Sustainable tourism goals for Life Below Water in Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17509/jithor.v9i1.97193

Keywords:

sustainable tourism, life below water, Komodo National Park, Labuan Bajo

Abstract

This study aims to examine the extent to which Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water) is implemented in the marine tourism area of Komodo National Park (KNP), Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including the Komodo National Park Authority (BTNK), local communities, the West Manggarai Tourism Office, and phinisi tourism operators. The findings indicate that despite the existence of national policies derived from SDG 14 covering sensitive environmental protection, visitor management, wildlife interaction, and species protection, their implementation at the destination level remains limited. Environmental issues such as marine waste accumulation, anchor-related coral damage, and vessel-related pollution persist due to weak enforcement and fragmented stakeholder coordination. This study highlights a gap between policy frameworks and practical implementation, emphasizing the need for stronger governance integration and collaborative marine conservation in KNP.

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Published

2026-04-07

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Vol. 9 No. 1 (2026): April

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Copyright (c) 2026 Jati Paras Ayu, Siti Adelita Raif Khadijah, Yesi Pandu Pratama Wibowo DC, Ayu Rakhmi Tiara Hamdani, Dewi Rachmawati

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