The Muamalat Newsletter Vol. 2 2024

FEM eNewsletter | December 2024 61 References Seow, R. Y. C. (2022a). Direct Selling A Controversial Business Model: Recent Development and Future Research Agenda. Journal of Technology Management and Business, 9(2), 99–115. https://doi.org/10.30880/jtmb.2022.09.02.008 Seow, R. Y. C. (2022b). Personality Traits of Traditional Entrepreneur and Digital Entrepreneur: A Systematic Literature Review. ASEAN Entrepreneurship Journal, 8(2), 56–71. Seow, R. Y. C. (2022c). PEST Analysis of the Direct Selling Industry in China. In F. Pardi, S. Junos, H. Yaakob, H. M. Nasir, & N. F. Z. Abedin (Eds.), National e-Conference 2022 (FReN-C 2022) Proceedings (Issue 5, pp. 5–21). University Teknologi MARA Cawangan Negeri Sembilan. Seow, R. Y. C. (2022d). The Convergence of Digitalization and Internationalization: A Literature Review and Future Research Agenda. Advances in Business Research International Journal, 8(2), 18–35. https://doi.org/10.24191/ABRIJ.V8I2.18412 Seow, R. Y. C. (2022e). The Pandemic and Consumer Cultural Theory: A Conceptual Model with A Fifth Interest Cluster. ASEAN Entrepreneurship Journal, 8(2), 44–55. Seow, R. Y. C. (2023a). Entrepreneurship Success: A Case Study of Eric Chua’s “TASK” Innovation in Training. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 7(7), 582–593. https://doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2023.70745 Seow, R. Y. C. (2023b). Pedagogical Approach to Entrepreneurship Success: Innovation in Training. Research in Management of Technology and Business, 4(2), 937–946. https://doi.org/10.30880/rmtb.2023.04.02.068 Seow, R. Y. C. (2023c). Response to Minimum Wage Shock in Malaysia: SMEs’ Channel of Adjustment. Journal of Economics and Sustainability, 5(1), 1–19. https://doi.org/10.32890/jes2023.5.1.1 Seow, R. Y. C. (2024). Navigating the VUCA Landscape: Strategic Insights from China’s Direct Selling Industry. In U. S. Ak- tharsha, A. Selvarani, & P. L. Senthil (Eds.), Innovative Management Practices and Sustainability in VUCA World (pp. 197–209). Jazym Publications. skills, expand their social networks, and experience personal growth (Seow, 2022a). For many individuals, especially those seeking flexible work arrangements, direct selling provides a pathway to financial independence without the rigid structure of traditional employment. As Malaysia prepares for the forthcoming minimum wage increase and continues to adapt to shifting post-pandemic consumer behaviours, the direct selling business model presents a compelling opportunity for both businesses and individuals. Its low capital requirements, flexible workforce model, and alignment with the ongoing digitalization trend position direct selling as a strategic solution for companies facing rising labour costs. Moreover, as consumer preferences continue to shift, direct selling’s emphasis on adaptability and personalized relationship- building will keep it relevant and competitive within the Malaysian market. By adopting digital tools and focusing on in-demand products such as health and wellness items, direct selling companies can position themselvesforsustainablegrowthintheyears ahead. In this evolving context, businesses and policymakers must work together to maintain a regulatory environment that supports legitimate direct selling operations while ensuring transparency and protecting consumers.