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Economic empowerment of rural communities through the strengthening of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is a crucial pillar in achieving national economic independence. One of the fundamental obstacles faced by MSMEs in rural areas is financial exclusion due to low digital literacy and dependence on conventional cash transaction systems. The Community Service Program (KKN) of students from the State Islamic University of North Sumatra (UIN SU) in Pematang Tengah Village was designed to bridge this gap by optimizing the Indonesian Standard Quick Response Code (QRIS). Through an intensive participatory mentoring approach, students acted as agents of digital transformation who educated, trained, and facilitated 10 local MSME actors in adopting non-cash payment technology. The results of the program show a significant shift from digital skepticism to digital trust. The implementation of QRIS has been proven to increase operational efficiency, financial management accuracy, and strengthen the image of business modernity in the eyes of consumers. This article emphasizes that the role of students is not merely as information deliverers, but as catalysts of social capital that is crucial for the sustainability of digitalization at the village level.

This study aims to improve digital money literacy among the community of Kineppen Village, Munte District, Karo Regency, through education and the implementation of the QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) payment system. The research utilized a descriptive qualitative approach, incorporating field observations, interviews, and direct mentoring with four local businesses: Ayam Penyet Pak Lek, Warkop Aim Tigander, Oke Laundry Kineppen, and Pangkas Singarimbun. The findings show that two businesses, Ayam Penyet Pak Lek and Pangkas Singarimbun, successfully adopted QRIS, leading to smoother transactions and increased customer trust. However, the other two businesses, Warkop Aim Tigander and Oke Laundry Kineppen, still face challenges in adopting the system due to limited internet access and deep-rooted traditional cash payment habits. Despite these barriers, the program significantly enhanced the digital literacy of local entrepreneurs, raising their awareness and readiness to participate in the village’s digital economy. This study emphasizes the importance of continuous support and access to technology in fostering the broader adoption of digital payment systems, particularly in rural areas where technological access may still be limited

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are a fundamental pillar of the Indonesian economy, but their potential is often hampered by the digital divide, especially in rural areas. The Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) initiative is a way for the government to encourage digital transformation and make payments more accessible to everyone. This article aims to document and analyse the process and impact of a community service programme that facilitated the adoption of QRIS among 10 MSMEs in Pematang Tengah Village, Tanjung Pura Sub-district. This activity used the Community-Based Participatory Action Research (CBPAR) method, which emphasises active collaboration between the service team and MSME partners. The process included participatory planning, collaborative action in the form of intensive training and mentoring, and joint evaluation. The results showed that all 10 MSME partners successfully adopted and used QRIS for daily transactions. The significant benefits included increased transaction efficiency, improved financial record-keeping, and a more modern business image. The main challenges identified were initial doubts about the technology and unstable internet connectivity, which were successfully mitigated through personalised mentoring based on trust. It was concluded that the CBPAR (Community-Based Participatory Action Research) method is a highly effective framework for implementing technological innovation in rural MSME communities because it not only addresses technical skill gaps but also builds crucial social capital such as trust and digital confidence.

Plastic waste management in rural areas, particularly in tourism villages, remains an environmental challenge that requires sustainable solutions. Negeri Tongging Village, as a tourism area around Lake Toba, has experienced an increase in household plastic waste that has not been managed optimally, potentially affecting environmental quality and community well-being. This community service activity aimed to enhance community awareness and capacity in plastic waste management through the implementation of a circular economy approach based on a waste exchange program and ecobrick production. A participatory approach was employed by actively involving the community in all stages of the activity, including socialization, program implementation, and evaluation. The program was carried out during the 2025 Community Service Program of Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, consisting of circular economy socialization, collection of plastic waste through an exchange scheme with basic necessities, training on ecobrick production, and the provision of supporting facilities for environmental cleanliness. The results indicate an increase in community participation and environmental awareness, a reduction in improperly disposed plastic waste, and an improvement in community skills in processing plastic waste into useful products. In addition, the activity strengthened mutual cooperation and environmental responsibility among community members. In conclusion, the application of a circular economy approach through ecobrick-based activities can serve as an effective alternative solution for plastic waste management while simultaneously supporting sustainable community empowerment in rural tourism areas.

Financial literacy is a fundamental competency that should be developed from an early age to foster prudent financial behavior in the future. However, the level of financial literacy among elementary school students remains relatively low, particularly in rural areas. The Community Service Program (Kuliah Kerja Nyata/KKN) serves as a strategic platform for providing financial education to the community, including elementary school students. This study aims to describe the implementation of a basic financial literacy program for students of SD 050430 Bunuraya Village through the KKN program and to analyze its impact on students’ understanding of financial concepts. This study employs a qualitative descriptive method, with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The findings indicate that the financial literacy program delivered through interactive learning media effectively improves students’ understanding of basic concepts such as saving, distinguishing between needs and wants, and simple management of pocket money. The program is expected to serve as an initial step in building early financial awareness and encouraging the involvement of schools and families in children’s financial education.

Economic development in rural areas, specifically, aims to improve community welfare. However, in practice, many challenges remain, such as limited technical skills, minimal innovation, and low community capacity to create and develop productive businesses. One way to address these challenges is through human resource empowerment. Gunung Tinggi Village has the potential to develop creative businesses, particularly among housewives, such as dishwashing soap. This product is a household necessity that is used routinely, so demand tends to be sustainable. Therefore, a SWOT analysis was used to provide sustainability recommendations for this business. The methods used included service learning (SL) with a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach to ensure active participant involvement and the program's alignment with the community's real needs. The results showed that the initial impact of this Community Service Program (PKM) activity was evident in the production of marketable products and the opening of new business opportunities, which directly contributed to the diversification of income sources and increased family economic independence. Furthermore, the application of SWOT analysis proved effective as a tool in formulating sustainability strategies for the micro-enterprises being developed.

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.

Training programs are an effective strategy for empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in rural areas. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of training in producing Sunlight dishwashing liquid as an effort to empower MSMEs in Jandi Meriah Village. It also examines the impact of the training on improving community skills, expanding business development opportunities, and contributing to the village’s economic growth. This research employs a qualitative descriptive method with data collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The findings show that the training significantly enhances participants’ technical knowledge and skills in producing dishwashing liquid, including understanding raw materials, formulation processes, and product packaging techniques. Additionally, the training fosters entrepreneurial motivation, strengthens basic managerial abilities, and opens opportunities for forming small business groups based on home industry activities. The socio-economic impacts include increased household income potential, strengthened community collaboration, and the emergence of new MSME initiatives. This study concludes that training in producing Sunlight dishwashing liquid is an effective empowerment instrument to enhance community capacity and strengthen the village economy, making it a sustainable program model for other rural areas.

This study aims to introduce the convenience of digital transactions through socialization of the use of the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) to residents of Marihat Bukit Village. This activity was motivated by the low public understanding of the use of non-cash transactions, particularly QRIS, which is an innovative integrated digital payment system from Bank Indonesia. Through socialization and direct practice, residents were introduced to how to use QRIS in various daily transactions, such as shopping, paying for services, and other local economic activities. The results of the activity showed an increase in public understanding and interest in the use of digital transactions that are easier, faster, and safer. It is hoped that this activity will encourage digital financial inclusion in rural areas and support government programs to expand literacy and the application of financial technology in the community. Furthermore, active community participation in this activity shows great potential to reduce dependence on cash transactions and encourage digital transformation at the village level. This activity is also expected to accelerate the transition to a more inclusive and digital-based society.

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a vital role in supporting the Indonesian economy, especially in rural areas where they contribute significantly to employment and local income. Sait Buttu Saribu Village in Simalungun Regency possesses considerable potential in the agricultural, tourism, and culinary sectors, which can be developed through strong MSME activities. Nevertheless, many local MSMEs continue to experience challenges related to limited promotion, weak branding, and restricted market access. This study aims to analyze visit-based and promotional strategies for MSMEs as an effort to strengthen the village economy and enhance business competitiveness. The research methods consist of a literature review of relevant previous studies and field observations conducted through community service activities in the village. The findings indicate that industrial visits, digital promotion via social media platforms, the utilization of Google Maps for location visibility, and branding that highlights local wisdom are effective strategies for expanding market reach and increasing MSME competitiveness. Through strong synergy among the village government, MSME actors, and the local community, MSMEs in Sait Buttu Saribu Village can grow more optimally and contribute to sustainable economic development and tourism.

The development of rural economies based on locally superior commodities is an integral part of inclusive and sustainable development strategies. Sumberdem located in Wonosari Subdistrict, Malang Regency, possesses significant potential for the development of coffee-based ecotourism. However, this potential remains largely underutilized due to several structural and institutional constraints. Key challenges include inadequate supporting infrastructure, limited capacity of local human resources, and the absence of downstream processing for coffee products. This community engagement program implemented an adaptive approach known as the Lumintu model, rooted in the Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) framework. Field assessments revealed critical limitations such as poor road access to plantation areas, insufficient agricultural irrigation, and weak digital connectivity. Moreover, the capacity of village institutions—such as the Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDesa) and coffee farmer groups—remained low, resulting in local coffee products with limited added value. The initial implementation of the program has shown promising results, particularly in strengthening institutional capacity through training on tourism business management and high–value coffee processing. Furthermore, product diversification through the development of coffee-based agrotourism and digital marketing innovations has been successfully introduced. Overall, this community engagement initiative has provided a concrete solution to rural development challenges in Sumberdem Village. Moving forward, the village is expected to strengthen its position as a sustainable coffee ecotourism destination and improve the long-term economic well-being of its residents. The proposed development model also holds the potential for adaptation and replication in other rural areas with similar characteristics, thereby supporting the broader achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Gununganyar Reservoir in Tuban Regency is one of the reservoirs used as a source of livelihood for the local community. However, further development and utilization of Gununganyar Reservoir have yet to be undertaken. The development of a small-scale floating Photovoltaic Solar Power Plant (floating solar panels) at Gununganyar Reservoir, aimed at providing an alternative and renewable energy source for operating raw water pumps and for supporting the Gununganyar Nature Tourism (WAG) initiative, constitutes an innovative and strategic effort to enhance energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in rural areas. This study focuses on the design and performance assessment of a floating solar panel system constructed with processed bamboo as an alternative floating material replacing HDPE, while integrating local wisdom and environmental conservation principles to minimize the reservoir’s carbon footprint. The methodology employs a simple quantitative approach combined with a literature review of relevant studies. Based on the analysis, the design of this small-scale floating solar panel system utilizes a 170 Wp off-grid solar module mounted at a tilt angle of approximately 7,1°, capable of generating a peak power output exceeding 2,962 kWp and supported by a battery capacity of  328,33 Ah. The implementation of these floating solar panels is expected to serve as a model for reservoir development by promoting energy self-sufficiency, stimulating local economic growth, and contributing to the achievement of net zero emissions by 2060.

Non-health facility deliveries remain a significant maternal health problem in rural areas, increasing the risk of complications for both mothers and newborns. Cigobang Village, Karang Tengah, Babakan Madang District, is one of the areas where home deliveries assisted by non-health personnel are still practiced. This community service activity was conducted through the Village Community Health Development (PKMD) program involving 103 respondents, there were 8 pregnant women (100%) who still planned to give birth at home assisted by non-health personnel. The objective of this activity was to improve community awareness and knowledge regarding safe delivery practices in health facilities. The methods included a community health assessment using questionnaires, maternal health education sessions, and interactive discussions with pregnant women, families, and community health cadres. The results showed that despite the implementation of health education, some pregnant women still planned home deliveries assisted by non-health personnel due to cultural beliefs, accessibility issues, and financial considerations. The PKMD activities contributed to increased community knowledge; however, continuous education and multisectoral collaboration are required to promote safer delivery practices.

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a strategic role in driving local economic development, particularly in rural areas that rely on the utilization of local natural resources. However, many MSMEs still face challenges in marketing aspects, especially limited use of digital technology, weak branding, and unattractive product packaging. This community service activity aims to strengthen the marketing strategy of the “Nek Surati” cassava chips MSME located in Dolok Village, Nagori Boluk, Bosar Maligas District, Simalungun Regency. The methods employed include field observations, interviews with MSME actors, descriptive analysis of existing problems, and practice-based (hands-on) assistance through digital marketing training, improvement of packaging design, and strengthening of product branding. The results indicate an increase in the digital readiness of the MSME actor, as evidenced by the adoption of WhatsApp Business, the creation of digital product catalogs, and the utilization of social media as a promotional tool. In addition, improvements in packaging design and brand identity enhanced the visual appeal and product image in the eyes of consumers. This assistance activity had a positive impact on improving the marketing capacity of the MSME and opened opportunities for expanding market reach. With continuous assistance, the “Nek Surati” cassava chips MSME has the potential to increase its competitiveness and contribute more significantly to the local economy.

This Community Service Program (PkM) aims to strengthen the role of adolescent parents through education on parenting during puberty and family financial literacy in Lembang Tondon Langi’, Tondon District, North Toraja Regency. Through two training sessions led by Ibu Rio Rita Pakan and Ibu Westerini, the program focused on enhancing the knowledge and skills of parents in addressing the challenges of parenting adolescent children and managing household finances. The first session, which addressed parenting during puberty, provided parents with insights into the characteristics of adolescent development and effective communication strategies. The second session, which focused on family financial management, offered practical skills in budgeting, debt management, and saving for the future. The results of the program showed that parents in Lembang Tondon Langi’ felt more prepared and confident in applying a more open and adaptive approach to parenting, as well as becoming more prudent in managing household finances. The enhancement of skills in both areas is expected to create more harmonious families and greater financial stability. The sustainability of the program is recommended through the formation of ongoing discussion groups and the active involvement of community leaders. This program has contributed positively to family welfare and the empowerment of parents in rural areas

This community service program aims to improve public literacy and awareness of the Islamic capital market through socialization and educational activities in Telaga Jernih Village, Secanggang District. Islamic financial literacy in rural areas remains relatively low due to limited access to information and education, leading people to prefer traditional investments such as livestock and plantations. The activity was carried out by the Community Service Program (KKN) team in collaboration with the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) as the main speaker and the village government as a supporting partner. The methods used included observation, counseling, interactive discussions, and simple simulations of Islamic investment practices. The results revealed high enthusiasm among participants, reflected in their active engagement and significant improvement in understanding the concepts, principles, and products of Islamic investment. The community began to realize that Islamic capital market investments are not only halal and safe but also offer long-term economic benefits. This activity positively influenced the community’s mindset to view Islamic financial investment as a complementary form of traditional investment. The program also opened opportunities for forming a village-based Islamic investor community and establishing a financial literacy center as a follow-up initiative. Therefore, this program plays a vital role in strengthening Islamic financial inclusion in rural areas and serves as an initial step toward creating a financially literate, independent, and economically productive society.

This study examines the utilization of social media in improving the competitiveness of cassava chips and lidah manis SMEs in Pematang Serai Village, Tanjung Pura District, Langkat Regency, North Sumatra Province. The rapid development of information technology has encouraged SMEs to shift from conventional marketing methods to more effective and efficient digital marketing practices. This research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through field observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving SME actors. The results indicate that the use of social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram is able to expand market reach, increase product visibility, and strengthen relationships between business owners and consumers. Attractive promotional content, consistency in posting, and responsive communication are proven to influence consumer buying interest and trust. However, SMEs still face challenges, including limited digital literacy, time management constraints, and the lack of structured marketing strategies. Therefore, continuous training and assistance are needed so that SMEs can optimize the use of social media more effectively. This study is expected to serve as a reference for the development of digital-based SMEs in rural areas.

Drug abuse and risky social behavior remain significant social issues among adolescents, particularly in rural areas experiencing rapid information exposure and lifestyle changes. This community service program aimed to enhance adolescents’ awareness and resilience toward the dangers of drug abuse (NAPZA) while promoting a healthy lifestyle through the cultivation of family medicinal plants (TOGA) in Karangmalang Village, Ngawi Regency. The program employed a participatory descriptive approach, actively involving adolescents as the primary beneficiaries. The implementation consisted of two main stages: interactive socialization on drug abuse and risky behavior, and a workshop on cultivating medicinal plants as a form of community-based healthy living practice. The results indicated that the socialization activities improved adolescents’ understanding and awareness of drug abuse risks, as reflected in their active participation during discussions. Furthermore, the TOGA cultivation workshop provided practical benefits by introducing simple herbal remedies and offering positive, sustainable activities for the community. Overall, the integration of educational and practical approaches proved effective as a preventive and empowerment strategy to strengthen adolescent resilience and foster a healthier and more productive village environment.

Per capita expenditure is an important indicator of household welfare because it reflects the economic capacity and consumption patterns of the community, as explained in Engel's Law. In regions with diverse geographical characteristics such as Papua Province, spatial analysis is needed to understand the variations in expenditure between districts/cities and the differences between urban and rural areas. This study aims to analyze the spatial distribution of per capita expenditure percentages for food and non-food items in nine districts/cities in Papua Province during the 2022–2024 period. The research data was sourced from the National Socioeconomic Survey (Susenas). The methods used included quantile-based choropleth mapping using QGIS, attribute data merging through table joins, and Pearson's correlation test to evaluate the consistency of spending patterns between years. The analysis results show that food and non-food spending patterns were relatively stable during the observation period with high correlation values (r = 0,85–0,93), although spatial variations between regions were still apparent. Mamberamo Raya Regency consistently had the highest proportion of food spending (>68%), while Jayapura City showed the lowest proportion. These findings indicate spatial disparities related to urbanization levels and economic access. Spatial visualization proved effective in revealing regional disparity patterns that were not fully apparent through conventional statistical tables and has the potential to support the formulation of more evidence-based regional development policies.

Rapid This study examines the effectiveness of environmental legal instruments in addressing water access inequalities in multicultural rural communities. Despite the existence of various legal frameworks, disparities in water access remain prevalent, especially in rural areas where socio economic, cultural, and governance challenges persist. Legal instruments such as the Water Framework Directive (WFD) and the Clean Water Act (CWA) have proven effective in improving water quality and access in urban settings, but their impact in rural communities is often limited. The study explores the role of legal pluralism, where both statutory and customary laws coexist, in enhancing water governance. It also evaluates the importance of integrating cultural sensitivity into legal frameworks to foster community participation and sustainable water management. Through a mixed methods approach combining legal analysis and socio economic assessments, this study provides insights into the barriers to effective water governance and proposes policy recommendations for improving water access. Key findings suggest that inclusive governance models, which respect local customs and empower communities, lead to more sustainable and equitable water management outcomes. The study highlights the need for legal reforms that recognize the diverse cultural, governance, and infrastructural contexts of rural communities, ensuring that water access policies are both culturally adaptive and legally effective. By integrating these approaches, future policies can more effectively tackle water access inequalities in multicultural rural settings.