Gaining insight into the reality of communities grappling with water scarcity in Indonesia: A phenomenological study

Abstract

Water scarcity is an urgent global crisis that cannot be ignored. The decline in quantity and quality and limited access to ownership have disrupted the essence of water as the center of life. This research explores how people experience life in the face of clean water scarcity. Our study centers on Romang Tangaya village, Indonesia, where residents grapple with two opposing realities: a lack of clean water and constant flooding. Through semistructured interviews with eight participants, we used an interpretative phenomenological approach to analyze their experiences. To maintain the integrity and credibility of this research, we used six data analysis techniques outlined by Moustakas (1996). Key themes emerged from our findings, including detailed assessments of existing infrastructure, diverse expressions of ecological intelligence, emotional struggles in coming to terms with their situation, and innovative adaptations that the community has developed. Most participants attributed water scarcity primarily to inadequate infrastructure, whereas strong dependence on local livelihoods encouraged many to resist relocation and adapt to challenging circumstances. Addressing the water scarcity crisis requires a multifaceted approach. Improving regional infrastructure while respecting and integrating local communities' individual and sociocultural perspectives is critical. By doing so, we can encourage sustainable solutions that empower communities to thrive despite their challenge.

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