Bridging gaps in rural resilience: smallholder farmers' perceptions of formal and community-based social assistance in Indonesia

Abstract Smallholder farmers play a crucial role in Indonesia’s agricultural sector, contributing significantly to food security and rural livelihoods. However, their vulnerability to economic, social, and environmental risks necessitates external support, particularly through social assistance programs. While formal government assistance programs provide structured financial aid, community-based assistance mechanisms offer localized and culturally embedded support. The effectiveness of these programs is heavily influenced by smallholders' perceptions and acceptance. This study aims to explore smallholder farmers' perceptions of formal social assistance and community-based aid in Indonesia. It investigates the factors shaping these perceptions and their implications for policy and program development. The study was conducted in three representative provinces: West Sumatra, West Java, and South Sulawesi. Data were collected from 92 smallholder farmers through structured surveys assessing their knowledge, attitudes, and opinions on both forms of social assistance. Perception analysis was performed using a Likert scale to categorize responses. The findings indicate that smallholder farmers in the study area generally hold positive perceptions of both formal and community-based social assistance. Government social assistance is appreciated for its structured distribution and reliability, while community-based assistance is valued for its flexibility, social cohesion, and responsiveness to local needs. However, concerns regarding adequacy and fairness persist, particularly in government-led programs. Integrating formal and community-based assistance mechanisms could enhance social support effectiveness for smallholder farmers. To move beyond short-term relief, policies should consider establishing integrated community centers at the village level that link social assistance with agricultural extension, financial services, and cooperative initiatives. In addition, adopting a transformative approach that prioritizes women, youth, and smallholder farmers through participatory targeting and accountability mechanisms would strengthen inclusive and sustainable rural resilience in Indonesia.