SMART ECONOMY IN URBAN DEVELOPMENT PLANNING OF MEDAN CITY CONCEPTS AND IMPLEMENTATION BY 2026
Abstract
The rapid advancement of digital technology has transformed urban development, with Smart Economy emerging as a key component of Smart City frameworks. This study explores the concept and implementation of Smart Economy in Medan's urban planning by 2026, emphasizing efficiency, innovation, and entrepreneurial ecosystems via Information and Communication Technology (ICT). Drawing from global and national literature published between 2020 and 2025 it identifies policy strategies, challenges, and opportunities for inclusive growth aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Methodology involves content analysis of scholarly sources and national reports revealing that success hinges on institutional capacity, data governance, and the targeted reduction of digital disparities. Results highlight multidimensional benefits but underscore risks of inequality if policy focuses solely on technology acquisition. The study proposes the novel Medan-Specific Smart Economy Index (MSEI), a composite metric designed to monitor progress, specifically quantifying equitable benefit distribution to ensure sustainable urban economic transformation. Implications include integrated digital policies that prioritize human capital development and cross-sector collaboration for sustainable urban economies.
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