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Resilience through Coopetition: Evidence from Small Tech Firms in Malaysia

Author

Listed:
  • Mohd Khairulnizam Bin Sahlan

    (Technology Management Department, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia)

  • Lee Xin Yi

    (Technology Management Department, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia)

  • Albert Feisal @ Muhd Feisal Bin Ismail

    (Technology Management Department, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia)

  • Noor Aslinda Binti Abu Seman

    (Technology Management Department, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia)

  • Afif Zuhri Muhamad Khodri Harahap

    (Technology Management Department, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia)

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of coopetition strategies in assisting small technical firms to overcome challenges such as limited resources, innovation barriers, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Through qualitative interviews with owners and managers of five small technical firms in Penang, Malaysia, the research explores how coopetition—simultaneous collaboration and competition among firms—can enhance resilience and performance. Findings reveal that coopetition helps firms mitigate risks, share resources, and access new markets, though some firms prefer personalized strategies post-pandemic. The study contributes to the literature on coopetition by highlighting its benefits and limitations in small technical firms, offering practical insights for sustainable growth in volatile environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Mohd Khairulnizam Bin Sahlan & Lee Xin Yi & Albert Feisal @ Muhd Feisal Bin Ismail & Noor Aslinda Binti Abu Seman & Afif Zuhri Muhamad Khodri Harahap, 2025. "Resilience through Coopetition: Evidence from Small Tech Firms in Malaysia," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(14), pages 2180-2192, September.
  • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:issue-14:p:2180-2192
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    References listed on IDEAS

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