Articles

Tourism Development Amid Mining Dominance: A Political Ecology and Development Theory Analysis of Conservation and Resource Exploitation in Indonesia

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This study aims to examine the conflict between tourism and mining in Raja Ampat and Lake Matano, Indonesia, and propose an inclusive governance model for sustainable tourism development. Employing political ecology and development theory, this qualitative case study investigates power dynamics, state-capital relations, and competing development paradigms shaping resource governance. Findings indicate that mining concessions, driven by modernization policies and corporate lobbying, marginalize local communities and threaten ecological integrity, undermining tourism potential. Narratives of “sustainable mining” legitimize extractive activities, while tourism is hindered by weak institutional support and limited community-based strategies. Using dependency theory, we demonstrate that extractive industry benefits disproportionately favor external actors, exacerbating inequalities and sparking local resistance. Despite government efforts to promote tourism as a sustainable alternative, policy inconsistencies and overlapping land-use claims persist due to fragmented governance. This research contributes to sustainable development debates by highlighting how power structures shape environmental outcomes in ecologically sensitive areas. It advocates for governance models integrating conservation, tourism, and equitable benefit-sharing, emphasizing local agency.

Investigating Forms of Community Participation in Stunting Prevention: The Case of Balubur Limbangan District, Indonesia

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This study examines the forms of community participation in preventing stunting in Balubur Limbangan District, Garut Regency, Indonesia, which is one of the areas with high stunting cases. In 2023, stunting cases in this district increased by 34.3%, with the four highest villages being Ciwangi, Pangeureunan, Neglasari, and Surabaya. The research method uses a qualitative approach to describe community participation in preventing stunting. The analysis’s results reveal that Balubur Limbangan’s community only participates through labor, neglecting other forms of participation like thoughts, group discussions, expertise, goods, and money. The causes include lack of awareness and knowledge about stunting, as well as cultural factors. Recommendations include increasing education about stunting through comprehensive socialization and training, as well as intensive awareness campaigns. In addition, it is necessary to increase supervision and evaluation of Integrated Service Post (Posyandu) activities to ensure their effectiveness. We highly recommend collaboration and cooperation between various parties, including Community Health Center (Puskesmas), village governments, and community organizations, to strengthen and increase the effectiveness of stunting prevention and reduction programs.

Enhancing Community Participation in Corporate Social Responsibility Activities at PT. Prima Bara Nusantara through Improved Decision-Making Process

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Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is crucial for companies that have a substantial ecological footprint, such as coal mining in Indonesia. PT. PBN strives to achieve a harmonious combination of responsible behaviors and economic viability. However, attaining this equilibrium necessitates strong community engagement to alleviate negative effects and provide beneficial contributions at the local level. This study focuses on the underexplored issue of poor community participation in CSR initiatives within Indonesia’s coal mining sector. Although PT. PBN has made substantial investments in environmental and community activities, recent evaluations indicate a substantial disparity between stakeholder expectations and the level of actual participation in activities. Gaining insight into the factors contributing to this disparity is vital for the effectiveness of CSR endeavors, as the support of stakeholders and active involvement of the community are crucial for ensuring social sustainability and enduring stability. The study utilizes analyzed data from interviews conducted with both internal and external respondents. It uses problem tree analysis in order to uncover the root causes of low community participation. Focus group discussions are used to delve deeper into the objectives of Value-focused Thinking (VFT) and help determine which alternative solutions should be chosen. The integration of VFT with Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) aids decision-making by recognizing the criteria and sub-criteria used to evaluate solutions based on their values. The findings emphasize identifying skill gaps and providing formal acknowledgment to improve the sense of responsibility and involvement of the community in CSR initiatives. This is in line with PT. PBN’s commitment to its stakeholders and the sustainable development of the community in the long run. In the end, decision-makers give the utmost significance to the strategy of licensing and training, considering its long-term impact, effectiveness, resource availability, and ease of control.