Abstract

This study attempts to analyze the contribution of entrepreneurs in terms of their management skills towards the success of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the services sector in Malaysia. The methods used are descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation, stepwise regression procedures and t-test. The data for the study were collected through mail questionnaires sent out to selected entrepreneurs of SMEs. Of the total number 500 questionnaires mailed, 186 entrepreneurs responded and completed the questionnaires. The empirical information resulted from analyzing the data obtained from the 186 entrepreneurs suggests the findings that high entrepreneurial success was associated with high business operating skills, skills to obtain market share that suits their size and capability and skills to offer more special services; with bumiputera and non-bumiputera being indifferent in their perception towards management skills that affected their success.

Key words: Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), success, entrepreneur.