Optimizing Human Resources in South Kalimantan as a Foundation for the Golden Generation and a Sustainable Economy

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the strategy for optimizing human resources (HR) in South Kalimantan as a foundation for achieving Indonesia’s Golden Generation 2045 and promoting sustainable economic development. South Kalimantan possesses significant demographic potential, dominated by a productive-age population. However, it continues to face serious challenges, including high rates of child marriage, a stunting prevalence of 27.8%, and low absorption of secondary school graduates into the labor market. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, this research is based on literature review and document analysis, drawing data from BPS, Bappenas, and regional development policy documents. The analysis framework is grounded in Human Capital Theory (Gary Becker), Sustainable Development (Brundtland Report), Social Capital Theory (Robert Putnam), and the Islamic legal theory of maqāṣid al-sharī‘ah, which underscores the importance of education, health, child protection, and economic empowerment. The findings reveal that HR optimization must involve holistic strategies, including the prevention of child marriage, improvement of child nutrition and education, strengthening of vocational training, and stronger collaboration between education and industry sectors. Investment in human resources from a multidimensional perspective is key not only to producing a capable and ethical generation but also to building a resilient, equitable, and sustainable regional economy amidst growing global and local challenges. This study recommends transformative approaches rooted in Islamic ethical values, social justice, and inclusive development as a policy foundation for human capital advancement in South Kalimantan.

This study aims to analyze the strategy for optimizing human resources (HR) in South Kalimantan as a foundation for achieving Indonesia’s Golden Generation 2045 and promoting sustainable economic development. South Kalimantan possesses significant demographic potential, dominated by a productive-age population. However, it continues to face serious challenges, including high rates of child marriage, a stunting prevalence of 27.8%, and low absorption of secondary school graduates into the labor market. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, this research is based on literature review and document analysis, drawing data from BPS, Bappenas, and regional development policy documents. The analysis framework is grounded in Human Capital Theory (Gary Becker), Sustainable Development (Brundtland Report), Social Capital Theory (Robert Putnam), and the Islamic legal theory of maqāṣid al-sharī‘ah, which underscores the importance of education, health, child protection, and economic empowerment. The findings reveal that HR optimization must involve holistic strategies, including the prevention of child marriage, improvement of child nutrition and education, strengthening of vocational training, and stronger collaboration between education and industry sectors. Investment in human resources from a multidimensional perspective is key not only to producing a capable and ethical generation but also to building a resilient, equitable, and sustainable regional economy amidst growing global and local challenges. This study recommends transformative approaches rooted in Islamic ethical values, social justice, and inclusive development as a policy foundation for human capital advancement in South Kalimantan.