This study explores how the board structure influences the sustainability and performance of social enterprises in Malaysia, considering governmental initiatives such as the Twelfth Malaysia Plan, the National Entrepreneurship Policy 2030, the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030 (SPV2030), and the Malaysia Social Entrepreneurship Blueprint 2030 (SEMy2030). Using semi-structured interviews, the research aims to enhance understanding of Resource Dependence Theory (RDT) by exploring the board structure of internal governance mechanisms and the sustainability of social enterprise in Malaysia. This study enhances understanding of the ideal internal governance structures for Malaysian social enterprises. It offers valuable insights that can aid government strategies in formulating best practice guidelines to support the sector’s growth. The research highlights the necessity of improving social enterprise sustainability through specific board characteristics and internal governance mechanisms. Strengthening the board is identified as a key strategy to ensure the continuous flow of essential resources, thereby enhancing long-term survival and success. These findings are crucial for filling the gap in the emerging literature on Malaysian social enterprises. In addition, it provides insights into how a stable and well-structured board can drive long-term sustainability, aligning with Malaysia’s developmental objectives and informing best practices for policymakers and practitioners.