Accelerating Msme Digital Transformation Through The Hexa Helix Model: Evidence From Parepare's Creative Economy and Sustainable Tourism

Firman Syah; Andi AR; Mawar Nur Indah Sari

doi:10.32659/tsj.v11i2.493

Authors

Firman Syah Universitas Muhammadiyah Parepare, Indonesia
Andi AR Universitas Muhammadiyah Parepare, Indonesia
Mawar Nur Indah Sari Universitas Muhammadiyah Parepare, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32659/tsj.v11i2.493

Keywords:

Digital Transformation, Hexa Helix Model, MSMEs, Creative Economy, Sustainable Tourism, collaborative governance

Abstract

This study examines the digital readiness, constraints, and collaborative opportunities of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Parepare City in order to strengthen the creative economy and support sustainable tourism. Using a mixed-methods design, the study integrates semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), a structured survey of 47 MSMEs, and MACTOR (Matrix of Alliances and Conflicts: Tactics, Objectives, and Recommendations) analysis. The survey indicates a strong awareness of digital benefits, with 40 of 47 MSMEs recognizing digitalization as important for business development. However, implementation remains uneven because of limited formal training (35 MSMEs), restricted access to capital (33 MSMEs), limited digital skills (32 MSMEs), inadequate infrastructure (29 MSMEs), and limited time to manage digital platforms (28 MSMEs). The MACTOR results show that the local government has the highest influence score (55), while MSMEs are central implementation actors with high dependence on institutional support. Strong convergence appears between government and MSMEs (score 19) and among government, academia, and business associations (score 18), particularly in digital literacy, branding, and ecosystem strengthening. The novelty of this study lies in extending the Hexa Helix Model by positioning tourists not only as consumers but also as digital affiliates who promote local products and destinations through user-generated content. The findings suggest that MSME digital transformation requires coordinated governance, sector-specific capability building, accessible financing, and stronger integration between creative-economy actors and sustainable tourism stakeholders.

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