Community perceptions on the social effects of PT. RAJ’s oil palm plantations: beneficial or detrimental?

The growth of oil palm plantations has notable socioeconomic effects on local communities. Research indicates that these plantations can enhance local economies by creating jobs and improving infrastructure, but they also frequently cause social issues. Community members’ views on these impacts differ, shaped by their economic reliance and social dynamics. Grasping these perceptions is essential for crafting sustainable policies that balance economic development with social well-being. This study seeks to investigate these community perceptions regarding the social effects of PT. RAJ’s oil palm plantations. Data collection was carried out through interviews with six villages around PT. RAJ, which were then analyzed descriptively. The results showed that respondents residing around PT. RAJ consisted only of indigenous people (Palembang (14.92%), Ogan Ilir (4.97%), Kayu Agung (47.51%), and Pedamaran (32.6%)) and independent transmigrants. No transmigrant communities were found in the survey. Additionally, none of the respondents depended on oil palm except for employees working at PT. RAJ. The presence of PT. RAJ had a predominantly positive social impact. The most significant community response to the social impact was neutral, both in the Large Oil Palm Plantation (PSB) and Smallholder Oil Palm Plantation (KR). However, some statements indicated agreement or disagreement—nevertheless, 71.78% of people accepted and supported the oil palm plantation company.