Analisis Pengaruh Ketimpangan Ekonomi Antar Wilayah di Kawasan Gerbangkertosusila Provinsi Jawa Timur

Abstract

This study aims to examine the effect of Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP), investment, and Human Development Index (HDI) on regional economic inequality in the Gerbangkertosusila area, East Java Province. Although this region serves as a major economic growth center in East Java, inequality across regions remains a significant issue. This condition is reflected in the relatively high Williamson Index, indicating uneven development among districts and cities. This research employs a quantitative approach with an explanatory research design. The data used are secondary panel data covering seven districts/cities in the Gerbangkertosusila area during the 2019–2025 period. The analysis method applied is panel data regression using the Fixed Effect Model (FEM), selected based on the Chow and Hausman tests. The results show that GRDP, investment, and HDI simultaneously have a significant effect on regional inequality. However, partially, GRDP does not have a significant effect, suggesting that economic growth has not been accompanied by equitable distribution across regions. Meanwhile, investment has a negative and significant effect, indicating its role in reducing inequality. In contrast, HDI has a positive and significant effect, implying that uneven human development may widen regional disparities. These findings highlight the need for more balanced development policies, particularly in investment distribution and human resource improvement.