<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze the socioeconomic adaptation of waste collectors at the Antang Final Disposal Site (TPA Antang) in Manggala District, Makassar City, and to identify the challenges and factors influencing their socioeconomic conditions. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, involving nine informants consisting of formal waste collectors, landfill management staff, and nearby community members. Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion-drawing techniques. The findings reveal that waste collectors employ various adaptive strategies, such as earning additional income through the sale of recyclable waste, strengthening social solidarity among workers, and adopting frugal household lifestyles. They face structural challenges including low wages, delayed payments, lack of labor protection, and social stigma that labels their occupation as menial work. Factors affecting their socioeconomic conditions include low education levels, inadequate living environments, high health risks, and limited access to social services. Despite these challenges, the waste collectors demonstrate strong resilience through community solidarity and hard work. This study highlights that their socioeconomic adaptation reflects the endurance of marginalized groups in confronting structural inequalities and underscores the importance of policy attention toward the welfare of sanitation sector workers.]]>
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