POLICY ANALYSIS OF AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT AS A CATALYST FOR INCREASING REGIONAL INCOME: SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION IN CENTRAL KALIMANTAN

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of agricultural development policies as a catalyst for increasing regional income and promoting sustainable socio-economic transformation in Central Kalimantan. The province possesses abundant natural resources; however, their potential has not been optimally utilized due to the low adoption of technology, weak infrastructure, and limited quality of human resources (HR) among farmers. Regional disparities and uneven distribution of agricultural programs have further widened the welfare gap among local farmers.

The main issue lies in the low agricultural productivity caused by the dominance of traditional farming methods and limited access to technology and modern training. This condition creates a research problem gap between agrarian potential and its actual utilization. To bridge this gap, the study emphasizes the importance of innovation-based agricultural policies, the development of agricultural infrastructure, and the strengthening of farmers’ capacities through training and integrated farming systems (agroforestry).

The research employs a Mixed Methods approach with an Explanatory Sequential Design, beginning with quantitative analysis involving 174 respondents from a total population of 580, followed by a qualitative stage that includes 50 key informants from government officials, academics, and community representatives. The research locations cover nine regencies and cities selected purposively based on agrarian characteristics and policy relevance, including Kapuas, Pulang Pisau, North Barito, and Palangka Raya.

The legal foundation of the study refers to Law No. 23 of 2014, Law No. 19 of 2013, and Presidential Regulation No. 59 of 2017, along with several regional regulations and gubernatorial decrees of Central Kalimantan concerning sustainable agricultural development.

The novelty of this research lies in the development of the MUANZAR MODEL (Integrated Farming System)—a sustainable agricultural management framework focused on resource efficiency, business diversification, and value-added enhancement. The findings indicate that digital innovation, institutional strengthening, and the improvement of farmers’ human resources are key factors driving inclusive and competitive agricultural development in Central Kalimantan.