Strengths and Weaknesses among Malaysian SMEs: Financial Management Perspectives

In Malaysia, 97.3% of business establishments are comprised of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) which account for about 52.7% of total employment that is generated in the country. Malaysian government through the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) and its agencies works hard on assisting SMEs through various activities to promote exposures on prudent financial management. This paper aims to identify the financial strengths and weaknesses face by SMEs in helping those entities to plan appropriate financial management programme. Semi- structured interviews were conducted among thirty five SMEs that are willing to participate voluntarily. This study found that capital is the key elements in both strengths and weakness among SMEs. Running the business without any external capital (loan) reducing the financial risk of the business. It will be easier for the managers to make business decisions without any constraint as there is no limitation set by fund provider. The study also revealed capital insufficiency is the crucial problems among SMEs which might due to the difficulties to obtain external fund. Although the results should be taken with caution, nevertheless financial management is vital in order to face new business challenges as well as for the survival of the business in the future.