Implementing Data-Driven Social Assistance Policy in Indonesia: The Case of the National Single Socio-Economic Data in Merauke

Digital transformation in social protection has prompted the government to develop data-driven policies to improve the accuracy of beneficiary identification. In Indonesia, the National Single Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN) was developed as an integrated database to support the distribution of social assistance, but its implementation at the local level still faces challenges in data updating, civil service capacity, public understanding, and institutional coordination. This study aims to analyze the implementation of DTSEN-based social assistance policies in Kelapa Lima, Merauke District, Merauke Regency, using George C. Edwards III’s implementation framework. The study employs a qualitative descriptive approach with four key informants purposively selected from district and village government officials. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation, then analyzed through the stages of data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing/verification. The results indicate that communication and bureaucratic structures are in place but still face obstacles regarding the clarity of information, coordination, and the speed of follow-up. Resources are available, but technical capacity and supporting facilities still need to be strengthened, while the disposition of implementers is relatively supportive of policy implementation. The findings also indicate that changes in the community’s socioeconomic conditions require continuous data updates. The study concludes that the success of DTSEN implementation is determined not only by the existence of an integrated database but also by the capacity of local institutions to acquire, verify, update, and disseminate information in a responsive manner. These findings highlight the need for continuous social data governance to strengthen the data updating process and support the accuracy of social assistance targeting.