Analyzing The Tourism Destination Potential Of Ketek Boats In Palembang: 4a Framework For River Tourism Development

Abstract

The Ketek boat, a traditional motorized wooden vessel operating along the Musi River, represents an essential cultural identity of Palembang’s riverside communities and has significant potential as a river-based tourism attraction. As tourist increasingly seek authentic and culturally immersive experiences, river tourism has emerged as a strategic development trend in Southeast Asia, with previous studies emphasizing the importance of integrated management, safety, comfort, and environmental sustainability in optimizing river-based attraction. However, existing research indicates that the tourism potential of Ketek boats has not been maximized due to limited facilities, the absence of standardized service procedures, and weak destination governance. This study aims to analyze the tourism potential of Ketek boats in Palembang using the 4A framework-Attractions, Accessibility, Amenities, and Ancillary Services. A qualitative descriptive method was employed, involving primary data collection through observations and interviews, complemented by secondary data from relevant literature. The result reveal that attractions constitute the strongest component, highlighted by river cruising experiences, iconic Musi River landscapes, and diverse cultural routes. Accessibility is relatively adequate due to strategically located piers and multimodal transport connections, although constrained by limited tourist piers and multimodal transport connections, although constrained by limited tourist information and non-standardized infrastructure. Amenities remain insufficient, particularly regarding safety equipment, comfort, and service quality. Ancillary services demonstrate a need for stronger governance, formal regulations, and collaboration among stakeholders. Overall, the study concludes that Ketek boats possess substantial potential as a flagship river tourism product in Palembang however, improvements in service standardization, facility enhancement, and integrated destination management are crucial to strengthen competitiveness and ensure sustainable tourism development.