Kehidupan Sosial Ekonomi Pekerja Harian Lepas (PHL) Kapal Penumpang di Kawasan Perairan Danau Toba di Desa Tomok, Kecamatan Simanindo, Kabupaten Samosir, Provinsi Sumatera Utara

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the socio-economic life of Daily Freelance Workers (PHL) on passenger boats in Tomok Village, Lake Toba, and to identify the challenges they face in meeting their daily needs. This research employs a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach. The study involved six informants: one key informant, three main informants, and two additional informants. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, and then analyzed using an interactive data analysis technique. The findings show that the socio-economic life of PHL is influenced by income uncertainty due to fluctuations in the number of passengers, long working hours, and limited social security. Nevertheless, PHL remain actively engaged in social interactions both at work and within the community. Economic uncertainty remains the main challenge affecting their family welfare and social status. This research is expected to serve as a consideration in formulating policies for worker protection in the tourism sector.