Desentralisasi dan Pengembangan Pariwisata: Perbandingan Strategi Administrasi Publik dalam Pengembangan Pariwisata di Kota Padang dan Kota Bukittinggi

Abstract

This study examines how decentralization policies in Indonesia shape public administration strategies in the development of tourism destinations in two major cities in West Sumatra, namely Padang and Bukittinggi, which have different geographical characteristics, government structures, and fiscal capacities. Through a comparative literature study, this research found that Padang City adopted a coastal area-based modernization strategy oriented towards infrastructure development and strengthening the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) sector. Meanwhile, Bukittinggi City has developed a heritage conservation and community-based governance approach. Decentralization has resulted in asymmetrical governance, in which fiscal capacity and geographical context significantly determine the ability of local governments to formulate tourism development strategies. This study contributes to the development of destination governance and decentralization theory by offering the perspective that regional autonomy does not automatically increase policy effectiveness. Instead, effectiveness must be supported by institutional capacity, collaboration between actors, and policy fit with the unique characteristics of the tourist destination.