Journal of Social and Policy Issues

Nickel Mining and Environmental Trade-Off in Raja Ampat Papua: A Conceptual Note on Legal and Policy

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Nickel mining and the environmental trade-off in Raja Ampat, Papua, reveal an ambitious prospect for Indonesia’s national industry, driven by the global effects of minerals and the focus on the massive escalation of electric vehicle (EV) production. Moreover, this foundation presents a government dilemma, leaving too many legal and policy loopholes that could undermine resource governance. In addition, through qualitative descriptive approaches and content analysis, we identify issues that underpin a fragmented and selectively enforced legal regime characterised by weak environmental safeguards and inadequate community consultation processes. Interestingly, our research unexpectedly uncovers that the problem is poorly managed and neglects aspects of law and policy that we consider fundamental. As a call to action, this issue stresses the need for consistent resource governance reform for developing countries facing similar barriers and striving to achieve equity, sustainability, and local empowerment in extractive industry activities.

The Inter-Agency Coordination and Electoral Data Integrity: A Governance Perspective from Bengkulu

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study analyzes the coordination between the Provincial Office of Population and Civil Registration (Disdukcapil) and the Bengkulu Provincial General Election Commission (KPU) in synchronizing voter data for the 2019 General Election. The research aims to examine the forms and effectiveness of inter-institutional coordination in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of voter data to support electoral implementation. A qualitative approach with a descriptive method was employed. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and a systematic review of official documents related to the 2019 election in Bengkulu Province. The analysis focuses on the role of both institutions as problem-solving actors in addressing technical and administrative challenges, including duplicate voter records, inconsistencies between domicile data and voter allocation, and other data-related discrepancies. The findings reveal that coordination was conducted through formal coordination meetings, plenary sessions, inter-agency communication, data consolidation, matching processes, as well as field verification and validation activities, supported by joint decision-making mechanisms. These efforts contributed to improving data accuracy and administrative efficiency. However, the study also identifies persistent challenges, indicating that coordination and data management practices require further optimization to achieve more effective electoral governance.

The Relationship Between Leadership and Integrity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study reviews how integrity is conceptualized and evidenced in leadership research and clarifies what is known about its outcomes and mechanisms. Guided by PRISMA 2020, we searched Scopus for English, peer‑reviewed journal articles (2011–2022). After duplicate removal, screening, and eligibility checks, 67 articles were appraised with an adapted quality checklist and synthesized via descriptive mapping and thematic analysis. The literature clusters into twelve streams, dominated by leader behavioral integrity and ethical leadership. Across sectors, integrity is most consistently associated with follower trust, work engagement, and performance, often through transparent communication and psychological safety. Yet conceptual ambiguity remains because integrity is alternately treated as word–deed alignment, virtue‑based wholeness, and follower attributions. We propose an integrative framework linking these views to influence theories and identify gaps: limited longitudinal and multilevel evidence, weak cross‑cultural measurement, and underdeveloped connections to governance and anti‑corruption outcomes. Practical implications are offered for integrity‑based leadership development and accountability systems. The review also highlights boundary conditions (sector and culture) and outlines a focused agenda for future meta‑analytic and policy-relevant research.

Socio-Religious Movement: MPTT-I in the Spread of Tasawuf Tauhid in South Aceh

Samwil Samwil, Khairan Khairan, Afrizal Tjoetra, Akmal Saputra — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to explain the resource mobilization strategies used by the Indonesian Tauhid Tasawuf Study Council (MPTT-I) in spreading Sufism teachings in South Aceh and its ability to survive amidst resistance from mainstream religious authorities. The study employed a descriptive qualitative method, collecting data through in-depth interviews, observations of da'wah activities, and documentation studies. Data analysis was conducted through interactive data reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing techniques, and validity was strengthened by triangulation of sources and methods. The results indicate that the successful development of MPTT-I is supported by the utilization of material resources such as da'wah facilities and voluntary support from the congregation, as well as human resources through cadre structures and charismatic leadership. Furthermore, symbolic capital and social networks, including the use of digital media, play a significant role in strengthening the movement's legitimacy and expanding its support base. MPTT-I is also responsive to criticism and competition from religious authorities at the local level. In conclusion, MPTT-I is able to combine traditional da'wah practices with modern organizational strategies, thus maintaining its existence and development within the socio-religious dynamics of South Aceh. These findings emphasize the importance of resource mobilization for the sustainability of socio-religious movements in Indonesia.

Roland Barthes' Semiotic Analysis of the Representation of Family Communication in the Animated Film Coco (2017)

Lia Zuraida Surbakti, Muhammad Husni Ritonga — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to analyze the construction and interpretation of family communication in the animated film Coco (2017) using Roland Barthes's semiotic approach. The research focuses on how visual and narrative elements represent communication patterns within a family context, particularly through symbols such as the guitar, the ofrenda, ancestral photographs, and dialogues between characters. This study employs a qualitative method with media text analysis. Data were collected through observation and documentation of selected scenes, then analyzed using Barthes's three levels of meaning: denotation, connotation, and myth. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of how meanings are produced and culturally embedded within the film. The results show that at the denotative level, family communication is portrayed through everyday interactions and conflicts between characters. At the connotative level, these interactions reflect emotional bonds, authority structures, and the tension between individual desires and family expectations. At the myth level, the film reinforces cultural ideologies that prioritize family unity, respect for ancestors, and obedience to familial authority. In conclusion, Coco constructs family communication as a value-laden process shaped by cultural beliefs and intergenerational relationships, emphasizing harmony, collective identity, and the preservation of family traditions.

Power Relations in Mangrove Ecosystem Management: The Authority of Kotawaringin Village Government Amid Environmental Policy Structures

Nur Aysyah, Zalfa Haza Tsabitah, Nyimas Dwi Febyana — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to analyze power relations in mangrove ecosystem management in Kotawaringin Village, Bangka Regency, with a focus on the position and authority of the village government within a hierarchical environmental policy structure. The research employs a qualitative approach using a political ecology perspective to examine the dynamics of power among actors in mangrove governance. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, field observations, and document analysis involving village authorities, coastal communities, and relevant policy documents. The data were analyzed using an interactive model consisting of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that, normatively, the village government is recognized as an autonomous entity within the decentralization framework; however, substantively, its authority is constrained by supravillage policies at the regency and provincial levels. This condition produces hierarchical power relations that position the village government in a subordinate role. Furthermore, a paradox of responsibility emerges, where the village is expected to ensure mangrove sustainability without adequate regulatory authority. The study concludes that mangrove management at the village level constitutes a political arena shaped by power distribution, requiring more inclusive policies, strengthened local institutional capacity, and more equitable coordination among governance actors in coastal environmental management.

Uneven Industrial Growth and Regional Disparities: A Comparative Growth Pole Analysis of Krian and Waru Districts

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to comparatively analyze the industrial development performance of Krian District and Waru District as growth poles in Sidoarjo Regency, East Java, Indonesia. Using a qualitative approach based on a systematic literature review, this study draws on peer-reviewed publications, official statistical reports, and regional planning documents. François Perroux’s Growth Pole Theory serves as the primary analytical lens to examine industrial concentration, spread effects, and spatial disparities between the two districts. The findings reveal that Krian District has developed as a medium-to-large-scale manufacturing center, anchored by the Krian Industrial Zone (KIZ), which supports labor absorption and production capacity. In contrast, Waru District demonstrates more dynamic and diversified economic growth, functioning as a logistics hub, warehousing center, and commercial district, benefiting from proximity to Juanda International Airport and direct access to the Waru–Juanda Toll Road. Infrastructure disparities significantly shape each district’s industrial trajectory, with Waru exhibiting more advanced utility management and transport connectivity. Socially, Waru faces more intense urbanization pressures compared to the relatively stable demographic conditions in Krian. These findings underscore the need for differentiated spatial development policies that leverage each district’s distinct strengths while promoting balanced and equitable regional development within Sidoarjo Regency.

Analysis of the GEDSI Framework (Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion) in Public Space Access for Persons with Disabilities in Tanjungpinang City

Amanda Lovita, Dian Prima Safitri, Okky Rizki Azizi — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Despite the enactment of Tanjungpinang City Regional Regulation No. 4 of 2017 on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, public spaces in the city including Taman Tepi Laut, Museum Sultan Sulaiman Badrul Alamsyah, and key pedestrian corridors remain largely inaccessible for persons with disabilities. This study analyzes the dynamics of public space accessibility policy in Tanjungpinang City using the Multiple Streams Framework (MSF) and the Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) framework. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, with data analyzed using Miles et al., (2014) interactive model and supported by NVivo-12 software. The findings reveal that all four GEDSI dimensions: access, participation, control, and benefit remain unfulfilled, constrained by both physical barriers and structural deficiencies in policy planning. From the MSF perspective, the three streams have yet to converge: the problem has been identified, policy instruments such as the Regional Regulation and Gender-Responsive Budgeting have been formulated, yet weak political support and limited public awareness prevent the policy window from opening optimally. These findings underscore that inclusive public space governance in Tanjungpinang requires substantive integration of GEDSI principles, stronger inter-agency coordination, and the active role of disability groups as policy entrepreneurs.

Dakwah Mimbar dan Transformasi Pola Komunikasi Keagamaan di Era Digital (Studi di Kota Lhokseumawe)

Ismuhar, Muhajir Al-Fairusy, M. Rizal Fazri.Ar — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The development of digital technology has fundamentally changed the religious communication patterns of Muslims, including the practice of pulpit preaching, which has long been understood as an authoritative and sacred space for religious communication. This study aims to analyze the transformation of congregational communication patterns in receiving pulpit preaching in the digital era and examine how the position of the pulpit is reconstructed in relation to new media. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques such as in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation, conducted in several large mosques in Lhokseumawe City. The results show that pulpit preaching is still maintained as a source of religious legitimacy, especially among adults and the elderly. However, the younger generation tends to combine physical presence in the mosque with the consumption of digital preaching through social media platforms. A key finding of this study is the emergence of a hybrid communication pattern, namely the integration of oral preaching from the pulpit with the distribution and amplification of messages through digital media. This pattern marks a shift in preaching from one-way communication to multi-channel dialogic communication that is participatory and interactive. Theoretically, this research enriches Islamic communication studies by integrating a transactional communication approach and uses and gratifications theory in the context of contemporary da'wah. Practically, these findings emphasize the importance of digital literacy for preachers and da'wah institutions to ensure that da'wah from the pulpit remains relevant, has broad reach, and fosters community engagement in a digital society.

Implementation of Social Security for Workers in The Informal Sector: A Study of Bukan Penerima Upah (BPU) at BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Duri

Jaksana Arifin, Muammar Alkadafi — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to analyze the implementation of the BPJS Employment program for non-wage workers (BPU) in Duri City and to identify the factors influencing its low participation rate. The research employs a qualitative descriptive approach, using in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation as data collection techniques. Informants were selected through purposive and snowball sampling, involving one BPJS Employment officer and fifteen informal workers. Data were analyzed using Miles and Huberman’s interactive model, while data validity was ensured through triangulation and member checking. The findings indicate that the implementation of the BPU program in Duri City has not been optimal, as only 34.07 percent of informal workers are registered as active participants. Key obstacles include limited social security literacy, unstable income, weak understanding of program benefits, and low prioritization of contribution payments among workers. From an institutional perspective, limited outreach, a shortage of Perisai agents, and minimal involvement of the local government further constrain effective implementation. Using Grindle’s policy implementation framework, the study reveals barriers in both policy content and implementation context. The study concludes that improving BPU participation requires targeted socialization, strengthening institutional capacity, increasing local government support, and adopting more flexible contribution mechanisms to ensure more inclusive social protection for informal workers.

Digitalization of Local Culture Products as a Strategy to Enhance the Competitiveness of Creative Trade (The Case of Aceh Rencong)

Doni Gunawan, Annisa Qadrunnada, Soraya Lestari — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to analyze and develop a digitalization strategy for the local cultural product Rencong Aceh as an effort to increase competitiveness in creative trade. Rencong as a symbol of Acehnese identity has high historical, artistic, and economic value, but its development still faces challenges in modern marketing, particularly in aspects of market access, product visualization, and cultural branding. To address these needs, this study collaborated with the Informatics study program in designing and building a web-based e-commerce platform specifically designed for the marketing of Rencong Aceh products. The research method used a qualitative descriptive approach combined with user-centered design (UCD) in the system development process. Data were obtained through observations of Rencong artisans, interviews with MSMEs, and literature studies on the digitalization of culture and creative trade. The system development stages included user needs analysis, interface design, digital catalog creation, cultural storytelling feature integration, and platform functionality testing. The research results show that digitalization through e-commerce significantly increases the visibility and market access of Acehnese Rencong products. Craftsmen gain a broader marketing space, cultural documentation becomes more standardized, and consumers can understand the historical value of Rencong through an integrated digital narrative. Cross-disciplinary collaboration between Accounting, Creative Economy, and Informatics has been shown to strengthen innovation while maintaining the authenticity of cultural products. This research recommends further developments in the form of digital payment integration, product tracking features, and social media-based promotions to strengthen global marketing.

The Influence of Multi-Actor Collaboration between Universities on the Formulation of Waste Management Policies

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to examine the influence of university collaboration, particularly lecturer research within a multi-actor network, on the formulation of waste management policies in Tasikmalaya City. Despite the existence of Regional Regulation No. 7 of 2012 and Mayoral Regulation No. 22 of 2019, waste management remains suboptimal due to low community participation, limited facilities, weak inter-agency coordination, and budget constraints. This study employs a mixed-method approach, combining a quantitative survey of lecturers from seven universities with in-depth interviews and observations. Quantitative data were analyzed using simple linear regression, while qualitative data were examined through triangulation and member checking. The findings reveal that most universities lack a specific research roadmap on waste management, resulting in limited contributions to policy formulation. Although research and publication training has been implemented, it has not yet focused on environmental policy advocacy. Regression results indicate that policy formulation has a positive and significant effect on multi-actor collaboration (p < 0.05), while communication and coordination show positive but insignificant effects. The model explains 62.05% of the variance in collaboration outcomes. This study concludes that clear, directed, and inclusive policy formulation plays a more critical role than communication alone and recommends strengthening university engagement in evidence-based policymaking