Government Policy on Industrial Development in Maluku Province in the Context of the Island Cluster

Abstract

The 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia (UUD 1945) provides the basis for the implementation of decentralization in Indonesia. Although in principle it adheres to a symmetrical decentralization model, the constitution also allows for asymmetrical decentralization, as stated in Article 18A paragraph (1), Article 18B paragraph (1), and Article 25A of the 1945 Constitution. This provision has particular significance for archipelagic regions, including the Province of Maluku, whose characteristics differ fundamentally from those of mainland regions. The geographical conditions of Maluku, which consists of thousands of islands, is dominated by water, is isolated, and has infrastructure gaps, require an island-based development model.  This dissertation aims to analyze government policies in the implementation of industrial development in Maluku Province within the framework of asymmetric decentralization and the island cluster approach. The research focuses on the constitutional basis, the legal framework in Law No. 23 of 2014 on Regional Government and Law No. 3 of 2014 on Industry, as well as an evaluation of the implementation of industrial policy in Maluku. The research method used is a normative legal approach combined with empirical studies to obtain a comprehensive picture of legal issues and industrial development policies in the archipelago. The results of the study show that despite normative recognition of Maluku's uniqueness, the implementation of industrial policy has not been fully adaptive to the reality of the archipelago. Limited interconnectivity, weak logistics distribution, and low development of local resource-based industries are the main challenges. Therefore, this dissertation emphasizes the importance of designing industrial policies based on asymmetrical island clusters that are responsive to geographical conditions and capable of realizing equitable development for the people of Maluku within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.