A Conceptual Model for Sustainable Intelligent Systems in Malaysian MSMEs

This study proposes a conceptual model for Sustainable Intelligent Systems (SIS) in Malaysian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), aiming to integrate sustainability principles with intelligent technologies to enhance resilience, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Grounded in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, the model supports sustainable industrialization and technological innovation within MSMEs. Using a comprehensive review of existing litera-ture, frameworks, and theories, the study identifies gaps in the adoption of intelligent technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics. The proposed model addresses barriers to technology adoption and emphasizes embedding sustainability into intelligent systems to optimize resource management, strengthen decision-making, and promote long-term competitiveness in the digital economy. This research offers strategic guidance for MSME owners, policymakers, and researchers, providing a roadmap for sustainable digital transformation. Future research is recommended to validate the model through empirical studies and real-world applica-tions. By bridging sustainability and intelligent technology adoption, the study contributes to the theoretical understanding of sustainable intelligent systems and delivers practical insights, reinforcing the role of SIS in driving economic growth, environmental stewardship, and innovation in Malaysia’s MSME sector.