On April 27, 2024, Southeast Sulawesi Province (Sultra) celebrated its proud 60th anniversary. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and islands, Sultra boasts captivating natural scenery, offering potential for promising tourist destinations. The provincial government, through the Tourism Office (Dispar), actively identifies tourist villages across 17 districts/cities to promote them as potential tourist destinations, officially designated by the Regent/Mayor's Decree. Sultra actively participates in the Indonesian Village Tourism Awards (ADWI) organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of Indonesia (Kemenparekraf). Supported by Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, this prestigious event sees an increasing number of tourist villages in Sultra, reflecting the province's commitment to tourism development. In 2021, Sultra had only 135 tourist villages, which significantly increased to 269 by 2023. However, their contribution to regional economic growth remains relatively modest. Tourist areas solely relying on natural beauty without engaging attractions or effective promotion may struggle to attract visitors. Yet, some tourist villages implementing creative economic concepts effectively stimulate economic growth in their areas.
For instance, Gaya Baru Village, home to Waburi Park in South Buton (Busel), transformed coastal cliffs into picturesque spots, attracting numerous visitors. Another example is Masalili Village in Kontunaga District, Muna Regency, renowned for its quality woven fabrics, now widely sought after. Belli Harli Tombili, Head of Sultra Tourism Office, prioritizes seven villages as flagship tourist destinations in Southeast Sulawesi. Chosen for their strong natural tourism potential, local governments are improving access and enhancing management with clear visions for their development. The enthusiasm of Sultra's local governments to develop village tourism potential is evident, as seen in Konawe Selatan Regency's efforts to promote tourism as a source of local revenue. Infrastructure development, such as road construction and paving, aims to maximize tourism potential. According to BPS data, Indonesia's 83,971 villages not only offer natural attractions but also cultural, religious, and adventure tourism potential. Effective management of these resources can spur regional and national economic growth.
