Tourism Based on Ancient Manuscripts: Opportunities, Challenges,and  Development Strategies in Indonesia

Objective: Purpose of this research is to explore the extent to which individuals' beliefs in sacred texts drive them to engage in tourism activities. Indonesia, being one of the countries with the largest Muslim population in the world, significantly influences how social activities are interconnected with individuals' religious understanding on both macro and micro scales. Method: To map the importance of this study, we conducted two stages: 1) a systematic quantitative literature review aimed at mapping the development of the topic in scholarly discussions, 2) an observational study involving interviews with 20 key informants, including academics, local officials, religious figures, tourists, and tourism practitioners. The data analysis employed Miles and Huberman's approach, involving data display, reduction, and conclusion.Results: The research study formulated significant findings, including: 1) ancient tourism contributes positively to economic development on both micro and macro scales. 2) The development of ancient tourism can occur at three scales: rural, urban, and regional. 3) Mikhr Istikharah Quran, believed to be written by Sheikh Jafar Shidiq, has transformed from a mere reading into a reference for local communities in resolving various issues such as choosing a life partner, seeking livelihood, farming, starting a business, and others. and 4) There are five strategic efforts in the development of tourism based on ancient texts, including infrastructure development, government collaboration with the private sector, promotion by religious figures, public education, and optimal management.Conclusion: The development of ancient tourism, including manuscript-based tourism such as in Limbangan, has the potential to support economic development through infrastructure strategies, public-private collaboration, promotion, public education, and optimal management.