Abstract
The term used for indigenous peoples in Jambi, Indonesia is Suku Anak Dalam. This term is familiar or
popular among observers of indigenous peoples and human rights activists everywhere. This research
analyzes and describes the planning of empowerment programs carried out by the Lalloo et al. (2021)
Traditional Community Empowerment, Ministry of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (D-RTCE). This
research uses a qualitative method with a case study. The sources of research data are regulations,
technical guidelines and instructions, results of monitoring and evaluation, in-depth interviews with the
planning department at D-RTCE, and group interviews with the Suku Anak Dalam. This research uses the
concept of self-determination to analyze the data and. The results prove that the planning of the
empowerment program implemented by D-RTCE was not based on the right of self-determination. Suku
Anak Dalam had no initial information, no customary consultation or consensus, and they were not
facilitated to participate in the empowerment program planning. D-RTCE prepared its own
empowerment program plan with the support of data from the Sarolangan and Jambi social services or
agencies, without accommodating the needs and expectations of the Suku Anak Dalam. This research
has limitations because it is implemented only in one location of the empowerment program, so it cannot
be applied in other locations, except for those with the same characteristics. Nonetheless, this research
has academically contributed to enriching the literature on empowerment program planning; and
practically to the management of indigenous people empowerment programs.