Asian Journal of Islamic Economic Studies

IMPLEMENTATION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS TO IMPROVE OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY IN RETAIL SMEs

2026-02-24T10:32:46+07:00

This research aims to analyze the implementation of digital information systems in increasing operational efficiency in micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) in the retail sector, by taking a case study at Indomaret Medan. Digital transformation becomes a vital need for MSMEs in the era of industry 4.0 to increase competitiveness and operational efficiency. The research method used is qualitative descriptive with data collection techniques through in-depth interviews and direct observation of the store's operational process. The research results show that the implementation of the digital information system at Indomaret covers various operational aspects, including digital cash register system, technology-based attendance system, human resource management system, and technical support through Electronic Data Processing (EDP). Research findings indicate that digitalization has a positive impact on operational efficiency, especially in transaction speed, data accuracy, and employee performance monitoring. However, there are technical obstacles faced, especially related to the stability of the internet connection that affects the smoothness of the system. This research provides a theoretical contribution in understanding the factors that determine the success of information system implementation in retail MSMEs and provides practical recommendations for business actors who want to do digital transformation.

ANALYSIS OF OPERATIONAL BARRIERS AND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES FOR WAITINGLIST COFFEE MSMEs IN MEDAN CITY

2026-02-25T11:00:17+07:00

The purpose of this study is to examine the operational obstacles and development strategies experienced by Waitinglist Coffee, a micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSMEs) in Medan, which is one of the growing culinary businesses. The methodology used is a qualitative approach through direct interviews and field observations to obtain in-depth data on issues related to raw materials, technology, marketing, and labor. The findings of the study show that the main obstacles faced by Waitinglist Coffee include a lack of quality raw material supplies, suboptimal use of digital payment systems, and limitations in digital promotion to reach a wider market. From a human resources perspective, the challenges relate to manual employee management, which impacts work efficiency. Recommended development strategies include enhancing cooperation with local suppliers, utilizing digital technology such as cashier applications and marketing through social media, and technology-based human resource management training. This study is expected to serve as a reference for other MSMEs in the culinary sector in overcoming operational obstacles and designing sustainable development strategies amid increasingly fierce business competition.

THE ROLE OF MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN IMPROVING OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY IN CAFE ATEKU BUSINESSES

2026-02-25T10:58:33+07:00

This study aims to identify the role of Management Information Systems in improving operational efficiency at Ateku Kopi Cafe, a micro-enterprise located in Medan City. Using a descriptive qualitative method through interviews and direct observation, this research examines the use of digital systems such as Luna/Mocapos for transaction recording and Google Calendar for employee scheduling. The results indicate that these systems help accelerate transaction processes, enhance the accuracy of financial reporting, and support better coordination among employees. However, several challenges remain, including manual stock management, limited system access, and insufficient digital training for staff. Overall, the implementation of Information Systems provides a positive impact on the operational efficiency of the business. Further development of an integrated system and continuous digital literacy training is recommended to improve UMKM performance amid ongoing digital transformation.

FROM PHILANTHROPY TO ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION: MAUDUI'S TAFSIR APPROACH TO THE CONCEPT OF INFAQ IN THE QUR'AN

2026-02-25T10:57:38+07:00

This study aims to reconstruct the concept of Infaq from a charitable philanthropy paradigm into a strategic instrument for economic transformation. The phenomenon of persistent structural poverty amid high levels of Islamic philanthropy indicates that Infaq practices have thus far been predominantly consumptive in nature, thereby failing to drive sustainable structural change. Using a qualitative-synthetic approach, this study contextualises the Maudu‘i (Thematic) Interpretation of the verses on Infaq/Nafaqah with the Theory of Economic Transformation and the Maqāṣid Sharīʿah framework. This method finds that Infaq has a dual function: as spiritual purification (Tazkiyah) and as a mechanism for systemic socio-economic intervention (Tanmiyah). The normative synthesis affirms the function of Infaq as mandatory anti-hoarding macroeconomic regulation and a driver of wealth circulation (Multiplier Effect), as well as prioritising family Nafaqah as a basic investment in human capital. These findings are formulated into the Maqāṣid-Based Transformative Infaq Framework. This framework offers four Policy Design Principles, including the Dual-Tier Allocation Principle, which explicitly separates safety net (charitable) funds and Tanmiyah (productive empowerment) funds, as well as Asset Quality Optimisation. Definitively, this study proves that Infaq is a strategic Socio-Economic Financial Intervention Instrument to shift people from consumptive dependence to independence and sustainable economic transformation.

THE ROLE OF LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION CENTERS IN PROVIDING INFORMATION RESOURCES FOR ISLAMIC ECONOMICS, BANKING, AND FINANCE TO ACHIEVE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

2026-02-25T10:56:15+07:00

This study examines how libraries and information centers contribute to sustainable development in Nigeria through the provision of information resources for Islamic economics, banking, and finance. The research adopted a quantitative design with 338 respondents comprising librarians, Islamic bankers, economists, and finance professionals. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviations. Findings revealed that libraries provide diverse information resources including books, journals, databases, and digital materials to support Islamic finance education and practice. The mean score of 3.78 indicated strong agreement that these resources contribute significantly to sustainable development goals. However, challenges such as inadequate funding, limited specialized collections, poor infrastructure, staff training gaps, and low awareness among users were identified. The study recommends increased budgetary allocation, acquisition of specialized materials, infrastructure development, continuous staff training, awareness campaigns, partnerships with Islamic financial institutions, digitization initiatives, and policy formulation to strengthen the role of libraries in advancing Islamic finance knowledge for sustainable development in Nigeria..

WAQF AS A SUSTAINABLE POVERTY-ALLEVATION MECHANISM IN AFRICA

2026-02-24T11:34:25+07:00

Waqf, a perpetual charity endowment with strong roots in Islamic socioeconomic theory, has resurfaced as a practical and multifaceted approach to tackling the enduring and intricate reality of poverty throughout Africa. Waqf institutions have a long history on the continent, but their developmental potential is still largely untapped because of shoddy legislative frameworks, disjointed administration systems, and low public awareness. This study investigates waqf's potential to serve as a comprehensive strategy for reducing poverty that can produce long-term, sustainable social benefit. The study employed a qualitative research design backed by doctrinal analysis, historical review, and thematic assessment of modern waqf practices. The findings demonstrate how reviving waqf institutions in Africa through contemporary financial models like cash waqf, corporate waqf, and digital waqf platforms can increase funding for necessary services while empowering underprivileged populations through micro-enterprise financing, skill development, and entrepreneurship support. Furthermore, the study contends that waqf's focus on distributive justice and social solidarity is consistent with modern development frameworks, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those pertaining to poverty alleviation, decent labour, high-quality education, and decreased inequality. It concludes that, waqf offers a morally good and community-driven framework that can restore dignity, resilience, and inclusive progress throughout African countries in addition to an economically sound method of reducing poverty.

INNOVATIVE HAJJ FUND MANAGEMENT TO SUPPORT COST EFFICIENCY THROUGH SEA TRANSPORTATION: A GOVERNANCE STRENGTHENING AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY MODEL BASED ON DIGITALIZATION

2026-02-09T07:47:13+07:00

The growing interest among Indonesian Muslims in performing Hajj using sea transportation has emerged as a significant trend in recent years. This mode offers a more affordable alternative and has the potential to increase accessibility, particularly for lower-middle-income groups and coastal communities. However, this shift demands innovation in Hajj fund management, which has traditionally focused on conventional schemes and air travel. This study aims to examine how innovations in governance and institutional strengthening of Hajj fund management can support cost efficiency and financial sustainability through the integration of cost-effective sea transportation and service digitalization. A qualitative approach is employed, using a case study of a Hajj fund management institution, supported by literature review and relevant data analysis. The study also incorporates financial modeling to identify potential cost savings and improved liquidity achieved through investment innovation and the digitalization of payment and fund monitoring systems. Findings indicate that integrating sea transportation significantly reduces travel costs and positively impacts budget planning. Key challenges include strengthening institutional governance, enhancing transparency, and implementing real-time digital systems. Technologies such as blockchain and smart contracts have proven effective in increasing public trust and minimizing the risk of fund mismanagement. Furthermore, sustainable investment portfolios aligned with Sharia principles present opportunities to boost income while maintaining long-term financial stability. This research provides both theoretical and practical contributions to the development of an innovative Hajj fund management model that is adaptive to current trends and supports the creation of a transparent, efficient, and sustainable Hajj ecosystem.

PER CAPITA INCOME, FEMALE LABOR FORCE PARTICIPATION, AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT INDEX: AN ANALYSIS OF FERTILITY RATE IN INDONESIA

2026-04-01T14:15:54+07:00

This study aims to analyze the effects of per capita income, female labor force participation, and the human development index on fertility rate in Indonesia during the period 2000–2024. The study employs a quantitative approach using time-series data sourced from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), analyzed via multiple linear regression using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) method. The results indicate that, simultaneously, all independent variables have a significant effect on fertility rate in Indonesia. Partially, per capita income has a positive and significant effect, meaning that an increase in income tends to be followed by a rise in fertility rate. Conversely, female labor force participation has a negative effect, suggesting that increased female involvement in the workforce leads to a decline in fertility rate due to opportunity costs. Meanwhile, the human development index has a significant negative effect, indicating that improvements in the quality of education, health, and living standards drive a decline in the fertility rate. The model explains approximately 85 percent of the variation in the fertility rate, demonstrating strong explanatory power. These findings confirm that the dynamics of the fertility rate in Indonesia are influenced by the simultaneous interaction of economic, social, and human development factors.