The impact of human resource management on irrigation and drainage management in Indonesia

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of human resource management (HRM) practices on irrigation and drainage system performance in Indonesia. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys of 500 irrigation managers and engineers from five major islands with qualitative interviews of 50 selected participants. The research utilised stratified random sampling and conducted data collection from March to August 2023. Multiple regression analyses revealed that HRM practices explained 47.6% of the variance in system performance, with training and development emerging as the strongest predictor (β = 0.342, p < 0.001), followed by employee engagement (β = 0.295, p < 0.001). Significant regional variations were observed, with Java demonstrating consistently higher performance scores compared to other regions. Structural equation modelling indicated that organisational culture (β = 0.412) and leadership style (β = 0.376) significantly influenced HRM effectiveness. The legal and regulatory environment moderated the relationship between HRM practices and system performance (β = 0.187). The findings emphasise the critical role of contextualised training programmes and employee engagement initiatives in enhancing system efficiency. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and managers in developing targeted strategies to improve irrigation and drainage management across Indonesia’s diverse geographical landscape.