A Modeling Study of the Economic Empowerment of Women in the Field of Entrepreneurship in Kelantan

Abstract

Women's involvement in business has been growing and thriving. This has a positive impact on the country's economy; and the success of these women has opened the eyes of many about the ability of women entrepreneurs in empowering the country's economy. The effort and perseverance in running a business proves the strong nature of women because the field of business has various challenges and obstacles. In Kelantan, women are synonymous with entrepreneurship and have achieved many successes. Therefore, this study aims to identify the driving factors, successes and failures of women entrepreneurs in business in the state of Kelantan. This study also examines the policies and principles of the government as well as NGOs in providing assistance to the women entrepreneurs in Kelantan. A mixture of quantitative and qualitative methods was incorporated in collecting the required data. Quantitative methods by using questionnaires was used and distributed to 300 respondents (N=300) of Kelantan women entrepreneurs. The data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. For the qualitative method, in-depth interviews was conducted with 11 women entrepreneurs and analyzed using content analysis. Findings show that among the motivating factors for women entrepreneurs to get involved in business included, wanting to change the economic status of the family, personal interests in business, to support and assist spouse's financial situation and inherit the family business. Among the success factors of women entrepreneurs found in this study comprised of deep interest, prudent planning, business knowledge and the willingness to take risks. It was due to these factors that led countless women entrepreneurs in Kelantan attain success. On the other hand, high competition and initiating a business without extensive knowledge and experience were key aspects in the failure of women in this field. Findings also found that women entrepreneurs made use of their own capital without assistance from any parties upon starting a business.