Situational Mapping of the Indonesian Coconut Agroindustry in the Era of Industry 4.0: A Soft Systems Perspective

Abstract

The coconut agroindustry in Indonesia holds strategic economic and social significance, yet remains challenged by low productivity, limited downstream processing, and underutilized technology adoption. Even though it is one of the top global producers of coconuts, the industry faces structural inefficiencies in both human resources and value chain integration, which hinder its competitiveness in the global market. This study is intended to evaluate and map the current state of the coconut agroindustry in Indonesia through the lens of Industry 4.0 readiness, focusing on human capital, technological infrastructure, and regional development potential. The study employs Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) supported by secondary data, including statistical reports, scientific literature, policy documents, and credible online sources. The research involves identifying key issues using rich pictures, formulating systemic understanding through CATWOE and root definitions, and developing conceptual models, causal diagrams, and black box analysis. The findings reveal that human resource competencies, particularly in digital skills and innovation, are underdeveloped; the adoption of processing technology is still conventional in many small-to-medium enterprises; and several regions such as Sulawesi and Nusa Tenggara possess untapped potential for coconut expansion. These insights serve as a foundation for designing strategic interventions in human capital development and digital transformation to accelerate the competitiveness and sustainability of the Indonesian coconut agroindustry.