Digitalizing sacred fish tourism: Empowering Tabek Panjang’s cultural heritage

Abstract

This Community Service Program was implemented in Nagari Tabek Panjang, Agam Regency, West Sumatra Province, with the aim of increasing the capacity of the community in promoting the cultural tourism of Ikan Sakti Sungai Janiah through the use of digital technology. The main problems faced by partners include low digital literacy, minimal availability of online promotional content, and the lack of a structured cultural narrative to support the value of local cultural heritage. The implementation methods included a preparation stage through observation and coordination with partners, an implementation stage consisting of documenting tourist attractions, developing digital content (photos, videos, and cultural narratives), and providing basic digital marketing training for youth and tourism managers, and an evaluation stage to assess the program's achievements. The results of the activities show an increase in the availability of digital tourism promotional materials, a greater understanding among the community, especially young people, of the use of digital media for tourism promotion, and an increased awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage as a local identity. This program contributes to supporting the development of sustainable community-based tourism and is in line with the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8, SDG 11, and SDG 17 through community capacity building and multi-stakeholder collaboration.