Community Participation and a Sustainable Tourism Development Model in 科莫多国家公园

科莫多国家公园(KNP), one of Indonesia’s most iconic conservation and tourism destinations, has experienced rapid growth in visitor numbers over recent years. While tourism brings economic opportunities, its long-term success depends on how well local communities are involved in planning and benefit sharing. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Environmental Management and Tourism examined community perspectives on sustainable, community-based tourism development in the Komodo National Park area, applying quantitative analysis to assess attitudes toward tourism, culture, environment, and economics.

Focus of the Research

The study surveyed local residents in communities around Komodo National Park to understand the role of community participation in sustainable tourism. Researchers applied Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to evaluate how community involvement, socio-cultural vitality, economic opportunities, and environmental sustainability are linked within the tourism development context.

The analysis was structured around the “A’s of Tourism” framework — Attraction, Access, and Amenities — which served as the basis for interpreting community responses and identifying key factors that shape sustainable tourism outcomes.

主要发现

1. Community Participation Strengthens Sustainable Tourism

The research found that active involvement of local communities — especially in planning, decision-making, and tourism operation — positively correlates with sustainable tourism development. When stakeholders commit to improving local tourism employment, expanding livelihood alternatives, and fostering business activity, the model predicts measurable long-term improvements in tourism sustainability indicators.

Specifically, the SEM results suggest that sustainable, community-based tourism development in the park could improve by more than two percent over time if local participation and stakeholder commitment are strengthened.

2. Link Between Social, Cultural, Environmental, and Economic Dimensions

The study highlights four pillars that are central to sustainable tourism in Komodo National Park:

  • Social equity: Ensuring that development plans address fairness in access to opportunities and decision-making for all community groups.
  • Cultural vitality: Preserving and promoting local cultural heritage within tourism experiences — such as cultural exhibitions and traditional knowledge — enhances both community pride and visitor appeal.
  • Environmental sustainability: Programs to raise conservation awareness and protect natural assets are crucial for maintaining the integrity of 科莫多国家公园的 ecosystems.
  • Economic prosperity: Developing tourism businesses as well as increasing employment and per-capita income helps local families benefit economically while rural livelihoods diversify.

3. Practical Actions to Strengthen Participation

Researchers identified several community-focused practices that can improve sustainable tourism outcomes:

  • Conservation awareness programs that educate both residents and workers about environmental protection.
  • Inclusive planning processes that invite community input at early stages of tourism initiatives.
  • Training related to cultural heritage and visitor engagement for individuals working in tourism enterprises.
  • Cultural exhibitions and social protocols awareness to strengthen how 当地传统 are shared with visitors.

Collectively, these efforts are expected to improve ratings for tourism attractions and facilities, protect historical and cultural sites, and increase the number of tourism operators committed to environmental stewardship.

结论

Sustainable tourism in Komodo National Park can flourish when community members are actively engaged and valued as partners in development. The research underscores that community participation is not only a principle of sustainable tourism but a measurable contributor to it, linking social inclusion, cultural preservation, environmental protection, and economic growth. Developing tourism with a stronger emphasis on local involvement and shared benefits will help ensure that Komodo National Park remains both a world-class destination and a thriving home for its local communities.

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