritises sustainability, innovation, and social impact, rather than just control and compliance. Additionally, another substance being highlighted by the respondents that is closely related with social enterprise governance is about building relationships and trust. Keywords: governance, sustainability, control mechanisms, social enterprise, performance

An Exploratory Study on Business Ethics Practices Among Accredited Social Enterprises in Malaysia

An Exploratory Study on Business Ethics Practices Among Accredited Social Enterprises in Malaysia

An Analysis of Eco-Innovation Capabilities among Small and Medium Enterprises in Malaysia

The objective of this study is to look at how Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are applying eco-innovation capabilities in order to sustain their business performance. Eco-innovation capabilities are represented in this study by five different types of practices, with the indication of unexpected circumstances: eco-product innovation, eco-process innovation, eco-organisational innovation, eco-marketing innovation, and eco-technology innovation. The qualitative research approach was used in the study, and the content analysis was based on in-depth interviews with six top-level managers/owners of Malaysian manufacturing SMEs. According to the data, more than half of SMEs acquired eco-innovation capabilities in order to continue their business performance and thrive in the business sector, while having to confront certain hurdles due to unforeseen situations. According to the findings, eco-innovation capabilities encourage SMEs to engage in waste management, recycling or reusing resources, research and development, sustainable goods that utilize customer requests, and the use of environment management machines. Thus, the findings of this study may aid the efforts of government agencies, policymakers, and top-tier manufacturing SMEs in building an exceptional innovation platform on which SMEs may rely for assistance and support in preserving their business performance in the future and beyond.