Endemic Covid-19: Issues and Challenges of Sustainable Performance for Malaysia SMEs

Abstract

This article examines Malaysian SMEs' sustainable performance concerns and challenges on Peninsular Malaysia's East Coast. This study examines the uncertainty of the pandemic-toendemic transition in the context of COVID-19 variations like Delta and Omicron. SME's sustainable performance and impact on Malaysia's economic growth are analysed. The study found that financial literacy, market obstacles, economic uncertainty, ICT literacy, and social capital inefficiencies affect SMEs' sustainability. Financial literacy is assessed as crucial to SME's investment decisions and risk management. Market challenges and economic uncertainties, compounded by the epidemic, are examined in the East Coast region. Technological literacy and the restricted acceptability of ICT also affect SME's competitiveness, according to the report. The report also discusses how social capital helps SMEs improve industrial relations. Lack of communication and understanding between SMEs' owners and stakeholders may hinder corporate success. The article indicates that SME sustainability variables must be studied in individual sectors and industries. Technological efficiency, market literacy, economic uncertainty, and industrial relations management should be studied to understand SMEs' sustainability. The study seeks to help SMES' owners, business consultants, and policymakers promote sustainable performance and economic growth in Malaysia's changing business climate, particularly on the East Coast.