The role of customary and religious institutions in shaping socio-cultural policy and sustainable tourism governance

Abstract

Background: Ngadisari Village in the Mount Bromo area is home to the Tengger community, where agriculture and tourism are the main livelihood sources. Beyond economic activity, the village’s socio-cultural life remains strongly influenced by customary regulations and religious traditions that shape daily interactions, resource management, and tourism practices. Methods: This study employs a qualitative approach, examining community practices, local rituals, and policy frameworks to analyze the persistence of traditional systems within the context of rapid modernization and tourism development. Findings: The results show that customary law and religious ceremonies continue to function as guiding norms for community cohesion, resource allocation, and tourism governance. These practices not only strengthen local identity but also contribute to the sustainability of tourism by embedding cultural values in development strategies. Conclusion: The resilience of customary and religious frameworks demonstrates that socio-cultural institutions remain central in balancing modernization with tradition in the Mount Bromo area. Novelty/Originality of this article: Unlike most studies that emphasize the economic or environmental dimensions of tourism in Tengger communities, this research highlights the enduring role of belief systems and rituals in sustaining community cohesion and guiding tourism development.