Internal Control and Civil Servant Discipline: Evidence from the Department of Livestock and Plantation in Central Papua Province

Abstract

This study examines the implementation of internal supervision, the level of Civil Servant (ASN) discipline, and the supporting and inhibiting factors influencing internal supervision in improving ASN discipline at the Department of Livestock and Plantation of Central Papua Province, Indonesia. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, with data collected through semi-structured interviews, observation, and documentation. Eight informants were purposively selected based on their positions, experience, and involvement in supervision and personnel management. Data were analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings indicate that internal supervision is implemented hierarchically through direct and administrative supervision, including attendance monitoring, working-hour control, task evaluation, official assignments, activity reports, documentation, coaching, and corrective actions. ASN discipline is generally adequate but remains suboptimal and uneven, as evidenced by tardiness, unexplained absences, delays in task completion, and administrative irregularities. Internal supervision contributes positively to disciplinary improvement, although its effectiveness is constrained by geographical conditions, field assignments, limited transportation and communication networks, uneven disciplinary awareness, and inconsistent follow-up. The study highlights the need for integrated, consistent, data- and performance-based supervision supported by continuous coaching and fair disciplinary enforcement.