Integrated Digital Transformation Model for Sustainable Economy of Coconut Sap SMEs in Tomohon Using Mangosteen Bark Preservative

Abstract

Coconut sap (nira kelapa) production in Tomohon City reached 356,700 tons in 2024, yet the industry faces two compounding challenges: rapid fermentation spoilage of raw sap and the limited adoption of digital technologies among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This study aimed to design and implement an Integrated Digital Transformation Model for Sustainable Economy of Coconut Sap SMEs in Tomohon, integrating mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) bark extract as a natural preservative. A quantitative descriptive survey method was employed involving 31 SME respondents engaged in coconut sap, palm sugar, and captikus production across Tomohon (71%), North Minahasa (25.8%), and Bitung (3.2%). Eight digital transformation dimensions were measured using a Likert scale (1–5). Results showed that Data Analytics (5.17) and Digital Operations (5.02) recorded the highest adoption scores, while Data Security (3.89) remained the weakest dimension. Bioactive compounds in mangosteen bark, including xanthones, flavonoids, and tannins, demonstrated strong antimicrobial and antioxidant activity effective in extending coconut sap shelf life. An IoT-based digital production prototype was developed, integrating natural extraction technology with digital monitoring systems. The novelty of this study lies in its holistic convergence of local biodiversity-based innovation with digital SME transformation toward sustainable economic development aligned with Indonesia's National Research Master Plan (RIRN) 2017–2045. Strategic partnership with UPTD Balai Pelatihan Teknis Pertanian strengthened technology dissemination and farmer capacity building outcomes