Jurnal Ilmu Sosial dan Ilmu Politik
Vol 29, No 3 (2026): March

Digitalising Traditional Markets: Challenges and Opportunities for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia

Suyatna, Hempri (Unknown)
Abdallah Kafaa, Kafa (Unknown)
Farid Budiono, Mohammad (Unknown)
Mashita Firdaus, Rindu Sanubari (Unknown)
Ari Wibowo, Istianto (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
13 Feb 2026

Abstract

Using a qualitative case study approach conducted from May 2020 to August 2021, this study investigates how traditional markets, namely the Sambilegi and Kolombo markets, work with digitalisation in Indonesia. It focuses on collective-based digital initiatives in terms of their implementation and sustainability amid increasing competition with modern e-commerce platforms. Within the broader context of Indonesia's economic development, the informal economy that is strongly dominated by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) remains crucial for national growth. Findings from observations and field interviews with market stakeholders show that the influence of social capital is twofold; while it can strengthen transformation through shared commitment and collaboration, it can also hinder progress and innovation among stakeholders in traditional markets. Furthermore, the sustainability of collective-based digitalisation faces challenges when met with limited digital literacy, insufficient motivation, and inconsistent mentorship programmes. The study concludes that capacity-building and persistent institutional support, as well as a robust governance framework, have the potential to ensure long-term success in digitalising traditional markets. The study extends an understanding of how social capital ushers in digital transformation, along with strategies to sustain it within the Indonesian traditional market context.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jsp

Publisher

Subject

Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences

Description

Jurnal Ilmu Sosial dan Ilmu Politik (JSP) is an open access, and peer-reviewed journal. Our main goal is to disseminate current and original articles from researchers and practitioners on various contemporary social and political issues: gender politics and identity, digital society and disruption, ...