Dora Sinaga

Tourism contributed more than 4% for Indonesia income

Tourism can significantly support local communities such as local destination management organisations, tour guides, artisans, and souvenir makers. Tourism assists to preserve the local cultures and local wisdom. Furthermore, in the bigger pictures, both economic and socio-cultural are supported by the tourism activities.

What is the issue related to local communities after globalisation occured?

In most areas in Indonesia, tourism development tends to erase the identity of a place. Historical buildings are not well preserved. Local communities are trying hard to sustain tourism development. They are also struggling to manage it effectively. Tourism management is supposed to be aligned with local wisdom in order to preserve cultural identity and support sustainability.

However, there is a lack of understanding of how tourism development should be aligned with local wisdom. The reasons go beyond simply training the communities; support from leadership and management is also crucial. As a trainer, tour consultant, and tour leader, I recognise that this is not a simple task. But by fostering a deeper understanding of how to sustain tourism collectively, we can achieve it.

This is done through inclusive planning, respectful collaboration, and community-driven capacity building. My role involves designing training rooted in local values. I guide community-based tourism strategies. I also facilitate partnerships between local stakeholders and decision-makers. With shared effort and clear direction, local communities can regain ownership of tourism. They can protect their cultural identity. Together, they can build a more sustainable future.