The Influence of Local Wisdom in Effective Forest Protection Policy Based on Legal Norms

^1,2,4 National Research and Innovation Agency of Republic of Indonsia, Jakarta, Indonesia
³ School of Law, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Malayia

^* Corresponding author: rian.sacipto@gmail.com

Abstract

This study explores factors impacting the effectiveness of forest protection policies in Indonesia, focusing on legal regulatory norms. Field findings reveal that community members continue cutting down trees due to economic need and limited awareness of forest protection policies, contributing significantly to forest degradation. To examine these factors, data were gathered through purposive sampling, targeting respondents— primarily farmers and cultivators—engaged in wood harvesting. Questionnaire results highlight economic motives and lack of policy knowledge as main drivers of logging, with many respondents indicating limited familiarity with policy specifics regarding forest conservation.The study also reviews the enforcement of existing sanctions, such as administrative penalties, fines, and imprisonment, and their effect within societal norms. The findings suggest that current sanctions have yet to effectively curb violations. Based on these observations and a policy review, this study proposes incorporating local wisdom into forest protection strategies and introducing more impactful social sanctions to strengthen policy effectiveness. This research contributes to understanding regulatory challenges in forest conservation and suggests pathways to enhance policy enforcement through culturally sensitive approaches and tailored sanctions.