Enhancing Festivals-Tradition to National and International Levels: Perspective on Policy Implementation of the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture

Abstract

This article examines the utilization of cultural capital in the form of traditional festivals to generate “value” and transform it into “added value” for economic and tourism development through the Ministry of Culture’s policy of elevating festivals and traditions to the national and international levels. The objectives were to: (1) study the policy implementation process, (2) analyze problems and obstacles in the implementation, and (3) propose guidelines for improving policy execution. This qualitative research employed both documentary analysis and field research through interviews, with findings presented in a descriptive format. The results revealed that, first, the policy implementation process was carried out through two levels of mechanisms—ministerial and provincial committees—across nine procedural steps. Second, six key factors were found to influence policy implementation: policy clarity, resources, communication, organizational readiness, environmental context, and the commitment of implementers. Third, the major problems and obstacles identified included lack of knowledge and understanding of policy objectives and goals, ineffective communication, insufficient administrative resources, and changing environmental contexts. Finally, recommendations for enhancing future policy implementation include improving budget allocation procedures, revising operational models and approaches, and applying integrated public administration principles in project management.