KONFLIK SOSIAL DALAM PENGELOLAAN WISATA HIU PAUS DESA LABUHAN JAMBU KECAMATAN TARANO KABUPATEN SUMBAWA

Abstract

The development of whale shark tourism in Labuhan Jambu Village, Tarano District, Sumbawa Regency, has created new economic opportunities for the local community. The presence of this tourism activity has encouraged shifts in livelihoods, increased local economic activity, and stimulated the growth of various tourism-supporting businesses. However, alongside these benefits, social dynamics have emerged in the form of conflicts triggered by differences in access to tourism management, authority in decision-making, and the distribution of economic benefits among the parties involved. Therefore, this study aims to examine social conflict in the management of whale shark tourism in Labuhan Jambu Village. This study employs a qualitative approach using a case study method. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, and were subsequently analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model, which consists of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that social conflict originated from changes in the tourism management system, which had previously been community-based but became more formalized after the Regional Public Service Agency (BLUD) was designated as the official manager of the marine tourism area. These changes gave rise to differing interests concerning authority, management access, and the distribution of economic benefits among the village government, BLUD, conservation organizations, tourism operators, Pokdarwis, Pokmaswas, bagang owners, boat owners, MSME operators, and fishing communities. Thus, the sustainability of whale shark tourism requires a more equitable, transparent, and participatory governance system that provides equal opportunities for all community groups to benefit from tourism activities.