Research Collaboration Deemed Crucial to Strengthen Data-Based Policymaking
Jakarta – Government policymaking is increasingly expected to rely on research results and field data so that decisions taken are more targeted. On that basis, the Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) is collaborating with Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) to strengthen evidence-based policy formulation. The cooperation was discussed in a meeting held at the Command Center of the Agency for Domestic Policy Strategy (BSKDN).
Head of BSKDN, Yusharto Huntoyungo, stated that various programmes run by the Ministry have so far produced data that can be utilised as a basis for guidance to regional governments. “The activities carried out by the Ministry of Home Affairs provide follow-up to regions based on data that has been properly measured. Regions simply need to integrate and take the elements according to the policy objectives to be achieved,” Yusharto said.
According to him, this data not only serves as evaluation material but can also be processed into more targeted policy recommendations. Yusharto assessed that the involvement of higher education institutions is important to ensure that the policies formulated are not only academically robust but also relevant to the problems faced by the regions. “We want to be part of the process of bringing policy closer to problems on the ground. Evidence-based policy is the centre of our attention at BSKDN,” he said.
He explained that evidence-based policymaking requires cross-party collaboration. In addition to universities, regional governments through the Regional Development Planning, Research and Innovation Agency (Bapperida) and the Regional Research and Innovation Agency (BRIDA) also have a role in providing data and study results. Through the cooperation with UNAIR, a number of agendas have been prepared for joint development, ranging from policy research, capacity building for apparatus, seminars and public discussions, to the preparation of policy briefs. According to Yusharto, universities are one of the sources of innovation that can be utilised by regional governments. Therefore, collaboration with academics is expected to produce more applicable policy recommendations in addressing development challenges in various regions.