The influence of social network on the relationship between bumiputera entrepreneurs’ personality traits and SME business performance in Sarawak / Siti Farah Edwin

The growing importance of the moderating role of social network on the relationship between bumiputera entrepreneurs’ personality traits and SME business performance necessitated this study to be carried out. A total of 260 SMEs from Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu and Miri were selected through convenience sampling technique from a population of Bumiputera SME entrepreneurs under MARA in Sarawak, Malaysia. Structural equation modelling using PLS version 3.2.7 was conducted to analyse the relationship between the variables. Result showed that only one of the personality traits has a positive and significant relationship with social network. Hence, the study also showed that social network has a positive and significant relationship with SME performance. With a good social network entrepreneurs can excel in their business. Finally, the study found that self-efficacy has a significant influence on SMEs performance through social network. With a high confident in the social network the entrepreneurs have, it will contribute towards their business performance. In addition, bumiputera entrepreneurs are encouraged to create meaningful social networks according to appropriate personality traits while helping to improve their business performance. In summary, it is anticipated that this study will also be as a guide or reference to the policy makers for implementation of programs and policies to increase the number of entrepreneurship involvement Sarawak.