Ecotourism Commodification from A Socio-Economic Perspective (A Case Study of Tanjung Puting National Park, Indonesia)

Abstract

This research aims to determine the socio-economic impact of the commodification of ecotourism occurs in Tanjung Puting National Park. Data in this study were obtained using a case study method. The economic indicators used include income and employment opportunities. Meanwhile, social indicators include cultural acculturation and the community’s skill level. The results show that the development of this ecotourism is able to create more job opportunities for the public in the tourism sectors such as tour guide, food and beverages service, and travel agents. Public who taking opportunities will generate another source of income. In addition to contributing income to the local community, this ecotourism also contributes Non-Tax Government Revenue (PNBP). The social impact that arises is shifting of the public lifestyle becomes more westernized and an increase in the level of creativity of the public in business entrepreneurship.