Ecotourism for sustainability: an in-depth perception and evaluation analysis of community-based “Belitong Geopark” in Belitung Island

Abstract

Belitong Geopark covers an area of approximately 125,000 hectares. A community-based ecotourism area that seeks to balance tourism development by integrating ecology and socio-economic welfare. This study aims to explore perceptions and evaluations. Perception and evaluation of community-based tourism management in the Belitong Geopark Area. Tourism management must achieve sustainable development goals. This research method used a combination of qualitative and quantitative. This approaches community perceptions and evaluations of the Belitong Geopark ecotourism initiative. Questionnaires, surveys, and interviews were conducted to capture various perspectives from the community, tourists, and stakeholders involved in the management of Belitong Geopark. Data analysis techniques introduces the innovative use of the Community-Based Ecotourism (CBE) model combined with SWOT analysis, providing a robust analytical framework to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of Belitong Geopark. The findings of this study are that the community and stakeholders have a positive perception of the management of community-based ecotourism areas in Belitong Geopark. Another finding is the importance of integrating community perspectives into ecotourism planning and management strategies. It can ensure long-term sustainability and mutual benefit for all stakeholders involved. By fostering collaboration between residents, government agencies, NGOs, and private sector entities, community-based ecotourism management and development initiatives will generate economic opportunities. We need attention to the preservation of nature and the socio-cultural life of the community.