Fusion of Technology and Creativity Key for SMEs to Survive Crises
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital (Wamenkomdigi) Nezar Patria stated that the combination of technology and creativity is key for micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) actors to remain viable in facing crises.
“A strategy that can be implemented is creative-tech fusion, which involves combining creativity with technology platforms,” Nezar said in his statement received and confirmed on Saturday.
Nezar said MSMEs have proven to be one of the resilient elements of the economy in various conditions, including during crises.
Adaptation in the digital era by integrating creativity and technology is needed by MSMEs so that businesses do not stop at the survival phase but also grow and develop.
“MSMEs are one of the sectors that have proven over the past nearly 30 years to withstand various shocks,” he stated.
In the current digital era, according to him, MSME actors need the ability to create content, build brands, and utilise digital platforms to reach wider markets.
Data shows that out of around 64 million MSMEs in Indonesia, only about 40% have entered the digital ecosystem.
On the other hand, internet penetration has reached more than 80% of the population or around 231 million residents.
This situation opens up great opportunities but also demands readiness from business actors in optimally utilising technology.
Therefore, the main challenge for MSMEs today is not just the availability of access, but the ability to manage digital presence.
“The challenge is how to manage accounts, implement digital marketing, and build an audience to expand market reach,” he explained.
To address this need, the government is committed to supporting MSME adaptation to the digital space.
One of its programmes is named UMKM Go Digital, which helps MSME actors build capacity to understand the latest technology to enhance their businesses.
Through this programme, MSME actors can access training in digital marketing up to the utilisation of artificial intelligence to increase business competitiveness.
“MSME actors can learn digital marketing as well as adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technology to optimise their businesses,” Nezar said.
It is hoped that MSME actors can take advantage of the various programmes offered so that the adaptation process in this digital era can be carried out more quickly and ultimately support national economic growth.