Network Governance in the Tourism Policy: The Case of Padang, West Sumatra

Abstract

As the capital city with a beautiful landscape, Padang has a huge potential as the center for development growth of West Sumatra province through its tourism sector. Besides its natural landscape, Padang also has historical sites, culinary uniqueness, and halal tourism that attract both local and foreign tourists to visit this region. This study then aims to explain the implementation of network governance in the tourism public policy in Padang City, so that the tourism performance in Padang can be optimized. The method used in this study is a qualitative research method with a literature review design by studying and analyzing secondary data. The results show that the government of Padang City has applied network governance to improve the formulation and implementation of its tourism policy. The application can be seen through the government’s efforts in conducting cooperation and collaboration with private actors, local communities, and other government agencies. Nevertheless, this implementation has not been optimal because there are some challenges faced by the governments, such as a lack of infrastructure and human resources capability.
 Keywords: network governance, public policy, tourism