The mediating role of entrepreneurial competencies between work-life balance strategies and growth intentions among women entrepreneurs in Malaysia

Women entrepreneurs in Malaysia continue to encounter significant challenges in balancing business operations with family responsibilities, particularly in competitive environments. These difficulties are exacerbated by limited access to financial resources, dual roles, and low productivity, which hamper business growth and long-term sustainability. This study investigates the predictors of entrepreneurial competencies, which consist of commitment, conceptual, opportunity recognition, organizing, relationship, and strategic competencies that mediate the relationship between work-life balance strategies, specifically Work-Family Enrichment (WFE) and Family-Work Enrichment (FWE), and growth intentions among women entrepreneurs in microenterprises. Employing a quantitative research approach, the study gathered survey data from 372 women entrepreneurs within Malaysia's Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector. Utilizing purposive sampling, Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was applied to test the proposed conceptual framework. The results reveal that entrepreneurial competencies significantly mediate the relationship between work-life balance strategies and growth intentions. WFE and FWE positively impact entrepreneurial competencies, thereby enhancing growth intentions among women entrepreneurs. These findings highlight the crucial role of entrepreneurial competencies in enabling women to effectively balance work and family demands while pursuing their business activities. Strengthening these competencies can empower women entrepreneurs to navigate socio-economic constraints, maintain competitiveness, and achieve sustainable business growth. The study supports the development of flexible business policies, targeted entrepreneurial training, and enhanced institutional support, including government initiatives, to help women entrepreneurs succeed in business. Ultimately, this research offers valuable insights into how entrepreneurial competencies intersect with personal and professional careers, fostering growth intentions among women entrepreneurs and contributing to broader economic development in Malaysia.