Dau, July 9th, 2023 — To Achive SDG’s 8, promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employement and decent work for all, Sumbersekar Village, located in Dau Sub-district, Malang Regency, East Java, has taken a step forward in expanding their local tourism potential by utilizing Pokdarwis (Tourism-Aware Group) institutions. Through a cross-collaboration between the State University of Malang, the local government, and the community, the village has successfully launched a pioneering tourism village initiative that focuses on utilizing the local tourism potential around them. Sumbersekar Village, with its breathtaking natural beauty and unique cultural treasures, has become an attractive destination for travelers. However, the village has been unable to optimize its tourism potential due to a lack of effective management and promotion. Sumbersekar Village, Dau Sub-district, Malang Regency, discovers its potential through the use of pokdarwis institution to develop a sustainable tourism village.
In an endeavour to change this paradigm, Sumbersekar village decided to use an approach centered on Pokdarwis institutions. The Tourism Awareness Group consists of local people with knowledge, a sense of caring, and an interest in developing tourism in their local area. Through close collaboration between Pokdarwis, the Village Governance, and other stakeholders, Sumbersekar Village has been able to identify its local tourism potential. These potentials include scenic natural attractions, cultural heritage, local crafts, and unique traditional cuisine.With the assistance and supports from the State University of Malang Community Service Team and Pokdarwis members, the local community is involved in the development of tourism infrastructure, hygiene and security management, as well as promotion and marketing of Sumbersekar Village’s tourism destinations. They also undergo training on friendly and sustainable tourism services, enabling them to provide an unforgettable experience for travelers.These initiatives will benefit not only local tourism but also economically empower the local community.As more tourists arrive, revenue from the tourism sector has increased considerably, creating new business opportunities and providing employment opportunities for the local residents.
The Head of Sumbersekar who is also a member of Pokdarwis, expressed his proud appreciation of the changes that have been achieved in Sumbersekar Village. ”We are very delighted to see how our villagers are becoming more aware of the local tourism potential and taking part in its development. Having the Pokdarwis institution allows us to organize and promote the tourism village more effectively. Hopefully, our initiative can inspire other rural areas to develop their tourism potential”. Using Pokdarwis institutions, Sumbersekar Village in Dau Sub-district has successfully created a sustainable tourism village development model that is driven by local potential. By co-operating with both the government and the community, they have proven that tourism development can be a sustainable source of income and improve the quality of life for local residents. As Sumbersekar’s pioneering rural tourism initiatives grow, it is increasingly recognized as a tourism destination that offers authentic experiences, exquisite nature, rich culture, and a genuine warm welcome.
