Local Economy Research Articles

Sustainable tourism and city branding: Balancing growth and authenticity

Background: The rapid growth of tourism has necessitated a re-evaluation of its impacts on local cultures and economies, highlighting the need for sustainable practices. This paper explores the intersection of sustainable tourism and city branding, focusing on how destinations can balance economic growth with the preservation of authenticity. Method: Through a comparative case study analysis of Indonesia and the Philippines, this research examines the strategies employed by major cities in these countries to attract tourists while maintaining cultural integrity and promoting sustainability. In Indonesia, cities like Bali and Jakarta have implemented various initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable tourism, such as community-based tourism projects and environmental conservation efforts. Similarly, destinations like Manila and Cebu have developed branding strategies in the Philippines that emphasize cultural heritage and ecological sustainability. This study identifies common challenges faced by both countries, including managing the environmental impact of tourism and ensuring local community involvement in tourism planning. Result: The findings suggest that while Indonesia and the Philippines have made significant strides in integrating sustainability into their tourism and branding efforts, substantial hurdles remain to achieving a perfect balance. Conclusion: Key recommendations include enhancing policy frameworks, increasing stakeholder collaboration, and fostering greater awareness among tourists about sustainable practices. This paper contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable tourism and city branding by providing insights that can inform policy and practice in other regions facing similar challenges. Novelty/Originality of this study: They are developing a holistic and adaptable comparative framework for evaluating sustainable tourism strategies, integrating economic, social, cultural and environmental aspects, and considering each destination's unique characteristics. Various tourism destinations can adopt and adapt this framework to develop and implement tourism practices that effectively balance economic growth, cultural preservation and environmental sustainability in their local context.

AN ACCOUNTING INSIGHT ON ROMANIAN SOCIAL ECONOMY ENTITIES SUSTAINABILITY

Social economy has a core importance in creating jobs and delivering goods and services for the disadvantages groups members. Even if no searching for profit, the Social Economy Entities (SEEs) have to maintain a financial stability allowing the continuously fulfilling their social mission. Sustainability is crucial in delivering to the disadvantaged. Romania financed during the years 2020 and 2021 around 2800 SEEs, but not very much is widely presented about their activity. Financial information is still publicly available, so the SEEs economic behaviour may be monitor and even predicted as a trend, using forensic accounting techniques: reviewing the existing public information on public and private sites, analysing the summary of financial statements, as it may be found on the Ministry of Finance online database, and interpreting the evidence so gathered. Within this paper, the sustainability of a sample consisting on 172 SEEs incorporated in Maramureș County, Romania is analysed using publicly available data, including by the use of the indicator of financial distress (Z- Altman score). It reveals that in actual conditions, about 80% of the sample population are in high risk of bankruptcy, only 6% of them being financial sustainable. This research may be useful for national deciders and local social economy facilitators in focusing the aid and support actions, and also for the SEEs initiators, in preparing the best ways of managing the assumed risks.

Heritage and identity: The vernacular transformation of de tjolomadoe

Background: This research paper focuses on the adaptive reuse of the De Tjolomadoe (Colomadu) heritage sugar factory within the field of vernacular architecture. Method: Utilizing qualitative research methods such as in-depth interviews, site observations, and archival analysis, it examines the preservation of industrial heritage through its integration into vernacular architectural practices, yielding insights for sustainable development. Findings: The De Tjolomadoe factory, a prominent Indonesian historical and cultural landmark, serves as a compelling case study in adaptive reuse, offering significant findings. Firstly, it illustrates how adaptive reuse effectively preserves cultural identity by seamlessly blending vernacular design elements and traditional building techniques, thereby maintaining a strong connection to its historical and cultural heritage. Secondly, the De Tjolomadoe case exemplifies adaptive reuse as a sustainable development strategy. By utilizing local resources and adhering to vernacular construction methods, the project minimizes environmental impact while generating economic and social benefits for the community. Community engagement emerges as a crucial factor in the success of adaptive reuse projects, as actively involving local communities ensures the authenticity and relevance of such initiatives. Moreover, the transformation of the De Tjolomadoe factory into a cultural destination underscores its substantial economic impact on the region. Similar adaptive reuse projects have the potential to boost tourism, stimulate local economies, and preserve cultural heritage. Conclusion: The lessons drawn from the De Tjolomadoe case offer practical insights and principles guiding future adaptive reuse endeavours, emphasizing cultural preservation, sustainability, community participation, and economic viability. Novelty/Originality of this article: These findings contribute to the growing knowledge base on the adaptive reuse of industrial heritage sites within the context of vernacular architecture, inspiring and informing initiatives aimed at revitalizing our industrial heritage for future generations.

Utilizing Local Economic Development As a Technique for Development to Combat Poverty and Unemployment: A Case Study of Polokwane Municipality, South Africa

For many countries throughout the world, unemployment, poverty, and inequality are the biggest problems. These also apply to South Africa. In essence, local economic development (LED) is an ongoing procedure that is spearheaded by local stakeholders, particularly the local government, and built upon local efforts to stimulate the local economy and provide employment in a given area. Using the Polokwane municipality as a case study, the study aims to examine the contribution of local economic development in the reduction of unemployment in South Africa. The research also aims to ascertain how much Polokwane Municipality's local economic development organizations aid to the reduction of poverty. To obtain a thorough understanding of the subject matter, the study will employ a qualitative research approach and involve participants from various municipal levels who are involved in local economic development, such as agencies, municipal officials, and beneficiaries. The study followed a qualitative research methodology, which is a type of social science research that collects and works with non-numerical data and that seeks to interpret meaning from these data that help us understand social life through the study of targeted populations or places, and it employed theme analysis to find, arrange, and present themes and their sub-themes surfaced from study interviews. The research produced suggestions for using local economic development to reduce poverty and provide jobs.

Fortification of local fruit parijoto on soy yogurt drink and economy analysis

Background: The food and beverage industry is a leading industry that is the government's focus in the Industrial Revolution 4.0. Culinary is the most popular economic sub-sector.. As a food product from biotechnology, yoghurt always manages to occupy a global market share. Yoghurt is proven to maintain the digestive system. Therefore innovation is needed, especially regarding materials, to boost product competitiveness. Animal milk substrate can be substituted with soy milk which is cheap but rich in protein. The addition of natural fortification is projected to improve product quality. Parijoto fruit (Medinilla speciosa) typical of the slopes of Mount Muria, Colo Village, Kab. Kudus was chosen as a fortificant because it is rich in antioxidants and antibacterial pathogens. At the same time, this adds to the usability and economic value of Parijoto, which is still low so far. Method: The research was conducted experimentally, referring to previous research methods. The formulation design was varied regarding adding Parijoto fruit extract to 100 ml of the product. Findings: From the results of the organoleptic test, the F1 formula (addition of 5 ml of Parijoto fruit extract) received the best acceptance from the panellists, with a preference level of 4.89. The product characteristics are liquid texture, alcoholic sweet taste, cream colour, and the aroma of Parijoto fruit tends to be faint. Conclusion:Parijoto Yogurt has advantages in terms of locality, price and nutrition. However, further research is needed based more collaboration to increase this product's health and economic impact local society. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study creates new functional food products and opens up opportunities to revitalize local economies and conserve biodiversity.

Meningkatkan Daya Saing UMKM melalui Analisis SWOT dan NIB

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are critical as the backbone of local economies and a source of innovation in this rapidly evolving economic world. MSMEs have great potential but often face problems such as lack of capital, limited market access, and lack of knowledge of business strategies. This activity report discusses the mentoring efforts made to support MSMEs, specifically "Brewman Coffee", in analysing their business SWOT and helping them to create a Business Identification Number (NIB) to support business legality and growth. The goal of this activity is that MSMEs can prepare themselves to face market challenges and better utilise existing opportunities through this mentoring. The methods used were observation, interviews, training and mentoring, and monitoring and evaluation. The activity results show that partners understand the business strategy to be carried out and can make NIB independently. The next activity is expected that partners can continue to manage legality so that they can compete globally.

Analyzing Economy at Municipal level - A Case Study of Vaniyambadi Municipality

Abstract: The Vaniyambadi Municipality case study is highlighted in this paper's analysis of municipal economics. The economy has a big impact on urban planning and is essential to the development and well-being of cities. The paper highlights the value of effective revenue collection and management by looking at the Vaniyambadi Municipality's organizational structure and revenue administration. There is also discussion of the challenges the municipality faces, such as its reliance on government grants and subsidies, growing expenses, and declining investment income. The article provides ways to address these issues, including increasing income, decreasing reliance on handouts, and developing a long-term financial plan. Examining revenue and expense accounts reveals concerning trends that highlight the need for financial sustainability. The article explores the organizational structure, historical context and population statistics for the Vaniyambadi Municipality. It discusses the several economic sectors primary, secondary, and tertiary and how they impact the local economy. The document's conclusion lists challenges with expenditure and revenue generation and underlines how urgently these problems must be resolved if Vaniyambadi Municipality is to continue to be sustainable in the long run.

Crafting urban identities: Local cuisine and city branding in Indonesia and Myanmar

Background: This comparative study examines the significant role of local cuisine in shaping urban identities and enhancing city branding in Indonesia and Myanmar. With a rich tapestry of culinary traditions, these Southeast Asian nations offer unique insights into how food culture can be leveraged as a strategic asset in urban planning. The research delves into integrating local cuisine in city branding initiatives, highlighting successful examples from major cities in both countries. By analyzing local food's cultural, economic, and social dimensions, the study underscores its potential to foster a sense of place and community, attract tourism, and stimulate local economies. Method: This study uses a comparative case study approach to investigate the role of local cuisine in shaping urban identity and enhancing city image in Indonesia and Myanmar. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders and document analysis from various sources. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis to identify key themes and comparative analysis to highlight differences and similarities between the two countries. This approach allows the study to develop practical recommendations for urban planners and policymakers. Findings: The findings reveal that incorporating local cuisine into urban planning not only preserves culinary heritage but also enhances the distinctive character of cities, making them more appealing to both residents and visitors. Furthermore, the research discusses the challenges and opportunities urban planners and policymakers face in promoting local cuisine while balancing modernization and cultural preservation. Conclusion: Through a comparative lens, the study provides practical recommendations for cities aiming to integrate culinary elements into their branding strategies. The insights gained from Indonesia and Myanmar's experiences can serve as a valuable reference for other cities globally, seeking to enrich their urban identities through the celebration of local cuisine. Novelty/Originality of this study: The development of a comprehensive model for integrating local cuisine into a city’s branding strategy provides practical and measurable guidance for city planners to leverage culinary heritage to enhance city attractiveness, identity, and local economic empowerment while maintaining the authenticity and sustainability of culinary traditions.

Biofortified biscuits with indigenous plants: An innovative approach to prevent stunting in early childhood

Background: Increasing human living standards is directly proportional to demands for the quality of public health. Prevalence of stunting in Indonesia is ranked fifth in the world with a figure reaching 37.2%. Therefore, stunting is 1 of 5 health problems that the government is focusing on solving. This growth and development disorder is characterized by the body size of the baby/toddler below standard as well as delays in cognitive and psychomotor abilities. Stunting in children is the impact of nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy and the first 1000 days of life. Important micronutrients that have the potential to reduce the risk of stunting are iron and folic acid. The majority of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers with high school education or below tend not to pay attention to their intake of these 2 micronutrients, so deficiencies often occur. Pregnancy/breastfeeding supplements on the market are also expensive. Facts show that cassava leaves (Manihot esculenta) and winged bean seeds (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) are local agricultural resources that are rich in iron and folic acid. The production of biscuits to prevent stunting from these 2 vegetable sources is certainly very promising and worth developing. The aim of writing this scientific work is to determine the right biscuit formulation so that it is suitable to be used as a biscuit to prevent stunting for the wider community. Methods: Making biscuits needs to be preceded by making cassava leaf paste and winged bean seed flour and then determining various formulations. Variations in winged bean seed flour formulation: cassava leaf paste, namely F1 (20:10), F2 (25:15), F3 (30:10). Biscuits are made using the cream method, namely mixing sugar, skim milk, margarine and egg yolks until homogeneous then adding wheat flour, winged bean seed flour, cassava leaf paste, water and leavening agent. The dough is rolled, molded and baked at 170oC for 30 minutes. Finding: after carrying out organoleptic tests to measure product quality and determine the best formulation, it turned out that F2 was the biscuit formulation that the panelists liked most. Conclusion : The development of stunting prevention biscuits from cassava leaves and winged bean seeds is a potential solution. The next step is to disseminate this product as part of a stunting prevention strategy in the community. Novelty/Originality of this Study: The use of local agricultural resources, specifically winged bean seeds and cassava leaves, to develop a nutritious and affordable biscuit aimed at preventing stunting is an innovative approach that not only addresses the chronic malnutrition problem but also supports local economies by utilizing underutilized crops.

Peluang dan Tantangan Pengembangan Usahatani Tomat dan Pengaruhnya Terhadap Pendapatan Petani di Kecamatan Ruteng Kabupaten Manggarai

Agriculture is a sector that has an important role in the economy in Indonesia. One agricultural commodity that has great potential is horticulture. Horticulture is one of the agricultural subsectors that has the potential to make a major contribution to economic development and plays an important role in the source of farmers' income, trade and employment. This research aims to determine the opportunities and challenges of developing tomato farming and its impact on farmers' income in Ruteng District, Manggarai Regency. The research was conducted in Ruteng District, Manggarai Regency with the consideration that this area is one of the areas for developing tomato horticulture farming. Data collection was carried out by interviewing main and key informants consisting of farmers, heads of farmer groups, agricultural extension workers. Data sources consist of primary data and secondary data. Research result. By taking advantage of supportive climate conditions, optimizing high market demand, managing stable selling prices, and diversifying products, farmers in Ruteng District have a good opportunity to develop tomato farming in a sustainable manner and can improve their standard of living. In facing farming challenges, it is important to have a holistic and integrated approach between governments. in terms of providing technological support, education, access to capital and risk management to help increase productivity, sustainability and income of farmers in Ruteng District. Apart from that, intense assistance to farmers in implementing good agricultural practices will also support increasing crop yields and farmer welfare. With the implementation of the right strategy and continuous support, tomato farming in Ruteng District has great potential to increase productivity, farmer income and contribution to the local economy.

The implementation of the "Selamatan Petik Pari" tradition carried out by the people of Petungsewu Village, Wagir District, Malang Regency

Background: Petungsewu Village, located in Wagir District, Malang Regency, is a village rich in culture and tradition. One tradition that is still preserved to this day is "Selamatan Petik Pari," a traditional ceremony performed by the local community as a form of respect to Dewi Sri, the goddess of rice who is believed to be the protector of rice plants. This tradition reflects the beliefs and values passed down from generation to generation, demonstrating the Javanese people's spiritual and mystical connection with nature and their ancestors. Method: This research uses a qualitative approach, naturalistic or interpretive, focusing on interpreting data collected in natural settings. It is descriptive, aiming to understand and describe phenomena such as behaviour, perception, and motivation within their natural context. Findings: "Selamatan Petik Pari" involves various rituals rich in symbolism, such as the preparation of tumpeng and takir containing a full meal, as well as incantations and prayers adapted to the religious beliefs of the majority of the population, namely Islam. This tradition not only aims to ask for a bountiful harvest and protection from pests, but also as a means to strengthen social relations among residents and between residents and the village government. The village government, represented by the village head and village officials, shows active participation and support for the implementation of this tradition. They hope that this tradition can continue to be preserved and passed on to the younger generation, thus not only strengthening cultural identity but also strengthening familial and communal relations among the community. Conclusion: "Selamatan Petik Pari" in Petungsewu Village is not only an agricultural tradition, but also an important means of maintaining and developing cultural values, social togetherness, and harmony between humans and nature. This tradition emphasises the importance of preserving cultural heritage as part of national identity and as a tool to answer social challenges in the present. Novelty/Originality of this article: The model in this study can be applied in various regions to promote cultural heritage, improve local economies, and encourage community participation in sustainable development.

Sustainable innovation: Economic valuation of wood waste for sustainable development at PT Wapoga Mutiara Industries

Background: This study describes the economic valuation of wood waste at PT Wapoga Mutiara Industries using the Market Price Approach to calculate the Total Economic Value (TEV) derived from utilising production waste. This research uses qualitative methods to explore how processed wood waste contributes economically to the company and the local community. Wood waste in industrial processes is often an underutilised asset. However, at PT Wapoga Mutiara Industries, innovative practices have turned this by-product into a significant economic opportunity. Method: This research investigated the direct use value of wood waste - mainly wood chips and sawdust - converted into local charcoal products, a resource increasingly recognized for its environmental and economic benefits. The research assessed the monthly economic impact of these waste products, measuring their market value to quantify the total benefits accruing to the local economy. Findings: The findings from this study are considerable, showing that wood chips alone contribute IDR 42,300,000 to the economy each month. Sawdust was processed in the same way, adding IDR 72,860,000 per month. Combined, these waste materials contribute a total direct use value of IDR 166,160,000 per month to the local economy, which on average provides a potential income of IDR 1,350,700 per person per month, suggesting there is significant economic potential from sustainable wood waste management practices. Conclusion: In addition, the study provides insight into the broader implications of such valuation practices, demonstrating that with the right innovations, what is often considered industrial waste can be re-evaluated as a viable economic resource. This aligns with the global shift towards more sustainable industrial processes, where waste minimisation and reuse contribute to environmental sustainability, economic resilience, and community well-being. Novelty/Originality of this study: This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the economic valuation of wood waste in the processing industry, demonstrating the significant potential of innovative waste management practices. This research opens up new perspectives on how industrial 'waste' can be transformed into valuable economic resources, supporting environmental sustainability and the well-being of local communities.

GASTRONOMIC TOURISM IN ROMANIA

Gastronomy, a fundamental component of culture, has become a significant criterion in choosing a tourist destination, playing a crucial role in the development of local economies. By exploring the gastronomy of a region or a country, one can travel through time and space, uncovering the cultural identity of the place. Thus, there is increasing talk of gastronomic destinations that offer tourists dishes with authentic and traditional flavors. Usually, each dish has its own story, describing both the traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations and the use of local ingredients that have defined a community's cuisine over centuries. These gastronomic experiences are not just about tasting delicious food but also about understanding the history, traditions, and values of a community through its dishes. The connection between tourism and gastronomy is becoming increasingly evident, with tourists eager to taste traditional dishes that provide an authentic perspective on the culture of a tourist destination. Thus, gastronomic tourism involves exploring local cuisine, culinary traditions, markets, and local restaurants to discover and appreciate the diversity and authenticity of the foods and drinks of a region or country. Additionally, culinary tourism may include participating in cooking classes, tastings, culinary festivals, and other gastronomy-related activities, offering travelers the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of a community's culture and identity through its food.

Socio-economic impacts of resource extraction on indigenous populations in Imbolo Mbue's: How beautiful we were

This paper undertakes a comprehensive analysis of Imbolo Mbue's novel "How Beautiful We Were," employing the novel as a case study to explore the interconnected phenomena of ecological and economic losses affecting the fictional African village of Kosawa. The narrative serves as a poignant lens through which the catastrophic impacts of environmental degradation by external corporate interests, specifically an American oil company, are examined. Drawing on methodologies such as Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and systemic-functional linguistics, the study illuminates how the novel’s language actively shapes perceptions of ecological destruction and social conflict. The analysis is anchored in a detailed examination of the socio-economic repercussions of environmental exploitation on indigenous communities, reflecting broader global issues of environmental injustice where marginalized populations bear the brunt of industrial activities. By integrating narrative analysis with socio-economic and ecological impact assessments, the paper aims to provide a holistic understanding of the compound crises faced by communities on the frontlines of environmental exploitation. This approach not only highlights the devastating effects on health and local economies but also emphasizes the role of literature as a form of resistance and a vehicle for advocating ecological and social justice. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions on sustainable development and advocate for more nuanced and inclusive approaches in literature and policy, reinforcing the critical role of narrative in shaping public discourse and policy on environmental justice.

Preliminary study to consider the preparation of a business strategy for The Regional Public Service Agency (BLUD) in the water tourism area of Gita Nada and Gili Sulat Lawang Lombok, NTB Province

This study aims to obtain fundamental information that will be used as a reference in formulating business strategies for Regional Business Services Agencies (BLUD) in the Gita Nada and Gili Sulat Lawang marine tourism areas in NTB Province. This conservation area has huge tourism potential with an estimated economic value of tourism resources based on Willingness To Pay (WTP) reaches more than 17 billion rupiah per year. However, the use of this tourist destination is still not optimal. This study uses a survey method through interviews with the management, local communities, and related company partners. The survey results show that BLUD business development in this region faces several challenges, among which the most impactful are budget problems and limited human resources. Based on these findings, this study proposes an effective business strategy to optimize the potential of the tourist area. The proposed strategy is expected to increase the income and welfare of tourism industry players in the region, as well as make a positive contribution to the local economy. With the implementation of this strategy, it is hoped that this aquatic tourism area can develop sustainably and provide maximum benefits for all parties involved.

Analysis of Sea Transportation Services in Pulau Banyak, Aceh Singkil Using a Qualitative Approach

Island communities such as Banyak Island use sea transportation services as the main means of mobilization, both for work and as support to places that cannot be served by land vehicles. In addition to the local community, sea transportation services are also needed by tourists who will visit the area. This is because sea transportation is the only means that can be used to get to the island area. Currently, companies that provide sea transportation services on the Singkil mainland to Banyak Island are river, lake, and crossing transportation (ASDP) and wooden fishing boats seen pay which the island community has used for generations, and there are also fast boats that operate occasionally. The purpose of this study is to determine the condition of the availability of sea transportation for community needs fulfillment services in Aceh Singkil and Banyak Island, in addition to assessing the use of the system dynamics model with sea transportation services in Aceh Singkil and Banyak Island, and to assess the effect of sea transportation services on the economic level of the people of Aceh Singkil and Pulau Banyak. The method used in this study is a qualitative approach method. The results obtained from this study are: 1) The availability of sea transportation facilities in the future needs to be accelerated by increasing the number of sea transportation facilities serving the Singkil mainland and Banyak Island along with the increasing number of residents and visitors from within and outside the country as tourists; 2) Sea transportation services operating on Banyak Island provide a positive contribution to the local economy; and 3) To maintain the quality of sea transportation services, it is necessary to improve the existing sea transportation facilities and infrastructure.

Enhancing Sustainability in Health Tourism through an Ontology-Based Booking Application for Personalized Packages

Currently, health tourists primarily rely on independent facilitators to manage and book their medical appointments and vacation plans. There is a notable absence of dedicated booking applications for health tourism packages. This paper proposes HealthTourismHub, an application designed to provide personalized packages that include medical appointments, accommodation options, and recommended tourism activities. It also serves as a platform for medical experts and accommodation providers, allowing health tourists to discover and connect with them, promoting local resources, and contributing to the sustainable growth of health tourism destinations. To incorporate personalization, HealthTourismHub uses an ontology that organizes medical and tourism data, along with a reasoner that generates new knowledge. This approach enables the application to offer customized packages and identify the most suitable providers for each user. Providers are strategically paired and located in close proximity, encouraging shorter travel distances and more efficient travel planning, with the package also including personalized tourism recommendations that benefit the local economy and contribute to a conscious tourism industry. A survey was conducted to assess the usability of the application and general perspectives towards health tourism, including motivations, concerns, and preferences. The results revealed an above-average SUS score, indicating that users found the application user-friendly and effective. Some areas for improvement were identified, such as error handling and additional functionalities. Nonetheless, HealthTourismHub shows great potential as a pioneer in the field of sustainable health tourism applications.

Gender Complementarity in the Process of Anchovies Production in North Sumatran Coast Communities

This study investigated the nuanced dynamics of gender complementarity within the context of anchovy production, focusing on the coastal communities of North Sumatra. In recent years, increased awareness of gender dynamics has underscored their crucial role in socio-economic spheres, particularly within fisheries. Anchovies, both an integral economic driver and a significant nutritional resource, serve as a focal point for examining the complex interplay between gender roles, responsibilities, and contributions in the production process. This exploratory study was conducted using an ethnographic approach, this research deeply immersed itself in the daily lives of North Sumatra’s coastal communities. Through extended engagement, participant observation, and a multifaceted methodology involving firsthand experiences, systematic observations, and in-depth interviews, the study aimed to capture a comprehensive understanding of the sociocultural dynamics shaping gender complementarity in anchovies production. Findings revealed that the anchovy production process has established a productive work cycle, significantly contributing to the local economy, particularly for women, and positively influencing the overall economic conditions of the community. Keywords: Gender Complementarity , Sustainable Fisheries, Domestic Economy, Anchovies Production, Tanjungbalai

Entrepreneurship-Based Economic Potential Development in Mekarsari Village, Cibalong District, Garut Regency

Mekarsari Village, Cibalong District, Garut Regency. Mekarsari Village has a variety of local economic potential that can be utilized to improve the standard of living and welfare of the local community. To make this happen, targeted and sustainable strategic steps are needed. In this article, we identify the economic potential that exists in Mekarsari Village, including natural resources, local expertise, superior products, and market opportunities that can be used as a basis for entrepreneurial activities. Additionally, this article outlines concrete steps that can be taken to encourage entrepreneurial growth in the region. Some of the steps proposed include training and entrepreneurship development programs for village residents, intensive assistance and guidance in the initial stages of business establishment, as well as the formation of cooperatives or joint business groups to strengthen their bargaining position and expand market access. Product diversification, innovation, and effective promotion and marketing are also important parts of the entrepreneurship-based economic development strategy in Mekarsari Village. This service also highlights the importance of collaboration with external parties, such as government agencies, research institutions, universities and private companies, as a means of supporting economic development at the local level. In this context, financial management and accountability are also important factors that need to be considered in order to maintain sustainability and sustainable business growth. Through these structured steps and approaches, it is hoped that this article can provide guidance and inspiration for stakeholders to jointly contribute to advancing the local economy in Mekarsari Village, creating new jobs, and improving the quality of life of the community as a whole.

‘It depends on where you were born…here in the North East, there’s not really many job opportunities compared to in the South’: young people’s perspectives on a North-South health divide and its drivers in England, UK

BackgroundImproving the public’s understanding of how regional and socioeconomic inequalities create and perpetuate inequalities in health, is argued to be necessary for building support for policies geared towards creating a more equal society. However, research exploring public perceptions of health inequalities, and how they are generated, is limited. This is particularly so for young people. Our study sought to explore young people’s lived experiences and understandings of health inequalities.MethodsWe carried out focus group discussions (n = 18) with 42 young people, aged 13–21, recruited from six youth organisations in England in 2021. The organisations were located in areas of high deprivation in South Yorkshire, the North East and London. Young people from each organisation took part in three interlinked focus group discussions designed to explore their (i) perceptions of factors impacting their health in their local area, (ii) understandings of health inequalities and (iii) priorities for change. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, most discussions took place online (n = 15). However, with one group in the North East, we carried out discussions face-to-face (n = 3). Data were analysed thematically and we used NVivo-12 software to facilitate data management.ResultsYoung people from all groups demonstrated an awareness of a North-South divide in England, UK. They described how disparities in local economies and employment landscapes between the North and the South led to tangible differences in everyday living and working conditions. They clearly articulated how these differences ultimately led to inequalities in people’s health and wellbeing, such as linking poverty and employment precarity to chronic stress. Young people did not believe these inequalities were inevitable. They described the Conservative government as prioritising the South and thus perpetuating inequalities through uneven investment.ConclusionsOur study affords important insights into young people’s perceptions of how wider determinants can help explain the North-South health divide in England. It demonstrates young people’s contextualised understandings of the interplay between spatial, social and health inequalities. Our findings support calls for pro-equity policies to address the structural causes of regional divides in health. Further research, engaging young people in deliberative policy analysis, could build on this work.