The Role of Religiosity in Shaping Ethical Business Behavior among MSME Actors in the Elementary School Environment of Pekanbaru City

Abstract

Introduction:
This research is motivated by the importance of religiosity in shaping ethical business behavior, particularly among MSMEs in Pekanbaru City's Public Elementary Schools (SDN). In the context of increasingly competitive economic development, moral and spiritual values ​​are a crucial foundation for maintaining justice and blessings in business activities.

Methods:
This study employed a descriptive quantitative approach with a survey method. Data were collected through offline questionnaires distributed to 66 MSME respondents within the Pekanbaru City elementary school environment from September 2023 to July 2024. The study population comprised 193 public elementary schools in Pekanbaru City, and the sample size was determined using the Slovin formula with a 10% precision. Data collected included respondent characteristics (gender, age, education level) as well as indicators of religiosity and ethical business behavior.

Results:
The results showed that the majority of respondents were male (73%), with a productive age group of 30–39 years (47%), and a high school education level (55%). High levels of religiosity have been shown to be positively correlated with ethical business behavior. Business actors with a good understanding and practice of religion tend to be more honest, responsible, and fair in their trading activities.

Conclusion and Suggestion:

This study concludes that religiosity has a significant influence on the formation of ethical business behavior among MSMEs. Religious values ​​serve as moral guidelines for conducting business in accordance with the principles of justice and blessings. Therefore, it is recommended that local governments, religious institutions, and schools collaborate in providing education and guidance on Islamic business ethics for MSMEs within the school environment.