Dr. Rully Khairul Anwar, Encang Saepudin, and Evi Nursanti Rukmana, M.I.Kom., lecturers at the Library and Information Science Program (PSI) Fikom Unpad, have published an article titled “The Role of the Stakeholders in Sustainable Ecotourism Management at Malela Waterfall of Indonesia’s West Bandung.” The article explores strategies for enhancing local community participation in sustainable ecotourism management, specifically at Malela Waterfall in Desa Cicadas, Kecamatan Rongga, West Bandung Regency, West Java.
The article was published in the International Journal of Infrastructure Policy and Development, Volume 8, Issue 12, 2024, page 8112. This publication reflects Fikom Unpad’s commitment to advancing research that is not only academically relevant but also provides practical insights for sustainable ecotourism development in Indonesia.
The study addresses the challenge of low local engagement in ecotourism management, which can limit the social and economic benefits of tourism activities. The main objective of the research was to increase awareness and involvement of local residents in the management of Malela Waterfall ecotourism through the development of social infrastructure and community empowerment.
The research employed an action research method, collecting data through observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Findings indicate that developing social infrastructure—including training local residents in ecotourism skills, broad ecotourism outreach, and strengthening social communities such as NGOs and youth organizations as ecotourism actors—effectively enhanced local participation.
The study highlights that increased community engagement fosters harmony and mutually beneficial partnerships among stakeholders, while also providing direct benefits to the welfare of local residents in the tourist area.
This article aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Goal 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities. The publication contributes valuable insights into inclusive and sustainable ecotourism management that empowers local communities.
The full study can be accessed in: http://media.unpad.ac.id/files/publikasi/2025/rpm_20250201130110_9462.pdf
Authors: Ridha Amalia, Nadziva Shaqeena, and Naresh Aurelia Berliana.
