Revitalization of the Historical Values of the Langkat Sultanate in the Development of Culture-Based Tourism (Cultural Tourism) in Tanjung Pura District, Langkat Regency

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze strategies for revitalizing the historical and cultural heritage of the Langkat Sultanate to support the development of cultural tourism in Tanjung Pura District, Langkat Regency, Indonesia. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, the research examined existing conditions, tourism potential, development constraints, and stakeholder involvement through field observations, interviews, and document analysis. The findings indicated that Tanjung Pura District possessed substantial tangible and intangible cultural heritage resources. Tangible heritage included the Azizi Mosque and the royal tomb complex, while intangible heritage encompassed Malay customs, traditions, and cultural practices that remained part of local community life. However, these heritage resources had not been optimally managed for tourism development because of several challenges, including the physical deterioration of historical sites, limited cultural awareness among younger generations, inadequate tourism promotion, and insufficient supporting infrastructure. Furthermore, coordination among government institutions, local communities, and private sector stakeholders remained fragmented, limiting the effectiveness of heritage tourism management. Accordingly, the study proposed an integrated revitalization strategy encompassing the conservation of historical buildings, safeguarding and promotion of intangible cultural heritage, development of innovative cultural tourism packages, improvement of tourism accessibility and supporting facilities, and empowerment of local communities through the establishment of Tourism Awareness Groups (Kelompok Sadar Wisata, Pokdarwis). The analysis further demonstrated how the deterioration of tangible heritage assets, insufficient promotion of Malay cultural traditions, and weak stakeholder coordination collectively constrained tourism development despite the area's considerable historical and cultural resources. These findings emphasized the importance of integrated heritage conservation, community participation, and collaborative tourism governance in promoting sustainable cultural tourism grounded in local cultural values.