UBSI research shows Lambanapu Village poised to become Sumba Timur's premier tourism destination

A new study by researchers from Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) reveals that Lambanapu Village in East Sumba, Nusa Tenggara Timur, possesses substantial potential to emerge as a premier tourism destination. The research, published in the Jurnal Media Wisata, identifies a unique blend of natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage as the village's primary strengths.

Researchers Ani Wijayanti and Atun Yulianto found that Lambanapu offers compelling natural attractions, including the scenic Tanau Hill and Seribu Hill, which provide characteristic Sumba vistas. Culturally, the village boasts the Lambanapu historical site and vibrant traditional arts managed by local studios, alongside its renowned ikat weaving craft, a symbol of local identity.

Wijayanti emphasized that modern tourists seek authentic experiences alongside beautiful scenery, a combination Lambanapu uniquely offers. The study employed a qualitative descriptive approach, involving field observations, in-depth interviews with 10 local informants, and documentation review. Analysis using SWOT, IFAS, EFAS, and IE matrices placed Lambanapu Village in Quadrant I, indicating strong internal capabilities and significant external opportunities for development.

The research proposes a development strategy aimed at leveraging these potentials for sustainable, community-based tourism. The goal is to ensure that the benefits of tourism are widely distributed among the local population, fostering economic growth and preserving the village's unique character. This initiative seeks to position Lambanapu as a model for community-driven tourism development in Indonesia.