STRATEGIES FOR DEVELOPING MAHAKAM RIVER CRUISE TOURISM ROOTED IN
CULTURAL DIVERSITY IN KUTAI KARTANEGARA
1) Daryono, 2) Finnah Fourqoniah, 3) Adietya Arie Hetami, 4) Fareis Althalets,
5) Joko Sabtohadi
1,2,3,4) Universitas Mulawarman
5) Brida Kab.Kutai Kartanegara
E-mail: daryono@fisip.unmul.ac.id
ABSTRACT
This study examines the development of Mahakam River cruise tourism in Kutai Kartanegara by integrating historical, cultural, and geographical elements as primary attractions. Through a qualitative descriptive approach, the research highlights significant potential in historical sites like the Yupa Inscription, the traditions of the Dayak Kenyah tribe in Sebulu, and the iconic ecosystem of the Mahakam Dolphin. However, challenges remain, including limited infrastructure, suboptimal accessibility, and a lack of cohesive promotion strategies. Key recommendations include strengthening cultural narratives through storytelling, improving community-based tourism facilities, implementing integrated digital promotion, and advancing environmental conservation efforts. These strategies aim to enhance the region’s tourism appeal while supporting the sustainable preservation of its cultural and natural heritage.
Keywords: River Cruise Tourism, Kutai Kartanegara, Cultural Diversity, Storytelling, Sustainable Tourism
ABSTRAK
Kajian ini menganalisis pengembangan wisata susur Sungai Mahakam di Kutai Kartanegara, memadukan sejarah, budaya, dan geografis sebagai daya tarik utama. Dengan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif dan Partisipasi Masyarakat (PAR), kajian ini menemukan potensi besar pada peninggalan sejarah seperti Prasasti Yupa, tradisi suku Dayak Kenyah di Sebulu, dan ikon ekosistem Pesut Mahakam. Namun, terdapat tantangan berupa infrastruktur yang terbatas, aksesibilitas yang belum optimal, serta minimnya promosi terpadu. Rekomendasi utama meliputi penguatan narasi budaya melalui storytelling, peningkatan fasilitas wisata berbasis komunitas, promosi digital terpadu, dan upaya konservasi lingkungan. Strategi ini diharapkan mampu meningkatkan daya tarik wisata dan mendukung keberlanjutan pelestarian warisan budaya dan alam.
Kata Kunci : Wisata Susur Sungai, Kutai Kartanegara, Diversitas Budaya, Storytelling, Pariwisata Berkelanjutan