In the heart of Yogyakarta, a quiet village named Kampung Balirejo is on the cusp of a transformation that could redefine local tourism and offer a blueprint for sustainable development in the region. A recent study, led by Hari Saptaning Tyas from the Government Science Study Program at STPMD “APMD” Yogyakarta, delves into the untapped potential of this village, providing a roadmap for turning it into a thriving tourism destination.
The research, published in ARTEKS : Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur, focuses on mapping the potential of Kampung Balirejo, located in the Muja-Muju area. The study builds on the success of the City without Slums (KOTAKU) program, which revitalized the Gajah Wong River embankment into a bustling tourism village in Kampung Giwangan. However, despite similar infrastructure, Kampung Balirejo has yet to reach its full tourism potential.
Tyas and her team employed a qualitative descriptive design, combining observation, interviews, and documentation with SWOT analysis and a comprehensive mapping of key tourism elements. “We identified several crucial factors that could drive tourism in Kampung Balirejo,” Tyas explains. “Amenities, spatial arrangement, and attraction points are essential for realizing the village’s potential in terms of attraction and activity.”
The study emphasizes the importance of accessibility, suggesting the utilization of bridges and integration of bicycle routes to enhance visitor experience. Accommodation, however, was deemed less critical due to the anticipated short-term nature of visits. The research also highlights the need for support from local government, private entities, and community capacity building to ensure sustainable development.
The findings of this research could have significant implications for the tourism sector and beyond. As Yogyakarta continues to grow as a tourist destination, understanding how to develop local villages sustainably can provide a model for other regions. The energy sector, in particular, could benefit from this approach, as sustainable tourism often goes hand in hand with renewable energy initiatives and eco-friendly practices.
“The potential is there,” Tyas notes, “but it requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to bring Kampung Balirejo to its full potential.” This research serves as a call to action, urging local governments, private investors, and communities to work together to create engaging and enduring tourism destinations.
As Kampung Balirejo stands on the brink of transformation, the insights from this study could shape the future of local tourism development in Yogyakarta and beyond. By mapping the potential and addressing key factors, the village could become a beacon of sustainable tourism, attracting visitors and fostering economic growth. The journey from a quiet village to a thriving tourism destination is fraught with challenges, but with the right strategies and support, Kampung Balirejo could set a new standard for local tourism initiation.
