Building tourism SMEs' business resilience through adaptive capability, supply chain collaboration and strategic human resource

Abstract Small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) play a significant role in the global economy, particularly, in tourism and hospitality. However, they face challenges due to their vulnerability to external disruptions. A research model was proposed to enhance SME resilience in tourism through supply chain collaboration, strategic human resource and adaptive capability. Drawing on Dynamic Capability Theory, a total of seven hypotheses were presented. The data collection were conducted in Malaysia. There were 210 SME owners/managers participated in the survey. Data were analysed using Smart PLS software version 4. Results suggest that addressing business collaboration and human resource development are critical factors in developing capabilities that foster business resilience in tourism SMEs. The study addresses the dearth of theoretical and practical research on tourism SMEs. While calling SMEs for more attention to developing resilient businesses, this study serves as insights for disaster planning to withstand potential future shocks.