A Typified, Culture-Based, Interpretation of Management of SMEs in Southeast Asia

Our knowledge of managing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is predominantly based on Western world, in particular U.S., thinking. This article presents the results from a survey of the overseas Chinese SME business world, i.e. SMEs in seven Southeast Asian countries, where Chinese dominate business (Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan and the Philippines). A typified picture of overseas Chinese SME management (i.e. a picture of management behavior, when and if participants are true to their culture and general economic environment) is provided. Management is seen in its general organizational role as well as in its role in the financial and marketing business functions. Some similarities as well as differences with the Western view of management of SMEs are noted.