Abstract
This study aims to analyze the sustainable livelihoods of coastal MSME actors in the Tomini Bay Area, Gorontalo Province, through the Multiaspect Sustainable Analysis (MSA) approach. A mixed-methods approach with an explanatory design was employed, emphasizing quantitative findings subsequently strengthened by qualitative data to generate more comprehensive and reliable conclusions. The research subjects consisted of coastal MSME actors, local government representatives and relevant stakeholders, totalling 30 experts. Data were collected through observation, interviews, questionnaires and documentation and were analyzed using Exsimpro Software by considering both existing conditions and future conditions. The results indicate that the sustainable livelihoods of coastal MSMEs fall within the good (sustainable) category, demonstrating significant strengths in natural and social capital (very sustainable), alongside adequate support in financial, human and physical capital (sustainable), although these aspects have not yet reached optimal levels. This sustainability is reflected in the utilization of local resources grounded in the Blue Economy concept, inherited technical skills and strong social networks. Nevertheless, challenges persist, particularly concerning digital literacy, business management capacity and dependency on seasonal resources. Based on these findings, multi-stakeholder collaboration is recommended among government institutions, higher education institutions, NGOs, MSME actors and the private sector. Such collaboration should encompass regulatory strengthening, infrastructure development, technopreneurship training, applied research, sustainability education, digital literacy enhancement, product innovation and environmentally friendly investment and ecotourism partnerships. These collective efforts are expected to strengthen the adaptive capacity of coastal communities in responding sustainably to economic and environmental dynamics.
Keywords: Coastal Communities, MSME Actors, Multiaspect Sustainable Analysis, Sustainable Livelihoods, Tomini Bay.