Ecotourism is one of the business sectors that has been widely considered for its existence. Abundant natural potential, and diverse cultures make the Indonesian people make this sector a strategic choice in tourism development.
Lots of tourist area managers label their destinations with the word "ecotourism". When there are lakes, waterfalls, rivers, mountains, the plural society calls it ecotourism. However, what is the true meaning of ecotourism?
LATIN talks with Nurdin Razak, Founder of the Indonesian Institute of Ecotourism (IEI) and owner of the Baloeran Ecolodge. An Ecotourism expert who is not only strong in theory but also successful in practicing it.
What is Ecotourism?
I was a little sad, passing by a place that was being restored with ecotourism written on it made of acrylic, concrete and ceramic, then there was a golden lamp. The sad thing is that from a cost point of view it is definitely more expensive. Then the weather will get hotter, because using iron, trees are cut down. In fact, this is managed by an institution affiliated with conservation. It's easy to see which isn't eco. When we build an area in nature and then add something yellow, of course it's not eco-friendly.
Ecotourism is a concept that flows in a landscape that marries the visitor's emotions with the location where he is active. Explore new experiences based on value.
Can you tell us about your most meaningful experience in managing an Ecolodge?
First to build a business concept in a new environment, extraordinary challenges. Sawan Rejo was not a popular village at first, both landscapes were ordinary. Because it is close to Baloeran, a homestay appears. There was once a survey, the price of Rp. 200,000 was sentenced to not sell. Then I made a homestay for IDR 350,000 and it worked.
After 2 years of departure and well-known in Germany, then in Europe. Finally, the homestay which was two became 20 homestays. I finally raised one of my rooms to Rpp400,000. The process is very interesting, one might even say absurd. Many things are impossible, but done continuously will eventually meet the path.
What is the relationship between Social Forestry and Ecotourism?
At first I heard the term Social Forestry about 6 years ago. What I understand is strengthening the community to build awareness that forest communities have the right to manage it properly and wisely. This community needs to be assisted by anyone, including NGOs. Then Ecotourism remains in the concept of social forestry in a sociopreneurship perspective. For example, coffee is managed on the edge of the forest, managed by local wisdom.
LATIN needs to be aggressively expanding social forestry, which is interpreted differently in various places. maybe Ecotourism can be a tool to transfer the social concept of forestry. Of course, LATIN must continue to be a beacon to lead Social Forestry. Not only in forests but also in coastal areas and other areas where they can manage nature wisely and sustainably. (NA)
