Journal of Social Research
Vol. 5 No. 11 (2026): Journal of Social Research (Issue in Progres)

A Qualitative Analysis of the Implementation of Development and Empowerment Programs Through Subdistrict Funds in Arut Selatan District, West Kotawaringin Regency

Ajeng Puji Rahayu (Universitas Terbuka)
Iqbal Miftakhul Mujtahid (Universitas Terbuka)
Ayuning Budiati (Universitas Terbuka)



Article Info

Publish Date
08 Oct 2026

Abstract

The Subdistrict Fund policy was introduced to reduce development disparities and strengthen community empowerment in urban administrative areas. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the implementation of West Kotawaringin Regent Regulation Number 18 of 2021 in Arut Selatan District and to identify the factors supporting and inhibiting its implementation. Using a descriptive qualitative design, data were collected through in-depth interviews, field observations, and document analysis involving government officials, community institutions, and community representatives across four selected urban villages (kelurahan). The empirical data were analyzed interactively using George C. Edwards III’s top-down policy implementation framework. The findings indicate that policy implementation remains suboptimal. Policy communication is characterized by fragmented transmission of regulatory guidance, with implementing officials relying primarily on higher-level regulations rather than the Regent Regulation as the principal operational reference. Limited budget allocations and insufficient managerial capacity among implementing officials constitute the main constraints. Furthermore, a discrepancy was identified between strong implementer commitment and weak administrative compliance in participatory planning processes. Structural oversight also remains largely confined to formal compliance audits. The study concludes that resource constraints and weak administrative enforcement reduce policy effectiveness, although the program has generated tangible physical benefits that are directly experienced by local communities.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ijsr

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Computer Science & IT Economics, Econometrics & Finance Education Social Sciences

Description

The Journal of Social Research is a double blind peer-reviewed academic journal and open access to social and scientific fields. The journal is published monthly by International Journal Labs. The Journal of Social Research provides a means for sustained discussion of relevant issues that fall ...