Collaboration as an Approach to Transforming Conflict in Community-Based Ecotourism Management in State Forest Areas in West Java, Indonesia

Conflicts in ecotourism management result in socioeconomic and ecological losses, including the cessation of activities and damage to social relations among communities and other stakeholders. In response to these challenges, conflict transformation through collaboration is a process of resolving disputes to achieve long-term change that involves all parties. This study employs a qualitative approach with data collection through in-depth interviews and participant observation. Qualitative data analysis includes domain analysis, taxonomy, component analysis, and analysis of specific cultural themes. The research was conducted in West Java during 2024. The research results show that collaborative initiatives between Perhutani, village communities through forest farmer groups (for ecotourism and coffee plantations), and ecotourism management investors are key elements in achieving sustainable forest resource management. The cooperation scheme for managing coffee plantations in state forest areas planted by the community applies a 75% profit sharing for the community and 25% for the company; while the cooperation scheme for managing waterfall ecotourism in state forest areas applies a 70% profit sharing for the company, 25% for the community, and 5% for the LMDH (Village Forest Community Institution). Several ecotourism-related activities also provide greater profit sharing for the community. This profit-sharing system can support efforts to preserve forests and increase rural communities' income. However, this scheme needs to be monitored and evaluated because the duration of the cooperation contract is still relatively short. Conceptually, this collaborative approach is not only beneficial for forest management but also helps transform conflicts of interest and foster cooperation for the development of rural communities whose livelihoods depend on state forest resources