The Department of Development Economics, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Negeri Semarang (FEB UNNES), proudly announces the publication of an international research article entitled “Mapping Poverty and Food Security: A Spatial Correlation Analysis in Central Java.” The study was authored by Shanty Oktavilia, Firmansyah, Zainur Hidayah, Fauzul Adzim, Sucihatiningsih Dian Wisika Prajanti, and Fafurida, reflecting the department’s strong commitment to producing impactful research that addresses regional development challenges through evidence-based policy analysis.
The research examines the spatial relationship between poverty and food security across Central Java during the 2023–2024 period. Recognizing that poverty and food insecurity remain among the world’s most pressing development challenges, the study provides valuable empirical evidence to support more targeted and geographically informed public policies.
Using a quantitative spatial analysis approach, the researchers applied Moran’s I and Local Indicator of Spatial Association (LISA) techniques to analyze regional patterns of poverty and food security. Secondary data were obtained from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the National Food Agency, and administrative spatial datasets. The analysis was conducted using GeoDa software to identify spatial autocorrelation patterns and classify regional clusters into High–High, Low–Low, High–Low, and Low–High categories.
The findings reveal that the distribution of poverty and food security in Central Java is not random but forms significant geographical clusters. The study identifies a negative spatial correlation, indicating that areas with higher poverty levels are generally associated with lower levels of food security. Bivariate LISA analysis further shows that High–High clusters are concentrated in several southern and coastal regions, while urban areas are more likely to belong to Low–Low clusters characterized by relatively better socio-economic conditions.
These findings underscore the importance of integrating poverty reduction initiatives with food security strategies through place-based development policies. The researchers recommend that local governments prioritize interventions in vulnerable High–High areas by strengthening rural food logistics and distribution systems, expanding community-based microfinance programs, and promoting agricultural innovation that enhances productivity and local resilience.
Beyond its regional focus, the study demonstrates how spatial analytics can improve development planning by enabling policymakers to allocate resources more effectively based on local conditions. The research contributes valuable insights for government agencies, development planners, and researchers seeking to design integrated strategies that reduce regional disparities while strengthening long-term food resilience.
This publication reflects the Department of Development Economics’ dedication to advancing internationally recognized research that addresses complex socio-economic issues through innovative analytical approaches. By combining spatial economics with sustainable development perspectives, the department continues to generate evidence-based solutions that support inclusive and equitable regional development.
The study directly contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It supports SDG 1 (No Poverty) by identifying priority regions for targeted poverty alleviation programs. It advances SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by providing evidence to strengthen food security policies and improve access to nutritious food in vulnerable communities. The research also aligns with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by highlighting regional disparities that require more equitable development interventions. Furthermore, it contributes to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through the application of spatial planning to improve regional resilience and sustainable territorial development, while supporting SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by encouraging collaboration among government institutions, researchers, and development stakeholders in implementing integrated regional policies.
Through internationally recognized publications, the Department of Development Economics FEB UNNES continues to strengthen its contribution to global development research by producing policy-relevant evidence that promotes sustainable economic development, social equity, and regional resilience. This achievement further reinforces the department’s commitment to supporting data-driven policymaking for inclusive and sustainable development.