Optimizing the Socio-Economic Welfare Aspect of Communities in Rural Tourism Areas by Developing the Potencies of Indigenous Creative Economy

Abstract

Development activities in villages based on tourism activities can be a catalyst for economic activity and investment. There are still many villages that are less than optimal in developing their tourism activities. The innovation that can be made in the village is to increase creative economic activities that have the potential to support the development of tourism activities. This research aims to conduct in-depth identification related to various creative economic potentials and formulate a model for strengthening the creative economy that will support tourism attractions in rural areas. This research uses qualitative research methods with a participatory action research approach. Data were collected by conducting observations and structured interviews as well as triangulation to explore in-depth information. The research findings show that the rural areas studied have a variety of potential superior creative economic activities to support tourism activities. Strengthening creative economic activities in the village area received support from tourism stakeholders. The synergy built greatly influences the management and governance of creative economic development that supports the innovation of existing tourism activities. The level of socio-economic welfare of local communities has increased in the form of additional income and better access to education and information.