Cinta Raja Village: A Success Story of Youth-Led Conservation and Ecotourism

Cinta Raja Village celebrates 7th place tourism award, Image By Nazar youth Cintaraja

*Heri Tarmizi

Nestled in the Langsa district of Aceh Province, Indonesia, Cinta Raja Village has gained national recognition for its innovative approach to combining conservation with ecotourism. This small village, once largely unknown, achieved significant prominence when it was ranked 7th in the 2023 Indonesian tourism competition held in Nusa Dua, Bali. The transformation of Cinta Raja into an ecotourism hub is due to the tireless efforts of the local youth, supported by both local organizations and international conservation bodies.

Ecotourism and Conservation: The Role of Migratory Birds

Cinta Raja Village’s unique ecological importance stems from its role as a critical stopover for migratory shorebirds. Each year, species like the Eurasian Whimbrel, Bar-tailed Godwit, Little Stint, Common Greenshank, and Golden Plover seek refuge in the village’s wetlands during their long migrations. Recognizing this ecological treasure, the village’s youth began working in 2020 to develop Cinta Raja as a sustainable ecotourism destination. Their efforts have focused on promoting birdwatching as a central attraction while ensuring the protection of these vulnerable habitats​.

Conservation through Citizen Science: The Role of KSLH-Aceh, WWF NL, and IUCN

A pivotal factor in Cinta Raja’s success has been the conservation initiative led by KSLH-Aceh, with the backing of WWF Netherlands (WWF NL) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) through the Sharing Resources Joint Solutions (SRJS) program. This initiative is centered on citizen science, an approach that actively engages local communities in scientific research and conservation efforts.

Under the guidance of KSLH-Aceh and with funding and expertise provided by WWF NL and IUCN, the youth of Cinta Raja were trained to monitor bird populations, document migratory patterns, and preserve the village’s natural environment. The SRJS program provided the resources and tools necessary to foster local leadership in environmental management. These efforts have made Cinta Raja not only a key site for migratory bird conservation but also a destination for international researchers and tourists interested in the region’s biodiversity​.

The citizen science project has had far-reaching impacts. By gathering critical data on bird species and their habitats, the youth and local residents have contributed to broader conservation strategies while promoting responsible ecotourism. This has allowed the community to protect its natural assets while generating income through tourism—an approach that balances environmental sustainability with economic growth​.

Building a Sustainable Ecotourism Model

The development of Cinta Raja’s ecotourism industry has provided numerous benefits to the local economy. Tourists, particularly birdwatchers, are drawn to the village to observe the migratory shorebirds in their natural habitat. This influx of visitors has spurred the growth of local businesses, from guided birdwatching tours to homestays that offer traditional Acehnese experiences. Furthermore, the village’s youth have taken proactive steps to ensure that tourism remains sustainable. They have implemented village regulations that protect bird habitats from disturbance, ensuring that the growing tourism industry does not harm the environment​.

With international support and guidance, Cinta Raja has integrated the principles of sustainable tourism into its growth strategy. The village’s success has been built on a foundation of conservation, with a focus on preserving the migratory bird habitats that make it a unique destination. This balance between tourism and conservation has allowed the village to thrive, providing economic opportunities while ensuring the protection of its natural resources for future generations​.

A Model for Sustainable Development and Future Prospects

Cinta Raja Village serves as a powerful example of how small communities can leverage their natural assets for sustainable development. Through the dedication of its youth and the strategic support of organizations like KSLH-Aceh, WWF NL, and IUCN, the village has become a national model for community-driven ecotourism. Its success in the national tourism competition has brought further recognition, highlighting the importance of integrating conservation with tourism.

The village’s collaboration with universities, local stakeholders, and international organizations continues to grow, with plans to expand its tourism offerings and further promote sustainable practices. As Cinta Raja looks to the future, it remains committed to protecting its ecological heritage while fostering economic development​.

Cinta Raja’s journey from a quiet village to an ecotourism hotspot illustrates the transformative power of community engagement in conservation. By empowering its youth and working with global partners, Cinta Raja has set a benchmark for sustainable tourism in Indonesia. This success story not only serves as an inspiration for other rural communities but also emphasizes the importance of preserving biodiversity while driving local development.