Commercialization and tourism: Challenges in sustainable wildlife animal conservation-based Theme Park management in Central Java area

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact, challenges, and concept of ecotourism in managing theme parks based on sustainable wildlife animal conservation in Central Java. This research uses qualitative exploratory research. Data collection techniques include in-depth interviews and direct observation as primary data, while documentation, questionnaires, and literature studies are secondary data. Data analysis is divided into several stages: data coding, finding patterns, labeling themes, and developing category systems. The results showed that, first, positive impacts were obtained from conservation and sustainable tourism. Second, management challenges include external (outside the company scope) and internal (within the company scope). The external challenge most often faced by managers is the behavior of tourists who do not comply with the appeal in the theme park area. Meanwhile, the most crucial internal challenge is insufficient funding sources for the management and development of infrastructure. Third, ecotourism offers an alternative concept for sustainable management of theme parks economically and in conservation but requires large funds for realization.