Abstract:This study aims to analyze the factors influencing the social interaction of the Kanum ethnic group as cross-border actors between the Sota area (Indonesia) and Waiber (Papua New Guinea). The Kanum people are indigenous…
communities residing on both sides of the border, sharing strong historical, cultural, and economic ties. The research was conducted in Kampung Sota, Sota District, Merauke Regency, South Papua Province, using a qualitative method with a descriptive approach and interactive model analysis by Miles, Huberman, and Saldana. The findings reveal that the key supporting factors for social interaction are mostly located in Sota-Indonesia, including better geographic access, infrastructure availability, border pass policy, favorable security conditions, and active economic and educational activities. On the other hand, the main hindering factors are found in Waiber-PNG, such as difficult geographic access, lack of infrastructure, limited governmental policies, and issues related to civil registration. Culturally and socially, the Kanum people experience no barriers due to shared values, traditions, and language. This study concludes that cross-border interdependence is not solely determined by national boundaries but also shaped by socio-cultural dynamics and inclusive policies.
Keywords: Kanum ethnic, social interaction, cross-border, border, interdependence.
Abstract:This study examines the phenomenon of celebrity populism in the context of legislative candidacy in Indonesia, particularly during the 2024 General Election. Celebrity populism refers to a political strategy that relies…
on public popularity, personal image, and emotional proximity to gain electoral support. A qualitative approach was used to explore voter preferences, campaign strategies, the role of social media, and the challenges faced by celebrities entering the political arena. Data were collected through literature review, media documentation, and content analysis of social media platforms. The findings reveal that voters tend to support celebrity candidates not based on their political vision or programs, but due to symbolic closeness and personal appeal developed through entertainment media. Social media serves as the primary tool to construct a populist, “people-oriented” image, although often lacking substantive political content. On the other hand, limited political capacity, public skepticism, and the challenge of adapting to party structures are major obstacles faced by celebrity candidates. These findings suggest that while celebrity populism may broaden political participation, it also risks diminishing the quality of political representation. Therefore, strengthening political literacy and party-based political development is essential to safeguard the quality of democracy amid growing trends of political personalization.
Keywords:, Celebrity Populism, Elections, Social Media, Voter Preference, Indonesian Politics.
Abstract:Kelompok Informasi Masyarakat (KIM) serve as strategic partners of the government in disseminating information to the public, particularly in remote and rural areas. In the era of digital transformation, the role of KIM…
is increasingly crucial in promoting digital literacy to enhance access, understanding, and utilization of information technology among communities. This study aims to examine and optimize the role of KIM in improving digital literacy in Merauke Regency. A qualitative approach was employed, using data collection techniques such as observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis with several active KIM groups in Merauke. The results show that although KIM holds great potential as agents of digital literacy, limitations in human resource capacity, technological infrastructure, and lack of training are the main challenges. Therefore, optimizing the role of KIM requires regular training, cross-sector collaboration, and regulatory and budgetary support from the local government. Thus, KIM can become key drivers in building an inclusive and competitive digital society in Merauke.
Abstract:This research aims to analyze the effectiveness of Minimum Service Standards (MSS) implementation at the Department of Population and Civil Registration (Disdukcapil) in Merauke Regency, South Papua Province. MSS are crucial…
cial instruments for guaranteeing community rights to quality basic services, including civil administration services. Despite their establishment, challenges persist in ensuring that services provided align with the stipulated standards. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach, collecting data through in-depth interviews, observation, and document analysis. Key informants included the head of the department, service-providing staff, and representatives of community service users. The findings indicate that MSS implementation at Merauke Disdukcapil has generally been underway, though its effectiveness varies across service types. Some MSS indicators, such as service waiting times and cost certainty, have been well-met. However, challenges are still present in aspects like the availability of adequate human resources, sub-optimal socialization of MSS to the community, and the need for improved supporting infrastructure. Limited access to information and public understanding of service rights also act as inhibiting factors. Thus, the effectiveness of MSS at Merauke Disdukcapil can be enhanced through strengthening human resource capacity, improving facilities and infrastructure, and intensifying socialization efforts. This study recommends the necessity of regular evaluation and continuous improvement to ensure excellent civil administration services for all communities in Merauke.
Abstract:The establishment of the South Papua Province is a strategic step to address the development inequality that exists in Papua. This study examines the role of various stakeholders in the process of regional expansion using…
g a qualitative literature review. The results of the study highlight the importance of an approach that involves participation, protection of indigenous peoples rights, and transparent budget management. The suggestions provided include gradual expansion and the establishment of an independent supervisory board. This study contributes to the literature on regional autonomy by combining the perspectives of various actors involved.
Keywords: Regional Autonomy, Development Inequality, Role of Stakeholders, Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Budget Transparency
Abstract:This study aims to analyze the strategic planning of Tof-Tof Village development in Eligobel District, Merauke Regency, using the SWOT analysis approach. The main problem studied is how an effective development strategy…
can be designed to optimize village potential, overcome internal weaknesses, and take advantage of opportunities and face external threats. This study uses a qualitative method with data collection techniques through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies. The results of the study indicate that Tof-Tof Village has strengths in the form of potential natural resources and strong social cohesion, but faces weaknesses such as limited basic infrastructure and village apparatus capacity. Development opportunities come from the support of Papua's special autonomy policy and partnerships with external institutions, while threats include geographical isolation and dependence on external assistance. The conclusion of this study shows the need for participatory and adaptive strategic planning in facing the dynamics of sustainable village development.
Abstract:The palm oil industry plays a strategic role in Indonesia's economy, including in Merauke Regency, which is one of the developing palm oil plantation areas in Papua. However, challenges in production efficiency, environmental…
ental sustainability, and competitiveness remain obstacles in the industry's value chain. Innovation in various aspects of the value chain, such as productivity improvement through agricultural technology, processing efficiency, and product diversification based on palm oil, is a key factor in enhancing the industry's competitiveness. This study aims to analyze the role of innovation in the palm oil industry value chain in Merauke Regency by identifying the types of innovations applied and the factors that support or hinder their adoption. The research employs a qualitative approach, using data collection techniques such as in-depth interviews, observations, and document studies. The findings indicate that upstream sector innovations, such as the use of superior seedlings and digital plantation management, have improved productivity and efficiency. Meanwhile, downstream innovations in palm oil processing and value-added product diversification still face challenges, particularly in infrastructure and regulatory aspects. The study's implications suggest that optimizing innovation in the palm oil value chain requires more adaptive policies, increased investment in research and development, and capacity building for human resources. Thus, innovation can serve as a driving force in creating a more competitive, sustainable palm oil industry that contributes to local economic development in Merauke Regency.
Abstract:This study aims to analyze the effect of work discipline on the performance of employees at the Police Pamong Praja and Fire Department of Merauke Regency. Work discipline is considered one of the factors that is expected…
d to enhance employee performance, especially in carrying out operational tasks that require punctuality and responsibility. This study uses a quantitative method with a simple linear regression approach to test the effect of work discipline (independent variable) on employee performance (dependent variable). The sample used in this study consists of 40 respondents, who are employees of the Police Pamong Praja and Fire Department of Merauke Regency.
The results of the study show that the t-value for work discipline (X) is 8.479, which is greater than the t-table value of 2.026. In addition, the significance value for work discipline (X) is 0.000, which is smaller than the probability value of 0.005. Therefore, it can be concluded that H0 is rejected and H1 is accepted, meaning that there is a significant effect of work discipline on employee performance at the Police Pamong Praja and Fire Department of Merauke Regency. These findings indicate that the better the work discipline of employees, the higher the performance produced. This study provides important contributions in understanding how work discipline can play a role in improving employee performance in government institutions, particularly in the fire department sector.
Abstract:The Community Information Group (KIM) program is a strategic initiative by the Department of Communication and Information Technology of Merauke Regency to encourage active community participation in managing information…
and communication. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the KIM program's implementation, covering aspects of planning, execution, and its impact on the community. The research method employed is a qualitative approach, with data collection techniques including interviews, observations, and document studies. The evaluation results indicate that the KIM program has positively contributed to improving community information literacy, particularly in rural areas. However, several challenges were identified, such as limited human resources, uneven technological infrastructure, and low community participation in certain activities. Therefore, strategic measures are needed, including enhancing the capacity of KIM members, expanding access to information technology, and optimizing synergy between local government, local communities, and other stakeholders. This study is expected to serve as a reference for developing a more effective and sustainable KIM program in the future.
Abstract:This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Family Hope Program (PKH) in Sumber Rejeki Village by assessing aspects such as policy objectives and targets, resources, organizational characteristics, implementer attitudes,…
ttitudes, inter-organizational communication, as well as the economic, social, and political environment. The research method used is a qualitative approach with in-depth interviews conducted with key informants, including policy implementers, PKH assistants, and beneficiaries. The findings indicate that the PKH policy's objectives are well understood by the target community, but there are challenges related to uneven aid distribution, leading to social injustice among more vulnerable groups. The available resources, while adequate, have not been optimally utilized to reach all impoverished communities, especially those in remote areas. The characteristics of the implementing organization show good coordination, but improvements are needed in transparency and communication with the public, particularly those not registered as beneficiaries. The professional and empathetic attitude of the implementers greatly supports the program's success, although there are shortcomings in communication and outreach to the general public. The economic, social, and political environment plays a significant role in the successful implementation of PKH, with challenges such as social jealousy and local political factors affecting aid distribution. Therefore, it is recommended to enhance transparency in the data collection and aid distribution processes, strengthen the capacity of social assistants, and expand outreach efforts to ensure that the PKH program is more equitable and effective in achieving its goals.