Striving Digitally: Understanding the Challenges of Malaysian Women Entrepreneurs

This report assesses the digitalization challenges and limitations faced by micro and small women entrepreneurs (MSWEs) in Malaysia. The insights gained will inform the design of the Mastercard Strive Malaysia program, a collaborative effort between the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth and The Asia Foundation. This program aims to elevate micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs), with a specific focus on women entrepreneurs, through skills development initiatives, facilitation of digitalization, and support for their growth via the Strivers’ Hub – a one-stop-shop digital platform.

The Strivers’ Hub platform is designed to cater to the evolving needs of Malaysian small businesses, particularly women entrepreneurs, by providing them with easy access to essential tools, networks, and resources, thus fostering a more enabling business ecosystem. This report summarizes the challenges and requirements of MSWEs in Malaysia and outlines the subsequent steps for Mastercard Strive Malaysia.

It is a condensed version of an extensive study conducted by the Unit for Research on Women and Gender (KANITA), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang.