The "Pak Ogah" Phenomenon in Makassar City: From a Sociological Review to Adaptive Policy

Abstract

This research aims to understand why an individual chooses to become "Pak Ogah" in Panakkukang District, Makassar, and identify the social, economic, and structural factors that drive this decision. The urgency of this research lies in the need to design effective and inclusive policies to overcome the social and economic challenges faced by local communities. The method used in this research is qualitative, with a case study approach involving in-depth interviews and data analysis using Nvivo 12 Plus. Research findings show that limited education, lack of opportunities in the formal sector, and the attraction of time flexibility and disorganization in the informal sector are the main factors that encourage individuals to choose to become "Pak Ogah." Apart from that, additional factors such as the need to help the family economically, meeting personal needs, regular income, and the minimal need for expertise and significant capital also play an essential role. The proposed adaptive policy recommendations include improving traffic infrastructure, training and empowering local communities, and developing inclusive economic policies. Training programs to integrate "Pak Ogah" into the formal system as official traffic controllers can improve the quality of traffic regulation and provide more stable employment opportunities. Support in the form of skills training, providing business capital, and access to education is also essential to create better job opportunities for vulnerable communities. Collaboration between the government, community institutions, and the private sector is needed to create long-term solutions that support prosperity and employment opportunities for all levels of society.