BORANG FRGS – A1 (R)
Kod Rujukan: (Diisi oleh RMC)
SINGLE DISCIPLINARY PROJECT APPLICATION FORM FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH GRANT SCHEME (FRGS) Skim Geran Penyelidikan Fundamental (Pindaan 1/2012)
JABATAN PENGAJIAN TINGGI KEMENTERIAN PENGAJIAN TINGGI One (1) copy of this form must be submitted to the Institution of Higher Education Excellence Planning Division, Department of Higher Education, Level 7, No. 2, Tower 2, Street P5/6, Precinct 5, 62200 Putrajaya. [Incomplete Form will be rejected]
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TITLE OF PROPOSED RESEARCH: Tajuk penyelidikan yang dicadangkan :
Driving Malaysian SMEs towards Sustainable Development thrugh Innovation B B(i)
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DETAILS OF RESEARCHER / MAKLUMAT PENYELIDIK Name of Project Leader: Nama Ketua Projek:
IC / Passport Number: No. Kad Pengenalan/ Pasport:
Prof. Dr. Khairil Wahidin bin Awang
640604-05-5609
Position (Please tick ( √ )): Jawatan (Sila tanda ( √ )): Professor Profesor
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Assoc. Prof. / Sen. Lect. Prof. Madya / P. Kanan
Lecturer Pensyarah
Faculty/School/Centre/Unit (Please provide full address): Fakulti/Jabatan /Pusat/Unit (Sila nyatakan alamat penuh): Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism and Wellness, Universit Malaysia Kelantan, Kota Bharu City Campus, Pengkalan Chepa, Locked Bag 36, 16100 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Office Telephone No.: No. Telefon Pejabat:
Handphone No.: No. Telefon Bimbit:
+609 7717240
+6019 3021828
E-mail Address: Alamat e-mel:
[email protected]
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Date of first appointment with this University: Tarikh mula berkhidmat dengan Universiti ini: 13th September, 2017
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Type of Service (Please tick ( √ )): Jenis Perkhidmatan (Sila tanda ( √ )): Permanent Tetap
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Contract (State contract expiry date): Kontrak (Nyatakan tarikh tamat kontrak):
RESEARCH INFORMATION / MAKLUMAT PENYELIDIKAN Research Cluster (Please tick ( √ )): Kluster Penyelidikan (Sila tanda ( √ )): A.
Pure Science (Sains Tulen) Chemistry (Kimia)
Physic (Fizik)
Biology (Biologi)
Biochemistry (Biokimia)
Materials Science (Sains Bahan)
Mathematics and Statistics (Matematik dan Statistik)
Chemistry (Kimia)
Physic (Fizik)
Biology (Biologi)
Mathematics and Statistics (Matematik dan Statistik)
Biotechnology (Bioteknologi)
Materials Science (Sains Bahan)
B. Applied Science (Sains Gunaan)
C.
Technology and Engineering (Teknologi dan Kejuruteraan) Mechanical & Manufacturing (Mekanikal dan Pembuatan)
Electrical and Electronic (Elektrikal dan Elektronik)
Civil and Structural (Awam dan Struktur)
Material and Polymer (Bahan dan Polimer)
Chemical Engineering and Processing (Kejuruteraan Kimia dan Proses)
Energy and Green Technology (Tenaga dan Teknologi Hijau)
Infrastructure and Transportation (Infrastruktur dan Pengangkutan)
Construction and Construction Materials (Pembinaan dan Bahan Binaan)
Aerospace (Aeroangkasa)
D.
E.
F.
Clinical and Health Sciences (Sains Kesihatan dan Klinikal) Basic Medical Sciences (Sains Perubatan Asas)
Pharmacy (Farmasi)
Pharmacology (Farmakologi)
Medical Microbiology (Mikrobiologi Perubatan)
Parasitology (Parasitologi)
Pathology (Pathologi)
Community Medical Prevention (Perubatan Pencegahan Masyarakat)
Clinical Surgical (Klinikal Surgikal)
Clinical Medical (Klinikal Medikal)
Associate Health Science (Sains Kesihatan Bersekutu)
Dental (Pergigian)
Nursing Science (Sains Kejururawatan)
Anthropology (Antropologi)
Psychology (Psikologi)
Sociology (Sosiologi)
Political Science (Sains Politik)
Business and Management (Pengurusan dan Perniagaan)
Geography (Geografi)
Economic (Ekonomi)
Human Ecology (Ekologi Manusia)
Communication (Komunikasi)
Social Sciences (Sains Sosial)
Arts and Applied Arts (Sastera dan Sastera Ikhtisas) Language and Linguistic (Bahasa dan Linguistik)
Literature (Kesusasteraan)
Religion (Agama)
Philosophy (Falsafah)
Civilization (Tamadun)
History (Sejarah)
Art (Seni)
Culture (Budaya)
Education (Pendidikan)
Policies and Law (Dasar dan Undang-undang)
Built Environment (Alam BinaAspek Kemanusiaan)
Environment (Alam SekitarAspek Kemanusiaan)
G. Natural Sciences and National Heritage (Sains Tabii dan Warisan Negara) Environment (Alam Sekitar)
Forestry (Perhutanan)
Agriculture (Pertanian)
Marine (Marin)
Archaeology (Arkeologi)
Geoscience (Geosains)
Ethnography (Etnografi)
Built Environment (Heritage Aspect) Alam Bina (Aspek Warisan)
Culture (Budaya)
Biodiversity (Kepelbagaian Biologi)
H. Information and Communication Technology (Teknologi Maklumat dan Komunikasi) Software and Information System (Perisian dan Sistem Maklumat)
Soft Computing (Pengkomputeran Lembut)
Computer Networking (Rangkaian Komputer)
Information Security (Keselamatan Maklumat)
Multimedia (Multimedia)
Computer Engineering (Kejuruteraan Komputer)
Computer Science (Sains Komputer)
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Location of Research: Tempat penyelidikan dijalankan: Faculty of Entrepreneurship and Business, University Malaysia Kelantan City Campus, Pengkalan Chepa, Locked Bag 36, 16100 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Duration of this research (Maximum 36 months): Tempoh masa penyelidikan ini (Maksimum 36 bulan): Duration: 36 Months Tempoh : From Dari
: 1st June, 2018 :
To : 30th May, 2021 Hingga : C(iv)
Other Researchers: Ahli-ahli penyelidik yang lain: (Please include maximum 5 pages of curriculum vitae for each researcher)
Bil
1
Name Nama
Dr. Sazali Wahab
Abdul
IC / Passport Number: No. Kad Pengenalan/ Pasport: 671102-086587
Faculty/ School/ Centre/ Unit Fakulti/ P.Pengajian/ Pusat/Unit
Academic Qualification/ Designation Tahap Kelayakan Akademik/Jawatan
Faculty of Entrepreneurship and Business
Professor
Dr. Abu Sofian Yaacob
590317-055265
Faculty of Entrepreneurship and Business
Assoc. Professor
771010-085016
Faculty of Entrepreneurship and Business
Senior Lecturer
3
Dr. Siti Nur Zahira Che Tahrim
840716-146358
Centre of Language and Generic Development
Lecturer
4
Wan Suzanna Aafanii Adeeba Wan Ibrahim
2
Signature Tandatangan
5
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Research projects that have been completed or ongoing by project leader for the last three years. Please provide title of research, grant’s name, position, duration, year commence and year ending. Sila sediakan maklumat termasuk termasuk tajuk, nama geran, peranan, tempoh, tahun mula dan tahun tamat bagi penyelidikan yang sedang/telah dijalankan oleh ketua penyelidik dalam tempoh tiga tahun terakhir. Title of Research Tajuk penyelidikan Cave swiftlet: Beckoning a new form of sustainable naturebased tourism product
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Grant’s Name Nama Geran Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) Ministry of Education
Position / Role Jawatan / Peranan Principle researcher
Duration Tempoh
2 years
Start Date Tarikh mula
1 Dec 2014
End Date Tarikh tamat
30 Nov 2016
Please provide information on academic publications that has been published by the project leader for the last five (5) years. (Example: Journals, Books, Chapters in books, etc) Sila kemukakan maklumat berkaitan penerbitan akademik yang telah diterbitkan oleh ketua penyelidik dalam tempoh lima (5) tahun terakhir. (Contoh: Jurnal, buku, bab dalam buku, dll)
Title of publication Tajuk penerbitan
Name of journals/books Nama jurnal/buku
Year published Tahun diterbitkan
Cave Swiftlet: A New Horizon in Malaysia’s Tourism Industry?
Advanced Science Letter
2017
Advanced Science Letter
2017
The Malaysian Forester
2017
Asia-Pacific Journal of Innovation in Hospitality and Tourism
2017
Environmental Nanotechnology, Monitoring & Management
2016
Imperial Journal of Interdisciplinary Research
2016
Journal of Engineering and Applied Science
2016
Journal of Applied Environmental and Biological Sciences
2016
International Journal of Economics and Financial Issues
2015
Journal of Technology Management and Business
2015
African Journal of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure
2015
Sains Humanika
2015
Accessing Sustainable Rural Tourism: A Qualitative Analysis of Gomantong Cave, Sabah. Change Detection of Sungai Pulai Mangroves and Other Land Cover at Mukim Level by Landsat Imageries in Sungai Pulai, Johor. Profiles of Gastronomic Tourists Visiting Malacca and George Town, World Heritage Site(s) of Malaysia. The DPSIR Framework for Causes Analysis of Mangrove Deforestation in Johor, Malaysia. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) on GST Compliance Research Model in Malaysia. Land Cover Dynamics of Sungai Pulai Mangrove Forest Using Remote Sensing and GIS-Preliminary Results A Modified Delphi Study Enterprising Rural Tourism for Sustainable Rural Development in Sri Lanka The Growth of Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Hotel Enterprises: The Hoteliers’ Perspective Decision to Study Abroad Dimensions Among International Edu-tourists in Malaysia: An Exploratory Factor Analysis Tourism Landscape: Understanding the Swiftlet “Hotel” Phenomenon
Developing an Index for Medical Tourism Linking Servicescape, Tourist Satisfaction and Overall Tour Guiding Experience: The Case of Taman Negara National Park, Malaysia Attributes of Successful Public Participation in Planning for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas: A modified Delphi Study Theoretizing A New Sustainable Business Event: Extension of Mair and Jago Model The Vulnerable Context of Tourism Development: Evidence from Sri Lanka Residents’ Needs and Organisers’ Goals towards the Organisation of Monsoon Cup Event, Malaysia Sustainable Tourism Development Practices of MICE Venue Providers in East Coast Region, Peninsula Malaysia Promoting Collaboration Between Local Community and Park Management Towards Sustainable Outdoor Recreation Event Sustainability Practices Among Professional Company Organizers: An Exploratory Study C(vii)
International Business Management
2015
Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences & Humanities
2015
Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences & Humanities
2015
Journal of Emerging Economies and Islamic Research
2015
International Journal of Tourism Policy
2014
International Journal of Economics and Management
2014
Journal of Tourism, Hospitality & Culinary Arts
2013
Procedia
2013
Jurnal Teknologi
2013
Executive Summary of Research Proposal (maximum 300 words) (Please include the problem statement, objectives, research methodology, output/outcomes/implication, and significance of output from the research project)
expected
Ringkasan Cadangan Eksekutif Penyelidikan (maksimum 300 patah perkataan) (Meliputi pernyataan masalah, objektif, kaedah penyelidikan, jangkaan hasil penyelidikan/implikasi dan kepentingan output projek penyelidikan) Executive Summary
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are very important and play a vital part in Malaysia’s economy (Omar et al., 2009) and the backbone advancement in the nation (Saleh and Ndubisi, 2006). As SMEs
conquered almost 95% of business in our country, SMEs are believed to drive Malaysia in achieving vision 2020 by being industrialize country, profiting by the nation's qualities and by conquering shortcomings through the SMEs (Omar et al., 2009). Innovation utilizing science and technology for the progress of people and planet. Studies show that there is indeed is a gap for SMEs and all nations to achieve sustainable development through innovation. Yet, it is indeed a challenging task to use innovation to achieve competitive advantage in SMEs. According to Bititci et al. (2012), firm performance related to management and in SMEs’ viewpoint, is limited and relying on traditional links. Thus, this study investigates the links of technology acceptance (Zhang et al., 2014) and human resource/capital in an SME firm with its sustanable development, as these two variables are said crucial for long-term sustainable development success (Slaus and Jacobs, 2011). This study also employs innovation (Andersson et al., 2016) as a mediating variable to present a clearer view of its effect on the technology acceptance and human resource/capital in achieving sustainability development and competitive innovation advantage. Sustainability development in SMEs assure extending sustainability of nations in economic, social well being and environment. This study uses hypothetical with deductive, quantitative analytical method focusing on the confirmative and justification approach. Hypotheses are developed and these hypotheses tested to explain the relationship as shown in conceptual framework between variables. It is representative through sampling, with adequate Malaysian’s sample size, and correct statistical treatment. By accentuating on innovation, this study attempts to recognize how such approaches can develop the sustainable development of SMEs in Malaysia. ` C(viii)
Detailed proposal of research project: Cadangan maklumat penyelidikan secara terperinci: (a) Research background including Problem Statement, Hypothesis/Research Questions, Literature Reviews, Related References and Relevance to Goverment Policy, if any. Keterangan latar belakang penyelidikan termasuk Pernyataan Masalah, Hipotesis/Persoalan Penyelidikan, Kajian Literatur, Rujukan Berkaitan dan Perkaitan dengan Dasar Kerajaan, jika berkenaan.
1. Background of the Study
SMEs account for over 90% of all enterprise in every country in the Asia-Pacific Co-operation according to Asia-Pacific Co-operation, 2010 (Mohamad, 2012). SMEs have become economies recognized feature and the demand is increasing for economies of most nation of the world (Omar et
al., 2009). In many jurisdictions, the SME sector has attracted increasing and significant attention from policy makers. This attention has focused on SME development, business birth rates and entrepreneurship in the developed economies. These economies look to the SME sector for provision of increased employment, economic development and innovation (Dalrymple, 2004). For example, in the United State, SMEs speak to a mind greater part of all business and record for right around oneportion of the gross national item. SMEs in Thailand speak to more than 90% of the aggregate number of business visionary in almost all business area, and utilize more than 60% of the work drive (Veskaisri et al., 2007). Singapore launched a comprehensive policy called SME Master Plan in 1989 to promote entrepreneurship by assisting SMEs in certain areas like tax incentives, financial assistance, technology adaptation, business development, and marketing (Schaper and Volery, 2007). In Australia, various small business agencies have emerged to help local SMEs in developing and managing their operations. In Malaysia, the government has even set up a ministry for SMEs and entrepreneurs. 1.1 SME in Malaysia According to SME International Malaysia (2013), some advanced economies have succeeded because small and medium enterprises form a fundamental part of the economies, comprising over 98% of total establishments and contributing to over 65% of employment as well as over 50% of the gross domestic product. According to Yeung (2017), SME fulfil 57.5% of share to total employment, 33.1% share to GDP and 97.3% share to establishment. Although, the numbers might be lower in Malaysia compared to other developed countries, SMEs have the potential to contribute substantially to the economy and can provide a strong foundation for the growth of new industries as well as strengthening the existing ones, for Malaysia’s future development. In 2011, Malaysian SMEs continued to expand at a relatively stronger pace of 6.8 % and remained resilient to external environment challenges. In 2012, in line with the official GDP projection of 4.5 5.0% in 2012, the Malaysian SMEs were expected to record a steady growth pace of 6.5 - 7.0%. The profile of SMEs, released in September 2012 which is based on the Economic Census 2011, mentioned that Malaysian SMEs now represent 97.3% (645,136 establishments) of the total establishments of 662,939 in the country (SME Corp. Malaysia, 2014). In 2014, SMEs in Malaysia contributed: a) 65% of total employment and b) 17.8% of total exports. Malaysian SME’s GDP is only 36% relative to Malaysian GNI value of RM1, 012.5 billion and shows increase in performance to the overall economy but still small compared to advance nation. Malaysian government launched SME master plan in 2012 to charter SME development in Malaysia with aspiration to become a high-income nation by 2020 (SME Corp. Malaysia, 2013).
Referring to Dun and Bradstreet, the main focus for developing nations should be the SMEs. Same goes for the unemployment issue and the development of Malaysia’s economy, SMEs are very important (Rose et al., 2006). In Malaysian economy, SMEs are very important and play an important role in its development (Omar et al., 2009). SMEs play a vital role in the Malaysian economy and are considered to be the backbone of industrial development in the country (Saleh & Ndubisi, 2006). The future progress of Malaysia seems to depend greatly upon development of SMEs and they are vital for accomplishing vision 2020, to be fully developed and become an industrialized nation by the year 2020. In the year 2020, Malaysia will develop to become an industrialize nation by capitalizing on the country’s strengths and by overcoming weaknesses through the SMEs (Omar et al., 2009). 1.2 Sustainable Development in SME Even though SMEs are the greatest engine contributor in all terms to total establishments, SMEs are less concern on sustainable development (Omar & Samuel, 2011). As a result, many of these SMEs cannot sustain themselves for the long term period. They normally collapse within the first five years. One of the general reasons is they do not practice any form of strategic planning. Moreover, they have limitations in human resource, disability to adopt and absorb technology, less access to finance assistance, lack of essential awareness on market and customers demand, as well as global competition (Perera, 2016; Chaudhry Shoaib Akhtar & Hussain, 2014). In the supporting business ambience in Malaysia nowadays, including the strong support of government, technology acceptance and human resource ability are believed the greatest assets to assist SMEs in accessing financial aids, analyse potential markets and customers demand, thus driving the firms toward sustainable development goals. Through sustainable development, the firms create value advantage, not only for the economical aspect of firms itself, but equal important for future of humankind and mother earth. Therefore, in order to overcome all those mentioned shortcomings and create sustainable development values, innovation is a powerful tool in the methods, approach and actions to achieve competitive advantage (Thamrin et al., 2010). Sustainable development concept was proposed in World Commission on Environment and Development in 1987. In ‘Our Common Future - Brundtland Report, 1987’, it defined sustainable development in the simplest way as "meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs".
They also popularized sustainable
development as weaving together social, economic, cultural and environmental issues SD desires to improve and enhance management of systems with better understanding and knowledge building for common and better world equality (Hjorth & Bagheri, 2006; Osorio et al., 2005). Sustanable
development approaches are measured by social, environmental and economic impacts. Sustainable development also integrates its values into the firm strategy and operational activity (McDonough & Braungart, 2000). Malaysia's active participation in sustainable development started since Seventh Malaysia Plan in 1996. The Seventh Malaysia Plan mentions the requirements to strengthen the environmental and information database systems to clearly delineate the relationship between the environment and sustainable development.
Malaysia follows the same concept and definition as stated in UN
resolution (Abdulrazak & Ahmad, 2014). Malaysia participates actively in international SD program and activities, since the 13th session of the commission in New York starting since 2005 (Bakhtiar & Ibrahim, 2010). Malaysian participation in sustainable development is through: a) Malaysia National Development Policy – started with poverty eradication program since 1993 b) National Conservation Policy – for environmental considerations including planning and management and as per sustainable development of Agenda 21 c) Malaysia National Vision Policy – an equitable society through economic development and environmentally protection as sustainable development requirement d) Malaysia Vision 2020 or “Wawasan 2020” - development through economic, but not neglecting political balance, social acceptance, spiritually respect, psychological and cultural understanding. The participation of Malaysia in these programs did manage to reduce poverty and stands below 5% since 2005 (Khan & Khalique, 2014). We constantly seek and pursue higher standard in living quality, this desire then applies pressure to deliver them to us. In the new millennium, these and more, producing cheaper, better products whilst conserving utilization of resources, reduced energy consumption, reduced or no pollution and waste generation (Smith & Ball, 2012) must be met. Operational efficiency must improve and generate new competitive advantage in relativeness to other products, which are lagging and obsolete (Yang et al., 2010). This research work widens the understanding on the interlinked and direct implication of innovation through sustainable development in Malaysian SMEs, serving as a base for knowledge, commitment, importance and contribution of innovation – sustainable development in SME (Mokthsim & Salleh, 2014). Resource Based View (RBV) and its fundamental values is that the SME achieves its competitive advantage through it is a superior internal resources, not through market or industry demands and nature (Kumlu, 2014). Competitive advantage in a firm is established when it creates a benefit in and for a product or a process that creates success value positioning over competitors (Barney, 1991). Cost, product or service differentiation advantages are source of competitive advantage creating positioning (Porter, 2011). Sustainable development can be associated and linked to competitive
advantage (Gutiérrez et al., 2015; Porter & Kamer, 2006). Commitment and doing work related to sustainable development enhances competitive advantage of firm, building, image and brand that leads to differentiation from product, competition and competitors alike (Jones, Hillier & Comfort, 2014). All in all, sustainable development in SME is limited in research and sustainable development associated with competitive innovation advantage is indeed in very preliminary stage. competitive innovation advantage provides value to sustainable development and was indeed acknowledged by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki on 6th Jun, 2016 in the UN conference that innovation through science and technology can deliver sustainable development goals. Competitive innovation advantage is indeed associated with sustainable development.
2. Problem Statement
Innovation utilizing science and technology for the progress of people and planet had always been a great challenge but now it is a greater challenge to achieve them utilizing sustainable development standards and guidelines. That indeed is a gap for all nations for achieving innovation through SD. It is indeed an uphill task to use innovation through sustainable development to achieve competitive advantage for the nation and SMEs. Firm performance related to management and in SMEs’ viewpoint is limited and relying on traditional links (Bititci et al., 2012). The norm of past research connects known innovation determinants to the firm’s performance through competitive advantage creation (Crossan & Apaydin, 2010). Known activities to manage performances linked to topics like employee development, effective coordination in operations, financial development and measurement, tangible and non-tangible performances, non-financial development, performance, personals, strategy, feedbacks, resource allocation, managing changes, competitor analysis, new market development, marketing strategies, new strategy development and implementation, training, coaching and mentoring, communication, motivation, legal, policy and global treaty or shared research (Bititci et al., 2011). Environmental issues and society demand in energy have encouraged the development of various and multiple technology in sustainable energy (Huijts, Molina and Steg, 2012). Previous studies investigating technology acceptance, focuses on limited factors, which are able to influence people and society acceptance, not founded on a comprehensive framework and factors that can influence technology acceptance (Zhang, Nyheim and Mattila, 2014). This research evaluates technology acceptance variables in TAM’s theory through Perceived Usefulness (New Product and Product Quality) and Perceived Ease of Use (Service).
This research studies the links between training, tacit knowledge, explicit knowledge as components of human resource/capital, a very critical and determinant in importance for long-term sustainable development success (Šlaus and Jacobs, 2011). Human resource/capital must start the process by identifying sustainable development competencies, generating learning for the firm at all level and eventually working as partners to build sustainable development competencies. Porter and Kramer (2011) state: “The capitalist system is under siege. In recent years, business increasingly been viewed as a major cause of social, environmental and economic problems. Companies are widely perceived to be prospering at the expense of the broader community”. A report also state: “organizations are finding themselves stranded in between demand for “ethical” business approach and quest for investors’ desire for maximum profits in short-term” (Porter and Kramer, 2006). Past study and research on resources available in a firm like R&D and trust are organizational commitment, and its role and value relating to sustainable development lacks severely (Goh & Marimuthu, 2016). This research will provide basis indicating the role and attitude of organizational commitment on its resource to sustainable development. Today’s world is united in one common GOAL– Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)/Agenda 2030 (2016-2030) and have nations, firm, industry, and individuals united as one to achieve these universal goals and with local agendas . SD is global ambition; a) Relates to us the people in current time and people of future generation, b) Related to us economically today and future and c) Relates to us through - mother earth (environment) (Jones, Comfort & Hillier, 2014). Sustainable development is global gap, addressing the future of humankind, ignoring sustainable development means ignoring current and future, related to environment, people and economics – all stakeholder of sustainable development. Sustainable develeopment is the new world standard and guideline. Innovation is the correct tool that must be used for sustainable development achievement (Andersson et al., 2016). Sustainable development and innovation are business linked (Boons and Lüdeke, 2013). Innovation is value and business gap to achieve sustainable development for the future of humankind. Ignoring innovation in Sustainable development means ignoring new business concept, earth resources and resource wastage among others benefits for mother earth and people. Hence, the mediator innovation, in this study is the key variable that can mediate the objective to achieve the main function of sustainable development. SMEs are the highest contributor in all terms to total establishments (%). Including SMEs in sustainable development goal creates foundation for greater achievement and success but SMEs are
less concern and does not take sustainable development seriously in comparison to larger companies (Omar and Samuel 2011). Even though the sector is an important component, many of these SMEs cannot sustain themselves over the long term and face problems and failures in their survival within the first five years. Some say that these failures arise because they do not practise any form of strategic planning. Moreover, they face human resource limitations, limited or no ability to adopt and absorb technology, lack of access to finance, lack of essential awareness on potential markets and customers, and global competition (Perera, 2016; Akhtar et al., 2014). In the supporting business ambience in Malaysia nowadays, technology acceptance and human resource ability are believed to assist SMEs in accessing financial aids, analyse potential markets and customers, as well as serving the companies according to the goals of sustainable development. SMEs to achieve innovation – sustainable development, is linking for value creation advantage and for future of humankind. Ignoring SMEs means, can effect current and future generation, a setback to universal ambition of people, mother earth and economic contribution. The main objective of this study is to explore the multi-dimensional perspective and relationship between innovation antecedents and sustainable development in SMEs for the future of humankind. Issues mentioned are researched using Malaysian SME firms, innovation antecedents and sustainable development. Research study‘s drivers includes user perspective, people perspective, firm perspective and external influence perspective as stakeholders. Key research drivers are; 1) Technology acceptances, derived from innovation for sustainable development influences society ‘s outlook. This study evaluates technology acceptances importance through TAM’s viewpoint of user; perceived usefulness - new product and product quality and [erceived ease of use - service 2) Human resource/capital is critical determinant for long-term innovation for sustainable development success. Training, tacit knowledge, explicit knowledge are dimensions. This study evaluates human resource/capital importance through RBV’s viewpoint of people in a firm, acknowledged as resources academically and theoretical viewpoint, an asset not a cost; first step for firm to move up in value chain link This study will contribute to SME sector and world including Malaysia, as a study of today for tomorrow’s better world through innovation antecedents – sustainable development (social, economy & environment), sustainable development goal contributor relating to people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnership values.
3. Research Questions
Gaps and challenges exist from the roles of sustainable development and innovation, more so when
interlinked in SMEs. The questions stated here are to explore the multi-dimensional perspective and relationship between innovation antecedents and sustainable development in SMEs. 1. To what extend does technology acceptance and their sub variables (new product, service and product quality) influence sustainable development? 2. To what extend does human resource/capital and their sub variables (training, tacit knowedge and explicit knowledge) influence sustainable development? 3.
Does
innovation
mediates
the
relationships
between
technology
acceptance,
human
resource/capital and sustainable development? 4. To what extend can “sustainability through innovation” influence sustainable development in SME firms?
4. Liturature Review
The future depends on what we do in the present. Sustainable evelopment concept defined, accepted and used from the Brundtland Commission’s report 1987, “Our Common Future” as “the need to meet the demands and needs of present generation, but the present generation cannot compromise the need and ability of future generations to meet them themselves”, and of the three pillars, economic growth, environmental protection, and social equality (United Nations, 2015). Sustainable development is not just achievable by innovation and technological solutions, political agendas and regulation or using financial instruments and solutions alone. It starts with us; the people, the requirement and will to change especially in the mindset (think and act), with proper quality education and learning process in Sustainable development starting from preschool level until tertiary and training to all levels in social contexts. Education in sustainable development and for sustainable development enables us at present and future to be constructive with creativity to face challenges in sustainable development in the resilient societies. 1. Sustainable Development through Innovations Can innovation serve, create to better and integrate business organizations through social, environmental, and economic enterprises? These are the challenges that been directed to and by management thoughtful and the practitioners since the new millennia era (Whiteman, Walker & Perego., 2013). Innovation through creativity related to the problem solving process (viewed as the front-end through problem identifying and idea generation) and innovation through solutions related to problem solving through products (back end problem solving, focusing on acceptance and results) (Waples & Friedrich, 2011). The 2030 Agenda connects the world community as a single unit to achieve sustainable development in its original three dimensions version - economic, social and
environmental, but in a more balanced, caring and integrate manner.
This present work focuses on the complexity of sustainable development, where innovation viewed as the frontier for current and future of humankind. The challenges attributed by ignoring sustainable development in our life lead to multidisciplinary, immense and complex impact to humankind though multi-level social systems destructions. In this context of sustainable development, the theoretical eye from RBV and TAM will contribute in the understanding on sustainable development and innovation in strategic management alliance. Stakeholders of an organization both external and internal are becoming more involved to the core especially with involvement of innovation and knowledge intensive content away from labor-intensive processes leading to sustainable development. All contribute positively (Nejati, Shahbudin & Amran, 2010), 1. External stakeholders: A. Customers B. Suppliers C. Competitors D. Environment E. Society. 2. Internal stakeholders: A. Human Resource B. Shareholder. The research will be concentrating on technology acceptance and human resource/capital. 2. Technology Acceptance Technology and people interaction are influenced by social and psychological characteristics
on
behavarioal factor (Taiwo & Downe, 2013). Technology acceptance theories and models developed over the years: 1. The Theory of Reasoned Action (Fishbein et al., 1975) 2. Technology Acceptance Model (Davis, 1989) 3.Extended TAM (Venkatesh and Davis, 2000) 4.Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) (Venkatesh et al., 2003) 5. Motivational Model (Davis, et al, 1992), 6. Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991) 7. Combining model of TAM and the Theory of Planned Behavior (Taylor and Todd, 1995) 8. Model of PC Utilization (Thompson, et al, 1991) 9.Innovation Diffusion Theory (Rogers, 1995) and 10. Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1986). We shall review how attitude impacts behaviour and the two core assumptions: a. Perceived usefulness with ease of use 2. Dependent variable will be behavior of people. In this study, the sub variable are new product, service and product quality which are attributes to the technology acceptance. Knowledge is information and the more information we have, we are source rich and when used correctly and useful way, creates valuable knowledge for the firm and obtain competitive advantage (Bogdanovicz & Bailey, 2002). RBV leverages on a firm’s resources, more so on available resources within firm to be used as source and use the available core competencies for competitive advantage generation and which translates into firm performance (Mahdi, Almsafir and Yao, 2011). RBV mentions that resources subdivided into fundamentals such as assets, knowledge and skills, tangibles and intangibles. Individual’s expertise, knowledge and integrated group skill and knowledge are
resources within the firm’s intangible resources (Lockett, Thompson & Morgenstern, 2009). Human resource plays important role and contributes to the results of a firm (Verona, 1999). The project team use their knowledge and skill in cross-functional project activity with ability to perform as a team (leadership steward, idea acceptation, respect, contribution, learn new skills and knowledge, cross integration, supply chain incorporation and external knowledge acquisition) (Mahdi, Almsafir & Yao, 2011). New Product: RBV and TAM perspective suggest that NP involves huge cost and huge risk in the process of the NP development process (Chiesa & Frattini, 2011). This model says that the technology acceptance has great influence from characters of subjective norm, perceived useful and ease of use. Theory argues that, relative advantage, image and ease of use have great influence to an individuals’ or firm’s technology acceptance. Perceived usefulness has relationship with utility, value and with product usage. Leading even to degree that a believe arises that using a certain product/technology will enhance performance. Perceived ease of use has relationship with believe and effort between user and product/technology with very less effort (Pantano & Di Pietro, 2012). This attitude effects view of user towards new product. Extended TAM has additional acceptance determinants to predict user’s attitude and effects view on different industry, firm, product and applications (Venkatesh, Thong & Xu, 2012). Service: As per sustainable development statement and logic, value is created or co-created when integration between resources, people or customers happen creating benefits (Baron & Harris, 2008). Service is a resource and as a resource forms from RBV view, in providing service to the people or customer creates a mutual benefit to both parties and appreciated as a value added creation. This can be through private entity (individual circle, family and friends), market demand-based (economic requirements), or public (community, public with government) (Vargo & Lusch, 2011). Service as a resource can create competitive advantage. Sustainable development and service create ‘value added in values shared’ service oriented thoughts should be firmly grounded in a firm’s core values in line to social, economic and environmental value. . Product Quality: Quality now has a dimension related to wealth and people, not only on traditional value of usage functionality, which now is a strategic outcome. Quality and quality related management is now a tool for core competence of a firm and its impact has on the firm’s performance, giving the firm a competitive advantage. Values in total quality management are based fundamentals on trust and reliability, responsibility and commitment and honesty with integrity. These values lead to performance, excellence and sustainable development (Froman, 2010). Quality becomes a point to get the competitive advantage of the firm because when the end user’s do endorse them, then
the firm does perform. 2. Human Resource/Capital Human resource/capital also know as a resource is an individual capital with value: - 1. Knowledge 2. Skills 3. Abilities and 4. Other valuable characteristics, with the purpose to be exploited for value generation. This human asset a pivitol in innovation and sustainable development (Leiponen, 2005). Firms must invest in sustainable development innovation to develop human resource/capital to gain the competitive advantage (Peteraf, 1993). When human capital is an asset, it becomes very valuable or become less valuable especially when innovation makes past experience and knowledge obsolete over time and more so if sustainable development is incorporated. Sustainable development through innovation can make markets and technology change rapidly making human capital less valuable, and then the need for continues development is needed through internal training and knowledge capital management strategies (Lepak & Snell, 1999). This study will look into training, tacit knowledge and explicit knowledge which are attributes to the human resource/capital. Training: Training provided for employee as resources can extent the firm’s competitive advantage, which can result in performance enhancement. Resource like employees (human resource/capital), capabilities (technical and skill development) and systems (integration and efficient) are actual factors to achieve competitive advantage (Ismail et al., 2012). Firm must ensure employees formally trained in theory, practice and work related activities related to sustainable development principles. Relevancy is equally important in keeping training current, including incorporating sustainable development training to all stakeholders and new employee orientation (Quinn & Dalton, 2009). Tacit Knowledge: Tacit knowledge is a type of certain knowledge known as expertise (Brown & Duguid, 1998) and we call them as hand on experience. Tacit knowledge comes from personal handling the issue and relevant to the dependent only. It is rather difficult to communicate but at most, time’s action rooted, evolved from deep commitment and involvement of the individual on the subject matter. Tacit knowledge will include cultural values, explicit values, surrounding influence and values; employment related skills, personal capabilities and learnt expertise. Tacit knowledge includes insights, ability, skills, expertise, traits, gut feeling, skills in organizational, managerial and subject matter (Fazal & Wahab, 2015). Tacit knowledge is very personalized with the individual, can be subjective, creative and tough to be formalized, intrinsic and articulate, communicable fully or relatively, years of working based track record, individual experience based, out of contextualized box, job specialized, handed through sharing of experience and hand on (Hislop, 2013).
Explicit Knowledge: Knowledge is as an asset; RBV and KBV complement each other and are of the identical in track to agree and explanation of creation and sustainable development for compettive innovation advantage creation. Knowledge is a valuable resource and is a major determinant for the success of any firm (Nejati, Shahbudin & Amran, 2010). Knowledge creates competitive advantage for a firm at any time. Firm agree and are aware that knowledge is unique to the firm, especially SME firms and an asset equal too an intellectual capital that brings prosperity and competitiveness (Choi, Poon & Davis, 2008). Knowledge as an asset with new innovative technology when used cohesively is strategic resource (Nejati, Shahbudin & Amran, 2010), for any firm to achieve desired sustainable development result through their competitive innovation advantage. Explicit knowledge is an approach is a systemized knowledge that is something explainable to all (King, 2009). 5. References Abdulrazak, S. R., & Ahmad, F. S. (2014). Sustainable development: A Malaysian perspective. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences, 164, 237-241. Andersson, U., Dasí, À., Mudambi, R., & Pedersen, T. (2016). Technology, innovation and knowledge: The importance of ideas and international connectivity. Journal of World Business, 51(1), 153162. Bakhtiar, B., & Ibrahim, R. (2010). Developing Smart Growth Model for Building Affordable Quality Housing. Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia. Barney, J. (1991). Firm resources and sustained competitive advantage. Journal of Management, 17(1), 99-120. Baron, S., & Harris, K. (2008). Consumers as resource integrators. Journal of Marketing Management, 24(1-2), 113-130. Bititci, U., Garengo, P., Dörfler, V., & Nudurupati, S. (2012). Performance measurement: challenges for tomorrow. International Journal of Management Reviews, 14(3), 305-327. Bogdanowicz, M. S., & Bailey, E. K. (2002). The value of knowledge and the values of the new knowledge worker: generation X in the new economy. Journal of European Industrial Training, 26(2/3/4), 125-129. Boons, F., & Lüdeke-Freund, F. (2013). Business models for sustainable innovation: state-of-the-art and steps towards a research agenda. Journal of Cleaner Production, 45, 9-19. Brown, J. S., & Duguid, P. (1998). Organizing knowledge. California Management Review, 40(3), 90111. Choi, B., Poon, S. K., & Davis, J. G. (2008). Effects of knowledge management strategy on organizational performance: A complementarity theory-based approach. Omega, 36(2), 235251 Crossan, M. M., & Apaydin, M. (2010). A multi-dimensional framework of organizational innovation: A systematic review of the literature. Journal of Management Studies, 47(6), 1154-1191.
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(b) Objective (s) of the Research Objektif Penyelidikan Example /Contoh: This study embarks on the following objectives:
1) To syntesise the current literature on sustainability development to develop a research model that can be applied to understand the effect of technology acceptance, human resource/capital and innovation on the sustainable development among SMEs in Malaysia. 2) To examine the relationships between technology acceptance their specified sub variables with sustainable development. 3) To examine the relationships between human resource/capital and their specified sub variables with SD. 4) To investigate the mediating effect of innovation on the relationships of technology acceptance and human resource/capital with SD. 5) To access if the proposed “SD through Innovation” model for SMEs supported fully by the work-study’s population/sample data. 6) To derive recommendations from the finding of the study that can help improve sustainable development of Malaysian SMEs.
(c)
Methodology Kaedah penyelidikan Please state in the form / Sila nyatakan di borang ini 1. Description of Methodology
1. Conceptual Framework The conceptual model for this study is illustrated with a diagrammatic representation of the relationships among all the constructs and their order of influence, as shown in Figure 1. The flow of action in this conceptual framework is initiated from independent variables of technology acceptance and human resource/capital. However, as the main objective of this study is sustainable development through innovation, both independent variables and their sub variables need to pass through the
mediation effect of innovation (user and firm), thus results in the sustainable development of SMEs. At the same time, firm size and firm age are there to observe their moderating effect on the relationship of innovation and sustainable development. In other words, under a certain influence level of innovation of technology acceptance and human resource/capital, the SMEs are inclined towards taking up a certain level of sustainable development.
NP = New Product, SR = Service, PQ = Product Quality, TR = Training, TK = Tacit Knowledge, EK = Explicit Knowledge, UR = User, FM = Firm, SL = Social, ET = Environment and EC = Economic.
Figure 1: Conceptual Framework From this broad conceptual framework, specific hypotheses related to each relationship and construct can be derived for testing. In summary, there are three main relationships proposed in the conceptual framework: 1) technology acceptance relates positively to sustainable development, 2) human resource/capital relates positively to sustainable development and 3) innovation mediates the relationship between technology acceptance and human resource/capital, with sustainable development.
2. Measurement Scales This study adopts and adapts measurements from previous established studies for the constructs. Table 1 below shows the constructs and the respected resources.
Table 1: Measurements of constructs Constructs
Measurements
Technology Acceptance New product
Kulviwat, Bruner II & Neelankavil (2014); Kuo & Lee (2015)
Service
Kohtamaki et al. (2015); Raddats et al. (2016)
Product Quality
Kianpour, Jusoh & Asghari (2014); Feng, Zhang & Liu (2016)
Human Resource/ Capital Training
Banerjee (2013); Martinez, Zouaghi & Garcia (2017)
Tacit Knowledge
Anderson & Gilmore, (2010); Barnir (2014)
Explicit Knowledge
Büchel et al. (2013); Xu, Huo & Sun (2014)
Innovation
Roper, Love & Bonner (2017); Necoechea-Mondragón et al. (2017)
Firm Size and Firm Age
Zawawi, Wahab & Al-Mamun (2017)
Sustainable Development
Calik & Bardudeen (2016); Severo, de Guimaraes & Dorion (2016)
3. Research Paradigm This study expected to use hypothetical with deductive method focusing on the confirmative and justification approach. Hypotheses are developed and these hypotheses tested to explain the relationship as shown in conceptual framework between variables. It is representative through sampling, with adequate sample size, and correct statistical treatment. This research uses quantitative analytical method; the philosophical approach in the research is positivism. This approach is the correct approach for this research study as 1) the coverage is wide in relativity to situational approach. 2) Fast and economical 3) Data collected from larger sample base and correct statistical analyses done to related and required policy decisions. Quantitative analytical method meant for established researchable subject and research subject is relatively new in research. This method acknowledges knowledge gaps that addressed by survey data, emphasizes on reliability and validity of observations over the past decade. Sample Selection and Data Collection: The unit of analysis is SME firm. The company must be operating in Malaysia and they must conform to Malaysian SME guidelines. The research uses sampling frame from the SME directory and portal. The criteria chosen have been rated and certified by SME Corp. Malaysia: a) SME Corporation, Malaysia, b) Malaysian Technology Development Corporation (MTDC) and c) Ministry of Science,
Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). The CEO, MD or GM and related senior manager are the highest authority in the firm, represents each SME and/or they have the controlling authority in the firm. This list of registered SMEs includes all sorts of business sector including manufacturing, manufacturing related services, mining and quarrying, services (including ICT), construction, primary agriculture and others.
References:
Anderson, V., & Gilmore, S. (2010). Learning, experienced emotions, relationships and innovation in HRD. Journal of European Industrial Training, 34(8/9), 753-771. Banerjee, P. M. (2013). Sustainable human capital: product innovation and employee partnerships in technology firms. Cross Cultural Management: An International Journal, 20(2), 216-234. Barnir, A. (2014). Gender differentials in antecedents of habitual entrepreneurship: Impetus factors and human capital. Journal of Developmental Entrepreneurship, 19(01), 1450001. Büchel, B., Nieminen, L., Armbruster-Domeyer, H., & Denison, D. (2013). Managing stakeholders in team-based innovation: The dynamics of knowledge and trust networks. European Journal of Innovation Management, 16(1), 22-49. Calik, E., & Bardudeen, F. (2016). A measurement scale to evaluate sustainable innovation performance in manufacturing organizations. Procedia CIRP, 40, 449-454. Feng, T., Cai, D., Zhang, Z., & Liu, B. (2016). Customer involvement and new product performance: The jointly moderating effects of technological and market newness. Industrial Management & Data Systems, 116(8), 1700-1718. Kianpour, K., Jusoh, A., & Asghari, M. (2014). Environmentally friendly as a new dimension of product quality. International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, 31(5), 547-565. Kulviwat, S., C. Bruner II, G., & P. Neelankavil, J. (2014). Self-efficacy as an antecedent of cognition and affect in technology acceptance. Journal of Consumer Marketing, 31(3), 190-199. Kou, T. C., & Lee, B. C. (2015). The influence of supply chain architecture on new product launch and performance in the high-tech industry. Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, 30(5), 677687. Kohtamaki, M., Hakala, H., Partanen, J., Parida, V., & Wincent, J. (2015). The performance impact of industrial services and service orientation on manufacturing companies. Journal of Service Theory and Practice, 25(4), 463-485. Martinez, M. G., Zouaghi, F., & Garcia, M. S. (2017). Capturing value from alliance portfolio diversity: The mediating role of R&D human capital in high and low tech industries. Technovation, 59, 55-67. Necoechea-Mondragón, H., Pineda-Domínguez, D., Pérez-Reveles, L., & Soto-Flores, R. (2017). Critical factors for participation in global innovation networks. Empirical evidence from the Mexican nanotechnology sector. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 114, 293-312.
Raddats, C., Baines, T., Burton, J., Story, V. M., & Zolkiewski, J. (2016). Motivations for servitization: the impact of product complexity. International Journal of Operations & Production Management, 36(5), 572-591. Roper, S., Love, J. H., & Bonner, K. (2017). Firms’ knowledge search and local knowledge externalities in innovation performance. Research Policy, 46(1), 43-56. Severo, E. A., de Guimarães, J. C. F., & Dorion, E. C. H. (2017). Cleaner production and environmental management as sustainable product innovation antecedents: A survey in Brazilian industries. Journal of Cleaner Production, 142, 87-97.
Xu, D., Huo, B., & Sun, L. (2014). Relationships between intra-organizational resources, supply chain integration and business performance: an extended resource-based view. Industrial Management & Data Systems, 114(8), 1186-1206. Zawawi, N. F. B. M., Wahab, S. A., & Al Mamun, A. (2017). Logistics Capability, Logistics Performance, And The Moderating Effect Of Firm Size: Empirical Evidence From East Coast Malaysia. The Journal of Developing Areas, 51(2), 171-182.
2. Flow Chart of Research Activities (Please refer to Appendix 1) 3. Gantt Chart of Research Activities (Please refer to Appendix 2) 4. Milestones and Dates (Please refer to Appendix 2)
(d)
Expected Results/Benefit Jangkaan Hasil Penyelidikan 1. Novel theories/New findings/Knowledge
The study hopes to contribute to sustainable development research by extending the knowledge and understanding on innovation through sustainable development in SMEs using TAM and RBV theory. This study will take relationship between sustainable development and innovation impact to SMEs in Malaysia for knowledge, commitment and importance for CEO’s, managers, educationist, researchers, academicians, policy makers and government. Gaps arising for sustainable development though innovation planned forward Agenda 2030 is a world option. That indeed is the gap, for all nations and SMEs. Previous studies investigates technology acceptances, limited to influence of people and society acceptance, never on factors and comprehensive framework (Huijts, Molina & Steg 2012; Zhang, Nyheim & Mattila, 2014). In particular, the study will contribute to knowledge in the following ways:
1) Theoretically, the new model of this study will attempt to provide a greater understanding of the moderating effect innovation by the medium of user and firm itself in the success of sustainable development. This study will replicate their study to further validate the importance of innovation in both user and all teams of SME firms. 2) Other than main focus of innovation, the regression analysis offers another important contribution to the body of knowledge. It defines most significant predictor to the sustainable development, either technology acceptance or human resource/capital. This result contributes important measures to the management of SME firms in coordinating their firms towards greater firm performance in achieving sustainability in economic, environment and social. 3) Firstly, this study fills the gap of limitation in innovation studies that lead to establishing, a valid relationship with SD. Few previous studies have research base scrapping the surface, even to try to establish a firm relationship to performance management. New “order” in sustainable development innovation, consumption patterns and new production patterns are required, which relates to sustainable development-driven innovations to achieve the mainstream markets. Innovation moves firms beyond traditional available models now paving ways for sustainable development led business models. Even now, performance management measurement especially in SMEs are limited in the traditional performance and comparison measurement aspects. Thus this study provides a new innovation through sustainable development model which applicable for SME firms in order improve their firm performance and sustain economically, environmentally and socially. This study is vital to SMEs in Malaysia, as this issue is still rarely discuss in the context of Malaysia, yet SME sector the premier economic engine to the overall Malaysia’s GDP. 4) The empirical findings provided from this study will also provide further evidence to support the concept of innovation in sustainable development. Literature review reported that SMEs less concern and do not take sustainable development serious in comparison to larger companies. They also lag behind in environmental practices and activity into their mainstream business activities or making them have sustainable development concepts and different from others. Therefore, the empirical findings contribute to the understanding of innovation in sustainable development in the loop of SME concept as well as guide firms into practical approach to achieve sustainable development goals.
The scope of this study is quite evident, to clearly establish this again, the study is localised to the context of SMEs in Malaysia. In addition to the locale of the study, the theoretical literature supporting
the study also defines the scope of the study. There are many concepts in entrepreneurship literature and this study is defined its focus on the influence mediation effect of innovation in the relationship of technology acceptance and human resource/capital, and sustainable development. References:
Huijts, N. M., Molin, E. J., & Steg, L. (2012). Psychological factors influencing sustainable energy technology acceptance: A review-based comprehensive framework. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 16(1), 525-531. Zhang, L., Nyheim, P., & S. Mattila, A. (2014). The effect of power and gender on technology acceptance. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Technology, 5(3), 299-314. 2. Research Publications
a. How innovation of firm and user drives sustainable of SMEs? A Malaysian perspective. Transformations in Business & Economics (SSCI) b. Examining the direct and positive effects of technology aceptance, human capital on sustainable development among Malaysian SMEs across variety industries. Journal of Business Economics and Management (SSCI) c. Technology acceptance and sustainable development of SMEs: Examine mediating effect of innovation by firm and user. Small Business Economics (SSCI) d. Measuring mediation effect of innovation on the relationship of human capital and sustainable development: A case of Malaysian SMEs. Journal of Interdisciplinary Economics (Scopus)
3. Specific or Potential Applications
In practical, as this study uses the sample of Malaysian SMEs, it is believed to provide correct and precise knowledge and awareness on sustainable development and in process of sustainable development with knowledge for policy makers and implementers in Malaysia particularly, to execute with clarity on 1) what to do 2) how to do 3) when to do 4) where to do and 5) done by whom. It is then: a) to educate all policy maker and implementers on sustainable development by constant meetings and trainings, b) new product and technology acceptance for ensuring latest and correct updated data, c) Establish partnership and sectorial participative consultation, d) Promote sustainable development and environmental culture through awareness campaign and training including problem highlights. e) Facilitate information transformation using public institutions between the different
variable actors. g) Develop outlets and tools for implementation and effective outreach (via communication) and h) Training all variable actors in the project technical framework for common knowledge and objective and implementation success and consequences (Korti Rafi ka et al., 2016). Not only for Malaysia, those mentioned components can be a complete guideline for sustainable development of SMEs in other countries especially for developing and developed countries.
4. Number of PhD and Masters (by research) Students One PhD Student 5. Impact on Society, Economy and Nation
The study also hopes to make some practical contributions mainly focusing on identifying strategies that can help improve the performance of Malaysian SMEs, especially in terms of technology acceptance and human resource/capital. It will identify the improvements that Malaysian SMEs can adopt to sustain competitive advantage through innovation to achieve SD of firm performance. It will suggest the particular configurations of sustainable development components that can work for Malaysian SMEs depending on their needs and business conditions. As Zhang (2008) argues “it would be naive to suggest that a one-strategy fits all circumstances is suitable for every organization”. The knowledge gained through this study can be applied by top management of firms in order to boost up their performance parallel to the global demand, especially in sustainability of economics, environment and social. Cumulative performance by SME firms throughout Malaysia will increase the country’s GDP simultaneously including share in employment, as SMEs in Malaysia represent 99.2% of all businesses.
D
ACCESS TO EQUIPMENT AND MATERIAL / KEMUDAHAN SEDIA ADA UNTUK KEGUNAAN BAGI PENYELIDIKAN INI Equipment Peralatan
Example / Contoh:
Not Applicable
Location Tempat
E
BUDGET /BELANJAWAN Please indicate your estimated budget for this research and details of expenditure according to the guidelines attached. Sila nyatakan anggaran bajet bagi cadangan penyelidikan ini dan berikan butir – butir perbelanjaan lengkap dengan berpandukan kepada garis panduan yang dilampirkan.
Budget details Butiran belanjawan
Amount requested by applicant Jumlah yang dipohon oleh pemohon Year 1 Tahun 1 (RM)
E(i)
Year 2 Tahun 2 (RM)
Year 3 Tahun 3 (RM)
Total Jumlah (RM) Please Indicate the overall Budget Sila nyatakan bajet secara keseluruhan
Vote 11000 Salary and wages Upah dan Elaun Untuk Pembantu Penyelidik Siswazah (GRA) GRA – PhD By Research
Data colection Team
Amount approved by VC/Dep.VC (R&D)/Director of RMC Jumlah yang diluluskan oleh Naib Canselor/ TNC (P&I)/Pengarah RMC
2,300 x 12 months
2,300 x 12 months 100 X 45 days X 8 Enumerators
2,300 X 12 months
82,800
36,000
Budget details Butiran belanjawan
Amount requested by applicant Jumlah yang dipohon oleh pemohon Year 1 Tahun 1 (RM)
E(ii)
Year 2 Tahun 2 (RM)
Year 3 Tahun 3 (RM)
Total Jumlah (RM)
Vote 21000 Travelling and Transportation/ Perjalanan dan Pengangkutan
Please Indicate the overall Budget Sila nyatakan bajet secara keseluruhan
For Data Collection (From every states in Peninsular Malaysia, Sample Size, app: 500.) Fuel and Toll
Hotel
International conferences (including fee, accomodation and transport)
E(iii)
60 X 2 cars X 45 days
5,400
75 X 45 days X 8 Enumerators
27,000
4000 X 2 conferences
4000 X 1 conference
12,000
Vote 24000 Rental Sewaan Car Rental
Amount approved by VC/Dep.VC (R&D)/Director of RMC Jumlah yang diluluskan oleh Naib Canselor/ TNC (P&I)/Pengarah RMC
180 X 2 cars X 45 days
16,200
E(iv)
Vote 27000 Research Materials & Supplies Bekalan dan Bahan Penyelidikan Books, Journals, etc
1,500
500
0
2,000
Stationeries, papers, files
500
500
0
1,000
Photocopies & Bindings
500
1,000
0
1,500
Phone Calls
0
0
0
0
Audio/video recorder
0
500
0
500
Postages
0
400
0
400
300 ---------2,800
300 ---------3,200
0 -------0
600 -----------6,000
Toner/Catridge Sub-Total Budget details Butiran belanjawan
Amount requested by applicant Jumlah yang dipohon oleh pemohon Year 1 Tahun 1 (RM)
E(v)
Year 2 Tahun 2 (RM)
Year 3 Tahun 3 (RM)
Total Jumlah (RM)
Vote 28000 Maintenance and Minor Repair Services Baik pulih kecil dan ubahsuai Please specify Sila nyatakan secara lengkap dengan pecahannya sekali.
Amount approved by VC/Dep.VC (R&D)/Director of RMC Jumlah yang diluluskan oleh Naib Canselor/ TNC (P&I)/Pengarah RMC
Please Indicate the overall Budget Sila nyatakan bajet secara keseluruhan N/A
E(vi)
Vote 29000 Professional Services Perkhidmatan Ikhtisas Please specify Sila nyatakan secara lengkap dengan pecahannya sekali. Professional proofreading service
E(vii)
2, 000
2,000
Vote 35000 Accessories and Equipment Aksesori dan Peralatan Laptop for GRA
2,000
Laser jet printer
450
2,450
32,850
123,400
TOTAL AMOUNT JUMLAH BESAR
F
Declaration by applicant / Akuan Pemohon (Please tick ( √ )): / (Sila tanda ( √ )):
33,600
189,850
I hereby declare that: Saya dengan ini mengaku bahawa: 1. All information stated here are accurate, KPT and IPT has right to reject or to cancel the offer without prior notice if there is any inaccurate information given. Semua maklumat yang diisi adalah benar, KPT dan IPT berhak menolak permohonan atau membatalkan tawaran pada bila-bila masa sekiranya keterangan yang dikemukakan adalah tidak benar. 2. Application of this fundamental research is presented for the Fundemental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS). Permohonan projek penyelidikan ini dikemukakan untuk memohon peruntukan di bawah Geran Penyelidikan Fundamental IPT. 3. Application of this fundamental research is also presented for the other reasearch grant/s (grant’s name and total amount) Permohonan projek penyelidikan ini juga dikemukakan untuk memohon peruntukan geran penyelidikan dari (nama geran dan jumlah dana)____________________________________
Date : Tarikh :
G
Applicant’s Signature : Tandatangan Pemohon : ___________________________
Recommended by Vice Chancellor/Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research and Innovation)/Director of Research Management Center Perakuan Naib Canselor/Timbalan Naib Canselor(P & I)/Pengarah Pusat Pengurusan Penyelidikan
Please tick ( √ ) Sila tandakan ( √ ) Recommended: Diperakukan: A.
Highly Recommended Sangat Disokong
B.
Recommended Disokong
C.
Not Recommended (Please specify reason) Tidak Disokong (Sila Nyatakan Sebab)
Comments: Ulasan: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Name: Nama:
Signature: Tandatangan:
Date: Tarikh:
Note: APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED WILL BE TREATED IN FULL CONFIDENCE. THE DECISION OF THE FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH GRANT SCHEME MAIN COMMITTEE MOHE IS FINAL. Semua permohonan dianggap sulit. Keputusan Jawatankuasa Induk Skim Geran Penyelidikan Fundamental KPT adalah MUKTAMAD. Appendix 1. Flow Chart of the Proposed Project Appendix A: Flowchart of main research activities
Start Research
Introduction and Research Background
• Examine the existing theoretical and empirical studies • Identify research problem • Review relevant background studies • Refine research questions
Literature Review
• A comprehensive review on the relationships between variables (elements) in the research’s framework
Develop Conceptual Framework and Research Hypothesis
• Design the workable research’s model in order to answer the research’s problem • Develop measurements for each variables • Provide reasonable arguments on the research hypotheses and its associated variables
Develop Methodology and its Data Collection Process
• Develop and design appropriate methodology in order to achieve the research objectives • Doing pilot and actual survey in the industry
Analyse data, Write up, Publish Journal and Submit Research Report
• • • • •
End Research
Screen, evaluate and analyse data Conduct appropriate statistical tests Write-up results and findings Make suggestions to organisations Attending related conferences and publish articles.
