Assessing policy advocacy: The implementation of digital-based sustainable tourism in Batam City, Riau Islands, Indonesia

The tourism sector in Indonesia, particularly in Batam City, Riau Islands, plays a crucial role in economic growth but faces challenges due to governmental underdevelopment and the dominance of private entities. Although governmental plans exist through the Department of Culture and Tourism, the execution requires improvement, impacting service quality and visitor experiences. Therefore, this study aims to assess the implementation of digital-based sustainable tourism policies in Batam City, Riau Islands, Indonesia, with a focus on analyzing policy advocacy, evaluating implementation effectiveness, and identifying encountered barriers and successes. Through a literature review, key aspects such as digital capability, financial support, digital infrastructure, mentorship support, and policy support are examined. Additionally, target indicators related to decent work and economic growth are analyzed to provide insights into tourism development. Advocacy for local government policy in Batam City is explored in alignment with provincial development missions and objectives. The study further presents strategies and challenges in regional development related to the tourism sector, along with a SWOT analysis outlining internal and external factors influencing tourism development in Batam City. Strategic recommendations are proposed to propel Batam towards becoming a vibrant and sustainable tourism hub in Indonesia, considering its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.