Policy Model For The Development of Community-Based Tourism Destinations in Banggai Laut Regency

Abstract

This study aims to develop a policy model for community-based tourism destination development in Banggai Laut Regency, an archipelagic region with significant marine and cultural tourism potential. Despite the existence of strategic planning documents such as the Regional Tourism Development Master Plan (RIPPARKAB), the contribution of the tourism sector to regional development remains suboptimal due to weak policy implementation, limited community involvement, and fragmented governance. This research employs a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach, using observation, interviews, and documentation to collect data from key stakeholders. The findings reveal that the current tourism development model has not effectively integrated local communities as central actors in the policy process. The study proposes a theoretical model termed Community-Led Destination Development, which emphasizes the central role of local communities in tourism governance. This model consists of five main components: (1) collaborative governance, (2) community-based planning, (3) community-based management, (4) local-based innovation, and (5) integrated tourism sustainability supported by the development of the local creative economy.The novelty of this research lies in repositioning local communities from passive beneficiaries to primary decision-makers in tourism development. This model contributes to the advancement of integrative tourism development theory by highlighting the importance of participatory governance, contextual planning, and sustainability rooted in local wisdom. The study recommends strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing stakeholder collaboration, and institutionalizing community participation to ensure sustainable and inclusive tourism development in Banggai Laut Regency.