Abstract:This study aims to examine the influence of User-Generated Content (UGC) on the TikTok platform on Brand Trust and the Decision to Choose a Higher Education Institution, with Brand Authenticity serving as the mediating variable.…
ariable. This study employs an explanatory quantitative approach. Data were collected via an online survey of a purposive sample comprising prospective students or first-year students (aged 17–21) who actively use TikTok and interact with university-related content. Data analysis was conducted on a minimum of 250 respondents using Partial Least Squares (PLS)-based Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) with the aid of SmartPLS software. The results of the outer model testing showed that all indicators used in the questionnaire were valid and reliable. Hypothesis testing confirmed that User-Generated Content has a direct, positive and significant effect on Brand Authenticity, Brand Trust and Choice Decision. Furthermore, Brand Authenticity also has a positive and significant effect on Brand Trust and Choice Decision. Mediation analysis revealed that Brand Authenticity acts as a partial mediator, bridging the influence of UGC on Brand Trust and Choice Decisions. This study confirms that user-generated organic content on TikTok is a crucial instrument in building trust and influencing the academic decisions of Generation Z. Higher education brands that are authentically represented through UGC will find it easier to win the trust and preference of prospective students.
Abstract:Digitalization has become a key strategy for enhancing the competitiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) amidst advances in information technology and changes in consumer behavior. The use of various digital…
gital platforms, such as social media, marketplaces, digital payment applications, and technology-based financial recording systems, is expected to improve operational efficiency and expand marketing reach. However, the level of digital technology utilization by 3 Kg LPG distribution outlets remains varied, necessitating a more in-depth study of the impact of digitalization on business performance. This study aims to analyze the impact of digitalization on MSME performance based on interviews with owners and managers of 3 Kg LPG distribution outlets under PT Pinang Baris Langit Biru. The study employed a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation of 3 Kg LPG distribution outlets that have implemented digitalization in their business activities. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman model, which includes data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The research results indicate that the implementation of digitalization has a positive impact on MSME performance, particularly at 3 Kg LPG distribution outlets, including increasing sales, expanding market share, accelerating transaction processes, improving promotional effectiveness, and simplifying business administration and financial management. However, several obstacles remain, such as low digital literacy, limited human resources, and limited access to technology. Therefore, support in the form of training, mentoring, and government policies is needed to improve digital capabilities at 3 Kg LPG distribution outlets so that digital transformation can proceed optimally.
Abstract:This study aims to analyze and formulate appropriate marketing strategies for PT Serena Indopangan using a SWOT (Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis approach. The research employs a descriptive qualitative…
itative method, with data collected through observations, interviews, and documentation. The results indicate that the company’s strengths lie in its product quality and extensive distribution network, while its weaknesses include limited digital marketing activities and lack of product innovation. On the external side, growing market demand and changes in consumer lifestyles present significant opportunities, whereas intense competition and fluctuating raw material prices pose major threats. Based on the SWOT analysis, the most suitable strategy for PT Serena Indopangan is the SO (Strengths-Opportunities) strategy, which focus on leveraging internal strengths to capitalize on external opportunities. The study recommends enhancing digital marketing efforts and strengthening brand positioning to improve the company’s competitiveness.
Abstract:This study aims to examine the effect of profitability, liquidity, and leverage on tax aggressiveness in health sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the period 2022–2025. Tax aggressiveness is…
is measured using the GAAP Effective Tax Rate (GAAP ETR), while profitability is proxied by Return on Assets (ROA), liquidity by the Current Ratio (CR), and leverage by the Debt to Equity Ratio (DER). A quantitative research method with descriptive and verificative approaches is employed. The population consists of 38 health sector companies, from which 11 companies are selected as samples through purposive sampling, yielding 44 firm-year observations. Data analysis is performed using panel data regression with the Fixed Effect Model (FEM) estimated through EViews 12. The results show that: (1) profitability does not significantly affect tax aggressiveness (prob. = 0.1023 > 0.05); (2) liquidity does not significantly affect tax aggressiveness (prob. = 0.4822 > 0.05); (3) leverage significantly affects tax aggressiveness (prob. = 0.0424 < 0.05); and (4) profitability, liquidity, and leverage simultaneously affect tax aggressiveness (prob. F-statistic = 0.0006 < 0.05), with an Adjusted R-squared of 0.48 or 48%. These findings suggest that debt financing structure plays a critical role in corporate tax planning decisions within the Indonesian health sector.
Abstract:This study aims to map innovative solutions based on multi-stakeholder collaboration to optimize the implementation of the Child-Friendly Schools (CFS) Policy in Labuhanbatu Regency, which in practice still faces various…
obstacles. Through a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques such as literature review, in-depth interviews, observations, and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) in three elementary schools, this study identifies the root causes of the problems. The main findings reveal that the obstacles to the implementation of the CFS are multidimensional, including a substantial lack of understanding of the CFS among educators and parents, limited financial and human resources, resistance to changes in school culture, and weak coordination and active participation from all stakeholders, including children. The value and contribution of this study lies in the proposition of a systemic solution that fills the gap in existing literacy, which goes beyond problem identification. This study recommends a series of integrated innovative solutions, such as the use of digital platforms for outreach and complaints, continuous capacity building of educators, strengthening child participation through official forums, and most importantly, the establishment of a multi-stakeholder collaboration forum and the integration of the CFS policy into regional planning and budgeting (RPJMD/APBD). Key recommendations emphasize the establishment of a multi-stakeholder collaboration forum involving schools, local governments, communities, and the business world, as well as the establishment of an independent monitoring team to ensure accountability.
Abstract:This study aims to analyze the effect of perceived accessibility, merchant sales promotion, and pain of paying on impulsive buying among Generation Z QRIS users in Manado City, both partially and simultaneously. This research…
earch is motivated by the rapid growth of QRIS usage in Indonesia, which reached a transaction value of IDR 317 trillion with more than 57 million active users in the second quarter of 2025, alongside the increasing phenomenon of unplanned purchasing behavior among Generation Z as the primary users of this digital payment technology. This study employs a quantitative approach with a causal design (explanatory research). The theoretical foundations used are the Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) Theory and Mental Accounting Theory. The study population consists of Generation Z QRIS users in Manado City, with a sample of 100 respondents determined using the Lemeshow formula and purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through a questionnaire measured using a Likert Scale. The analysis technique employed is multiple linear regression using IBM SPSS 27 software, encompassing validity tests, reliability tests, classical assumption tests, F-test, t-test, and coefficient of determination (R²) test. The results indicate that: (1) Perceived accessibility has a positive and significant effect on impulsive buying (t = 2.176; Sig. = 0.032); (2) Merchant sales promotion has a positive and significant effect on impulsive buying (t = 2.279; Sig. = 0.025); (3) Pain of paying has a positive and significant effect on impulsive buying and is the most dominant variable (t = 3.150; Sig. = 0.002; β = 0.314); (4) Simultaneously, all three variables have a positive and significant effect on impulsive buying (F = 9.972; Sig. < 0.001). The coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.238 indicates that the three independent variables explain 23.8% of the variation in impulsive buying, while the remaining 76.2% is influenced by other factors outside this research model.
Abstract:Handwashing with soap is one of the most effective public health measures for preventing gastrointestinal and respiratory infections among children. However, despite ongoing health education efforts, many children still…
do not perform proper handwashing techniques. Interactive educational approaches, such as demonstration methods combined with songs, may enhance children's practical skills more effectively than conventional instruction. This study aimed to determine the effect of health education using a demonstration method on handwashing with soap skills among children in the BTN AL community, Entrop Subdistrict, South Jayapura District. A quantitative study with a one-group pretest-posttest pre-experimental design was conducted involving 20 child participants selected through total sampling. The intervention consisted of a live demonstration of the WHO six-step handwashing technique accompanied by a modified version of the children's song Naik Becak. Participants' handwashing skills were assessed before and after the intervention using the WHO Standard Hand Hygiene Observation Checklist. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. The findings demonstrated a significant improvement in children's handwashing skills following the intervention. Before receiving health education, most participants were unable to perform the recommended handwashing procedure correctly. After the intervention, 18 participants (90%) successfully demonstrated all six handwashing steps independently, while only two participants (10%) still required assistance. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between pretest and posttest scores (p < 0.001). The study concludes that health education delivered through a demonstration method combined with a modified children's song effectively improves handwashing with soap skills among children. This approach may serve as an innovative and engaging strategy for promoting healthy hygiene behaviors in early childhood.
Abstract:Research paradigms and research methods are two fundamental components that determine the quality, consistency, and credibility of scientific research. However, there are still misunderstandings regarding the relationship…
p between research paradigms and research methods, particularly in determining the approach that best suits the research objectives. This study aims to analyze the concept of research paradigms and their relationship to the selection of research methods. The study employs a qualitative approach using library research through the analysis of various relevant scientific sources, including books, journal articles, and conference proceedings. Data were analyzed using content analysis to identify and synthesize various concepts related to research paradigms and methods. The results indicate that research paradigms—such as positivism, post-positivism, interpretivism, constructivism, pragmatism, and the critical paradigm—possess distinct characteristics that influence the selection of research methods. Furthermore, the pragmatist paradigm serves as the dominant foundation for the use of mixed methods. This study makes a theoretical contribution by clarifying the relationship between research paradigms and research methods and serves as a practical reference for researchers in determining the appropriate research approach.
Abstract:Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are crucial for local economic development, employment absorption and community welfare. However, the success of empowerment programmes in rural regions generally stays at the…
implementation level. This study seeks to examine the implementation of MSME empowerment program in enhancing business independence in Desa Curugciung Kecamatan Cikeusik Kabupaten Pandeglang. The study used a descriptive qualitative design. The collection of data was carried out through observation, semi-structured interviews and documentation with seven informants, including the sub-district head, village head, a BRI officer, the chairperson of the Village Consultative Body, and three MSME actors. Data were evaluated by Miles, Huberman and Saldaña’s interactive approach which consists of data collection, data condensation, data display and conclusion drafting. The findings indicate that the implementation of the MSME empowerment program has not been adequately carried out. Communication on the program at the bureaucratic level was still limited and did not reach the MSME actors to the fullest. Training, mentoring and access to funding were formally provided as resources but not experienced equally by business actors. The commitment of the implementing institutions had not been fully converted into ongoing assistance, while the bureaucratic structure was still more administrative than service-oriented. The results of the study also indicated that the independence of the business of MSME actors is more created via self-initiative, experience and adaptation rather than direct intervention from the empowerment program. The study concluded that the presence of resilient MSMEs in rural areas does not necessarily mean that the policies are well implemented. The essay contributes to the study of public policy implementation in the identification of the gap between the formal empowerment design and the real growth of business independence at the village level.
Abstract:This study aims to analyze the influence of Regional Economic Innovation and Green Economy on Regional Economic Resilience with Digital Governance as a moderation variable in 33 districts/cities in North Sumatra Province…
for the 2020–2025 period. The study uses an explanatory quantitative approach with secondary data in the form of panel data which is analyzed using panel data regression through Common Effect Model, Fixed Effect Model, and Random Effect Model. The selection of the best model was carried out using the Chow Test, Hausman Test, and Lagrange Multiplier Test, while hypothesis testing was carried out through t-test, F test, determination coefficient, and Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA). The results of the study show that the Fixed Effect Model is the best model. Regional Economic Innovation, Green Economy, and Digital Governance have a positive and significant effect on Regional Economic Resilience. In addition, Digital Governance has been proven to strengthen the influence of Regional Economic Innovation and Green Economy on Regional Economic Resilience. The Adjusted R² value of 81.8% indicates that the model has an excellent ability to explain variations in regional economic resilience. These findings affirm the importance of strengthening regional innovation, implementing a green economy, and accelerating the transformation of digital government as a sustainable, adaptive, inclusive, and competitive regional economic development strategy in North Sumatra Province.