DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM DESTINATIONS BASED ON LOCAL WISDOM AND GREEN ECONOMY IN THE POST-PANDEMIC ERA: A CASE STUDY OF A TOURIST VILLAGE IN THE THOUSAND ISLANDS, INDONESIA

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted global tourism, exposing the profound vulnerability of small island destinations like Indonesia's Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu), whose economies are highly dependent on visitors. This crisis, however, presents a critical opportunity to reimagine tourism through resilient and sustainable recovery models. This study explores the integration of local wisdom and green economy principles as a strategic framework for developing tourist villages in the post-pandemic era. Employing a qualitative case study approach, the research was conducted in a selected village in the Thousand Islands, utilizing in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. The findings reveal significant potential in harnessing local wisdom, such as traditional marine management practices like sasi laut, community cooperation (gotong royong), and vernacular architecture, to create authentic tourist experiences. Concurrently, opportunities for green economy practices were identified, including improved waste management systems, adopting renewable energy like solar power, and promoting sustainable local sourcing. However, the study also identifies key challenges, including limited infrastructure, a lack of initial capital, and low community awareness. The research concludes that a synergistic model combining local wisdom with a green economy can foster a competitive, authentic, and sustainable tourism destination. This approach not only aids in post-pandemic recovery but also ensures long-term resilience. The study offers practical recommendations for policymakers, local communities, and tourism operators to collaboratively build a tourism sector that values cultural heritage, environmental integrity, and economic inclusion.