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KUALA LUMPUR: The rise in technology adoption is fuelling strong expansion among Malaysia's small businesses, according to a survey.

The study highlighted that 71 per cent of small businesses posted growth in 2024, the highest recorded growth in more than a decade. 

This growth momentum is expected to continue, with 82 per cent of the businesses anticipating growth this year, marking the sector's highest level of optimism since 2012.

Confidence in Malaysia's economy is equally strong, with 81 per cent of small businesses expecting the economy to grow in 2025, well above the Asia-Pacific average of 67 per cent.

"Malaysia's small business sector is powered by dynamic and young entrepreneurs who are quick to embrace digital technologies," said CPA Australia Malaysia division president Yip Kit Weng. 

The CPA Australia's Asia Pacific Small Business Survey reported  92 per cent of Malaysian small businesses used social media in 2024, including as a key communication and marketing tool.

On Malaysian entrepreneurs being ranked highest in innovation, Yip said the result was not surprising given 64 per cent of small business owners are younger than 40.

"Their ability to adapt quickly and invest in digital solutions is driving Malaysia's competitiveness in the region," Yip added. 

The survey added that investment in digital tools by Malaysia's small businesses saw a rise, with investment in artificial intelligence more than doubled from 11 per cent in 2023 to 27 per cent in 2024. 

Digital and mobile payments have become the norm, with 78 per cent receiving more than 10 per cent of their sales through platforms such as GrabPay, Touch 'n Go and Boost. 

"It is encouraging to see more small businesses embracing AI, well ahead of the government's five-year strategic roadmap to accelerate AI adoption. 

"Regulatory measures to support ethical practices, along with tailored measures for target groups, will further fast-track AI adoption while enhancing public trust,"said Yip. 

To support this expansion, demand for external financing was strong. In 2024, 70 per cent of Malaysian small businesses used such funds to support growth. This trend is expected to continue this year, with 85 per cent anticipating the need for external finance.

"The strong economic environment, coupled with government initiatives to increase competitiveness and investor confidence, is helping to create a positive business climate for small businesses," Yip added.

Source: https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2025/03/1187607/malaysian-small-businesses-thrive-technology-survey-finds