Public Communication of BPS Mataram City through the "Desa Cantik" Statistical Literacy Program in Pejeruk Village, Mataram City

Abstract

The Desa Cinta Statistik (Desa Cantik) Program in Pejeruk Urban Village, Mataram City, is an initiative by the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) of Mataram City aimed at enhancing statistical literacy at the village level. The program seeks to equip village officials with the ability to understand and utilize statistical data for more evidence-based decision-making. This study aims to analyze BPS's public communication during the implementation of the program, particularly through the social interactions established between BPS and the village officials. This research employs a qualitative approach using observation, interviews, and documentation techniques for data collection. Informants were selected using purposive sampling, and data validity was ensured through source triangulation. The findings reveal that the social interactions observed in the program align with George Herbert Mead’s Theory of Social Interaction. The communication pattern consists of four main stages: social contact, communication, interpretation of meaning, and response and action. Despite facing challenges such as limited initial understanding and technological access, BPS’s communication approach gradually builds awareness and understanding among village officials regarding the importance of statistical data. This program shows long-term potential in improving statistical literacy at the village level.