Implementing the Rural Digital Transformation Policy through the Smart Village Program in Indonesia, Case Study of Salu Dewata Village, Enrekang Regency

Abstract

This research aims to examine: a) the current condition of the digital ecosystem in rural areas as they transform into smart villages; b) the implementation process of the rural digital village program; and c) the prospects for developing agriculture-based smart villages. The research method employs a qualitative approach using case studies, strengthened with analytical models of organizational theory, particularly the open systems theory introduced by Ludwig von Bertalanffy. The findings reveal that the introduction of internet infrastructure into the village, and the digital ecosystem in Salu Dewata village has generally developed quite well. However, the Internet’s functions for strategic economic development, such as the digitalization of the agricultural sector, are still largely limited to personal communication. Its use for strategic activities such as agriculture remains minimal. since being designated as a Smart Village participant in the Ministry of Village Development for Disadvantaged Regions and Transmigration, Salu Dewata Village has established a Village Digital Community Space (RKDD). This institution is developing a village website service that includes general village information and community economic opportunities. Meanwhile, the implementation of digital transformation in the agricultural sector is under consideration, given the significant prospects for developing agriculture-based smart villages. This village is a center for shallot plantations but faces numerous challenges such as climate change, labor shortages, post-harvest prices, and low income due to these issues.