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Abstract

Sampe Raya Village, located in Bahorok District, Langkat Regency, North Sumatra, possesses significant potential for community-based agrotourism development. Its primary agricultural products, snake fruit (salak) and pineapples, combined with a rich cultural heritage, provide a foundation for sustainable tourism. However, the village faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, weak marketing strategies, and limited community skills in tourism management, which hinder its full potential. This study employs the Participatory Action Research (PAR) method, actively engaging the local community in empowerment initiatives. Capacity-building programs and sustainable resource management training were implemented to tackle these challenges. The findings indicate that targeted training has significantly enhanced local knowledge and skills in tourism management and agripreneurship. Improved marketing efforts, particularly through digital platforms, have increased tourist interest and visibility, while infrastructure developments, including better road access and amenities, have enhanced visitor experiences and extended stays. The study concludes that collaborative efforts involving the community, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders are essential to overcoming existing challenges. Practical recommendations include the establishment of a local tourism management board, the creation of tailored tour packages, and the integration of environmental conservation with cultural preservation initiatives. These measures are anticipated to boost economic welfare, safeguard cultural heritage, and support environmental sustainability. Ultimately, this study advocates for a multi-stakeholder approach to transform Sampe Raya into a sustainable agritourism destination and a model for rural tourism development in similar regions.

Keywords

Agrotourism Community Empowerment Sustainable Development Tourist Village Rural Development

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