In Malaysia, e-commerce has emerged as a crucial element in business strategies, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which constitute 97.2% of the country's businesses and generate 38.2% of its GDP. Whilst e-commerce offers significant potential for fostering economic growth, employment opportunities, and innovation, numerous Malaysian SMEs struggle to implement it due to insufficient digital skills, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of comprehension regarding e-commerce dynamics. This research investigates the motivating factors behind e-commerce initiatives amongst Malaysian SME entrepreneurs and identifies the obstacles they face. Primary motivational elements include the desire for increased revenue, market growth, and improved customer interaction, with external factors such as governmental policies and technological progress also playing a crucial role. Nevertheless, the shift towards e-commerce necessitates overcoming hurdles related to technical expertise, financial limitations, and ecosystem support. The study's outcomes contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between individual motivations and contextual barriers, offering valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to develop targeted approaches. By addressing these factors, this research aims to bolster the competitiveness and longevity of Malaysian SMEs in the evolving digital landscape.