Optimizing the Role of ICT and Citizen Participation: Analysis of Smart City Governance Implementation in Jakarta, Indonesia and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

¹ Doctoral Program of Government Affairs and Administration, Jusuf Kalla School of Government, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Bantul City, 55183, Indonesia
² Department of Government Studies, Universitas Muhammadiyah Buton, Baubau City, 93724, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: dyahmutiarin@umy.ac.id

Abstract

The implementation of Smart City Governance (SCG) in Southeast Asia has gained attention as a way to improve urban life by integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and citizen participation. This study examines the implementation of SCG in two Southeast Asian cities, Jakarta, Indonesia, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, through online news articles analysis and data Twitter. The study employs a qualitative research method using NVivo 12 Plus software for data analysis. The study finds that the use of ICT in smart city governance in Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur has increased citizen participation through social media and government apps, especially Twitter. Analysis of Twitter data highlights the importance of monitoring public sentiment and differences in views related to the implementation of smart city governance. Citizen participation has a significant impact in improving transparency and the quality of public services. Digital inclusion is key in ensuring inclusive citizen participation and overcoming gaps in access. The study recommends that Jakarta can learn from Kuala Lumpur's success and enhance its communication strategies to increase public awareness and participation while also improving the quality and accessibility of ICT services to facilitate citizen engagement. This research provides insights for policymakers and practitioners in the development of SCG in Southeast Asia.