PERAN LEMBAGA LOKAL DALAM PENGELOLAAN TAMAN NASIONAL MANUSELA (KASUS NEGERI ADMINISTRATIF MASIHULAN, KECAMATAN SERAM UTARA, KABUPATEN MALUKU TENGAH)

Abstract

Manusela National Park (MNP) is a conservation area with high biodiversity and significant ecotourism potential. The management of the area requires community involvement, particularly from buffer villages that have strong social, economic, and cultural ties to the forest. This study aims to identify the role of local institutions in managing MNP and the forms of collaboration between these institutions and the Manusela National Park Authority. The research was conducted in Masihulan Administrative Village, North Seram District, Central Maluku Regency, from November 2019 to January 2020 using a descriptive method. Data collection was carried out through questionnaires, interviews, observations, and documentation, while data analysis was conducted qualitatively. The results show that the Morite Bird Watching and Tiapiate institutions play roles in area patrols, tourism guiding, bird monitoring, boundary surveys, as well as the development and management of tourism facilities. Both institutions also contribute to raising community awareness of environmental conservation, tourism development, and increasing local economic opportunities. Collaboration with the MNP Authority is carried out through patrols, boundary inspections, zoning socialization, as well as the management and development of tourism areas. The existence of local institutions is an important element in supporting participatory management of MNP and providing socio-economic benefits to the community.