Transformasi Penguatan UMKM Halal melalui Model Triple Helix Berbasis Potensi Lokal di Kabupaten Deli Serdang

The transformation of halal Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) requires more than access to halal certification; it depends on the integration of institutional support, knowledge, innovation, managerial capacity, digitalization, and local economic resources. This research examines the interaction among government, higher education institutions, and MSMEs in strengthening the halal MSME ecosystem through a local potential-based Triple Helix model in Deli Serdang Regency, Indonesia. A qualitative case study approach was employed, involving government representatives, university academics, and halal MSME actors selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observation, and documentation and analyzed using the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña, supported by source and technique triangulation. The findings reveal that Deli Serdang possesses substantial local economic potential in food and beverage processing, agriculture-based products, fashion, handicrafts, and creative industries, but its utilization remains constrained by limited managerial capacity, product innovation, digital marketing, halal certification, and inter-actor coordination. The government functions primarily as a policy driver and facilitator, higher education institutions as knowledge and innovation hubs, and MSMEs as implementers and value creators. The resulting transformation model integrates halal certification and legal compliance, managerial capacity building, local-product innovation, digitalization and market expansion, and market-network development. The model reframes Triple Helix collaboration as a continuous ecosystem-based transformation process rather than fragmented program implementation.