Assessing the Effectiveness of Communication Management in Local Government: A Study of the Slum-Free City Programme in Indonesia

Abstract

The “Slum-Free City” (KOTAKU) programme represents a strategic effort by the Bima City Government to revitalize settlement areas following the flash floods in 2016. According to the Bima City Government’s 2023 reports, the programme has successfully rehabilitated approximately 310.56 hectares of slum areas. This study aims to analyse the effectiveness of communication management implemented by the local government in supporting the success of the KOTAKU program. Using a descriptive approach wihth approach with mixed methods. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, field observations, and a questionnaire survey involving 100 respondents comprising key stakeholders and residents affected by the programme. The findings reveal that the success of the programme is significantly influenced by two main factors: (1) the application of adaptive and inclusive communication management strategies by the government, and (2) the social conditions of the community, which urgently require improvements in their living environment post-disaster. The Bima City Government's communication management in implementing the KOTAKU program has helped build physical infrastructure by adapting to local needs and post-disaster urgency, but it has failed to promote behavioral change and long-term community empowerment. This study concludes that the effectiveness of governmental communication is pivotal in mobilizing public participation and accelerating sustainable slum settlement revitalisation.