Multiculturalism and Local Entrepreneurial Development: A Collaborative Communication Model for Community-Based Tourism in Bukit Lawang, Indonesia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61455/sujiem.v4i02.662Keywords:
social learning, multicultural, community-based tourism, entrepreneurial ecosystem, trust, local business networksAbstract
Objective: This study aims to develop a conceptual model of collaborative communication for strengthening the local entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Community-Based Tourism (CBT) destination of Bukit Lawang, Langkat Regency, North Sumatra, Indonesia. Theoretical Framework: The study integrates collaborative communication and entrepreneurial ecosystem perspectives, emphasizing social relationships, trust, information exchange, resource sharing, and social learning. Literature Review: Previous studies have examined community participation, tourism collaboration, and local entrepreneurship separately. Methods: Using a qualitative case study design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews and field observations involving local business actors and tourism stakeholders, and analyzed thematically. Results: The findings show that collaboration develops through interpersonal relationships, trust, informal communication, customer referrals, and information exchange. Tour guides act as key intermediaries connecting tourists with accommodation providers, restaurants, craft producers, and other local enterprises. However, cooperation among small businesses remains largely dependent on personal networks and individual initiatives. These interactions also facilitate social learning through knowledge exchange, experience-sharing, and mutual support, strengthening local capabilities and community empowerment. Implications: The findings indicate that the presence of numerous local businesses does not automatically create an integrated entrepreneurial ecosystem. Its development requires stronger coordination mechanisms that connect social relationships, trust, resource exchange, and shared economic value. Novelty: This study proposes a collaborative communication model in which interpersonal networks provide the foundation for collaboration, reinforced by structured, inclusive, and sustainable coordination mechanisms to strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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