Pentahelix Model Strategy in Facing Non-Military Threats in Coastal Tourism Areas: A Case Study of Bengkulu Province, Indonesia

Coastal tourism plays a strategic role in the economic development of emerging regions but faces increasing non-military threats such as technological disruptions, socio-cultural changes, economic challenges, and public safety issues. This study aims to examine stakeholders’ perceptions of these threats and the effectiveness of the Pentahelix model collaboration in mitigating non-military threats in the coastal tourism sector of Bengkulu Province, Indonesia. Employing an interpretive paradigm with a qualitative-dominant mixed-methods approach, the study focused on an in-depth contextual analysis of Pentahelix collaboration dynamics. Descriptive data were collected through questionnaires distributed to 350 respondents to triangulate qualitative findings obtained from in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations involving 25 key stakeholders. Findings indicate that public safety is the most significant threat due to natural disasters and criminal activities, with strong roles played by academia and the private sector in the collaboration process. However, government and community involvement remain limited, while media plays a strategic role in shaping destination image and crisis communication. The study concludes that sustainable coastal tourism development requires integrated cross-sector collaboration and capacity enhancement of all stakeholders within the Pentahelix framework.