Perubahan Pola Permukiman di Lahan Sawit

Studi Kasus di Muara Kedang, Kecamatan Bongan, Kabupaten Kutai Barat

Abstract

Land conversion into oil palm plantations represents a form of land use change that not only alters the physical characteristics of an area but also affects community life, including settlement patterns. This study aims to analyze the factors that encourage communities to convert land into oil palm plantations and to examine its impacts on changes in settlement patterns in Muara Kedang Village, Bongan District, West Kutai Regency. This research employed a qualitative approach using a descriptive method to provide an in-depth understanding of changes in community settlement patterns. Informants were selected using purposive sampling and consisted of six participants, including two community leaders, two residents who experienced changes in settlement patterns, and two migrant residents. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. Data were analyzed using the interactive model developed by Miles and Huberman, while data validity was ensured through source triangulation and technique triangulation. The findings indicate that land conversion is influenced by economic factors, employment opportunities, road infrastructure development, and the presence of plantation companies. The impacts include the transformation of settlement patterns into a more dispersed form, improved regional accessibility, the arrival of migrant residents, changes in social conditions, increased employment opportunities and income, as well as a growing demand for public facilities.