Perception on and the intention to use 5G technology in Malaysian SMEs

Abstract In wireless communication, Fifth Generation (5G) Technology is a recent generation of mobile networks. This technology offers a great deal of advantage to industries. 5G technology can help businesses in enhancing efficiency and promoting innovations. Improved efficiency helps in reducing cost and consequently increasing revenue. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of a country’s economy. Unlike the large companies, SMEs have not paid much attention to 5G technology. SMEs must be prepared to move into this big digital transformation or lose out in the competitive market. The major concerns of SMEs in deploying 5G technology include lack of expertise, switching cost, reliability, security, environment, and interference with other systems. In this study, we explored the perceptions of Malaysian SME employees on 5G technology. Positive perceptions on 5G features, competitive advantage, improved efficiency, impact of productivity, economic benefit and benefits to customers are high. However, there are high concerns in the deploying of the 5G technology and the Malaysian SMEs seem to have a wait-and-see attitude in implementing the 5G technology.