Strengthening Collaborative Governance Based on Local Wisdom: A Study on Disaster Risk Reduction in The Indigenous Communities of The Kulawi Tribe

Abstract

This study examines the application of collaborative governance as a strategic approach in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) efforts based on local wisdom in the indigenous community of the Kulawi Tribe, Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi. Using a qualitative-descriptive approach with ethnographic methods, and referencing the Collaborative Governance Regime (CGR) model by Emerson et al. (2012), this study found that collaboration among local governments, NGOs, DRR forums, and indigenous peoples still faces coordination challenges, low participation from government officials, and insufficient documentation of local knowledge. However, the absence of the state in certain aspects has actually created opportunities to strengthen community-based governance and reinforce local values. The collaboration that is established reflects the practice of governance through community, where local actors and NGOs take an important role as facilitators, companions, and liaisons between communities and formal institutions. The findings show that local wisdom, such as the management of the 12 levels of forests and the philosophy of human-nature relations, are important pillars in shaping community resilience. This study emphasizes the importance of strengthening community capacity, legal recognition of local governance, and consistency of political commitment from the government as a prerequisite for successful collaboration in DRR. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the local legal framework, integrate DRR into development planning, and the active and equal involvement of all stakeholders on an ongoing basis.