Sekapuk's success in repurposing former mining sites for tourism is a testament to the village's innovative approach to resource optimization. The reclamation of limestone quarries, previously used as waste disposal areas, has created unique tourism attractions such as Setigi and Kebun Pak Inggih (KPI). These sites have not only generated significant economic benefits for the community but also contributed to environmental restoration by rehabilitating degraded landscapes.
This transformation aligns with the Brundtland Report's (1987) principles of sustainable development, which advocate for meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. By integrating environmental stewardship with economic development, Sekapuk has demonstrated how marginalized resources can be reimagined as valuable assets for tourism.
Economic Benefits of Crowdfunding for CBT
Crowdfunding has played a crucial role in financing Sekapuk's tourism projects, enabling the village to mobilize resources for infrastructure development and community programs. Residents were encouraged to invest in tourism initiatives through a shareholding model, which promised dividends based on the profits generated by BUMDes operations. While this model initially fostered community engagement and collective ownership, recent disputes over profit distribution and debt repayment have highlighted the need for greater financial transparency and accountability.
Platforms like Kiva have shown how crowdfunding can empower communities in underdeveloped regions by providing capital for projects tailored to local needs. In Sekapuk, crowdfunding has not only facilitated the development of tourism infrastructure but also strengthened community cohesion by fostering a sense of collective responsibility.
Cultural and Environmental Challenges
As tourism grows in Sekapuk, balancing cultural preservation with environmental sustainability has become a pressing challenge. The commercialization of tourism poses risks to the village's cultural authenticity, while increased visitor numbers can strain local resources and infrastructure. Strategies such as implementing visitor caps, promoting eco-friendly practices, and preserving traditional cultural elements are essential to mitigate these risks and ensure the sustainability of CBT initiatives.
The allegations of governance mismanagement have further complicated these efforts, diverting resources and attention away from sustainable tourism development. Addressing these challenges requires a renewed focus on participatory governance and inclusive decision-making to align tourism activities with the community's values and environmental priorities.
Governance Instability and Its Impact on CBT
The delay in electing a definitive village head has created a leadership vacuum in Sekapuk, undermining the continuity of social transformation efforts. This instability has highlighted the critical role of effective governance in sustaining CBT initiatives. Without a clear leadership structure, the village faces difficulties in maintaining operational consistency, resolving disputes, and implementing long-term strategies for tourism development.
The controversies surrounding Abdul Halim's tenure also underscore the importance of transparent governance mechanisms in building trust and accountability within communities. Establishing clear policies and oversight structures can help prevent similar issues in the future and ensure that CBT initiatives remain focused on their social and economic objectives.
