The Buleleng Regency Government is actively promoting the development of a Smart City in Singaraja, focusing on the Smart Economy dimension. The Buleleng Department of Trade, Industry, Cooperatives, and Small and Medium Enterprises (DagperinkopUKM) is leading the initiative to encourage economic digitalization among Buleleng's residents. Head of the Department, Dewa Made Sudiarta, reported on Friday, May 17, that various events have been organized to promote the development of leading UMKM (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) products. Over 60,000 UMKMs in Buleleng have been invited to participate in activities, including expos. In addition to expos, DagperinkopUKM also conducts training and entrepreneurship development competitions, particularly in the culinary sector, such as pastry and bakery.
Support for digitalization provided to UMKMs includes logo design training, social media management, and online marketing. Consequently, several UMKMs have started to see increased demand from buyers through social media platforms. This initiative is further supported by the Buleleng Forum for Upgrading UKMs, banks, and other stakeholders. The department has partnered with various universities through the Ganesha Digital Entrepreneur program, involving student internships to share knowledge and experience. According to Sudiarta, the Integrated Business Service Center (PLUT) program can serve as a hub for all local economic stakeholders in Buleleng. The community, including the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (HIPMI), also plays a role in this program. Looking ahead, Sudiarta plans to provide several kiosks at PLUT as venues for discussions and business knowledge exchange among UMKM actors. This initiative is expected to strengthen collaboration networks among UMKMs in Buleleng and foster a business ecosystem to enhance economic progress in the region.
