Corporate social responsibility and SMEs: exploratory study on motivations from a Malaysian perspective
Abstract
Purpose
This paper investigates the need for corporate social responsibility (CSR) in SMEs. Also, it aims to explore the motivations for practicing CSR from the perspective of Malaysian SMEs.
Design/methodology/approach
Investigating the need for CSR in SMEs is done through a literature review. For the purpose of identifying the motivations for CSR practice, ten exploratory interviews were conducted with SME managers in Malaysia.
Findings
The findings show that Malaysian SMEs were mostly practicing CSR because of their own beliefs and values, religious thoughts, and pressure and encouragement from stakeholders.
Research limitations/implications
Because this is an exploratory study, a small number of interviews were conducted. Future studies can expand this and go more in‐depth.
Practical implications
The findings of the paper provide a good understanding of Malaysian SMEs' motivations for CSR, which will be helpful for policy‐makers.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is among the first studies focusing on CSR in the Malaysian SME sector. Also, the exploratory qualitative approach of the paper can provide a better vision for future research.
Keywords
Citation
Nejati, M. and Amran, A. (2009), "Corporate social responsibility and SMEs: exploratory study on motivations from a Malaysian perspective", Business Strategy Series, Vol. 10 No. 5, pp. 259-265. https://doi.org/10.1108/17515630910989150
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2009, Emerald Group Publishing Limited