Risk communication in risk-based planning: a practice in coastal area of Subang regency, Indonesia

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the extent to which risk communication has been implemented into spatial planning practice in Indonesia by using the coastal area of Subang Regency as a case study. Risk communication in risk-based planning (RBP) is the process of exchanging information about risk and hazards between all actors which emphasizes determining the level of risk acceptance of communities to support appropriate decision making in spatial planning. It has been proven effective in developed countries, but it remains unclear in Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses qualitative methods by analyzing documents and interviews with local stakeholders to explain how risk communication is implemented in RBP at the regency level.

Findings

This study reveals that risk communication is not explicitly incorporated into RBP regulations and impacts its practices. The absence of a clear definition and guidelines in regulations is leading to limited understanding at all government levels. The emphasis on community risk acceptance levels as the core of risk communication in RBP has not been conducted, where the existing focus is still majorly on disaster events. This has led to improper spatial planning decisions.

Practical implications

Incorporating risk communication in RBP is important in spatial planning practice in Indonesia. Without effective community engagement, clear definition and guidelines on community’s acceptable risk levels, spatial planning efforts may not align with local needs, leading to social conflicts and hindering appropriate spatial planning. For instance, land use policy for community that is willing to tolerate the risk should be permitted with specified consideration instead of offering relocation options that potentially lead to social unrest by conflicting with their social, economic and cultural. Integrating risk communication into RBP can result in a more adaptive and appropriate spatial planning decisions.

Originality/value

This study offers a novel exploration of risk communication which is important to be integrated into the RBP in a locality in Indonesia, focusing on both regulatory factors and practices to support appropriate decision making in spatial planning. This paper is important because study on risk communication in RBP in Indonesia is still scarce.

Citation

Soejarwo, P.A., Fahmi, F.Z. and Suroso, D.S.A. (2025), "Risk communication in risk-based planning: a practice in coastal area of Subang regency, Indonesia", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/DPM-03-2024-0072