Synergy of Local Community and Government Policies in Preserving River Ecology: A Case Study on Illegal Gold Mining in Kuantan Tengah

Abstract

The Kuantan River in Kuantan Singingi Regency, Riau Province, has long served as a cultural and ecological lifeline for local communities. However, its sustainability is increasingly threatened by Penambangan Emas Tanpa Izin (illegal gold mining), which has caused severe water pollution, ecological degradation, and socio-economic conflicts. This study aims to analyze the roles of local government and communities in addressing river degradation, and to examine how the integration of customary (adat) law and environmental law may contribute to sustainable river governance. A qualitative case study design was applied, utilizing interviews, field observations, and document analysis to capture the dynamics of governance, community participation, and ecological impacts. The findings reveal that while the local government has introduced regulatory frameworks and monitoring programs, implementation remains weak due to limited resources and enforcement capacity. At the same time, local communities contribute significantly through grassroots initiatives such as collective clean-up activities, waste management, and cultural reinforcement via the Pacu Jalur festival, though these efforts are constrained by economic dependence on illegal mining. The study concludes that long-term sustainability requires synergy between government and community, supported by the integration of adat law’s cultural legitimacy with the formal authority of environmental law. This hybrid framework enhances compliance, legitimacy, and resilience in preserving river ecology.