Rural tourism development through the role of village government: Study of Purbayan Tourist Village, Indonesia

Purpose – This research aims to see the role played by the village government in developing regional potential.Methodology/Design/Approach – A qualitative research design using a case study approach was chosen in this study. This research investigates the role of village government in developing tourist villages through work programs that have been prepared. Data collection in this study was done through semi-structured interviews. In an effort to strengthen data quality, several people were selected to become informants. Some of the informants were village heads, chairs of POKDARWIS, community institutions, and management staff. Informants were selected based on the experience they had in dealing with the management of the Purbayan Tourism Village. Data collection through document searches was also carried out as part of the data triangulation process. The data analysis and validation process was carried out through the adoption of the Miles-Humerman method.Findings – The research focus that highlights the role of the village government in managing the Purbayan tourist village shows various positive achievements. The village government is able to carry out its duties as a driving force in maximizing its tourism potential. The work program implemented considers sustainability as a goal. The focus of village government activities through deliberation, strengthening legality, external cooperation, and management innovation are the key factors carried out. Through its authority, the village government is able to make policies based on needs that do not conflict with other norms or regulations. This research has contributed to tourism management through the participation of the village government.Originality/value – This study will uncover the policies implemented by the village government to create sustainable tourism