Journal of Entrepreneurship and Business
Journal of Entrepreneurship and Business (eISSN : 2289-8298) or JEB addresses the fundamental issues of entrepreneurship and business and publishes original quantitative or qualitative articles on all aspects of entrepreneurship and business in local and international contexts.
Effect of Information and Communication Technology on Audit Findings Accuracy: Evidence from Audit Firms in Southwest Nigeria
The persistence of inaccurate audit reports continues to pose significant challenges to stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and the broader financial ecosystem in Nigeria. Despite the promising potential of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in addressing these challenges, existing literature presents conflicting findings regarding ICT's impact on audit performance, with most studies focusing on internal auditing or specific sectors, leaving a notable gap in understanding ICT's broader implications for external audit firms in developing economies like Nigeria. This study examined the effect of Information and Communication Technology tools on the accuracy of audit findings among audit firms in Southwestern Nigeria. Specifically, the research investigated the influence of Automated Audit Procedures (AAP), Cloud-Based Audit Software (CAS), and Mobile Audit Applications (MAP) on audit findings accuracy. The study adopted a survey research design targeting 1,123 active audit firms licensed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Southwestern Nigeria. Using a sample size of 358, data collected through structured questionnaires was subjected to multiple regression analysis to test the hypotheses. Findings revealed that all three ICT tools significantly and positively influenced audit findings accuracy. Automated Audit Procedures emerged as the strongest predictor (? = 0.214, p < 0.000), followed by Cloud-Based Audit Software (? = 0.186, p < 0.005) and Mobile Audit Applications (? = 0.158, p < 0.030). The overall model explained 21.1% of the variance in audit accuracy (R² = 0.211, F = 40.863, p < 0.000). The findings conclude that ICT adoption enhances auditors' capabilities in detecting errors and material misstatements, thereby improving audit precision and reliability. Audit firms should prioritize the strategic adoption of ICT tools within their operational frameworks. Specifically, firms should emphasize improving automated audit procedures to enhance audit findings accuracy, integrate cloud-based audit solutions to enable real-time collaboration and centralized document access, and ensure adequate security protocols and device governance mechanisms to combat cyber security risks associated with mobile audit applications.
Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Entrepreneurship and Business
Well-Being and Stress: Comparison Between Full-Time Employees and Freelancers Graphic Designer in Malaysia
The rapid rise of the gig economy has contributed to freelancing becoming a popular employment choice, especially in creative professions such as graphic design. While freelancing is often assumed to enhance well-being and reduce stress compared to full-time employment, empirical evidence remains limited. This study investigates differences in well-being and stress levels between full-time and freelance graphic designers in Malaysia. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected through an online questionnaire distributed via social media platforms, targeting respondents in Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. A total of 200 responses were obtained (104 freelancers and 96 full-time employees). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney U test due to non-normal distribution. Results indicated no statistically significant differences in well-being and stress levels between the two groups. These findings challenge prevailing assumptions about employment type and mental health outcomes, offering new insights for policymakers and stakeholders in the creative and gig economy sectors.
Risk Management Committee Diversity and Firm Performance: Insights from Malaysia’s Top 100 Listed Companies
This study examines how the characteristics of the Risk Management Committee (RMC), specifically ethnic composition, size, and knowledge, affect the financial performance of listed firms in Malaysia. Grounded in agency theory and resource dependence theory, it argues that a well-structured and diverse RMC enhances oversight, decision-making, and firm performance. Using data from the top 100 non-financial firms listed on Bursa Malaysia in 2021, the study applies descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, regression analysis, and normality tests to evaluate the relationship between RMC attributes and financial performance measured by Return on Assets (ROA). The findings indicate that RMC size and knowledge significantly improve financial performance, while ethnic diversity shows a slight negative association, possibly due to communication and coordination challenges. Overall, the results highlight the importance of knowledgeable and well-composed RMCs in promoting sound governance and corporate sustainability. This study contributes to the discourse on board and committee diversity, offering practical insights for regulators and firms. The findings also support Malaysia’s pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), emphasizing the value of inclusive and capable governance structures in achieving sustainable growth.
The Impact of Firm Performance on Share Price of Listed Consumer Goods in Nigeria
This study investigates how firm characteristics affect the share price of listed consumer goods companies in Nigeria. Firm characteristics refer to the diverse attributes that define a company’s nature, structure, and performance across industries. The Nigerian consumer goods sector faces distinct challenges such as infrastructure limitations, supply chain disruptions, currency fluctuations, regulatory uncertainties, and shifting consumer preferences factors often overlooked in prior generalized studies. To address this gap, the study adopts an ex-post facto research design using secondary data from audited annual financial reports of listed consumer goods firms on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) covering thirteen years (2011–2023). The study population comprised 21 consumer goods firms listed as of December 2023, from which a purposive sample of 10 firms was selected. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including measures such as mean, standard deviation, and panel regression analysis to test hypotheses. The regression results showed that two out of four explanatory variables—Profit after Tax (p = 0.0495) and Return on Assets (p = 0.0002) significantly influenced share prices. The findings demonstrate a significant relationship between firm performance characteristics and share price in the Nigerian consumer goods sector. The findings indicate that Return on Assets (ROA) is the most significant positive determinant of share price, while PAT exhibits a counterintuitive negative effect, highlighting the importance of asset efficiency and sustainable profit utilization in influencing investor valuation. The study concludes that firms should enhance innovation and competitiveness through research and development to improve financial performance and market value. By aligning strategic operations with market trends, firms can strengthen investor confidence, increase profitability, and sustain share price growth in a dynamic economic environment.
The Influence of Perceived Organisational Culture on Employee Performance: A Case Study of the Coca-Cola Plant in Eyaen, Benin City
This study investigates the influence of perceived organisational culture on employee performance at the Coca-Cola plant in Eyaen, Benin City. Grounded in the O’Reilly, Chatman, and Caldwell (1991) model of organisational culture, the research examines the relationships between organisational culture and three key performance constructs: worker engagement, worker motivation, and job satisfaction. A descriptive survey design was employed, with data collected from 280 staff members using a structured questionnaire. Reliability tests confirmed the instrument's consistency, with Cronbach's Alpha values ranging from 0.729 to 0.770. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and simple linear regression. The findings reveal that organisational culture has a significant and positive impact on worker engagement (R² = 0.238, p < 0.001), worker motivation (R² = 0.188, p < 0.001), and job satisfaction (R² = 0.043, p < 0.001). The study concludes that a positive and well-articulated organisational culture is a critical driver of enhanced employee performance. Recommendations include that management should intentionally cultivate a culture that promotes open communication, recognises achievements, supports professional growth, and fosters a collaborative work environment to boost overall organisational effectiveness.
Organisational and Community Conflicts in the Niger-Delta Region of Nigeria
This study examines the organisational and community conflicts in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study are to examine the effects of environmental degradation caused by oil exploration on the health, agriculture, and well-being of communities in the Niger Delta Region; investigate the relationship between socioeconomic and political marginalisation and community restiveness in the Niger Delta Region; and assess the effectiveness of youth-inclusive dialogue and negotiation strategies in resolving oil-related conflicts in the region. A cross-sectional design was used by administering copies of questionnaire to stakeholders in the Niger Delta Region. These stakeholders include community leaders in three selected states in the region. The states include Bayelsa. Delta, Edo, and Rivers states. Out of three hundred copies of questionnaire administered, 262 copies were retrieved and used for data analysis. The remaining copies were either not retrieved or were not properly completed. The data collected were analyzed using different statistical tools such as frequency count, percentages, and mean with the aid of Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The study found that environmental degradation caused by oil exploration significantly harms the health, agriculture, and overall well-being of Niger Delta communities. It was also revealed that socioeconomic and political marginalisation are closely linked to the persistent restiveness witnessed in the Niger Delta communities. However, the study shows that youth-inclusive dialogue and negotiation strategies were perceived as effective in resolving oil-related conflicts. It is recommended that policymakers and oil firms should prioritise infrastructure development, ensure equitable distribution of oil revenues, and involve community members particularly marginalised groups in decision-making processes to address socioeconomic and political exclusion and reduce restiveness.
Ownership Structure and Firm Performance in Malaysia
This study investigates the relationship between ownership structure and the financial performance of firms in Malaysia, with a particular focus on foreign ownership and government-linked companies (GLCs). Grounded in the principles of agency theory, the research examines whether different ownership structures influence firm performance and contribute to resolving or exacerbating agency conflicts. Using a sample of the top 100 listed companies on Bursa Malaysia, the study employs regression analysis to test the impact of foreign ownership and GLC ownership on firm performance, measured by return on assets (ROA). Audit quality and firm size are incorporated as control variables to enhance the robustness of the model. The findings reveal that ownership structure plays a significant role in shaping financial outcomes, with variations observed between foreign-owned and GLC-affiliated firms. The results are consistent with prior studies in emerging markets, emphasizing the importance of ownership concentration, governance practices, and institutional support in determining firm performance. The study contributes theoretically by reinforcing agency theory in the context of Malaysian corporations, and practically by offering insights for policymakers, investors, and managers in designing ownership strategies that enhance firm value. Limitations of the study include sample size, reliance on secondary data, and restricted time frame, which suggest caution in generalizing the findings. Future research is recommended to expand the sample, integrate qualitative approaches, and consider additional governance variables to deepen understanding of ownership structures in corporate performance.
Improving Students’ Performance with Time Management Skills
This paper examines the relationship between time management skills and academic performance among undergraduate students at Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP). The study focuses on three dimensions of time management: long-term planning ability, short-term planning ability, and time attitudes. A quantitative research design was employed, with data collected through questionnaires distributed to 152 respondents. Statistical analyses including reliability, correlation, and regression were conducted using SPSS software. The results reveal that long-term planning and time attitudes significantly influence student performance, while short-term planning demonstrates a weaker association. The findings are discussed considering the Pomodoro Technique and Pickle Jar Theory, emphasizing the importance of structured time management practices in enhancing student outcomes. This article contributes to the growing body of literature by offering empirical insights and practical recommendations for higher education institutions to design interventions that equip students with effective time management strategies.
Exploring Entrepreneurial Financing Strategies in Early-Stage Ventures: Insights from Entrepreneurs in Perlis, Malaysia
Entrepreneurial financing is a critical determinant of venture sustainability, especially during early stages when financial constraints are most severe. This study examines financing strategies of entrepreneurs in Perlis, Malaysia, through the lens of the Resource-Based View (RBV), highlighting how valuable, rare, inimitable, and non-substitutable resources support competitive advantage. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five entrepreneurs aged 26 to 37, operating in agriculture, food and beverages, retail, and construction sectors. Thematic analysis revealed four strategies: reliance on personal savings and family support, utilization of government and banking institutions, leveraging networks and partnerships, and adoption of digital platforms for growth. Findings show that intangible resources, including family support, social networks, and digital capabilities, serve as crucial substitutes for financial capital and enable differentiation in competitive markets. Digital platforms also enhanced financial stability by expanding market reach. The study contributes to entrepreneurship literature by demonstrating how internal and intangible resources shape financing behavior, offering practical insights for entrepreneurs, institutions, and policymakers in small-market contexts.
The Use of Meta-Analysis to Examine Talent Shortage Dynamics in Islamic Banking Institutions
The Islamic banking industry's rapid global growth, driven by increasing demand for Sharia-compliant financial solutions, has exposed a significant challenge: talent shortage. This study addresses a research gap by systematically reviewing and synthesising 42 studies published between 2000 and 2023 that examine the multidimensional causes of talent shortages in Islamic banking. Data were collected from Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and industry reports, applying thematic coding to identify key patterns. Results reveal that lack of awareness and education (76% of reviewed studies), cultural and religious barriers (54%), compensation discrepancies (48%), regulatory complexities (43%), and regional disparities in talent availability (39%) are the most cited causes. The findings are framed using Human Capital Theory and Institutional Theory to provide both practical and theoretical insights. The study proposes strategic recruitment, retention, skill development, and industry competitiveness enhancement initiatives to address these shortages. Practical implications for policymakers, HR managers, and education providers are discussed to ensure long-term sectoral sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Entrepreneurship and Business
Data Driven Segmentation System for Product Optimisation in Retail
The rapidly evolving retail landscape necessitates the adoption of structured, data-driven strategies to maintain competitiveness and operational efficiency. Within this context, product bundling has proven to be an effective marketing and inventory optimisation strategy. However, many retailers continue to rely on manual bundling methods, which are labour-intensive and often fail to accommodate dynamic shifts in consumer purchasing behaviour. Traditional bundling approaches frequently overlook optimal product combinations, resulting in missed revenue opportunities and inefficient inventory utilisation. To address these limitations, this study introduces SmartBundle, an intelligent system designed to automate and enhance product bundling by integrating customer segmentation and data analytics techniques. The system was developed using the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) methodology, providing a structured framework that guided the progression through key phases, including requirements analysis, system design, implementation, testing and maintenance. At its core, SmartBundle utilises a MySQL relational database structure for efficient data indexing and retrieval, which supports the scalable processing of customer and product data. By applying clustering algorithms, such as K-Means, the system is capable of categorising products based on purchasing patterns, identifying high-potential bundling opportunities and minimising the accumulation of surplus inventory. This data-driven method enables retailers to dynamically adjust their bundling strategies in response to market demands, thereby improving both operational performance and overall profitability.
Macroeconomic Determinants of FTSE KLCI Volatility: Evidence from 2006 to 2023
This study examines the impact of key macroeconomic variables: Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Consumer Price Index (CPI), and Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) on the volatility of the FTSE Bursa Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Composite Index (FTSE KLCI) from 2006 to 2023. As Malaysia shifts towards a more market-driven financial system, understanding how economic fundamentals influence market behavior is essential. Using a random-effects panel regression model, the study analyses 16 years of data. Results show that GDP and CPI significantly affect FTSE KLCI volatility, indicating that real economic activity and inflation are major drivers of investor responses. CCI, though significant at the 10% level (marginal effect), also influences market fluctuations during uncertain periods. These findings support the semi-strong form of the Efficient Market Hypothesis (EMH), suggesting the market reflects available economic information. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers and investors aiming to understand and manage volatility in Malaysia’s emerging capital market.
Literature Mapping of Artificial Intelligent Among Insurance Agents
Literature mapping is a visual representation of the structure and dynamics of scholarly knowledge. Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the insurance industry is a growing area of academic inquiry, particularly in its application to insurance agents. Using data from the Web of Science (WoS) and science mapping tools such as Bibliometrix and VOSviewer, this study explores trends, influential keywords, key authors, and sources in AI-related insurance research. The analysis reveals that publication output has increased significantly after 2018, with major keywords focusing on machine learning, digital transformation, and customer interaction. The study identifies the leading authors and institutions in this domain and highlights trending research topics that reflect both technological innovation and ethical concerns in the insurance industry.
Financial Literacy and Zakat Utilization: A Conceptual Framework for Asnaf Economic Empowerment
Zakat is essential for alleviating poverty and fostering social welfare in Muslim-majority countries. In Malaysia, particularly in Perlis, the Asnaf community depends heavily on zakat assistance for financial stability. However, ineffective utilization of zakat funds due to limited financial literacy continues to pose a challenge. Financial literacy which encompasses knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors is crucial for financial decision-making. Despite its recognized importance, few studies have examined the relationship between financial literacy and optimal zakat fund management among Asnaf recipients. This paper proposes a conceptual framework linking financial literacy to zakat fund utilization, arguing that targeted financial education can empower Asnaf recipients to manage finances more efficiently, reduce dependency on aid, and achieve long-term sustainability. Integrating Shariah Governance Theory and Financial Literacy Theory, the framework emphasizes responsible financial management within Islamic principles. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting how important structured, context-specific financial literacy programs within zakat distribution systems. Future research should empirically test the proposed model to validate its role in improving economic outcomes for the Asnaf community.
Customer Engagement and Behavior in Multi-Channel Retail: Insights from the Malaysia Market
This study investigates customer behaviour and engagement in Malaysia’s multi-channel retail environment, focusing on how channel availability, marketing strategies, and customer experience quality influence consumer engagement across retail touchpoints. A quantitative survey was conducted among 400 Malaysian consumers aged 18 and above. Correlation and mediation analyses using the PROCESS macro reveal that all three independent variables have significant direct effects on customer behaviour and engagement. Channel availability exerts the strongest influence, followed by customer experience quality and marketing strategies. Mediation analysis highlights the partial mediating roles of consistent multi-channel experience and the availability of discount codes or coupons in strengthening these relationships. These findings offer actionable insights for retailers, particularly SMEs in Malaysia, to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty through integrated multi-channel strategies. The study also underscores the growing importance of technological disruption and AI adoption in shaping the future of retail.
Talent Management and Skill Development as Catalysts for Employee Retention: Evidence From Tech Entrepreneurship in Southwest, Nigeria
This study examined talent management within Nigeria's tech entrepreneurship ecosystem, focusing on how recruitment, retention, and skills development strategies impact workforce sustainability in technology startups and SMEs. Using the Resource-Based View and Human Capital Theory as theoretical frameworks, we analyzed primary data from 76 HR professionals across Nigerian tech firms through a structured questionnaire. The full sample was used for descriptive analysis, while correlation analysis was performed on a randomly selected subsample of 20 responses to ensure statistical robustness given resource constraints. Results revealed that talent management strategies significantly influence recruitment effectiveness (r = 0.810, p < 0.001), employee retention (r = 0.760, p < 0.01), and workforce competencies (r = 0.690, p < 0.01). The study found that 81.6% of turnover was driven by better salary offers elsewhere, while 67.1% of firms identified budget constraints as the primary barrier to skills development. These findings have critical implications for tech entrepreneurs and SME managers seeking to build sustainable competitive advantages through human capital. The study concludes that effective talent management is essential for sustaining Nigeria's growing tech entrepreneurship sector.
Breaking Barriers: Women’s Ventures In The Digital Realm A Systematic Literature Review
In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital platforms, the rise of women entrepreneurs has become increasingly prominent. Despite traditional barriers, more women enter digital entrepreneurship seeking flexibility and income contribution. However, challenges such as limited resources and societal norms persist. This paper presents a systematic literature review exploring the challenges, opportunities and dynamics of women's ventures in the digital realm. The study utilized a systematic literature review of research published between 2017-2024, sourced from Scopus and Web of Science databases. Thematic analysis is applied to classify findings into reasons and challenges driving female participation in digital entrepreneurship. The review identifies digital platforms as crucial for offering women flexibility and market accessibility, essential for managing work and family commitments. However, gender disparities, family responsibilities and limited access to resources remain significant barriers. This study contributes a comprehensive synthesis of existing literature on women's entrepreneurship in the digital space, highlighting the need for supportive ecosystems, policy interventions, funding and digital literacy programmes in fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment for women entrepreneurs to thrive.
Tax Structures and Economic Growth: A Study of Asian Countries
This study aims to analyse the impact of total tax revenue and its structures on GDP per capita growth in 31 Asian countries. We estimate the results using the Static Panel Fixed Effects (within) regression with Driscoll and Kraay’s Standard Errors. The results suggest that increases in total tax revenue, taxes on income, profit and capital gain (direct taxes), and taxes on goods and services (indirect taxes) are associated with lower GDP per capita growth in Asian countries. In contrast, this study finds a significant and positive impact of taxes on property (other taxes), while labor taxes show an insignificant but positive impact on growth. We conclude that property taxes have a positive potential to sustain and promote higher growth, and the policymakers should consider to reduce both taxes on income and goods and services to encourage productivity and generate more consumption, which can stimulate economic growth in Asian countries.
The Role of Data Analytics on Business Decision Making: A study of Banking and Insurance Firms in Benin City
This study explored the influence of data analytics on business decision-making. The focus was on examining how real-time data analytics affects decision-making efficiency, understanding the overall impact of data analytics on decision-making, and analyzing how the challenges related to the implementation of data analytics affect decision-making within banking and insurance firms in Benin City, Edo State. The study targeted businesses across various sectors, selecting a sample of 100 businesses using convenience sampling to ensure representation from different industries and business sizes. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire, and all 100 responses were analyzed using SPSS 23 with multiple linear regression to test the hypotheses. Findings revealed that real-time data analytics has a significant positive effect on the decision-making efficiency of banking and insurance firms in Benin City. Moreover, data analytics overall positively impacts decision-making efficiency, and the challenges of implementing data analytics also significantly influence decision-making processes. The study recommends that businesses invest in real-time analytics to improve decision-making efficiency, enhance their data analytics capabilities by fostering a data-driven culture, and address the implementation challenges such as data security, skill gaps, and resource limitations to maximize the benefits of data analytics.
A Systematic Literature Review of Nascent Entrepreneurship: PRISMA Protocol
Nascent entrepreneurs are viewed as one of the crucial components in today’s entrepreneurship environment. As nascent entrepreneurs often face unavoidable liabilities due to newness and lack of experience, studying the trends of influencing factors and outcomes can provide a broader understanding for supporting their journey. Adopting the PRISMA approach, this research reviews literature related to nascent entrepreneurship to identify prevailing trends and recommend future directions for stakeholders in the field. Up to 2025, although many systematic literature reviews have been conducted on entrepreneurship topics, limited attention has been given specifically to the trends in nascent entrepreneurship. This analysis categorized past research variables based on their trends, including Competencies (6 antecedents), Psychological (6 antecedents), External Environment (5 antecedents), Social (2 antecedents), and others. This paper contributes by offering recommendations for future research improvement. Theoretically, it is recommended that future studies integrate the proposed categories to conduct more comprehensive investigations into nascent entrepreneurship. Practically, governments and policymakers are encouraged to collaborate with universities in addressing graduate oversupply and promoting entrepreneurship, aiming to transform graduates into “job creators” instead of unemployed individuals. Overall, this review highlights the need for a more integrated and policy-driven approach to support the development of nascent entrepreneurs in the evolving economic landscape.
Competitive Analysis and Market Positioning for New Product Launch: Evidence from CocoGlow Milk Drink
This study analysed the market positioning for new product launch to achieve market viable product (MVP) which is a mini-launch of the CocoGlow Milk Drink. A sample of three hundred young and old adults between 18 and 55 years old was taken for this study. Data were obtained through questionnaire administration to individuals residing in five Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Lagos state. Out of the three hundred (300) samples, 250 copies of the questionnaire were filled and returned. However, 8 copies were not properly filled and were therefore excluded from the analysis. In all, 242 copies of the questionnaire were validly filled and used for the data analysis. It was found that substantial portion of the respondents is aware of the benefits of consuming CocoGlow Milk Drink. The study also revealed in the survey, 93% of the respondents have interest in drinking CocoGlow Milk Drink. The results also showed that 32.6% of the respondents are willing to become distributors of CocoGlow Milk Drink. It is recommended that Facebook, Instagram, SMS and Whatsapp should be mainly used as they are the most preferred channels by majority of the respondents.
An Empirical Analysis of Buy Now, Pay Later Mechanism and Its Impact on Customer Retention in Digital Commerce
The "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) mechanism has transformed e-commerce payment systems by providing consumers with enhanced financial flexibility. This study examines the influence of four key factors—interest rate, customer age, credit limit, and income level—on customer retention, aiming to elucidate the relationships among these variables. Utilizing a sample of 385 Malaysian consumers, the study employs both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. The findings indicate that all four independent variables exert a significant positive impact on customer retention. Specifically, lower interest rates alleviate financial burdens, thereby fostering higher retention rates. Increased credit limits enhance purchasing power and financial flexibility, leading to sustained engagement with BNPL services. Younger consumers exhibit higher retention rates due to their preference for flexible payment solutions, while older users demonstrate consistent BNPL usage, contributing to long-term retention. Additionally, lower-income consumers rely more on BNPL to manage financial constraints, which results in higher retention within this demographic. Notably, usage frequency serves as a significant mediator between customer age and retention, as younger consumers' frequent BNPL usage partially accounts for their elevated retention rates. Conversely, interest rate, credit limit, and income level directly influence retention without substantial mediation by usage frequency. These findings provide valuable insights for e-commerce platforms and policymakers in optimizing BNPL frameworks to accommodate diverse consumer segments and enhance long-term customer loyalty.
Theorizing the Halal Brand Association toward the Participation in Family Takaful Product: An Extended Theory of Planned Behaviour
This study examines the pivotal role of halal brand association (HBA) in influencing consumer participation in family takaful products through the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). The research conceptualizes HBA as a critical variable impacting key TPB predictors—attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control—leading to increased participation in family takaful products. A qualitative approach systematically reviewed literature from reputable academic databases to develop a theoretical framework. The findings reveal that HBA enhances consumer attitudes, aligns with social expectations, and strengthens perceived behavioral control. Academically, this study contributes to the limited research on HBA in the takaful industry, providing new insights into consumer behavior in Islamic finance. Practically, it offers strategic guidance for Islamic financial institutions to leverage halal branding as a competitive advantage. By aligning financial products with Islamic ethical principles, this research underscores the dual importance of religious compliance and social responsibility in fostering consumer engagement and loyalty.
Kesahan Kandungan Instrumen Efikasi Kendiri Keusahawanan Bagi Guru Pelatih Berdasarkan Indeks Kesahan Kandungan (CVI)
Efikasi kendiri keusahawanan guru pelatih boleh menentukan tahap kesediaan guru pelatih menerapkan elemen keusahawanan dalam bidang pengajian mereka. Maka, instrumen bagi mengukur efikasi kendiri keusahawanan perlu dikenalpasti dan disahkan. Kesahan kandungan adalah satu kaedah yang diperlukan untuk menilai kesesuaian instrumen menjadi alat ukur yang berkesan. Kajian ini akan menggunakan kaedah Indeks Kesahan Kandungan (Content Validity Indeks-CVI) untuk menilai kesahan kandungan instrumen. Instrumen yang dinilai mengandungi 23 item berdasarkan empat domain. Seramai lapan orang pakar telah dipilih melalui persampelan bertujuan untuk mengambil bahagian dalam kajian ini. Para pakar terdiri daripada lima orang pakar profesional dalam psikometrik, penilaian, psikologi pendidikan, bahasa, dan keusahawanan dan tiga orang pakar awam adalah pengamal penerapan elemen keusahawanan dalam bidang profesional masing-masing. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahawa instrumen yang dibina mempunyai kesahan kandungan yang relevan dan berpotensi menjadi instrumen yang dapat mengukur efikasi kendiri keusahawanan guru pelatih. Seterusnya analisis dan kajian lanjutan dicadangkan bagi menilai hubungan dan pengaruh antara efikasi kendiri keusahawanan dengan kesediaan penerapan elemen keusahawanan.
Musharakah as a Funding Solution for Nigerian SMEs: A Viewpoint
The sustainability and growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are crucial to the economic development every nation, particularly in developing economies like Nigeria, where access to conventional financing is often limited. This study explores the potential of Musharakah, a profit-sharing partnership model rooted in Islamic finance, as a viable funding solution for SMEs in Nigeria. Through a comprehensive analysis of Musharakah's framework, the study demonstrates how this model aligns with the financial needs and ethical considerations of SMEs within the region's socio-economic context. By reviewing data collected from SME owners, financial experts, and Islamic finance practitioners, the study assesses the potential impact of Musharakah on SME growth, financial inclusion, and overall economic stability in Nigeria. The findings indicate that Musharakah not only provides a flexible and ethical financing option but also fosters a more collaborative relationship between financial institutions and entrepreneurs.
Empowering Women Food Entrepreneurs: Unveiling their Social Commerce Readiness and Digital Challenges
This study investigates the readiness of women-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to engage in social commerce and its implications for business readiness. Utilizing a quantitative research design with purposive sampling, data were collected from 2024 women-owned SME owners through an online survey. The study reveals strong positive correlations between social commerce activities, technological information gaps, financial conditions, and the readiness of women-owned SMEs Specifically, increased engagement in social commerce significantly enhances business preparedness, while gaps in technological information and financial constraints pose substantial challenges. The findings point out the importance of bridging these gaps by providing adequate technological and financial support to empower women entrepreneurs in Kuala Selangor. Such support is crucial for fostering the growth and success of women-owned SMEs in the region's increasingly digitalized business landscape. Practically, the findings suggest that policymakers and support agencies should prioritize tailored training programs and financial support to empower women-owned SMEs with the tools and knowledge needed for successful engagement in social commerce. This study highlights the need for targeted policies and initiatives within Selangor to address these challenges, ensuring that women-owned SMEs in the region can fully participate in and benefit from the digital economy.
Exploring Individual Entrepreneurial Orientation and Its Dimensions: A Conceptual Paper
Entrepreneurship is a significant factor that directly and indirectly influences a nation's economy and plays a crucial role in shaping its economic landscape. The long-term economic development and success of any country depends on innovative approaches and entrepreneurial initiatives. This study aims to provide a literature review on individual entrepreneurial orientation (IEO), emphasizing the significance of its five dimensions: risk-taking, competitive aggressiveness, autonomy, proactiveness, and innovativeness. By so doing, this study contributes to the literature by addressing the initial stages of conceptual model building for IEO and its dimensions, specifically within the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Incorporating the Shariah-Based Quality Management Standard MS1900:2014 into Cooperatives: Another Growth Strategy?
The Malaysian Standard (MS) 1900:2014 is a Shariah-compliant quality management system integrating universal ethical principles—such as justice, honesty, and discipline—into organizational processes. Endorsed by SIRIM, Malaysia’s standards body, MS 1900:2014 provides a framework for aligning Islamic principles with quality management practices. Since its initial certifications in 2008, adoption has grown steadily, with approximately 40 organizations certified by 2023, though implementation remains limited across Malaysia’s diverse institutional landscape, especially among cooperatives. Utilizing qualitative research methodology, a case study of eight cooperatives from Malaysia’s Top 100 List of 2022 offers insights into how MS 1900:2014 can enhance cooperative growth and performance. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the Board of Cooperative Directors, Cooperative Managers, and SIRIM Principal Auditor. These findings emphasize the standard's potential not only for quality improvements but also for supporting sustainable economic growth within cooperative sectors. The research contributes to the understanding of quality management systems and their role in integrating Shariah-based principles for enhanced performance, benefiting cooperatives and the broader economy.
Determinants of Intention to Adopt the Nigerian Digital Currency, the eNaira: A Conceptual Framework
This research extends the Unified Theory of Adoption and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model by incorporating variables such as security, government regulatory, and a new moderating variable, technology awareness. This is achieved through an empirical review of relevant studies and the development of a conceptual framework for adopting Nigeria's digital currency, the eNaira. The proposed framework aims to guide future research on technology adoption in developing countries. Existing studies reveal that digital currencies have higher adoption rates in Western nations compared to non-Western ones. However, the distinct challenges and characteristics of emerging nations limit the direct application of findings from developed countries. Therefore, considering Nigeria's specific context, this study examines the critical factors influencing the intention to adopt the eNaira. These factors are integrated into a framework designed to address issues related to the adoption of eNaira among Nigerians. This research enhances and validates the UTAUT model, contributing to the academic literature. Practically, it offers insights into key factors that can improve eNaira adoption, supporting government organizations and policymakers in increasing the digital currency's adoption in Nigeria and any other developing country.
The Implication of E-Commerce Application in SMEs
This research aims to explore the implication of e-commerce application among Small and Medium (SM) Malay entrepreneurs involved in the Malaysian food and beverage manufacturing industry based on three perspectives: technology, competition, and suppliers. A survey questionnaire was developed following the three variables. Furthermore, a pilot study was conducted to identify the necessary improvements to be made to the instrument. The respondents involved SM Malay entrepreneurs who are e-commerce application users, with a 68.4% response rate. The empirical data were statistically analysed via stepwise multiple regression. Resultantly, the variables of competition and supplier influenced the implication of e-commerce application among SM Malay entrepreneurs.
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