Small and medium enterprises small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in nations’ economy, through job creations, reducing unemployment rate as well as increase the overall productivity and gross domestic product (GDP) of a country. However, most SMEs are often lagging in technology adoption which could be a game changer for their success. SMEs could adopt new technologies to improve their business operations and profitability. They are also useful in supporting SMEs to penetrate international market. This research suggests that implementation of the artificial intelligence (AI) through digital marketing (DM) and financial technology (Fintech) would assist SMEs to be competitive, current in leveraging on technology and increase their overall profitability. Based on secondary data analysis, this paper presents a conceptual framework of determining factors in adoption of AI through digital marketing and Fintech. It contributes to the academic knowledge of AI, DM and Fintech for small businesses, and presents a testable framework that can be replicated and adapted for future empirical study.

Jay Barney's article in 1986 has provided two very important indicators for the long-term success of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are entrepreneurship and luck. In SMEs where resources and capabilities are scarce, entrepreneurs need to shoulder the responsibility of ensuring the survival and success of their firms. In addition to that, flexibility in operations and adaptability to changes afford SMEs with a greater possibility to gain from unexpected changes and accidental discoveries. To examine the impact of entrepreneurship and luck on the competitive advantage of SMEs, 356 usable survey responses collected from Malaysian SMEs were analysed. The data were analysed using multiple regression analysis with the results suggesting that both entrepreneurship and luck do play a significant role in influencing the competitive advantage of SMEs. The findings provide an important contribution in the fonnulation of a model of competitive advantage among SMEs. From the findings of this study, policy makers are advised to consider incorporating entrepreneurial traits development in the education curriculum to inculcate these characteristics among our future business leaders. Apart from that, SMEs are encouraged to cultivate a flexible and adaptive organisational structure in order for it to benefit from both endogenous and exogenous luck.

The aim of the study was to fill in the gaps in the discussion of the way in which fast food brand equity is developed. A proposed conceptual framework - Hierarchical chain of consumer-based brand equity - was postulated based on the casual relationships among dimensions of brand equity. A comprehensive and extensive literature review helped to develop a brand equity framework. In the fast food industry, the dimensions of consumer-based brand equity are decomposed into brand awareness, brand familiarity, perceived quality, brand image, brand trust and attitudinal brand loyalty, demonstrated three-level hierarchical chain. Brand familiarity, perceived quality, brand image, and brand trust were proposed to serve as mediating variables of other constructs, indicating direct and indirect relationships among brand equity dimensions.

Global carbon dioxide emissions have seen a drastic increase, with the United States, European Union, China, and India being the largest contributors. In response to this pressing issue, the United Nations has adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to combat poverty, protect the environment, and ensure global peace and prosperity. Malaysia has also experienced a rise in carbon dioxide emissions, particularly from energy consumption, which is largely attributed to fossil fuel usage. To address these challenges, the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into the Malaysian economy has emerged as a promising avenue for sustainable development and to support the SDGs. The Malaysian government has committed to promoting sustainability and inclusivity, with a goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Therefore, this study aims to understand the factors influencing consumer purchase intention towards EVs in Malaysia. The study is grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), which posits that behavioural intention is influenced by attitude towards the behaviour, subjective norm, and perceived behavioural control. Using a cross-sectional study design with a sample size of 250, the study targets individuals aged 18 and above, holding a driver's license, with driving experience, and currently non-electric vehicle users. The research employs multiple linear regression to test the hypotheses. The findings contribute significantly to knowledge by supporting government policies for improving EV adoption and providing insights for industry players on promoting EVs. Overall, the study aims to pave the way for a more sustainable transportation sector in Malaysia, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.