Strengthening community-based tourism through the 4P model: The selected coastal tourism case in Indonesia

Indonesia's coastal tourism offers significant potential for sustainable development. Yet, challenges persist in aligning community-based tourism (CBT) practices with sustainable tourism principles. This study examines partnership practices in the development of CBT at Pantai Panjang (Long Beach), Bengkulu Province, Indonesia, and evaluates its achievements to propose a Public-Private-People Partnership (4P) model. Using a qualitative approach, data were gathered between June and August 2024 through four techniques including focus group discussion (FGD), in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis. A total of 14 informants participated, comprising representatives from the public sector, informal sector, tourism-awareness groups (Pokdarwis), and local communities. The findings indicate that CBT implementation at Pantai Panjang is hindered by low community participation, the limited role of Pokdarwis in decision-making processes, and the inadequacy of infrastructure and supporting facilities, resulting in suboptimal outcomes. Existing partnerships, particularly between the government and Pokdarwis, tend to prioritize specific economic interests rather than fostering comprehensive community empowerment. To address these challenges, this study recommends adopting a 4P model to enhance community involvement, facilitate stakeholder collaboration, and strengthen tourism sustainability. Strategic actions such as restructuring Pokdarwis, building local capacity, and establishing inclusive regulations are proposed to optimize Pantai Panjang?s potential as a sustainable community-based tourism destination.