POLICY OF THE ASAHAN DISTRICT GOVERNMENT, NORTH SUMATERA PROVINCE AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR IMPROVING PUBLIC SERVICES

Abstract

This study analyzes the policies of the Asahan Regency Government, North Sumatra, in improving the quality of public services and their impact on community welfare. Using a qualitative approach with a case study method, this study utilized interviews, observations, and document analysis to evaluate policy implementation in the health, education, and agriculture sectors. The results of the study indicate that although there has been progress in improving infrastructure and services, accessibility of services in rural areas remains a major challenge due to limited infrastructure and uneven distribution of services. Community participation in the policy process is still limited, although initiatives such as public forums and surveys have been carried out. On the other hand, the use of technology such as e-government has begun to show positive results in improving service efficiency, but the challenge of digital literacy in rural areas needs to be addressed immediately. This study recommends increasing the distribution of infrastructure, strengthening digital literacy, and involving the community more inclusively in the policy process. With these steps, it is hoped that the quality of public services can be improved, thereby encouraging the creation of more equitable welfare in Asahan Regency.