Universitas Padjadjaran, through a study published in the book 5A: The Main Foundations of Sustainable Tourism in Indonesia, highlights the development of palm sap (nira) edu-tourism in Belitar Seberang Tourism Village, Rejang Lebong, Bengkulu. The research, conducted by Jannatinnai’mah Arifda, Dr. Awaludin Nugraha, and Dr. H. Edwin Rizal, emphasizes the village’s strong potential as a sustainable educational tourism destination.
The study found that since its establishment in 1930, the village has preserved abundant natural resources, including seven waterfalls, natural hot springs, and agricultural commodities such as coffee and palm sap. These strengths provide the foundation for attracting visitors through authentic learning experiences rooted in nature and local culture.
The development process involves collaboration among the local community, regional government, academic institutions, and youth groups actively promoting the village via social media. This collective effort strengthens Belitar Seberang’s visibility and competitiveness as a tourism destination.
SWOT analysis revealed significant opportunities from palm sap processing as an educational attraction, from tapping to producing palm sugar and other derivatives such as palm crystal sugar, syrup, and preserved kolang-kaling. At the same time, challenges such as limited road access, inadequate facilities, and insufficient tourism skills among locals must be addressed to achieve sustainable growth.
Proposed strategies include capacity-building programs for residents, infrastructure improvements, and stronger digital marketing efforts. These initiatives not only enhance the village’s tourism appeal but also create new jobs and stimulate the growth of local small businesses.
The development of palm sap edu-tourism directly aligns with SDG 15 (Life on Land) by promoting forest and ecosystem conservation through sustainable palm sap management. It also supports SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by generating employment opportunities, increasing household incomes, and strengthening the village economy.
With sustainable strategies and multi-stakeholder collaboration, Belitar Seberang Tourism Village is expected to evolve into a leading edu-tourism destination that delivers tangible benefits for local communities, preserves the environment, and reinforces Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
Full article available at: http://media.unpad.ac.id/files/publikasi/2025/rpm_20250123115843_9723.pdf
Writers: Ridha Amalia, Nadziva Shaqeena Firdaus, Shelpi Nur Awaliyah
