Abstract:
Natural resources should be managed well so that they increase income of local communities. One way of managing natural resources is developing ecotourism objects. An ecotourism object in South Kalimantan that can be developed to increase the income of the local communities is the Matang Keladan. The study of how to develop the Matang Keladan ecotourism object has never been done. This study aims to analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the development of Matang Keladan ecotourism objects, then formulate strategies for developing ecotourism by minimizing weaknesses and threats and maximizing the utilization of opportunities and strengths. Data were collected through literature studies, observations and interviews with stakeholders such as the Forest Service of the Province of South Kalimantan, Technical Implementation Unit of Tahura Sultan Adam, universities/managers of special-purpose forest areas, village heads, members of the Forest Farmer Group or the Pesona Riam Kanan Tourism Conscious Group, Matang Keladan Ojek Association, villagers and visitors. Data were analyzed descriptively using SWOT analysis to determine the Matang Keladan ecotourism object development strategy. Based on the results of the study it can be concluded that the development strategies of Matang Keladan ecotourism object are to complement the supporting infrastructure of ecotourism activities; develop other types of tourism; enhance promotion; provide proper garbage bins and toilets to maintain cleanliness, and waste treatment; and increase cooperation between local communities, tourism actors and the government optimally
