Integrating Local Wisdom into a Halal Tourism Model: The Case of Indonesia

Abstract

Indonesia has the largest Muslim population globally with a significant potential for halal tourism, especially when integrated with local wisdom. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the development of halal ecosystem, the necessity of halal tourism village, and the creation of a sustainable model based on local wisdom. It also emphasized on increasing public awareness regarding the criteria for halal ecotourism, including infrastructure and facilities. This qualitative case study was conducted in Indragiri Village, Bandung Regency, West Java. The results showed that the establishment of Indragiri Halal Ecotourism Village had a significant impact. This included the development of local culture, improved public awareness, increase in community income, and the fulfillment of the six requirements for Muslim-friendly facilities recommended by the Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation (COMCEC). The requirements included halal food, worship places, water-filled restrooms, private recreational services, and absence of non-halal activities. However, there were challenges related to the development of halal ecotourism sector, such as limited collaboration with Islamic financial institutions and restricted accessibility to Indragiri Ecotourism Village.