| Summary: | Despite numerous efforts initiated by Malaysian government, Bumiputera entrepreneurs are still
considered as incapable to compete with other groups in realizing business success. This study seeks to examine
the intellectual capital (IC) and Islamic work ethics (IWE) that contribute to higher performance of SMEs among
Bumiputera in Malaysia. In doing so, the measurement instruments are developed based on previous literature
reviews and refined by expert validation. Informal interviews were held individually with 13 experts with the aims
of gaining relevant and insightful information for IC, IWE and business performance cohesion. From a pilot study
of 49 Bumiputera SME entrepreneurs, the findings indicate that intellectual capital components and Islamic work
ethics are vital for performance management practices in the firm. Contribution/ Originality: Theoretically, this
study generalizes intellectual capital and Islamic work ethics in SME setting and is a preliminary impetus for
exploring Bumiputera intellectual capital, Islamic work ethics and business performance. Practically, it provides
valuable references for entrepreneurs, giving a prioritized array of crucial resources that allows Bumiputera SMEs
to sustain the competitive advantage.
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