COMPARING WELFARE LEVELS ACROSS INDONESIA'S ARCHIPELAGIC DISTRICTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: EVIDENCE FROM TALAUD, SANGIHE, AND MOROTAI

Abstract National development should aim to improve the citizens' quality of life through economic growth, social progress, and environmental sustainability. This involves creating conditions that support the growth of businesses, industries, and infrastructure while protecting the environment and preserving natural resources for future generations. Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelagic nation, endowed with rich and diverse natural resources, where marine fisheries play an important role in developing the regions. The utilization of these resources, however, appears to be rather limited in various areas. This study compares economic welfare levels in the archipelagic districts of Talaud, Sangihe, and Morotai, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results indicate that the Sangihe Islands have a higher average income and lower poverty levels compared to Talaud and Morotai Islands. These findings call for the need for targeted forms of social protection, inclusive economic policies, and improved access to public services. The evidence may further inform the policymakers and stakeholders as they design programs to address regional disparities and mitigate the socioeconomic impacts of the pandemic in remote island communities.