EMPOWERING INDIGENOUS AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES THROUGH SUSTAINABLE CULTURAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN LOMBOK

Abstract

Lombok possesses rich cultural heritage and indigenous traditions that hold significant potential for sustainable economic development. However, local communities often face barriers in capital, digital literacy, and market access, preventing them from fully capitalizing on these cultural assets. This community engagement project aims to empower indigenous and local communities in Lombok through sustainable cultural entrepreneurship, focusing on Sasak traditional textiles (tenun) and cultural tourism. Employing Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) methodology, the intervention engaged 45 local artisans and youth across three villages over a six-month period. The program implemented structured workshops on sustainable product diversification, financial management, and digital marketing strategies. The results demonstrate a 35% increase in community-led micro-enterprises, enhanced digital presence through ecommerce onboarding, and a 28% growth in average household income. Furthermore, the initiative successfully preserved traditional weaving techniques while integrating ecofriendly natural dyes. This study concludes that community empowerment rooted in cultural preservation not only fosters economic resilience but also safeguards intangible cultural heritage against globalization