The MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR THE GOLAGA (GOA LAWA) TOURISM ATTRACTION IN SIWARAK VILLAGE, PURBALINGGA REGENCY: A STUDY ON NATURE-BASED TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

Management Strategies For The Golaga (Goa Lawa) Tourism Attraction In Siwarak Village, Purbalingga Regency : A Study On Nature-Based Tourism Development

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the management and development strategies of the Golaga (Goa Lawa) tourist attraction in Siwarak Village, Purbalingga Regency. One of the main problems identified in Golaga’s management is the limited involvement of the local community, particularly at the planning stage of its development. To date, the community has mostly been involved in operational aspects, while strategic decision-making remains dominated by Perumda Owabong. On the other hand, Golaga’s development has tended to focus on the addition of recreational facilities, resulting in the underutilization of its cultural and educational tourism potential. This condition limits opportunities for community-based tourism development. The research employed a qualitative method with a descriptive approach, with data collected through observation, in-depth interviews with managers, local communities, and tourists, as well as documentation.

The results indicate that Golaga has significant potential to be developed as a culture- and education-based tourism destination. However, the current management and development strategies are still highly dependent on Perumda Owabong’s policies. This study applies POAC management theory, tourism potential theory, and SWOT analysis. POAC management theory is used to analyze and formulate more effective management strategies to increase tourist visits. Tourism potential theory is used to identify factors influencing Golaga’s attractiveness, while SWOT analysis is employed to formulate development strategies that can improve the local community’s economy.

To significantly enhance the welfare and economic conditions of the Siwarak Village community, this study recommends several development strategies for Golaga nature tourism, namely: (1) optimizing tourist attractions through the development of integrated tourism packages combining ecotourism, geological education, and adventure; (2) strengthening branding and digital promotion based on creative content; (3) improving the quality of educational tourism and organizing regular cultural events; (4) improving infrastructure and services to maintain competitiveness and visitor comfort; (5) developing human resources, including the professionalism of tour guides; and (6) actively involving the local community in tourism management planning and development to achieve sustainable tourism. The development of Community-Based Tourism (CBT), in which local communities are not merely tourism objects but become key actors in planning, implementation, and management, is also recommended to ensure sustainable tourism development.

Keywords: Management Strategy, POAC, Tourism Potential, SWOT Analysis, CBT