<![CDATA[Objective: This study aims to analyze community participation in regional development planning through the direct proposal mechanism used in formulating the Regional Government Work Plan (Rencana Kerja Pemerintah Daerah-RKPD) in Blitar Regency from 2022 to 2025. Design/Methods/Approach: This study employed a qualitative approach using in-depth interviews and document analysis to examine community participation in the direct proposal mechanism for regional development planning. Interview and documentary data were analyzed using Creswell’s qualitative data analysis procedures. The analysis also employed Muluk’s participation ladder theory as a theoretical framework to assess the substantive level of community participation within the planning process. Findings: The study reveals a sharp decline in the number of community proposals, from 421 proposals in 2022 to 91 in 2025. Most proposals originated from religious and educational institutions, while grassroots groups, particularly farmers’ and fishery associations, were the least represented. This finding indicates that participation remains largely procedural and corresponds to the weak participation/informing level in Muluk’s participation ladder. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature on participatory regional development planning by providing empirical evidence on the dynamics of direct community proposals in the formulation of the RKPD over the 2022–2025 period. By examining not only the number of proposals but also the representation of participating community groups and interpreting the findings through Muluk’s participation ladder theory, the study provides insight into the gap between procedural participation mechanisms and substantive community engagement at the regional level. Practical/Policy implication: The findings highlight the need for local governments to reform direct proposal submission mechanisms, strengthen outreach to underrepresented community groups, and establish more transparent feedback and accountability systems. These measures are expected to improve the inclusiveness and substantive quality of community participation in regional development planning.]]>
