SMALL and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the unsung heroes of Southeast Asian economic history, exemplifying resiliency, and the spirit of entrepreneurship. But hidden beneath the surface of these busy marketplaces is an important story about the transformational potential of community involvement. Astra International Tbk began as a small Indonesian enterprise in 1957 and grew to become a corporate giant by 2015, employing 200,000 people. But, beneath this quick rise comes a story of great community service as well as business prowess. Astra International, under the guidance of the Dharma Bhakti Astra Foundation (YDBA), has not only welcomed but also developed SMEs, fostering a mutually beneficial partnership that goes beyond business.

This goes beyond just a tale of business triumph. Strong relationships with regional communities let Astra International establish itself not only as a business but also as a reliable partner that will help in good times and bad. Social capital grows via these kinds of activities, fostering an environment of cooperation and mutual development. However, the story goes well beyond what happens inside a single company. A kind of renaissance is happening throughout Southeast Asia as SMEs realize the transformative power of community participation. Collaboration is a hallmark of this journey; an astounding 70 percent of SMEs acknowledge the critical role that partnerships play in their ascent to prosperity. These partnerships, which promote a sense of unity and shared purpose, are essential to succeed in both busy marketplaces and corporate boardrooms.

But community involvement is a moral requirement as much as a strategic one. It is not only wise but also necessary to actively listen to community comments in an area where trust is the currency of trade. SMEs are not only adjusting to change, but actively shaping it by listening to their customers and creating goods and services that speak to the needs of their local communities.

Community participation is not merely a technique; rather, it is a symphony that harmonizes many voices into a crescendo of growth in the broad tapestry of Southeast Asian economies. Consequently, in order to make a lasting impression on society, SMEs must always be aware of the fact that, beneath every transaction and every storefront, there is a story of resiliency, teamwork and community.

Srijla Bagai works in Brand Strategy for both International and Domestic brands in India. Additionally, her contributions as an independent author for research journals and newspapers have enriched academic and journalistic circles alike.