Assessing Good Governance Principles in Rural Infrastructure Development: A Case Study in a Floating Village, Southeast Sulawesi

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the application of good governance principles in rural infrastructure development in Desa Terapung, Southeast Sulawesi. Utilizing a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with 13 key informants (community leaders, village government officials, BPD, youth, and activists) and document/field observations. Findings indicate that community participation, though present in Musyawarah Desa (village meetings), often remains a formality, with aspirations not always directly translated into project priorities (e.g., preference for a new village office over jetty improvements, as stated by Informant VT-03). Project information transparency, especially financial details, was limited to announcement boards that were not easily understandable to all residents (Informant VT-06), leading to skepticism and questions regarding budget utilization. Accountability tended to focus on physical project completion, lacking a comprehensive framework for assessing quality or long-term benefits, and the BPD’s oversight mechanisms were constrained by technical expertise (Informant VT-11). The effectiveness and responsiveness of the village government varied; while some crucial projects like clean water were appreciated, gaps remained between implemented projects and specific coastal community needs such as wave-resistant jetties (Informant VT-13) and climate change mitigation. This study extends the understanding of implementing good governance challenges in unique maritime geographical contexts, highlighting the need for more inclusive and adaptive approaches. The research concludes that while formal good governance structures exist, their practical implementation requires substantial improvement to ensure truly relevant and sustainable infrastructure development.