An Exploratory Study of Internationalization Strategies of Emerging Malaysian Multinational Enterprises

Abstract

ABSTRACT There is limited empirical research on the internationalization processes, strategies, organizations and operations of Asian Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) and particularly Malaysian MNEs. Drawing on secondary sources and data and specifically from 12 case studies of emerging Malaysian MNEs, this paper examines and analyses their internationalization strategies, including motivations, patterns and sources of competitive advantage. The findings indicate that the emerging Malaysian MNEs, while exhibiting characteristics such as that described in recent empirical studies, also suggest that different emerging strategies are being tried. The sustainability of these strategies, limitations of the paper and areas for further research are discussed. KEYWORDS: Internationalization strategyAsian Multinational EnterprisesMalaysia