Implementation and Impact of Social Policy toward Community: Comparative Study in Malaysia and Indonesia

Social development is one of the contribution factors to the country’s progress. Over the past five decades, economic development framework underlying the progress of the world had increasingly aligned with the social development framework following huge implications on human development and the environment. This study is about how social policies are implemented in both countries and their impacts to the local communities. Quantitative and qualitative methods are used together to get a clear result in the implementation of social policy. Data was collected through a set of questionnaires, references and discussions with expert groups, focus groups and direct observation. The emphasis on social development that began around the 1980’s was seen as vital for the sustainability and progress of a country. The patterns of governance in Malaysia and Indonesia affect social development of both countries. Social situations are differ based on the total population, the changes and trends in the history of development of the country. This difference exists because poverty eradication efforts made by both countries to move on uneven stage. Thus, social policy development is becoming increasingly important to manage a growing complex community. In planning social development, the relationship between policy implementers and target groups are important as the policy content itself. Impact of social policies in education, health and career, often depending on the activities involved in individuals and communities. Focuses on the relationship and interaction can enhance the understanding of social policy impact among communities in Malaysia and Indonesia