Strategies for Rapidly Achieving Sustainable Tourism Development: Stakeholder Roles and Policy Impacts

Abstract

This study explores sustainable tourism development on Rupat Island, the outermost island of Indonesia. It discusses the strategic role of stakeholders and policy implications in realizing sustainable tourism faster and more effectively. Although research on sustainable tourism development has been widely conducted, research on the active involvement of various stakeholders and the impact of policies is still very much needed. The purpose of this study is to develop the concept of sustainable development of Rupat Island tourism objects in Indonesia by analyzing the role of stakeholders in planning, implementation, and supervision, as well as the impact of policies that greatly determine the success of sustainable tourism development. Data was collected using a qualitative approach by conducting in-depth interviews with ten informants and analyzing three local media outlets using the capture feature of the Nvivo 12 plus application related to the management and development of tourism objects on Rupat Island, Indonesia. The data obtained were coded and analyzed using the same application. The study results indicate that the role of government, private sector, local communities, academics, and media are very much needed and synergize with each other in accelerating the realization of sustainable tourism. In addition, effective policies, such as strict regulations on environmental impacts, incentives for sustainable businesses, and strengthening community capacity, are key factors in accelerating the transformation of the tourism sector towards sustainability. With a collaborative approach and sustainability-based policies, the tourism sector can thrive without sacrificing the balance of the environment and local culture.