Why do Microenterprise Refuse to Use Information Technology: A Case of Batik Microenterprises in Malaysia

The role of information technology (IT) in developing and enhancing businesses is undeniable. However, even though it is highly acknowledged that IT play a pivotal role in improving business operational efficiency and promoting business growth, IT adoption amongst microenterprises in Malaysia remains low. This paper investigates the reason for non-adoption of IT amongst microenterprises before embarking into strategies to promote a better IT use for improved business performance. A qualitative study was conducted to identify the poor IT adoption amongst Malaysian microenterprises. As batik making is a national concern for its high-valued heritage essences, the study covered batik microenterprises. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with five batik microenterprises. From the analysis, it was found that attitude, awareness, inadequate knowledge and skills and funds play a major role in IT adoption amongst them. These findings will become important considerations for future study on IT adoption strategies for microenterprise in terms of devising intervention programs to assist them to adopt IT in their business operation.