EMPOWERING OF COASTAL COMMUNITY ECOTOURISM: THE ROLE OF CULTURAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP AMONG FISHERMEN IN WEST SUMATRA, INDONESIA

Entrepreneurship development in the fisheries sector is important in poverty alleviation efforts. Although fishermen play a role as producers of fishery products, entrepreneurship in this field is increasingly recognized as positively contributing to reducing poverty. In addition, the integration of fishermen into the community and the local economy is increasingly seen as a significant factor in the success of entrepreneurship. This study examines the application and potential of cultural entrepreneurship in fishing communities, aiming to evaluate its effectiveness in addressing social-economic challenges and improving community welfare through the utilization of local knowledge and traditional skills. The research employed a qualitative approach, conducting interview studies, focus group discussion, and limited observation to assess the impact of cultural entrepreneurship practices among fishermen. Data collection focused on entrepreneurial activities, resource utilization, and economic outcomes. This study was conducted in Tiku Selatan Village, located in Tanjung Mutiara Regency, West Sumatra, Indonesia. Data collection was carried out through in-depth interviews with the fishing community, including fishermen and their wives, as well as local government representatives. The study employed semi-structured interviews involving fifteen men and ten women. Additionally, focus group discussions were conducted to gain insights into fishermen’s experiences and their collective perceptions of cultural entrepreneurship. Qualitative data analysis was carried out comprehensively throughout the research to highlight the potential of cultural entrepreneurship in improving the socio-economic conditions of fishing villages while preserving their cultural heritage. The findings revealed that fishermen successfully leverage local resources to generate added value, resulting in improved household economies. However, several challenges were identified, including limited market access and inadequate entrepreneurial capacity, which currently hinder the full realization of cultural entrepreneurship potential in fishing community. Cultural entrepreneurship demonstrates promise as a tool for sustainable economic development in fishing communities, but requires targeted policy interventions and support mechanisms focused on developing market relations and entrepreneurial skills to ensure long-term socio-economic benefits. In conclusion, an ecotourism-oriented entrepreneurial culture has the potential to improve entrepreneurial attitudes and strengthen public understanding of innovative and creative village development. We conclude that implementing tourism with a focus on social entrepreneurship can encourage entrepreneurial attitudes and create an environment that is more concerned with the community's needs in village development.