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The Rempang Eco City area in Batam City has great potential for SMEs, especially in the culinary and local product sectors. However, the development of SMEs in this area is still limited due to a lack of knowledge about product packaging and minimal use of digital technology for marketing. The mentoring program conducted by KKN student group 62 aims to improve the competitiveness of SMEs through strengthening more modern packaging and digital marketing strategies using social media, especially Instagram. The method used is a qualitative approach with participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and group discussions. The stages of activities include an initial survey to map the potential and conditions of MSMEs, conducting workshops and training on product design, packaging, and digital marketing, as well as direct assistance in creating and managing social media accounts. The results of the activities show an improvement in the ability of MSME actors to create attractive packaging designs, manage social media as a product showcase, as well as increased digital interaction with consumers. This program successfully increased the selling value of products, expanded market reach, and built the confidence of MSME actors. Although there are challenges related to digital literacy and creativity, this program has a positive long-term impact in promoting economic independence in the community and strengthening local cultural identity in Rempang Eco City.

Usaha Mikro Kecil dan Menengah (UMKM) memiliki peran krusial dalam perekonomian Indonesia, namun masih menghadapi kendala dalam aspek pemasaran dan branding produk. Salah satu tantangan yang dihadapi oleh UMKM di Desa Kalipucang Wetan, Kecamatan Welahan, adalah minimnya inovasi dalam desain kemasan serta kurangnya pemanfaatan strategi pemasaran digital. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan daya tarik produk UMKM, khususnya Kerupuk Lala 73, dengan mengembangkan desain kemasan yang lebih menarik serta menerapkan strategi digital marketing. Metode yang digunakan dalam kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini mencakup observasi, pendampingan, pelatihan, dan evaluasi terhadap pelaku UMKM. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pembaruan pada desain label dan kemasan mampu meningkatkan daya tarik produk, sedangkan pemanfaatan platform digital seperti TikTok, Facebook, dan marketplace lainnya berhasil memperluas jangkauan pasar. Dengan strategi pemasaran digital yang tepat, produk UMKM berpotensi lebih dikenal luas dan memiliki peluang yang lebih besar dalam meningkatkan penjualan.

This study analyzes the creative approach and communication methods employed by Afif Yulistian in creating content for his YouTube channel, PipVlog. The study's background stems from the rapid growth of digital media, which has created competition among content creators, where success is determined not only by visual appeal but also by the ability to engage with viewers. This research employed qualitative descriptive methods and collected data through observation, documentation, and in-depth interviews with key informants. The findings of this study indicate that Afif Yulistian focuses on creativity by selecting everyday themes relevant to his audience's lives, maintaining a consistent upload schedule, and adapting to viral trends as strategies to maintain content relevance. His creative process encompasses pre-production, production, and post-production stages, utilizing simple narratives, light editing, and humor. In terms of communication, Afif employs a casual, familiar, and friendly style, creating a genuine impression and strengthening emotional connections with viewers. His consistent personal branding also reinforces his image as an original and relatable creator. This study concludes that PipVlog's success is supported by a combination of creative strategies and efficient communication methods. These findings provide theoretical contributions to the field of communication science, particularly regarding new media and digital content strategy. From a practical perspective, the research findings can serve as a reference for content creators and creative industry professionals in developing relevant, adaptive strategies that can sustain their presence amidst competition on digital platforms.

The design of the 3:30 Kopi website poster was carried out as an effort to present an effective and modern promotional medium to support information needs and introduce the café’s digital platform to the wider community. In line with the development of the digital era, local SMEs such as 3:30 Kopi are required to remain competitive by utilizing visual media that is both communicative and appealing. This poster functions not only as an information tool but also as a branding strategy to strengthen the café’s identity in the eyes of consumers, particularly in the Ciledug area and its surroundings. The visual concept of the poster was designed with careful consideration of both aesthetics and function. The use of brown and cream tones symbolizes the warm and natural character of coffee, while also creating a friendly and elegant impression. Typography was chosen with a simple yet bold style to ensure information is easy to understand. The main elements, featuring a mockup of the website displayed on both laptop and mobile devices, emphasize the flexibility and responsiveness of the platform, which can be accessed anytime and anywhere. In addition, the inclusion of a QR code provides a modern solution that facilitates quick and practical interaction between the audience and the website. Cultural-inspired ornaments derived from 3:30 Kopi’s signature menu further reinforce its visual identity while adding aesthetic value. Through this poster design, 3:30 Kopi is expected to increase brand awareness, attract new visitors, and strengthen its image as a café that not only offers coffee but also provides a productive social space suited to the needs of modern society.

This Community Service Program (PKM) was implemented at UMKM Wedang Rempah 3 Putri Sukoharjo with the aim of enhancing competitiveness through the application of e-prospek, strengthening digital marketing, and product diversification into ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. The program employed mentoring, training, and hands-on practice, engaging UMKM actors actively from the planning stage to implementation. The results show that the use of the e-prospek application successfully expanded market access, digital marketing improved promotional effectiveness, and RTD product diversification attracted modern consumers who value practicality and health benefits. Beyond the economic impact of increased sales, the program fostered digital awareness, local leadership, and community independence. Theoretically, these findings reinforce the literature on the significance of digital transformation and product innovation in community-based MSME empowerment. This program is recommended for sustainable development through enhanced digital literacy, stronger local branding, and multi-stakeholder collaboration to establish an adaptive, innovative, and competitive MSME empowerment model.

The phenomenon of TikTok content aesthetics has emerged as a new strategy in tourism promotion, including in Labuan Bajo. However, not all content produced has appealing aesthetic quality. Many videos still appear monotonous, lack creativity, or fail to highlight local uniqueness. As a result, some content falls short in building a strong destination image and instead gets lost in the increasingly saturated digital content competition. This research aims to examine in depth how the aesthetics of TikTok content contribute to increasing tourist interest in visiting Labuan Bajo, one of Indonesia’s super-priority destinations. Labuan Bajo was chosen as a case study not only because of its world-class tourism appeal but also because it is currently being actively promoted through digital branding strategies. The study employs a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through TikTok content observation, in-depth interviews with content creators and local tourism stakeholders, as well as literature analysis on smart tourism and destination branding. This approach was selected to uncover the underlying meaning behind aesthetic content strategies while also highlighting the challenges faced in their implementation. The findings reveal that the aesthetics of TikTok content play a significant role in building a positive image of Labuan Bajo, enhancing its visual appeal, and creating emotional connections between prospective tourists and the destination. Nevertheless, the research also identifies challenges such as limited digital literacy, uneven content quality, and the risk of narrative homogenization that may reduce local uniqueness. Based on these findings, the study recommends the development of destination branding strategies that are more adaptive to social media trends, including the creation of aesthetic guidelines rooted in local culture, digital literacy training for tourism stakeholders, and close collaboration between government, industry, and content creators. Through these efforts, Labuan Bajo has the potential to strengthen its position as a leading world-class destination.

Urban riverbank areas are strategic spaces that hold ecological, social, cultural, and economic significance. In Pematang Siantar City, the Bah Bolon River has the potential to be developed as a sustainable urban ecotourism corridor. However, its current condition is marked by environmental degradation, infrastructure limitations, and poor spatial utilization. This study aims to identify development strategies that integrate environmental conservation, community-based tourism, and urban revitalization through placemaking and sustainable planning. This research adopts a qualitative descriptive approach focusing on the Bah Bolon River area in Pematang Siantar City. Data were collected through field observations, in-depth interviews with stakeholders, documentation review, and literature studies. The analysis involved descriptive mapping, SWOT analysis, community preference surveys, and land suitability assessments. Findings revealed that three key river segments—RINDAM I/BB area, Jalan Diponegoro–Jalan Jenderal Sudirman corridor, and the Quan Im Temple zone—exhibit varying levels of potential for ecotourism, cultural heritage, and public green space development. Key issues include pollution, informal land use, weak coordination, and insufficient infrastructure. Development opportunities include white-water rafting, thematic parks, spiritual reflection gardens, and creative economic zones. The study proposes an integrated riverbank development strategy, encompassing spatial zoning, ecological restoration, tourism infrastructure, community empowerment, and regional branding. It recommends the establishment of a multi-sector management agency, master planning, and cross-stakeholder collaboration to transform Bah Bolon River into a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban corridor.

The Community Service Program (KKN) of Universitas Sebelas Maret, Group 217, conducted in Tegalweru Village, Dau District, Malang Regency, was designed to strengthen local economic capacity through strategies of value-added product development and the consolidation of MSME identity based on village potential. The socio-cultural homogeneity of the community, which largely depends on traditional agriculture, creates a paradox between strong social solidarity and weak economic diversification. This condition poses challenges such as limited innovation, low competitiveness, and the underutilization of local resources, thereby necessitating empowerment interventions capable of transforming traditional economic practices into more adaptive and sustainable business models. This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach through participatory observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation to explore community responses to training on product value addition, packaging, branding, and basic promotional strategies. The findings reveal increased awareness and enthusiasm among MSME actors and housewives to develop local products through simple processing, representative packaging, and distinctive brand identity. These results underscore that KKN not only serves as an implementation of the Higher Education Tri Dharma but also as a strategic empowerment instrument to reinforce the foundation of community-based economic independence. Practically, the program provides a transformative platform for local enterprises, laying the groundwork for sustainable economic development aligned with both global dynamics and the specific needs of rural communities.

This community service program was carried out by students of Universitas Pelita Bangsa in Karangsetia Village, Karang Bahagia District, Bekasi Regency, as a concrete effort to strengthen the capacity of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in facing the challenges of digitalization. MSMEs in this area still encounter various obstacles, such as the absence of formal business legality, limited understanding of branding strategies, and minimal utilization of digital technology for both marketing and payment systems. These conditions have weakened business competitiveness and hindered the growth of local enterprises. The program focused on three interrelated aspects: legal compliance, brand development, and digital adoption. Business legality was facilitated through the issuance of the Business Identification Number (NIB), which provides legal certainty while granting access to government programs and financial institutions. Branding was strengthened by designing logos, banners, and simple promotional media to enhance business identity, professionalism, and consumer appeal. Digitalization was promoted through business registration on Google Maps to improve visibility, and the adoption of the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) as a cashless payment method that is efficient, secure, and widely accepted. The methods employed included observation, socialization, mentoring, and participatory evaluation with business owners. The results demonstrated significant progress, as most MSMEs successfully obtained legal registration, adopted QRIS in daily transactions, registered their businesses on Google Maps, and developed clearer visual identities. This program had a positive impact by increasing entrepreneurial confidence, expanding market reach, and fostering awareness of the importance of digital transformation. Overall, the community service program contributed to strengthening the competitiveness, sustainability, and independence of MSMEs in Karangsetia Village, while supporting the development of the local economy.

The digital era has significantly influenced the economic system, and one of the innovations arising is the development of smart ponds based on IoT technology. In Ujungwatu Village, the development of Tambak Bandeng Kalingga has become an innovative solution to optimize local potential, while also introducing advanced technology that is not widely known by the local community. The main goal of this development is to introduce the concept of IoT technology in pond management, which can enhance efficiency and the competitiveness of the bandeng pond products. The method used in this Community Service (PkM) project is branding and socialization, with a focus on introducing IoT technology and its benefits to the local community. This socialization and branding activity aims to enable the community to learn and apply IoT technology in their activities, particularly in pond management. The results of this PkM activity show that the use of the Tambak Bandeng Kalingga sector is growing, with Ujungwatu Village now recognized as a village that manages ponds based on IoT. In the month following the branding, 40 visitors were recorded, and the reels video created was watched 1,620 times, which is a positive outcome. Visitors who came were also able to understand how the IoT technology system works at Tambak Bandeng Kalingga, further supporting the sustainability and advancement of the village in managing modern, technology-based ponds.

Pulau Ketam, a small fishing village in Selangor, Malaysia, faces persistent economic challenges despite its abundance of marine resources and longstanding tradition of herbal knowledge. Limited access to modern markets, dependence on middlemen, and a lack of digital literacy have restricted the community’s ability to fully benefit from its local assets. This study aims to explore the implementation of digital branding strategies as a means of empowering local communities and strengthening the marketing of seafood and herbal products. Employing a community-based participatory approach, the research integrates digital marketing training, brand development workshops, and the establishment of an e-commerce platform tailored to local needs. Data collection was carried out through surveys of 150 local entrepreneurs, focus group discussions with community leaders, and performance metrics analysis over a six-month period. The intervention generated a 65% increase in online sales, a 40% improvement in product visibility, and notable progress in community digital literacy. Findings reveal that structured digital branding programs not only enhance entrepreneurial capacity and market competitiveness but also support the preservation of cultural identity and traditional knowledge systems. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on rural digital transformation by providing empirical evidence that community empowerment through technology adoption can lead to sustainable economic development. The results suggest that similar models can be replicated in other marginalized communities to bridge digital gaps, strengthen local economies, and promote inclusive growth.

Toraja woven fabric is a significant cultural heritage of the Indonesian archipelago, known for its high artistic value and immense potential as a regional leading product. Despite this, challenges remain, particularly in terms of human resource management, which tends to be relatively simple, and the limited use of digital media in marketing. To address these issues, a Community Service Program (PKM) was implemented with the goal of enhancing the human resource capacity at the UNNONI Weaving Center, as well as expanding its marketing reach through the utilization of digital media. The methods employed in the program included identifying the core problems, providing HR management training, conducting digital marketing workshops (focusing on social media and online marketplaces), mentoring, and evaluating the program’s outcomes. The HR management training emphasized improving business management, task distribution, production recording, and enhancing teamwork. The digital marketing training covered the creation of social media accounts, content creation using Canva, branding strategies, and utilizing online marketplaces for promotion. The results indicated a significant improvement in both management and marketing aspects. The HR at the weaving center began implementing more organized production records, work coordination improved, and the UNNONI social media accounts became actively used for promotional purposes. Additionally, the Shopee marketplace was utilized, allowing consumers from outside the region to purchase products. These results demonstrate the successful integration of traditional craftsmanship with modern digital tools to enhance business sustainability and reach

The Unnoni Weaving Center is a community-led, small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) development center for traditional weaving. Despite its significant potential, many entrepreneurs in this center face challenges in determining appropriate product prices. They typically rely solely on intuition or follow market prices without considering all production cost components, resulting in very small profit margins and even the risk of incurring losses. In response to these challenges, this community service program was designed to improve the ability of SMEs to determine more rational, measurable, and profitable selling prices through comprehensive and applicable training in production cost calculations. The methods employed included outreach, workshops, intensive mentoring, and hands-on simulations on pricing based on real costs and reasonable margins. The program was conducted in two sessions at the Unnoni Weaving Center Hall, involving 25 local weaving entrepreneurs. The results showed significant improvement, with participants' understanding of identifying production cost components increasing by 76%, while approximately 80% successfully conducted simulations for determining selling prices, taking into account raw materials, labor, overhead costs, and profit margins. The tangible impact of this activity is seen in increased business literacy, more systematic calculation skills, and the confidence of SMEs in determining prices and negotiating with consumers and business partners. Furthermore, this activity is expected to be a starting point for the implementation of a simple financial recording system, increased operational efficiency, and the development of a branding strategy for Unnoni woven products so they can compete more professionally, sustainably, and with high competitiveness in both local and global markets.

This study aims to analyze the development process of a creative economy based on bead waste and the use of digital platforms as a marketing medium to increase product competitiveness. The background of the study is based on the phenomenon of increasing volumes of waste that have not been optimally managed and the low skills of business actors in utilizing digital technology. The research method used a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, documentation, and literature studies, with informants consisting of business actors, community leaders, representatives of relevant agencies, and consumers. The results of the study indicate that processing waste into beads not only reduces environmental impacts but also opens up creative business opportunities with high economic value. The use of digital platforms has proven effective in expanding market reach, improving branding, and driving sales, although there are still obstacles in the skills of digital entrepreneurs. This study recommends strengthening digital marketing capacity and ongoing mentoring for creative waste-based entrepreneurs to achieve economic and environmental sustainability. In addition, synergy between business actors, the government, and local communities is a crucial factor in supporting the development of a waste-based creative economy. The involvement of local governments through entrepreneurship training and facilitating access to technology is essential to address the challenge of limited digital capabilities of entrepreneurs. Local communities also play a role in maintaining sustainable production and encouraging innovation in bead designs based on local culture to add value and attract market share. This collaboration can create a conducive ecosystem for the growth of creative small and medium enterprises (SMEs), while strengthening local identity and increasing product competitiveness in national and global markets. Thus, developing a waste-based creative economy and utilizing digital marketing are relevant innovative strategies in addressing current economic and environmental challenges.

Posters are an important means of conveying information and promoting products or services to a wider audience through the power of visual communication. This research focuses on redesigning promotional and informational posters to support the marketing strategy of the Kopi Es Tak Kie website, a long-standing Chinese culinary heritage in Jakarta. The main objectives of this research are to enhance visual appeal, expand market reach, and strengthen cultural values ​​through print media designs that are representative and relevant to the development of the digital era. The approach used is visual communication design with the Design Thinking method. The stages in this method include audience needs research, design concept design, prototyping, and usability evaluation involving target respondents. In the visualization process, Figma software was used to arrange the poster layout, while Procreate was utilized to create complementary illustrations that provide an artistic and authentic feel. The resulting poster design emphasizes the use of a color palette of brick red, cream, and dark blue, combined with script and sans-serif typography. This combination was chosen to convey a cultural message while emphasizing the exclusive image of the Kopi Es Tak Kie brand. The visual harmony of color and typography enhances the cultural narrative while emphasizing the modern brand identity. The primary audience for this poster is young adults aged 22–40 who are interested in the fusion of traditional coffee culture and modern lifestyle. The findings of this study indicate that the redesigned poster is effective in bridging cultural heritage with digital branding, strengthening the identity of Kopi Es Tak Kie across both offline and online platforms. Thus, the poster medium is proven to act as a communication bridge connecting historical values ​​with contemporary marketing strategies.

This study examines the influence of club image, sponsor factors, and fan loyalty on the purchase intention of official merchandise among Bali United supporters. The focus of the research is to understand how these three factors contribute to driving merchandise sales in sports marketing, with the aim of providing insights that can improve the club's revenue strategies. By adopting a quantitative approach, primary data were collected from 87 respondents who are active supporters of Bali United, using an online questionnaire. The data were analyzed using multiple linear regression to evaluate the significance and direction of the relationships between the variables. The results reveal that each of the factors, sponsor factors and fan loyalty has a positive and significant effect, meanwhile club image has no significant effect on the intention to purchase official merchandise. This indicates that a stronger perception of the relevant and reputable sponsorships, and higher levels of fan commitment all contribute to an increased likelihood of supporters purchasing merchandise. The findings highlight the synergistic role of branding, partnerships, and community engagement in influencing consumer behavior within the sports fandom context. A positive impact from sponsor factors, such as the alignment of brands with the club's values, enhance the overall appeal of the merchandise. Moreover, fan loyalty acts as a significant driver, as loyal fans are more likely to invest in merchandise as a way to support their club. This study concludes that while Bali United’s club image does not significantly influence fans’ intention to buy merchandise, sponsor factors and fan loyalty have a positive and significant effect on purchase intention; therefore, strengthening fan loyalty and effectively managing sponsorship partnerships are key drivers in maximizing merchandise sales potential, while club image plays an indirect role.

This Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) assistance program aims to improve business capacity, strengthen branding, expand marketing reach, and provide formal legal status to MSMEs. Activities carried out include digital marketing training, assistance in creating e-commerce accounts, designing and delivering MSME logos, providing grants for sealing equipment, and assisting in obtaining a Business Identification Number (NIB) through the OSS system. The implementation methods include initial observation, activity planning, interactive training, direct mentoring, and post-activity monitoring and evaluation. These methods are designed to ensure that MSMEs are not only equipped with technical knowledge but also empowered with the practical tools necessary for success in a competitive market. The results of the activities show an improvement in the digital marketing skills of MSMEs, allowing them to reach a wider audience through social media platforms and online advertising. The creation of logos as brand identities has significantly boosted the recognition of these businesses, helping them establish a stronger presence in their respective markets. Additionally, the enhanced product packaging quality with the provision of sealing tools has led to better product presentation, which is essential in attracting customers and increasing sales. Furthermore, the acquisition of NIBs as business legal status has provided MSMEs with greater legitimacy, enabling them to access more formal business opportunities and funding options. This program has had a positive impact on the professionalism and competitiveness of MSMEs, which has been reflected in their increased ability to market their products effectively and efficiently. However, further assistance is needed in optimizing digital promotion, such as improving online advertising strategies, and fully utilizing NIBs for better business expansion. Moreover, it is crucial to offer ongoing support and guidance to ensure that MSMEs can continue to thrive and adapt to the rapidly changing digital landscape

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have long been recognized as a vital driver of economic growth, particularly in rural areas where access to large-scale industries is limited. In Dahu Village, the community relies on local products such as melinjo as one of the main sources of livelihood. However, despite the potential of melinjo-based products, business development has been constrained by limited innovation, low product diversification, and weak marketing strategies. These challenges hinder the competitiveness of local SMEs in wider markets, especially in appealing to younger consumers who often prefer modern and innovative products. To address these challenges, the 2025 Student Work Study Program (KKM) conducted by the University of Bina Bangsa implemented a community empowerment project aimed at enhancing the capacity of SMEs in the melinjo sector. The program introduced the development of an innovative product, namely chocolate-flavored keceprek, a melinjo-based snack with a unique taste and higher market value. The initiative not only focused on product innovation but also provided comprehensive support in production techniques, hygienic and attractive packaging, logo and banner design, as well as digital marketing strategies tailored to rural entrepreneurs. The results of the activity highlight that even a relatively simple innovation can significantly increase product appeal, improve branding, and create new market opportunities. Early feedback indicated that chocolate-flavored keceprek products successfully attracted interest from younger consumers, demonstrating the importance of innovation in maintaining the relevance of traditional products. Furthermore, the project functioned as a collaborative platform where students and local communities worked together in applying entrepreneurial concepts to local potential. This synergy not only contributed to improving the competitiveness of SMEs in Dahu Village but also encouraged sustainable economic development in rural areas through innovation, creativity, and digital-based marketing.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have long been recognized as a vital driver of economic growth, particularly in rural areas where access to large-scale industries is limited. In Dahu Village, the community relies on local products such as melinjo as one of the main sources of livelihood. However, despite the potential of melinjo-based products, business development has been constrained by limited innovation, low product diversification, and weak marketing strategies. These challenges hinder the competitiveness of local SMEs in wider markets, especially in appealing to younger consumers who often prefer modern and innovative products. To address these challenges, the 2025 Student Work Study Program (KKM) conducted by the University of Bina Bangsa implemented a community empowerment project aimed at enhancing the capacity of SMEs in the melinjo sector. The program introduced the development of an innovative product, namely chocolate-flavored keceprek, a melinjo-based snack with a unique taste and higher market value. The initiative not only focused on product innovation but also provided comprehensive support in production techniques, hygienic and attractive packaging, logo and banner design, as well as digital marketing strategies tailored to rural entrepreneurs. The results of the activity highlight that even a relatively simple innovation can significantly increase product appeal, improve branding, and create new market opportunities. Early feedback indicated that chocolate-flavored keceprek products successfully attracted interest from younger consumers, demonstrating the importance of innovation in maintaining the relevance of traditional products. Furthermore, the project functioned as a collaborative platform where students and local communities worked together in applying entrepreneurial concepts to local potential. This synergy not only contributed to improving the competitiveness of SMEs in Dahu Village but also encouraged sustainable economic development in rural areas through innovation, creativity, and digital-based marketing.

This study aims to analyze the role of authenticity in branding communication conducted by Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and its impact on consumer trust, emotional engagement, and brand loyalty. Employing a library research approach, data were collected from scholarly literature published between 2021 and 2025 relevant to authenticity, brand communication, and KOL-based marketing. The analysis reveals that authenticity serves as a key element linking brand values to positive audience perceptions, which subsequently influence brand equity and purchase intention. Furthermore, this research highlights that authenticity in digital marketing is not merely a rhetorical claim but a relational practice that shapes how consumers evaluate credibility and trustworthiness. Strategic communication practices such as narrative storytelling, transparent sponsorship disclosure, and value alignment significantly strengthen the credibility of both KOLs and the brands they represent. Authentic storytelling allows audiences to connect with the personal experiences of KOLs, thereby enhancing identification and fostering long-term engagement with the brand. However, this study also identifies several challenges in maintaining authenticity, including risks of over-commercialization, inconsistencies in message delivery, and misalignment between KOL identity and brand values. When audiences perceive exaggerated promotional tactics or lack of transparency, their trust can diminish, ultimately weakening brand loyalty. Therefore, the sustainability of authenticity requires continuous monitoring, adaptive strategies, and consistent ethical practices in brand communication. The findings affirm that authenticity is both a strategic differentiator and a fragile asset, requiring deliberate and sustained management in the competitive digital marketplace. By recognizing authenticity as a multidimensional construct—encompassing transparency, value congruence, and emotional resonance—brands and KOLs can collaboratively enhance audience engagement while preserving credibility. This research contributes to the development of more effective branding communication strategies through KOLs and offers practical guidance for marketers to navigate authenticity challenges in an era dominated by digital interactions and consumer skepticism.