Persepsi dan Partisipasi Masyarakat dalam Mendukung Pariwisata Berkelanjutan di Kawasan Waterfront City Pangururan Desa Pardomuan I Kabupaten Samosir

Abstract

This study aims to describe the perceptions and participation of the community of Pardomuan I Village in supporting sustainable tourism in the Waterfront City Pangururan area, Samosir Regency. The study employs a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques including in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation. The findings reveal that the community interprets the development of Waterfront City in a dynamic manner. At the initial stage, some residents expressed doubts due to limited socialization, but as the development became visible, many began to recognize changes that influenced their daily lives. These changes include a more organized arrangement of public spaces, new business opportunities, and increased social interactions with tourists. Personal factors, situational aspects, and economic background were found to shape the ways in which the community interprets the development. Community participation appears more prominent during the implementation stage, such as opening businesses, attending SME training, and maintaining environmental cleanliness. Meanwhile, involvement in the planning and evaluation stages remains limited, resulting in contributions that are more practical in daily activities than in decision-making processes. The findings of this study indicate a connection between the experiences felt by the community and the forms of involvement they demonstrate. To ensure the sustainability of Waterfront City Pangururan, a more inclusive collaboration between the government, the community, and local business actors is required, so that the development not only produces a physically attractive tourist destination but also provides sustainable benefits in terms of economic, social, cultural, and environmental aspects.