Rural Livelihood Strategies in Sumatra After the Implementation of ‘ASEAN 2020 Haze Free Policy’ (Case Study: Lebung Gajah Community, Ogan Komering Ilir, South Sumatera)

Abstract

A series of regulations to realize ‘the ASEAN Haze Free Policy in 2020’ have been made, starting from the international level to the local level, including the ban on the use of fire for traditional agricultural land clearing (sonor) that was commonly used by rural communities in Sumatra. This study analyzes the livelihood strategies of rural communities after the issuance of the policy. The data used are primary and secondary. Primary data were collected through interviews, FGDs, and field observations in June-August 2019 at the district level (Ogan Komering Ilir District), community and member of the community (household) in Lebung Gajah Village, Tulung Selapan Sub-District. On the other hand, the secondary data were conducted during January-September 2019. Analysis conducted using the Scoones’ Sustainable Livelihood Approach found that to ensure the sustainability of their livelihoods, various households in the rural community carried out strategies: (1) agriculture intensification (‘Kebun Pangan Mandiri Program’), (2) livelihood diversification (raising livestock, catching fish, building swallow houses, & becoming construction worker), and (3) activating women’s groups (household financial and business management). In implementing their strategies, they exchange their access to livelihood assets that are owned and available through social institutions and formal organizations in the village.