The Rise of e-Commerce and Social Media for Small Businesses in Malaysia

By Zulhilmi Zainudin, Head, Centre for Corporate Communication

In recent years, the landscape of business marketing in Malaysia has undergone a significant transformation, driven by the proliferation of the internet. Small businesses, in particular, have embraced e-commerce and social media as a tool to reach wider audiences. This shift is underpinned by the country’s high internet literacy rate and the increasing accessibility of digital technology.

According to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), as of 2023, Malaysia boasts an internet penetration rate of approximately 89.6%. This high level of internet literacy provides a fertile ground for small businesses to leverage e-commerce and social media for marketing. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter enable businesses to connect with a diverse and tech-savvy customer base.

The appeal of e-commerce and social media for small businesses lies in their cost- effectiveness and extensive reach. Traditional advertising in television and print media can be expensive, particularly for start-ups and small enterprises operating on tight budgets. In contrast, social media offers affordable, scalable, and highly targeted advertising options.

A survey by Meltwater revealed that Malaysians spend an average 20 hours a week browsing, with a significant portion of this time dedicated to social media. This extensive online presence provides bigger opportunities for businesses to engage potential customers.

The usage of e-commerce and social media among small businesses in Malaysia is not merely a trend but a vital component of modern business strategy. The combination of high internet literacy, cost-effective marketing, and direct customer engagement makes e-commerce and social media a much better option for start-ups to grow their business.

Are you searching for a programme to enhance your entrepreneurship capabilities?

If the answer is yes, you might want to consider OUM’s comprehensive Business and Management programmes. These programmes could equip you with essential skills in business strategy, digital marketing, financial management, and more, thereby enabling you to navigate the complexities of the modern business world effectively.

Undergraduate Programmes

1. Diploma in Accounting
2. Diploma in Management
3. Diploma in Human Resources Management
4. Bachelor of Accounting with Honours (recognised by CPA Australia)
5. Bachelor of Management with Honours
6. Bachelor of Business Administration with Honours
7. Bachelor of Human Resource Management with Honours
8. Bachelor of Marketing with Honours
9. Bachelor of Tourism Management with Honours

 Postgraduate Programmes

1. Master of Business Administration
2. Master of Human Resource Management
3. Master of Management
4. Doctor of Philosophy (Business Administration)
5. Doctor of Business Administration

* The programmes in blue are recognised by the Chartered Management Institute. The programmes’ students are given free memberships to access CMI resources for help with assignments and projects, networking opportunities for better job prospects, mentoring by industry experts, and participation in beneficial events and activities.