Barriers to Financial Reporting: The Case of Asnaf Entrepreneurs in Pahang, Malaysia

This study investigates the financial reporting challenges faced by asnaf entrepreneurs, focusing on key barriers such as time constraints, low financial literacy, reliance on manual record-keeping, and limited access to professional financial services. Through a thematic analysis of qualitative interview data, the research identifies recurring issues that hinder accurate financial record maintenance, which in turn impacts business growth and access to financial support. The findings highlight the need for targeted financial literacy programs, affordable financial advisory services, and the adoption of digital financial tools to address these challenges. The study also discusses implications for policymakers, industry players, and academics, emphasising the importance of interventions that support the financial sustainability of asnaf entrepreneurs. Recommendations for future research include expanding the sample size, incorporating quantitative methods, and exploring the long-term impacts of financial literacy initiatives. This study contributes to the goals of SDG 4, SDG 8, and SDG 9 in promoting economic empowerment and sustainable development for asnaf entrepreneurs.