The effect of the knowledge index on the community literacy development index and the level of reading interest: A case study in West Java in 2024

Pardomuan Robinson Sihombing; Ade Marsinta  Arsani; Miftahul Huda; Iskandar  Ahmaddien; Lexi Jalu  Aji

doi:10.55942/pssj.v5i10.750

Authors

Pardomuan Robinson Sihombing BPS Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1597-9077
Ade Marsinta Arsani BPS Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6276-8619
Miftahul Huda Bina Bangsa University
Iskandar Ahmaddien BPS - Kabupaten Nunukan
Lexi Jalu Aji Educavita Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55942/pssj.v5i10.750

Keywords:

Knowledge Index, Community Literacy Development, Reading Interest, PLS-SEM, West Java, Human Capital

Abstract

This study examines the reciprocal relationships between the Knowledge Index (KI), the Community Literacy Development Index (CLDI), and the Level of Reading Interest (LRI) across 27 districts/cities in West Java (2024). Using a quantitative design with Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modeling and a conditional process perspective, we test direct and feedback effects among the three constructs. Descriptive statistics indicate substantial variation in literacy development and reading interest across regions. Model fit indices exceed conventional thresholds, supporting the adequacy of the specified structure. The results show that KI has a significant positive effect on both CLDI and LRI, indicating that accumulated schooling and knowledge capital translate into stronger literacy ecosystems and more active reading behaviors. Conversely, both CLDI and LRI exert significant positive effects on KI, evidencing a reinforcing cycle in which richer literacy environments and higher reading engagement further elevate knowledge attainment. These findings highlight a virtuous, bidirectional dynamic: knowledge deepens literacy and reading, while literacy investment and reading practice amplify knowledge. Policy implications include prioritizing integrated literacy programs across the life course, leveraging digital access, and coordinating libraries, schools, and local governments to simultaneously lift ecosystem quality and individual reading practices. The study provides actionable evidence for place-based literacy policy and human capital formation in emerging regions.

Author Biographies

Pardomuan Robinson Sihombing, BPS Indonesia

Pardomuan Robinson Sihombing, S.ST, M.Stat, is a young expert statistician at Statistics Indonesia. He is also a practicing lecturer at several universities. He teaches courses in economic and business statistics, statistical methods, nonparametric statistics, and statistical computing. His research interests include statistical modeling, econometrics, and social statistics.

Ade Marsinta Arsani, BPS Indonesia

Ade Marsinta Arsani, S.ST, M.PA, M.E is a young expert statistician at Statistics Indonesia. She is currently completing a double doctoral degree at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) in urban and regional planning and at the University of Groningen in regional economic geography. Ade is also a practicing lecturer in economic and business statistics, macroeconomics, microeconomics, and statistical methods.

Miftahul Huda, Bina Bangsa University

Miftahul Huda, S.Mat., M.Si. is a lecturer and head of the statistics study program at Bina Bangsa University. His areas of expertise include statistical modeling, mathematical statistics, statistical theory, and statistical computation.

Iskandar Ahmaddien, BPS - Kabupaten Nunukan

Dr Iskandar Ahmaddien, S.ST, S.E, S.H, M.M is an senior expert statistician and head of BPS Statistics Indonesia Nunukan Regency. He is also a practicing lecturer in statistical methods, statistical modeling, and quantitative methods.

Lexi Jalu Aji, Educavita Indonesia

Lexi Jalu Aji, S.Pd, M.Hans is a practitioner and director of the research institute Educativa Indonesia. Lexi is interested in biology and research methods.

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