Market Awareness and Acceptance of High-Tech Industry Development in Malaysian Communities: A Study on Ecosystem Readiness and Entrepreneurial Education
List of Authors
Izzatul Ussna Ridzwan, Maziah Mokhtar, Mohd Zulkeflee Abd Razak, Siti Fara Fadila Abd. Razak, Zurina Ismail
Keyword
Smart Grid; Entrepreneurial Mindset; Community Readiness; Digital Literacy; Malaysia
Abstract
The advancement of high-technology (high-tech) industries is a key pillar of Malaysia’s economic transformation, especially in driving innovation, digitalization, and industrial modernization. However, the success of this agenda depends not only on policy and infrastructure, but also on community readiness and perception. This study examines the market awareness and acceptance of high-tech industry development among Malaysian communities, with a specific focus on how entrepreneurial education can address gaps in mindset, skillset, and toolset, particularly in rural areas. A quantitative approach was adopted, involving 100 community members through surveys with local entrepreneurs, educators, and community leaders. Findings indicate that rural communities demonstrate significantly lower awareness and engagement due to limited access to information, lack of digital exposure, and perceived irrelevance to their livelihood. However, respondents exposed to entrepreneurship education initiatives (e.g., digital bootcamps, rural innovation hubs) displayed a shift in entrepreneurial mindset, an increase in digital competencies, and openness to high-tech ventures. The study maps out critical entrepreneurial development areas—risk-taking attitude, tech-enabled problem-solving, and business model innovation—while highlighting the potential of contextualized learning tools like localized Business Model Canvas and blended digital literacy training. The research contributes a framework for bridging awareness to entrepreneurial action by enhancing mindset, skillset, and toolset through community-based entrepreneurship education. Recommendations are offered for policymakers and educators to support inclusive high-tech ecosystem readiness and participation.