Community Based Tourism Approach in Developing Asta Tinggi Religious Tourism in Sumenep Regency

Abstract

This study examines the implementation of the Community Based Tourism (CBT) approach in the development of Asta Tinggi Religious Tourism in Sumenep Regency. The research departs from the limited involvement of local communities in destination management, despite Asta Tinggi’s historical, spiritual, and economic potential. Using a descriptive qualitative method, data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation. The analysis focuses on CBT principles including community participation, environmental sustainability, equitable distribution of economic benefits, cultural preservation, and shared decision-making. The findings indicate that CBT implementation in Asta Tinggi has not been optimal: community involvement remains limited and uneven, income distribution mechanisms are informal and not comprehensive, and community-based institutions (e.g., Pokdarwis) have not been established to strengthen collective participation. Environmental management is still responsive rather than systematic, while cultural and religious preservation tends to be maintained mainly by site administrators and local cultural authorities. Therefore, CBT in Asta Tinggi remains at an early stage and requires strengthening through inclusive participation, institutional development, and cross-sector collaboration to achieve more equitable and sustainable destination development.