Rural tourism has great potential to foster local economic development by utilizing the natural and cultural wealth of local communities.
However, urban areas still dominate the contribution of tourism to Indonesia’s GDP, which reached 4.2% in 2022.
Through the sustainable development of tourist villages, communities can be empowered by creating jobs, strengthening local MSMEs, and preserving cultural and biodiversity heritage.
The CEO of the Borobudur Authority, Agustin Peranginangin, conveyed this during the Ramadan Public Lecture at UGM Campus Mosque on Wednesday (Mar. 12).
Themed ‘Rural Tourism: Functioning Tourism as a Catalyst for Local Economic Development,’ Peranginangin explained that villages have the potential for natural and cultural resources, such as beautiful landscapes, biodiversity, and cultural attractions, which can become the appeal of ecotourism.
He emphasized that the utilization and management of local resources must be carried out sustainably, such as applying ecotourism principles to preserve the environment.
Additionally, local economic strengthening, such as developing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and improving tourism service quality, is also crucial.
“There is a need for training for tourism actors regarding service standards and hospitality,” he stated.
Peranginangin also outlined strategies for developing sustainable rural tourism.
The first is building the capacity of local communities by providing skills training in hospitality, tour guiding, and culinary arts.
The second is introducing community-based tourism management by establishing tourism awareness groups (Pokdarwis) to collectively manage destinations.
The third is organizing cultural festivals and events, or holding annual activities such as art, dance, or local culinary festivals to attract tourists.
“Finally, it is important to optimize digital media by using social media and digital platforms to promote tourist villages,” he explained.
Peranginangin believes that the development of rural tourism has the potential to drive local economic growth.
This sector can bring broad economic benefits to rural communities with a sustainable and community-based approach.
He cited a case study from Karangrejo Tourism Village in Magelang Regency, which demonstrated how tourism can transform local economic structures, improve community welfare, and strengthen the village’s national and international competitiveness.
“This proves that the government and the community can collaborate in developing policies and innovations that support the sustainable growth of rural tourism,” he said.
Peranginangin highlighted various tourism potentials that can be developed in rural areas. These include the unique traditional customs and ceremonies, traditional dances, and handicrafts that showcase local wisdom. Additionally, traditional culinary dishes can attract tourists, along with historical sites, buildings, temples, and other significant landmarks.
The skills of local craftsmen in creating unique products, such as weaving, batik, and carvings, also hold considerable economic value. Furthermore, local wisdom in traditional farming and fishing practices can be transformed into educational tourism attractions.
He emphasized the importance of using local community-based guides who possess in-depth knowledge of their region.
Author: Kezia Dwina Nathania
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya
Photograph: UGM Campus Mosque