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This study aims to analyze the skills gap in the era of the Industrial Revolution 4.0 and the factors influencing it. The research employed a descriptive-analytical approach based on literature studies and the author’s analysis of the dynamics of formal education curricula and the development of industrial needs. The findings indicate that formal education curricula that are less adaptive to technological developments are the main factor causing the skills gap. In addition, the slow adaptation to technology in educational and industrial environments, as well as the unequal distribution of skills development across various regions in Indonesia, further widen the gap between graduates’ competencies and labor market demands. This condition affects the low readiness of the workforce in facing digital transformation and global competition. The study concludes that the skills gap is a strategic issue requiring serious attention from the government, educational institutions, and the industrial sector. Curriculum reform that is responsive to technological advancements, strengthening digital literacy, and ensuring equal access to training and skills development are essential steps to improve the competitiveness of Indonesian human resources. These efforts are expected to support poverty reduction, reduce social inequality, and achieve the long-term national development goals toward Indonesia Golden Vision 2045.

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly altered the landscape of business decision-making, particularly for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. Despite their critical role in economic growth and employment generation, MSMEs frequently encounter substantial barriers related to technological adoption, digital literacy, and resource allocation. This research systematically investigates the utilization of artificial intelligence as a responsive innovation mechanism designed to optimize decision-making processes within the MSME sector. By employing a comprehensive systematic literature review methodology, analyzing peer-reviewed publications from globally recognized academic databases between 2018 and 2024, this study delineates the multifaceted benefits, complex challenges, and contextualized adoption strategies associated with AI integration. The findings reveal that artificial intelligence holds transformative potential for enhancing operational efficiency, refining predictive analytics, and sustaining long-term competitiveness. Conversely, critical challenges, including inadequate digital infrastructure, financial constraints, and organizational resistance, remain pervasive obstacles. Consequently, the study advocates for a gradual, responsive innovation approach that aligns technological adoption with specific business needs and environmental pressures. The insights derived from this research offer substantial theoretical and practical implications, providing a strategic framework for policymakers and MSME owners to accelerate digital transformation inclusively.

The rise of the digital business era presents both opportunities and challenges for SME operators, particularly regarding legal aspects of business and unfair competition. This community service initiative aims to enhance the legal literacy and capacity of SME operators in Surakarta through educational and practical legal support. The methods employed included a pre-test to measure initial understanding, a legal needs assessment to identify participants’ legal requirements, the presentation of materials and interactive discussions as forms of intervention, and a post-test to evaluate improvements in understanding. The results of the activity demonstrated a significant improvement in participants’ legal knowledge and awareness, particularly regarding business contracts, digital transactions, and the risks of unfair competition. Furthermore, there was a shift in participants’ mindset, as they began to view the law as a strategic tool in running their businesses. Nevertheless, this initiative still faces challenges such as time constraints and the need for more intensive follow-up support. Consequently, legal support based on the actual needs of MSME operators has proven effective and requires continuous development to strengthen the competitiveness and legal protection of MSMEs in the digital age.

This paper examines the shift in the economic paradigm in Indonesia through digitalization, driven by the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the transition towards Society 5.0. The people's economy based on SMEs faces significant new challenges and opportunities in this era. Using a literature approach and case studies, this article highlights how information technology plays a role not only as a marketing tool but also as an instrument to strengthen economic sovereignty in accordance with the mandate of Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution. The findings indicate that the success of digital transformation depends on the synergy between supportive government policies, private sector innovation, and the adaptability of SME actors. In facing global challenges, the proposed strategy includes strengthening digital literacy for all levels of society and protecting the domestic market from the influx of foreign products that could threaten the sustainability of SMEs. This is crucial to ensure the future resilience of the national economy while also promoting the sustainable growth of the SME sector. Thus, digitalization is not only an efficiency solution but also a key factor in reinforcing Indonesia's people-based economy in the globalization era.

Manggis Village, Mojosongo District, Boyolali Regency has considerable potential in local products, particularly in agriculture and processed food sectors. However, limited digital literacy among community members has caused marketing practices to remain conventional, with limited market reach and low promotional effectiveness. This community service program aims to improve community skills in creating, managing, and distributing digital content to support the promotion of local products. The methods used include training, hands-on practice, and mentoring in producing photo and video content, writing promotional captions, and managing social media platforms. The activity was conducted over two days and involved local SMEs, youth organizations, and village officials. The results indicate an improvement in participants’ ability to produce attractive digital content and manage social media accounts more systematically. In addition, a village digital media team was formed, and a two-week content plan was developed to ensure continuity. This program positively contributes to strengthening community capacity in utilizing digital media for broader, sustainable local product promotion while supporting economic competitiveness among rural communities in the future.

This study aims to examine the effect of Islamic financial literacy, green orientation, Islamic business ethics, and sustainable innovation on the sustainability performance of fashion SMEs in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This research adopts a quantitative approach using a survey method, with data collected from 200 fashion SME owners selected through purposive sampling. The analysis was conducted using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that all proposed variables significantly influence sustainability performance. Sustainable innovation emerges as the most influential factor, followed by green orientation, Islamic business ethics, and Islamic financial literacy. These results indicate that the integration of sustainability-oriented practices and Islamic values plays a crucial role in enhancing the long-term performance of SMEs. From a theoretical perspective, this study contributes to the literature by integrating Resource-Based View and Dynamic Capabilities Theory in explaining sustainability performance within an Islamic context. Practically, the findings suggest that SME owners should strengthen their understanding of Islamic principles, adopt environmentally friendly practices, and foster innovation to achieve sustainable competitiveness. This study provides a novel framework by combining Islamic values and sustainability perspectives, particularly in the context of fashion SMEs in a developing country. Future research is recommended to incorporate moderating variables such as government support and digital capability to enrich the model.

The development of digital technology has encouraged micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in the culinary sector, to adapt by utilizing online applications as a strategy to increase competitiveness. This community service activity aims to improve the understanding and capabilities of business owners at Kedai Jajanan Zahira in Surabaya in utilizing online applications as a marketing and sales tool. The method used in this study is Participatory Action Research (PAR), an approach that actively involves business actors in every stage of the process. These stages include problem identification, planning, implementation, and evaluation. Data collection techniques were carried out through interviews and direct observation to obtain a realistic picture of business conditions. The results of the activity showed an increase in business owners' understanding of the importance of digitalization, improved skills in using food delivery applications and social media, and increased market reach and interaction with consumers. In addition, the use of online applications also contributed to increased operational efficiency, such as more systematic order management and transaction recording. Overall, mentoring in the use of online applications has proven effective in increasing the competitiveness of culinary businesses. This activity has a positive impact not only on increasing sales, but also on business sustainability through increased digital literacy and the ability to adapt to technological developments. Therefore, ongoing mentoring is needed so that business actors can consistently optimize the use of digital technology in developing their businesses.

This study aims to analyze innovative strategies that can be implemented by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in East Java to improve competitiveness through digital marketing and e-commerce. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with a library research method by reviewing various scientific literature, government reports, and previous studies related to MSME innovation and digital transformation. The results of the study indicate that digital marketing and e-commerce innovation can increase market reach, operational efficiency, product differentiation, and MSME sales. However, the implementation of innovation still faces several challenges such as low digital literacy, limited capital, limited technology, and lack of system integration. Therefore, innovative strategies are needed, including integrated digital marketing, marketplace optimization, social commerce, digital payment systems, logistics integration, digital branding strengthening, and digital literacy training. In addition, collaboration between MSMEs, government, universities, communities, and digital platforms is an important factor in accelerating MSME digital transformation. This study produces recommendations for an innovative strategy model based on digital marketing and e-commerce to improve the competitiveness and sustainability of MSMEs in East Java.

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) constitute the backbone of Indonesia's national economy, contributing approximately 61% of GDP and absorbing 97% of the total workforce; however, the majority of MSME actors, particularly in eastern Indonesia, continue to face structural barriers in digital technology adoption and capital access that constrain optimal business performance. This study aims to analyze the partial and simultaneous effects of marketing digitalization and business capital on MSME performance in Ambon City. A quantitative approach with associative-causal design was employed, involving 30 respondents selected through purposive sampling from active MSME operators in Ambon City. Data were collected via a five-point Likert scale questionnaire and analyzed using multiple linear regression with IBM SPSS version 26, preceded by validity, reliability, and classical assumption tests. Results demonstrate that marketing digitalization exerts a positive and significant partial effect on MSME performance (t = 8.060; sig. = 0.000; β = 1.061), establishing it as the most dominant predictor in the model. Conversely, business capital shows no significant partial effect (t = 0.746; sig. = 0.462), attributable to the homogeneity of capital access among MSME actors in archipelagic regions. Simultaneously, both variables significantly influence MSME performance (F = 287.070; sig. = 0.000), with an exceptionally high R Square of 0.955, indicating that 95.5% of performance variance is collectively explained by the two predictors. These findings underscore the critical role of digital marketing capabilities over financial resources alone in archipelagic contexts. It is recommended that the Ambon City Government integrate digital marketing literacy training programs synergistically with inclusive financing schemes to comprehensively strengthen MSME competitiveness across the Maluku archipelago.

Digitalization is an effort to utilize digital-based technology to transform previously conventional work systems into more efficient and effective ones, including in the management of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This study aims to apply digitalization to corn-based coffe MSMEs in Talang Balai Baru 1 Village, Tanjung Raja District, Ogan Ilir Regency. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques through interviews, observation, and documentation. The research findings indicate that the production and marketing activities of corn coffe MSMEs still use conventional methods. The implementation of digitaization has not been optimally implemented due to the low digital literacy of business owners and limited time in business managemen. Nevertheless, the initial implementation of digitalization through the use of social media and online sales platforms has had a positive impact in the form of expanding market reach and increasing ease of communication between producers and consumers. Thus, the digitalization of corn coffe MSME products has great potential to increase competitiveness and business sustainability if implemented gradually and continuously. .

This community engagement program addresses the limited digital marketing utilization of Be Bloomy Bouquets, a creative knitting business, within the MBKM Entrepreneurship framework. The program aims to design and implement adaptive digital marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility, competitiveness, and business sustainability. Using a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, the program was conducted from October to November 2025 through preparation, implementation, and evaluation stages. The results indicate that digital marketing assistance via Instagram and TikTok significantly increased audience reach, customer interaction, and brand awareness, while marketplace utilization still requires further optimization. The discussion highlights that integrating handmade product creativity, digital branding strategies, and participatory reflection fosters entrepreneurial behavior change and strengthens local leadership capacity. In conclusion, the program generates not only technical improvements in marketing performance but also social transformation through enhanced digital literacy, independence, and local leadership. Future recommendations emphasize content consistency, production management, and sustainable digital marketing strategies.

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of Rengginang MSME registration on Google Maps as a strategy to strengthen the economy in Pahang Village, Babata Village. The background of the research shows that most MSMEs still rely on conventional marketing so that business visibility is relatively low. With a qualitative case study approach, this study explores the experience of the owner of Rengginang Azam MSMEs, Mrs. Siti, who registered her business location on Google Maps. The results of the study show that digitalization through Google Maps has a positive impact in the form of increasing accessibility and reach for customers, especially from outside the village. Location registration allows customers to find more complete information about products and locations, increasing the number of visits to the store. The real impact felt is an increase in sales and profits without additional promotional costs. This study concludes that the use of Google Maps as a digital promotional medium is an effective strategy in strengthening the competitiveness of MSMEs in the digital era. In addition, this finding confirms the importance of digital literacy for MSME actors to utilize technology as a means of business development and strengthening the local economy.

The rapid development of digital technology requires greater adaptive capacity in both the economic and educational sectors, including in rural areas. However, limited digital literacy and the continued use of conventional learning methods remain common challenges. This activity aims to enhance the competitiveness of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as well as the quality of primary education in Baharen Village, Sidamanik District, through the implementation of a Community Service Program (Kuliah Kerja Nyata/KKN). A descriptive qualitative approach with a participatory model was employed, actively involving MSME actors, teachers, and students throughout all stages of the program. The activities included assistance in the digitalization of the MSME Gerai Mumtazah through Google Maps registration and the implementation of the QRIS cashless payment system, as well as the application of interactive learning methods based on joyful learning at the Baharen Village State Elementary School. The results indicate an increase in students’ learning motivation and classroom participation, along with improved accessibility and transaction efficiency for the MSME partner. These findings suggest that community-based participatory service activities can make a tangible contribution to strengthening the local economy and improving the quality of education in rural areas.

Durian Bhineka Bawor is one of the leading local commodities of Alasmalang Village with high economic potential. However, product promotion and marketing activities are still dominated by conventional methods and limited local networks, resulting in restricted market access, low competitiveness, and the absence of structured product information documentation. This community service program aims to address these challenges through the implementation of an interactive website integrated with an AI Agent, serving as a centralized information platform as well as a digital product ordering service. The main objectives of this program are to strengthen local durian branding through the utilization of modern digital technology, expand market reach, and enhance community digital literacy. The implementation method was carried out in several stages, including program coordination and socialization, content needs assessment, website design and development, AI Agent and WhatsApp server integration, system testing, manager training, official deployment, and continuous assistance. The AI Agent provides interactive services in the form of product information delivery, personalized recommendations, and order facilitation directly connected to the admin dashboard and social media platforms, thereby accelerating transaction processes and improving consumer experience. The expected outcomes of this program include the establishment of a more professional, transparent, and efficient promotion and ordering system for Durian Bhineka Bawor products. The developed platform is expected to expand market access, increase product sales, and create new digital-based business opportunities. Furthermore, this program contributes to community empowerment by improving digital skills and technology management capabilities to support local economic independence and competitiveness.

Culinary MSMEs serve as a vital economic pillar; however, they often encounter significant internal management obstacles and low digital competitiveness. Sabila Snack & Bakery faces complex challenges, including unstructured production schedules, limited digital marketing literacy, inconsistent visual branding, and financial record-keeping that remains intertwined with personal funds. This community service initiative aims to provide applicable solutions by strengthening internal management and digital marketing strategies to enhance operational efficiency and business competitiveness. The methodology employed is Participatory Action Research (PAR), encompassing stages of observation, interviews, technical assistance, and evaluation. The results indicate a significant transformation in business governance. The implementation of daily production schedules has successfully improved workflow regularity and operational efficiency. Furthermore, branding reinforcement through the establishment of a permanent logo, the creation of systematic product catalogs, and the optimization of social media platforms such as WhatsApp Business, Instagram, and TikTok has effectively increased business visibility and professionalism in the digital sphere. Additionally, the application of a simple bookkeeping system has fostered administrative discipline and a clear separation between personal finances and business capital. Overall, this intervention has successfully transitioned the business from traditional management patterns toward a more structured, professional, and sustainable management model ready to compete in a broader market.

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a strategic role in the regional economy, including in Boyolali Regency. However, this contribution has not been fully matched by adequate human resources (HR). The main problem in this study is the still low capacity of MSMEs' human resources, particularly in aspects of managerial skills, digital literacy, and adaptability to changes in the business environment, which impact business performance. This study aims to analyze human resource development strategies implemented in the MSME context and examine the impact of these strategies on improving MSME performance in Boyolali Regency. The research method used is a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) with a content analysis approach to relevant scientific literature from the past five years. The research process includes determining inclusion and exclusion criteria, searching for literature sources, thematic coding, and synthesizing research findings. The results show that effective HR development strategies can be grouped into three main aspects: skills training, marketing digitalization, and cross-sector collaboration. These three strategies have been proven to contribute positively to improving MSME competency, operational efficiency, market expansion, and business competitiveness. Thus, human resource development is a key factor in driving sustainable improvement in MSME performance, particularly in facing the challenges of digital transformation and increasingly complex economic competition.

This study aims to analyze the role of the digital economy in increasing the competitiveness of MSMEs in Medan City. The rapidly developing digital transformation provides opportunities for MSMEs to expand their markets, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen their competitive position. However, the use of digital technology among MSMEs in Medan remains limited due to low digital literacy, limited capital, lack of training, and minimal use of digital platforms such as e-commerce, social media, and Google My Business. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method through a literature review of research conducted in 2024–2025. The results of the analysis indicate that the digital economy plays a significant role in increasing the competitiveness of MSMEs, particularly through digital marketing, technological innovation, and optimization of digital platforms that can increase visibility and interaction with customers. Based on the Resource-Based View (RBV) approach, the competitive advantage of MSMEs is determined by the quality of internal resources, especially digital literacy, innovation capabilities, and technology management. With the support of training and government policies, the implementation of the digital economy has the potential to strengthen the growth and sustainability of MSMEs in Medan City.

Creative technology is the result of the convergence between human creativity and digital innovation that significantly changes the way industries operate. This journal discusses the definition of creative technology, its important role in supporting the development of the digital economy, and the challenges that arise in the implementation process. The research methodology uses a literature study of the latest technological trends, such as artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR), and digital design. The results of the study show that the integration between technology and creativity is a key factor in increasing competitiveness in the future. Creative technology not only functions as a means of production, but also as a medium of innovation that is able to create added value, expand business opportunities, and encourage digital transformation in various sectors. However, the challenges faced include limited human resources, digital infrastructure readiness, and ethical and regulatory issues. Therefore, creative technology development strategies need to be directed at increasing digital literacy, cross-sector collaboration, and policies that support sustainable innovation.

The development of digital technology and the Industrial Revolution 4.0 have driven significant changes in marketing activities, including for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The use of e-commerce has become an important digital marketing strategy for MSMEs to increase competitiveness and business revenue. This study aims to examine the role of e-commerce implementation as a digital marketing tool for MSMEs in facing the Industrial Revolution 4.0 and analyze its impact on increasing MSME revenue and competitive advantage. The research method used is a qualitative descriptive approach with data collection techniques through literature studies of various literature sources such as books, scientific journals, and online publications relevant to the research topic. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of e-commerce has a positive impact on MSMEs, including expanding market reach, increasing marketing efficiency, and driving increased business revenue. In addition, e-commerce also plays a role in increasing MSME competitive advantage through product innovation, improving service quality, and strengthening relationships with consumers. However, the implementation of e-commerce in MSMEs still faces several challenges, such as low digital literacy, limited human resources, and minimal technical assistance. Therefore, ongoing support from various parties is needed so that the use of e-commerce by MSMEs can run optimally and sustainably in the digital era.

The creative economy industry serves as a strategic pillar of the national economy, experiencing significant transformation in the digital era. This study aims to comprehensively analyze the pattern of human resource (HR) competency gaps within priority subsectors of Indonesia's creative economy and formulate effective, multi-stakeholder development strategies. Employing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology, this research rigorously analyzes 30 scientific journal articles, government reports, and publications from global institutions published between 2014 and 2024. The findings delineate three primary clusters of competency gaps: (1) The Digital-Technical Competency Gap, encompassing deficiencies in data analytics, specialized software mastery, and digital content creation tools; (2) The Digital-Business Competency Gap, which includes shortcomings in digital financial literacy, online business model development, and management of digital intellectual property rights; and (3) The Social-Cognitive Competency Gap, highlighting needs in adaptability, complex problem-solving, and effective virtual collaboration. In response, this paper proposes an integrative strategic framework grounded in a collaborative multi-stakeholder approach. Key recommendations include revitalizing educational curricula through industry-embedded learning and micro-credential integration, developing agile and accessible training ecosystems featuring bootcamps and digital platforms, and fostering supportive policies through fiscal incentives and the alignment of national qualification frameworks with digital skill standards. The successful implementation of this synergistic strategy is expected to significantly enhance the adaptability, innovation capacity, and global competitiveness of Indonesia's creative workforce, thereby ensuring the sustainable growth of the creative economy sector in the face of rapid digital disruption.