Implementasi Program Kota Tanpa Kumuh (KOTAKU) di Kelurahan Belawan Pulau Sicanang Kecamatan Medan Belawan

Abstract

Slum settlements remain a critical urban development issue in Indonesia, particularly in Medan City. Rapid population growth and urbanization have increased pressure on housing and basic infrastructure, resulting in complex social, economic, and environmental challenges. Belawan Pulau Sicanang Village represents the area with the highest level of slum density in Medan, where the Kota Tanpa Kumuh (KOTAKU/City Without Slums) Program is expected to improve living conditions. However, its implementation faces multiple obstacles, including limited funding, weak inter-agency coordination, low community participation, and restricted land availability in coastal areas. This study aims to describe and analyze the implementation of the KOTAKU Program in Belawan Pulau Sicanang using a qualitative descriptive approach. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, validated through source triangulation. The analysis focuses on three main indicators of program implementation: (1) program aspects, including objectives, socialization, and budget allocation; (2) implementing organization aspects, covering coordination and human resource capacity; and (3) target group aspects, which examine community participation, sense of ownership, and environmental maintenance awareness. The findings reveal that the KOTAKU Program has contributed positively to improving basic infrastructure—such as roads, drainage, and sanitation—leading to reduced slum intensity. Nevertheless, program effectiveness remains suboptimal across the three indicators. Program aspects are constrained by budget and coastal conditions; implementing organization aspects are hindered by inconsistent coordination; and target group aspects show limited community involvement and low maintenance awareness. The study recommends strengthening multi-sector collaboration, enhancing community institutional capacity, and adopting sustainable empowerment strategies to ensure the program’s long-term effectiveness.