South Asian Journal of Social Studies and Economics

Aims: This study aims to examine the innovative methods and development strategies implemented in Oro-Oro Dowo Market, Malang, East Java. It evaluates how these innovations contribute to building a sustainable and healthy local economy, while also identifying key obstacles and opportunities in maintaining the “healthy market” initiative. Furthermore, the study explores how the Oro-Oro Dowo Market model can be adapted to other traditional markets as a pathway for broader national and regional development.

Study Design: This qualitative descriptive phenomenological case study employed data triangulation from three key stakeholder groups—traders, market managers, and consumers.

Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted at Oro-Oro Dowo Market, Klojen District, Malang City, East Java, which was selected as a revitalized traditional market that has successfully integrated digital innovations and strengthened local welfare.

Methodology: Primary data were collected through interviews, questionnaires, and field observations involving 46 consumers, 48 traders, and 6 market managers. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure direct engagement with the market’s operations and innovations. The analysis was conducted in three stages: data reduction, descriptive presentation, and synthesis to identify recurring patterns, with triangulation used to validate findings.

Results: The findings indicate that Oro-Oro Dowo Market is widely recognized for its cleanliness, order, and security, supported by innovations such as structured zoning, modernized facilities, and the installation of CCTV. Stakeholders also noted the positive impact of digitalization, with widespread use of QRIS and social media for transactions and promotion. Nevertheless, several challenges persist, including incomplete sanitation facilities, the absence of systematic waste separation, and limited digital literacy among some traders. While issues of informal control (premanisme) remain, they are relatively minimal compared to many other traditional markets.

Conclusion: Oro-Oro Dowo Market demonstrates how revitalization strategies—combining facility upgrades, improved governance, and gradual digital adoption—can transform a traditional market into a sustainable and trusted community hub. The market’s success in enhancing safety, cleanliness, comfort, and stakeholder confidence underscores its potential as a replicable model for fostering sustainable local economies. To strengthen its impact, ongoing improvements are needed in waste management, equitable facility distribution, and capacity-building for digital literacy. Beyond Indonesia, this model offers valuable lessons for other developing countries seeking to modernize traditional markets while preserving their cultural identity and promoting inclusive economic growth.