Sustainable Tourism Destination Management in Indonesia: Navigating Cultural Heritage, Environmental Conservation, and Economic Development

Abstract

Abstract: This study examines the complexities of destination management across Indonesia's diverse tourism landscape, analyzing how local communities, government agencies, and tourism operators navigate the intersection of cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and economic growth. Through qualitative interviews with 45 stakeholders across five major Indonesian destinations, this research reveals critical challenges and innovative approaches in managing Indonesia's tourism resources. Findings indicate that successful destination management requires adaptive governance structures that integrate traditional practices with modern sustainability frameworks, while addressing infrastructure limitations and capacity building needs. The study contributes to destination management literature by highlighting the unique context of managing tourism in a culturally diverse archipelagic nation and proposes a framework for sustainable tourism development that balances multiple stakeholder interests.

Keywords: destination management, sustainable tourism, Indonesia, cultural heritage, stakeholder engagement