Lecturers at the State Polytechnic of Babel Formulate a Cultural Tourism Strategy in Bangka Through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs).
Group photo of lecturers of the Bangka Belitung State Manufacturing Polytechnic with representatives of the local government, private sector, and traditional leaders while participating in the Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with the theme of Strategy for Developing Gebong Memarong Traditional Village as a Local Wisdom Tourism Object Based on Community-Based Tourism which was held in Gebong Memarong Traditional Village, Bangka Regency.
Lecturers from the Bangka Belitung State Manufacturing Polytechnic (Polman Babel) held a focus group discussion (FGD) on the theme "Strategies for Developing Gebong Memarong Traditional Village as a Local Wisdom Tourism Destination Based on Community-Based Tourism." The event took place in Gebong Memarong Traditional Village, Bangka Regency, on Tuesday (August 12, 2025).
The team involved included M. Galy Njoman Ari Pribowo, M.M., Syafrizal Zain, M.Kom., and Redi Alamsyah, M.M. The FGD featured various stakeholders who play important roles in cultural preservation and regional tourism development, including representatives from the Bangka Regency Tourism and Culture Office, Alpian, the Tourism Promotion Division, and PT Timah.
When confirmed on Wednesday (August 23, 2025), the research leader, M. Galy Njoman Ari Pribowo, M.M., explained that this activity was a strategic step to explore and formulate a tourism development concept that focuses on active community participation.
"Gebong Memarong Traditional Village has a wealth of cultural values, history, and strong local wisdom. Through community-based tourism, we not only present an attractive tourist destination but also ensure that the community becomes the manager, actor, and primary beneficiary of tourism activities," he said.
Furthermore, at the same confirmation meeting, Alpian, a representative from the Bangka Regency Tourism and Culture Office, spoke about the unique history and culture of the Gebong Memarong traditional village that needs to be preserved. He emphasized that with a community-based tourism approach, the community is the primary actor in preserving and developing this heritage.
Meanwhile, the private sector has also stepped up. PT Timah Tbk, Dyna, stated its readiness to assist in the development of community-based tourism, both through infrastructure development, community training, and destination promotion to a wider market.
Meanwhile, Asih, the Head of the Gebong Memarong Traditional Institution, emphasized the importance of maintaining the values of local wisdom that are the village's identity. The success of tourism development is measured not only by the number of visitors but also by the sustainability of traditions and culture.
"Community-based tourism is a way for future generations to learn about their cultural roots. With the support of the surrounding community, traditional villages can be sustainable while also providing a positive economic impact for MSMEs," she said.
"In fact, this activity can increase community capacity in tourism services, packaging cultural products, developing supporting infrastructure, and optimizing digital promotions. We agree that cross-sector collaboration is key to the successful development of Gebong Memarong Traditional Village as a leading destination in Bangka," he said.
