PARTISIPASI MASYARAKAT DALAM PENGEMBANGAN OBJEK WISATA AIR TERJUN PIALA DI KABUPATEN BANGGAI

This study aims to analyse community participation in the development of the Piala Waterfall tourist
attraction in Hanga-Hanga Village, South Luwuk Sub-district, Banggai Regency. The study focuses on the
level of community participation, the factors influencing participation, and the role of the government in
supporting the development of the tourist attraction. The study employs a descriptive method with a
qualitative approach. The research informants comprised the tourist attraction managers, the Head of
Hanga-Hanga Village, local residents, and visitors selected using purposive sampling. Data collection was
carried out through observation, interviews, documentation, and the distribution of questionnaires using
a Likert scale. The data were analysed descriptively through data reduction, data presentation, and drawing
of conclusions, supported by an analysis of the questionnaire results expressed as percentages. The
research findings indicate that community participation in the development of the Piala Waterfall tourist
attraction falls into the 'high' category, as reflected in the community's involvement in maintaining
environmental cleanliness, supporting management activities, and capitalising on the economic
opportunities generated by tourism activities. Factors supporting community participation include
attractive natural potential, government support, the existence of the Tourism Awareness Group
(Pokdarwis), and the economic benefits gained by the community. Meanwhile, inhibiting factors include
limited supporting facilities, sub-optimal tourism promotion, and the still limited training available to the
community. The government acts as a regulator, facilitator, motivator, coordinator, and promoter in
supporting the development of tourist attractions. Synergy between the government, managers, and the
community is a key factor in realising sustainable community-based tourism development.
Keywords: Community participation; Tourism development; Community-based tourism; Piala Waterfall