INOVASI PELAYANAN PUBLIK DALAM PEMBERDAYAAN PENERIMA MANFAAT MENJADI PEMBERI MANFAAT YANG KOMPETEN

Abstract

This study aims to analyse the public service innovation process involved in empowering beneficiaries—transforming them from mere recipients of aid into competent contributors—through a case study of the Syekh Ali Jaber Foundation in Cipanas, Cianjur, West Java. In the context of the public services provided by the foundation, innovation has become an urgent necessity to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of social programmes for the community in the Cipanas area. This research employs a qualitative approach using a case study method, utilising in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. The results indicate that the Syekh Ali Jaber Foundation implements various forms of innovation—ranging from skills-based training and personal mentoring to the formation of independent beneficiary working groups—which significantly boost the beneficiaries' capacity in terms of knowledge and their ability to manage the designed programmes. Factors supporting this innovation include visionary leadership, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and adaptation to local needs. Conversely, challenges include limited human resources and initial resistance from some program beneficiaries. These findings underscore the importance of an approach that generates innovative public service ideas to create long-term impacts in social empowerment. This study is expected to serve as a reference for social, *zakat*, and philanthropic organisations, as well as other institutions engaged in developing more sustainable and transformative programmes for the community.

Keywords: public service innovation, empowerment, beneficiaries, Syekh Ali Jaber Foundation.