Analisis Perencanaan Wilayah Berbasis Wisata Unggul dalam Penanggulangan Kemiskinan di Objek Wisata Bukit Lawang dan Tangkahan, Kabupaten Langkat

Abstract

The Bukit Lawang and Tangkahan areas in Langkat Regency, North Sumatra, are rapidly developing natural tourism destinations, but the area still faces various challenges, including poverty and limited infrastructure. Although tourism in this area has boosted the local economy, its impact on the welfare of the community as a whole has not been fully felt. This study aims to analyze the influence of tourism development on regional planning and poverty alleviation in the tourism area. The study used a quantitative approach with an associative method and involved 150 respondents, consisting of local communities and regional apparatus. Data collection was carried out through a questionnaire that measured respondents' perceptions regarding the impact of tourism development on social and economic aspects. Data analysis was carried out using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with the help of SmartPLS software. The results of the study showed that tourism development has a significant influence on regional planning, especially in terms of improving infrastructure and accessibility. However, tourism development has not had a significant impact on reducing poverty directly. In addition, regional planning has not been shown to have a significant effect on poverty alleviation, and is unable to mediate the relationship between tourism development and poverty alleviation. In conclusion, although the tourism sector is able to drive economic growth, its impact on poverty reduction is still limited. Therefore, a more comprehensive strategy is needed to ensure that tourism development also contributes to poverty alleviation. Recommendations include developing more environmentally friendly infrastructure, improving the skills of local communities, and further exploring other social factors.