Implementation of a Cluster-Based Model for Waterfront Urban Tourism Development in Manado, Indonesia

Abstract

Tourism Development is one of the major regional development priorities for North Sulawesi, Indonesia. The Manado Waterfront Development (MWD) is one of city development programs designated to enhance the image of Manado as a waterfront city. The Manado waterfront is being developed to strengthen opportunities for both tourism and other businesses. There are many buildings there that are used for trade and business purposes. The spatial distributions of tourism uses, commercial activities and residential land uses overlap. A previous study had developed a cluster-based model for the Manado waterfront area. This present study is an evaluation of the implementation of that model and the proposed strategy for implementing waterfront urban tourism in Manado, Indonesia. This study aims to examine the extent to which the model was successfully applied and how stakeholder perceptions and public participation could contribute to a development program for the city's tourism. The study uses a descriptive approach including mix methods, such as surveys, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGD) to get input and recommendations on the implementation of the previous tourism development model for Manado. Field research also consisted of a survey questionnaire, interview and observation on study sites. The results show that stakeholders, such as government, tourism industries, local residents near the waterfront, city planners, and academics all agree on the need to include the model into the city planning and implement into practice. The study proposed a formulation of strategies and policies for the waterfront's tourism development, which is proposed to local authorities for implementation.