RRI.CO.ID, Banyuwangi - The Banyuwangi Regency Administration, East Java, is intensifying its push for village administrations to identify and optimize localized natural assets as sustainable tourism destinations to decentralize the region's economic growth by empowering rural communities to manage their own environmental resources.

During a visit to the southern region on Thursday, April 23, 2026, Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani highlighted the success of Sumbergondo Village in the Glenmore Subdistrict. The village has successfully transformed a riverside area into Wisata Pesona Senja (Sunset Point), a destination that leverages the scenic beauty of the foothills of Mount Raung to drive the local economy.

“We give high appreciation for the creativity of the residents of Sumbergondo Village in managing their natural potential to become an economic driver,” Ipuk said in Banyuwangi on Thursday, April 23, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The Regent noted that the Glenmore and Kalibaru districts are already renowned for their high-quality coffee grown on the slopes of Mount Raung. By integrating coffee culture with nature tourism, such as the Ngopi Pinggir Kali (Riverside Coffee) and tubing event held on April 18-19, the area is positioning itself as a strategic magnet for travelers seeking authentic rural experiences.

“Hopefully, this will become a magnet to increase people's interest in coming to Glenmore. The Banyuwangi Regency Administration is ready to support; my message is to manage waste well and maintain MSME products so that visitors leave with a deep impression,” she added.

Located in Salamrejo Hamlet, Sunset Point offers a unique combination of lush rice fields and the soothing sounds of river currents against the backdrop of Mount Raung. According to Sumbergondo Village Head Taufik Hidayat, the destination has seen a steady rise in popularity since its establishment three years ago.

This tourism site is never quiet, especially on weekends; visitors can exceed 500 people, and we are grateful that the turnover of one MSME can reach IDR 1 million (USD 64.5) in a day on holidays,” Taufik remarked.

Currently, 20 local MSME actors are actively involved in the site, selling local delicacies and authentic Glenmore coffee.

Taufik emphasized that environmental preservation remains a core tenet of the village's management strategy, with strict waste management protocols in place to protect the river ecosystem. By balancing commercial growth with ecological integrity, Sumbergondo serves as a model for other villages in the regency looking to develop their own nature-based attractions. ***