Developing System Thinking Approach for Sustainable Destination Management in Lake Toba

Engineering Management, Faculty of Industrial Technology. Del Institute of Technology Jalan Sisingamangaraja Sitoluama Laguboti Toba Samosir North Sumatera Indonesia

Abstract

Lake Toba as one of the largest natural lake in the world occupying the caldera of super-volcano features diverse topography, remarkable historical heritage and archeological value. Because of its unique and rich features, lake toba has become a popular destination for tourists. Considering the significance and the potential of the tourism industry for economic development of the society both locally and nationally, there is an urgency to establish competitiveness and attractiveness the destinations using effective and sustainable strategies based on the market conditions, and the other to balance of interests of stakeholders. The aim of this study is to propose the important of developing system thinking for destination management to be sustainable, as well as the opportunities to pursue strategic policies and conditions for constituting different types of management structures. The process includes the development of a systems thinking approach that represents a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness and relationships between the various components that impact on sustainable development of tourism in Lake Toba. The paper is intended to use this as a framework for decisions and capacity building by government and private stakeholders who share the responsibility in developing, managing and sustaining the system.