<![CDATA[Background: Many countries have been criticized for their slow recovery from the pandemic, partly due to the weak implementation of COVID-19 policies at the community level. Although governments developed response frameworks, these often remained ineffective without strong public participation. The key gap lies in the limited evidence on how structured community participation, particularly through participatory action research (PAR), can be integrated into village-level Covid-19 management. Objective: This study aimed to examine how community participation can improve community knowledge, strengthen their role as change agents, and enhance community-based management of health problems, with the involvement of community leaders, village governments, and primary health care providers. Methods: An action research design with online and offline stages was employed in the study. The researchers explored community perceptions of COVID-19, prevention practices, and local management efforts. Content analysis of existing community resources was conducted to identify feasible monitoring strategies. Results: 18 participants were involved in three phases: action planning, a 3-month intervention, and a 3-month evaluation. The intervention resulted in increased understanding and adherence to COVID-19 management, improved community capability to promote behavioral change, and strengthened implementation of local health problem management. Conclusion: The findings show that active community participation, supported by government programs and health workers, plays a critical role in improving community health outcomes and strengthening village-level pandemic response.]]>
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