ICTMT 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)

ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS

Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXVIII November 2025

Page 131

www.rsisinternational.org

The Impact of Tourism Sector Development on the Socio- Economic

Conditions of the Community in Supporting Quality Tourism in

South Bangka Regency

Yuni Herawati

, Mu’alifatus Sa’diyah

, Ari Agung Nugroho

, Darus Altin

1,2,3,4

Bangka Belitung University

Corresponding Author

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.92800014

Received: 06 November 2025; Accepted: 12 November 2025; Published: 18 December 2025

ABSTRACT

Tourism development plays a crucial role in accelerating regional economic growth and enhancing community

welfare, particularly in peripheral areas with rich natural and cultural resources. This study aims to analyze the

impact of tourism sector development on the socio-economic conditions of the community in supporting quality

tourism in South Bangka Regency. The research employs a qualitative descriptive design using a case study

approach, focusing on two newly developed artificial attractions Bianglala and Rainbow Slide in Toboali City,

which were inaugurated in April 2025. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 25 key informants,

questionnaires distributed to 100 visitors, and secondary data from the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) and

local government reports. The findings reveal that the presence of these attractions has significantly stimulated

the local economy by increasing household income by 30%, expanding micro, small, and medium enterprises

(MSMEs), and creating new informal business opportunities. Socially, tourism growth has fostered stronger

community interaction, enhanced local pride, and improved social cohesion, although challenges remain in terms

of waste management, unequal benefit distribution, and changing social values among younger generations.

From the tourists’ perspective, 72% of respondents expressed satisfaction with the overall experience, though

issues of cleanliness and limited community involvement persist. The study concludes that small-scale artificial

attractions can serve as effective catalysts for inclusive and sustainable development when managed under the

principles of quality tourism, which emphasizes sustainability, community participation, and equitable benefit-

sharing. The results contribute to both theoretical discourse on sustainable tourism and practical policymaking

for regions seeking to transform peripheral destinations into resilient and quality-oriented tourism areas.

Keywords: Tourism Development, Socio Economic Impact, MSMEs, Quality Tourism, South Bangka

INTRODUCTION

Tourism plays a pivotal role in stimulating regional and national economic growth, particularly in developing

regions endowed with natural and cultural diversity. In Indonesia, the tourism sector has become a strategic

driver for economic transformation, job creation, and community welfare enhancement. The World Tourism

Organization (UNWTO, 2023) emphasizes that sustainable tourism must not only satisfy visitors’ expectations

but also safeguard the socio-cultural and environmental integrity of host communities. In this context, tourism

development is expected to support both economic advancement and the realization of quality tourism a

paradigm that integrates sustainability, inclusiveness, and the quality of tourist experiences.

In recent years, the Province of Bangka Belitung Islands has undergone an economic transition from extractive

industries, particularly tin mining, toward tourism and creative economy sectors. This transformation reflects a

broader shift from resource-based development to service-oriented and sustainable economic models. South

Bangka Regency, as one of the peripheral regions in the province, has emerged as a growing destination that

combines natural coastal attractions, eco-tourism, and new man-made recreational facilities. The most notable

development occurred in April 2025, when the local government inaugurated two flagship attractions Bianglala

and Rainbow Slide in Toboali City. These facilities have rapidly become new icons of local tourism, drawing

visitors from within and outside the region.

ICTMT 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)

ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS

Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXVIII November 2025

Page 132

www.rsisinternational.org

The introduction of these small-scale attractions has generated significant socio-economic impacts. Micro and

small businesses (UMKM) around the area have flourished, with reports indicating income growth of 20–30%

among local residents engaged in tourism-related activities such as food stalls, transport services, and handicraft

sales. Beyond economic gains, tourism has fostered community pride and stronger social interactions between

locals and visitors. However, the development also poses challenges, including uneven distribution of economic

benefits, changes in social values among younger generations, and environmental management issues related to

waste and land use.

Given these dynamics, it is essential to examine how the tourism sector’s development influences the socio-

economic conditions of communities while aligning with the goals of quality tourism. Previous studies such as

those by Simorangkir et al. (2024), Purnomo (2022), and Wardani & Suarthana (2020) have analyzed tourism’s

economic and social impacts but often overlook the integrative perspective of quality tourism. Therefore, this

research fills a crucial gap by exploring how artificial attractions in peripheral areas can serve as catalysts for

sustainable development, community empowerment, and inclusive tourism practices.

This study aims to analyze the impact of tourism sector development on the socio-economic conditions of the

community in South Bangka Regency, emphasizing the contribution of tourism to quality and sustainable

tourism outcomes. The findings are expected to provide theoretical enrichment for the study of sustainable

tourism and practical recommendations for policymakers, particularly in strengthening community-based

tourism and ensuring equitable distribution of tourism benefits in peripheral regions.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Relevant literature should be reviewed to identify research gaps and situate the current study in relation to prior

research. This section outlines the theoretical and empirical foundations related to the socio-economic impact of

tourism development, the role of artificial attractions, peripheral tourism, and the concept of quality tourism.

Socio-Economic Impacts of Tourism

Tourism has long been recognized as a catalyst for regional development and community empowerment.

According to Sharpley (2014), tourism contributes to improving living standards through job creation, the growth

of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and the enhancement of basic infrastructure. Similarly,

Cooper et al. (2020) emphasize the multiplier effect of tourism, where increased tourist spending stimulates

broader economic activity and local income generation.

ICTMT 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)

ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS

Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXVIII November 2025

Page 133

www.rsisinternational.org

From a social perspective, tourism encourages interaction between visitors and host communities, fostering

cultural exchange, community pride, and identity preservation. However, unregulated tourism can also trigger

challenges such as social disruption, lifestyle shifts, and cultural commodification (Tosun, 2002). Therefore, a

balanced approach is essential to ensure that tourism development delivers equitable and sustainable socio-

economic benefits.

In the context of South Bangka Regency, the development of tourism particularly through attractions like

Bianglala and Rainbow Slide has created new employment opportunities and increased community income by

20–30%. Nevertheless, issues such as unequal benefit distribution and the risk of environmental degradation

highlight the need for sustainable management practices.

Artificial Attractions in Tourism Development

Artificial or man-made attractions have emerged as strategic tools for diversifying tourism portfolios, especially

in regions with limited natural or cultural assets. Richards (2018) notes that artificial attractions expand the

tourism market by offering entertainment-based experiences that can extend visitor stays. Getz (2017) further

asserts that the success of such attractions depends on their integration with local ecosystems, including

transportation, accommodation, and small business networks.

In peripheral or rural areas, small-scale artificial attractions such as amusement rides, theme parks, or cultural

centers can serve as catalysts for local economic revitalization (Janiskee, 2006). In South Bangka, Bianglala and

Rainbow Slide exemplify how targeted investments in recreational infrastructure can boost local tourism appeal

while stimulating the surrounding informal economy.

However, long-term sustainability requires that artificial attractions align with environmental and social

objectives. Their management must include local participation, equitable revenue-sharing mechanisms, and

adherence to sustainable tourism principles.

Tourism in Peripheral Regions

Tourism in peripheral or rural areas presents unique challenges related to accessibility, competitiveness, and

institutional capacity (Hall & Boyd, 2005). Nevertheless, with proper planning, such areas can leverage their

local assets to attract niche markets seeking authentic and less commercialized experiences. Briedenhann and

Wickens (2004) advocate for community-based tourism (CBT) as a model that ensures inclusive growth and

equitable benefit distribution in peripheral regions.

In these settings, tourism acts not only as an economic activity but also as a mechanism for preserving local

culture and identity. Saarinen (2007) highlights the importance of integrating local narratives into destination

branding to differentiate peripheral destinations from mainstream mass tourism sites. Consequently, in South

Bangka, tourism development that incorporates local culture, community participation, and man-made

attractions contributes to regional identity building and sustainable local development.

Quality Tourism a Sustainable Framework

The concept of quality tourism represents a paradigm shift from quantity-driven to value-driven tourism

development. Chen et al. (2020) define quality tourism as a model that balances visitor satisfaction,

environmental sustainability, and community welfare. Unlike mass tourism, which focuses on maximizing

visitor numbers, quality tourism emphasizes long-term sustainability through enhanced service quality, cultural

authenticity, and local empowerment.

Wijaya and Nugroho (2022) argue that the implementation of quality tourism requires strong collaboration

among stakeholders, including government, local communities, and private actors. It also involves the adoption

of environmentally responsible practices and the promotion of inclusive governance in destination management.

Applying this concept to South Bangka Regency, quality tourism offers a framework for aligning economic

growth with social equity and environmental stewardship. The integration of community-based approaches,

ICTMT 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)

ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS

Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXVIII November 2025

Page 134

www.rsisinternational.org

effective waste management, and cultural preservation within the tourism system is essential to achieving this

balance.

Research Gap and Conceptual Linked

Previous studies such as Simorangkir et al. (2024), Purnomo (2022), and Wardani & Suarthana (2020) have

explored the relationship between tourism and economic growth but often neglect the intersection between socio-

economic outcomes and the quality tourism paradigm. Similarly, Musliha (2022) and Ndjurumbaha et al. (2024)

found positive tourism impacts on local welfare but without assessing sustainability and community participation

dimensions.

Therefore, this study contributes to the literature by integrating socio-economic impact analysis with the quality

tourism framework. It focuses on how small-scale, artificial attractions in a peripheral region (South Bangka

Regency) can drive inclusive and sustainable tourism development. This holistic approach provides both

theoretical enrichment for sustainable tourism studies and practical insights for regional policymakers.

METHOD

This study employs a qualitative descriptive research design with a case study approach to analyze the impact of

tourism sector development on the socio-economic conditions of the community in supporting quality tourism

in South Bangka Regency. The research focuses on two newly developed artificial attractions Bianglala and

Rainbow Slide located in Toboali City, which were inaugurated in April 2025 and have since become key

symbols of local tourism growth. The qualitative approach allows for an in-depth exploration of social and

economic dynamics within their natural setting, emphasizing the interactions among local communities, visitors,

and policymakers. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data were obtained

through field observations, in-depth interviews with 25 key informants consisting of local government officials,

community leaders, small business owners, and tourism workers, as well as questionnaire responses from 100

visitors to capture perceptions of service quality and satisfaction. Secondary data were drawn from statistical

reports by the Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS), government documents, and academic literature relevant to

sustainable and quality tourism. Data were analyzed thematically through a series of steps including data

reduction, categorization, and interpretation, supported by descriptive quantitative information to strengthen

qualitative findings. To ensure data credibility, the study applied triangulation of sources and methods, cross-

verifying information from interviews, observations, and documents. Ethical research standards were maintained

by securing participants’ consent and ensuring confidentiality throughout the research process.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The results of this study show that the development of the tourism sector in South Bangka Regency, particularly

through the operation of the Bianglala and Rainbow Slide attractions in Toboali City, has created a measurable

positive impact on the local socio-economic environment. The establishment of these artificial attractions,

inaugurated in April 2025, immediately drew attention from both local residents and tourists from other regions

in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province. The attractions not only serve as new centers for recreation and

entertainment but have also acted as catalysts for local economic growth, particularly in the micro and informal

sectors. The study found that approximately 40% of respondents reported an increase in income ranging from

20% to 30% after the attractions became operational. This rise is reflected in the expansion of micro, small, and

medium enterprises (MSMEs), especially in culinary, transportation, and souvenir sectors. Informal businesses

such as street vendors and parking services have also proliferated, indicating a positive multiplier effect that has

strengthened the local economy.

From a social perspective, tourism growth has enhanced interaction between residents and visitors, leading to

stronger social networks, greater cultural exchange, and a growing sense of community pride among locals who

now view their region as a noteworthy tourism destination. However, this transformation is not without

challenges. The study documented emerging social changes particularly among younger generations manifested

in increased consumerism and shifting lifestyle patterns. Additionally, environmental concerns such as waste

management and cleanliness have surfaced as critical issues requiring attention from local authorities and tourism

ICTMT 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)

ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS

Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXVIII November 2025

Page 135

www.rsisinternational.org

managers.

From the tourists’ perspective, the survey results indicate that 72% of visitors expressed satisfaction with their

overall experience, appreciating the friendliness of local residents and the accessibility of facilities. Nonetheless,

issues such as limited community participation in destination management, insufficient sanitation, and uneven

infrastructure quality remain significant barriers to achieving the full potential of quality tourism. These findings

corroborate Sharpley’s (2014) view that tourism contributes to community welfare when inclusively managed

but can generate inequalities and ecological risks if not carefully controlled.

The case of South Bangka illustrates that even small-scale, man-made attractions can serve as strategic

instruments for local economic revitalization, especially in peripheral regions. However, sustainable outcomes

depend on integrating community-based tourism (CBT) principles, including participatory governance, equitable

benefit distribution, and environmental stewardship. The findings suggest that the South Bangka experience

embodies the transformative capacity of localized tourism innovation while emphasizing the need for quality-

oriented development a balance between economic growth, social inclusion, and ecological responsibility.

CONCLUSION

This study concludes that the development of artificial attractions such as Bianglala and Rainbow Slide in South

Bangka Regency has had a significant and multifaceted impact on the socio-economic conditions of local

communities. The emergence of new MSMEs, the growth of informal economic activities, and the reported

increase in local incomes by up to 30% collectively demonstrate the economic empowerment potential of tourism

development in peripheral areas. Socially, the community has benefited through enhanced interaction with

visitors, stronger local identity, and greater community pride. These findings affirm that tourism can act as an

effective catalyst for regional transformation when development aligns with sustainability and inclusivity

principles.

Nevertheless, several challenges remain particularly related to uneven benefit distribution, shifts in social values,

and inadequate environmental management that could undermine long-term sustainability if not addressed.

Therefore, the implementation of quality tourism in South Bangka must prioritize community involvement,

environmental care, and equitable growth. Local government agencies should strengthen collaborative

governance mechanisms involving public institutions, local entrepreneurs, and community groups to ensure that

tourism benefits are distributed fairly and sustainably.

In practical terms, the study recommends: (1) enhancing community-based tourism (CBT) programs to increase

local ownership and participation; (2) improving waste management and infrastructure quality to support cleaner

and more sustainable destinations; and (3) developing capacity building programs for MSMEs and informal

sector actors to improve service standards and competitiveness. From a theoretical standpoint, this research

contributes to the discourse on sustainable and quality tourism by demonstrating that small scale artificial

attractions can effectively serve as instruments for inclusive development in peripheral regions when supported

by sound governance and community engagement. Hence, South Bangka’s experience provides an empirical

model for other regions seeking to achieve balanced tourism growth that harmonizes economic, social, and

environmental dimensions.

LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

Despite its contributions, this study has several limitations. First, the research adopts a qualitative case study

design focused on two artificial attractions Bianglala and Rainbow Slide in South Bangka Regency; therefore,

the findings may not be fully generalizable to other regions or larger-scale tourism projects. Second, the data

were collected within a limited time frame shortly after the attractions’ inauguration, which may not capture

long-term socio-economic or environmental impacts. Third, the study relies partly on self-reported data from

community members and visitors, which could introduce response bias. Future research should adopt a

longitudinal or mixed method approach to measure long-term outcomes and incorporate more diverse data

sources, including environmental indicators and digital visitor analytics.

ICTMT 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)

ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS

Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXVIII November 2025

Page 136

www.rsisinternational.org

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The authors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Department of Tourism, Youth, and Sports of

South Bangka Regency for their valuable support and cooperation throughout the data collection process. Special

appreciation is also extended to the local community of Toboali City, including small business owners, tourism

workers, and residents who willingly shared their experiences and insights during interviews and surveys. The

authors acknowledge the assistance of Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS) of Bangka Belitung Islands Province for

providing secondary data essential to this study. Deep appreciation is also conveyed to the Faculty of Economics

and Business, Universitas Bangka Belitung, for providing academic guidance and institutional support in

completing this research. Finally, heartfelt thanks are extended to family, colleagues, and fellow researchers

whose encouragement and constructive feedback contributed to the successful completion of this study.

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