Tourism Development Strategies in the KHDTK (Special Purpose Forest Area) Mount Bromo and Their Impact on the Welfare of Local Communities

Abstract

Special Purpose Forest Zones, known in Indonesia as Kawasan Hutan Dengan Tujuan Khusus (KHDTK), are demarcated woodland territories explicitly purposed for educational and research undertakings. The present study revolves around a KHDTK region nestled in the Karanganyar Regency, presided over by Sebelas Maret University. The principal objective in fostering the KHDTK is to uplift the prosperity of adjacent communities, specifically the inhabitants of Sewurejo, Delingan, and Gedong villages. As time has progressed, this territory has also been transformed into a tourism hub. Numerous initiatives have been deployed to amplify the allure for tourists, consequently enhancing the local community’s welfare. These initiatives encompass events such as the Syawalan celebration (May 2022), the Reog Festival (May 2022), the socialization of Off-Road activities (March 2022), and the Sunday Market. Hence, the primary focus of this research is to examine the direct impact of the development of the KHDTK Mount Bromo. A case study methodology was adopted for this research. Data collection methods employed include document analysis, focused group discussions, and observations. The findings of this study illustrate a significant influence on the welfare of the communities surrounding the KHDTK Mount Bromo.