The pandemic’s Blessing in Disguise

A survey conducted by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and University of Indonesia found that 44 percent of respondents had joined an e-commerce platform during the pandemic.

KOMPAS/ISMAIL ZAKARIA

A woman arranges a display of locally produced coffee on Thursday (23/7/2020) at a business meeting on micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB). Local MSMEs have developed superior products from the NTB administration’s economic assistance for earthquake-affected communities. Today, MSMEs in Lombok have said they have been encouraged by the transition to the “new normal” phase of the Covid-19 mitigation measures.

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) always serve as a savior from crisis to crisis. When an economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic hit, MSMEs did not give up in hopes of remaining afloat.

They’ve tried to adapt by embracing digital technology. Reports from various institutions say MSMEs have been able to able to adapt during the pandemic. Mobility restrictions have not broken their will. Many adaptation efforts, such as buying daily goods from friends, selling goods through social media or e-commerce platforms, are able to help MSMEs stay afloat and avoid collapse.