Entrepreneurial Intention: The Role of Internal and External Factors

HRMARS - Graduate unemployment remains a persistent issue in Malaysia, particularly among young university graduates who tend to prefer paid employment over self-employment. In response, higher education institutions have introduced entrepreneurship education to encourage graduates to consider entrepreneurship as a career option. However, entrepreneurial intention among undergraduates remains relatively low. This study examines the internal and external factors that influence entrepreneurial intention among university students. A quantitative approach was employed using a survey with open-ended questions administered to 114 final-year Bachelor of Business (Entrepreneurship) students at Universiti Malaysia Sabah. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that motivation, facility support, entrepreneurship courses, and creativity emerged as key internal factors, while entrepreneurial activities, role models, and financial support were identified as external factors influencing entrepreneurial intention. The study contributes empirical insights that may assist policymakers, universities, and relevant agencies in strengthening entrepreneurship education and support systems to foster entrepreneurial intention among undergraduates.