Mangrove Ecotourism-Based Community Empowerment Model and Local Wisdom in Development Sustainable on Ketam Island

Abstract

This research aims to analyze and formulate an effective community empowerment model in developing mangrove ecotourism on Pulau Ketam, focusing on the integrative role of local wisdom to support sustainable development. The main problem faced is how to optimize the ecological and socio-cultural potential of mangroves to become a sustainable source of income, while preventing environmental degradation due to tourism activities. This study uses a qualitative-descriptive approach supported by quantitative data analysis related to sustainability indicators. Data was collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews with indigenous leaders, ecotourism managers, and local communities, and document review. The results of the study show that an effective empowerment model is an integrative and participatory model that emphasizes three dimensions: 1) Economic Empowerment through the diversification of ecotourism-based businesses (homestays, local guides, mangrove culinary); 2) Social Empowerment through strengthening local institutions (Pokdarwis and customary institutions); and 3) Ecological Conservation imbued with local wisdom.

It was found that Local Wisdom on Pulau Ketam (for example, norms on the use of marine resources and the practice of mutual cooperation in maintaining the cleanliness of the area) functions as a critical social capital and internal control mechanism that ensures sustainability aspects. The integration of local wisdom has succeeded in encouraging community participation in mangrove conservation while increasing income. In conclusion, the empowerment model based on mangrove ecotourism and strengthened with local wisdom has proven to be able to balance economic, social, and environmental pillars so as to support the achievement of Sustainable Development on Ketam Island. This study recommends replicating similar models in other coastal areas by taking into account the peculiarities of local wisdom.