Building rural resilience: food security through tourism and agricultural development in Indonesia

This study explored the interplay between food security and the growth of the tourism sector in Bulukumba Regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Utilizing a qualitative methodology that incorporated in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs), the research examined how tourism development influenced various dimensions of food security—namely availability, accessibility, utilization, and stability—within rural communities. The findings demonstrated that tourism significantly enhanced local food security by providing diverse economic opportunities. Increased income from tourism-related activities, such as culinary businesses, homestay accommodations, and cultural tourism, notably improved the purchasing power and economic resilience of local households. Additionally, heightened demand from tourists for fresh, nutritious food led to greater investments in agriculture, particularly in horticultural production, fostering a more dynamic agricultural sector. Interactions between local residents and tourists also induced positive changes in consumption patterns, with communities becoming more aware of nutritional values and food diversification practices. The novelty of this research lies in its specific identification of tourism-agriculture synergies as a crucial, yet underexplored, pathway for enhancing rural food resilience in the Indonesian context. These insights offer valuable guidance for policymakers aiming to craft integrated tourism strategies that not only boost rural economic welfare but also ensure the sustainability and resilience of local food systems.