The Ngarai Sianok Geopark, situated in West Sumatra, Indonesia, holds immense potential for tourism development grounded in the principles of sustainable livelihood. This qualitative study investigates how local populations’ socioeconomic well-being can be improved while protecting the region's distinctive geological and cultural assets by coordinating tourism initiatives within the geopark with the sustainable livelihood framework. The study explores sustainable tourism's perspectives, obstacles, and prospects within the geopark using comprehensive interviews and focus group talks with significant stakeholders, such as inhabitants, community leaders, tourism operators, and government officials. The findings indicate that through the stimulation of local entrepreneurship, diversification of sources of income, fostering ownership and stewardship among community members—in other words, building community resilience—the integration of sustainable livelihood strategies in tourism development achieves very significant impacts. Participants articulated the integration of local knowledge, customs, and cultural practices into their tourism activities for an enriched visitor experience which also maintains the unique cultural identity of the area. Problems noted were bad markets, inadequate infrastructure, and the inability of locals to be involved in and enjoy the fruits of tourism. The report emphasizes that comprehensive capacity-building programs, enhanced infrastructure, and key stakeholder participation are necessary to overcome these challenges. Issues noted are as follows: poor markets, inadequate infrastructure, and the incapacity of the local population to take part in and enjoy all the gains flowing from tourism. This report stresses that extensive capacity-building programs, enhanced infrastructure, and key stakeholder participation are essential for surmounting these obstacles. Moreover, the research emphasizes the importance of environmental conservation as a basic part in maintaining the attractiveness of the geopark as a sustainable tourism destination. In conclusion, the prospects for sustainable tourism development in Ngarai Sianok Geopark are numerous. This can assist locals in upholding their standard of living and at the same time conserving the environment and cultural heritage. The research shows that the use of tourism potential for sustainable development through its role as a catalyst requires, above all, a community-centered approach. It must be supported by effective policies and concerted actions. With practical implications for stakeholders involved in sustainable management not only of geoparks but also other types of protected areas, this research significantly contributes to an enhanced understanding regarding the importance of introducing sustainable livelihood strategies into tourism development.

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Potential for Tourism Based on Sustainable Livelihood in the Ngarai Sianok Geopark Area

  • Rosianna Sianipar,
  • Juliana,
  • Nova B. Sitorus,
  • Diena M. Lemy,
  • Amelda Pramezwary

摘要

The Ngarai Sianok Geopark, situated in West Sumatra, Indonesia, holds immense potential for tourism development grounded in the principles of sustainable livelihood. This qualitative study investigates how local populations’ socioeconomic well-being can be improved while protecting the region's distinctive geological and cultural assets by coordinating tourism initiatives within the geopark with the sustainable livelihood framework. The study explores sustainable tourism's perspectives, obstacles, and prospects within the geopark using comprehensive interviews and focus group talks with significant stakeholders, such as inhabitants, community leaders, tourism operators, and government officials. The findings indicate that through the stimulation of local entrepreneurship, diversification of sources of income, fostering ownership and stewardship among community members—in other words, building community resilience—the integration of sustainable livelihood strategies in tourism development achieves very significant impacts. Participants articulated the integration of local knowledge, customs, and cultural practices into their tourism activities for an enriched visitor experience which also maintains the unique cultural identity of the area. Problems noted were bad markets, inadequate infrastructure, and the inability of locals to be involved in and enjoy the fruits of tourism. The report emphasizes that comprehensive capacity-building programs, enhanced infrastructure, and key stakeholder participation are necessary to overcome these challenges. Issues noted are as follows: poor markets, inadequate infrastructure, and the incapacity of the local population to take part in and enjoy all the gains flowing from tourism. This report stresses that extensive capacity-building programs, enhanced infrastructure, and key stakeholder participation are essential for surmounting these obstacles. Moreover, the research emphasizes the importance of environmental conservation as a basic part in maintaining the attractiveness of the geopark as a sustainable tourism destination. In conclusion, the prospects for sustainable tourism development in Ngarai Sianok Geopark are numerous. This can assist locals in upholding their standard of living and at the same time conserving the environment and cultural heritage. The research shows that the use of tourism potential for sustainable development through its role as a catalyst requires, above all, a community-centered approach. It must be supported by effective policies and concerted actions. With practical implications for stakeholders involved in sustainable management not only of geoparks but also other types of protected areas, this research significantly contributes to an enhanced understanding regarding the importance of introducing sustainable livelihood strategies into tourism development.