Improving the Economy of the Village Community Along the Jalin River Through Water Rafting and Tubing

Abstract

This community service project aims to enhance the economic capacity of local communities in Jalin Village, Aceh Besar, by developing river-based tourism through rafting and tubing activities. The program addresses key challenges, including limited technical skills of guides, weak financial management, and ineffective marketing strategies. A participatory empowerment approach was employed, including training workshops on financial literacy, digital marketing, and business model development, as well as technical guidance on rafting safety and operations, in collaboration with the Indonesian Rafting Federation. The results indicate improved managerial and technical competencies among participants, reflected in the formulation of a structured business model, enhanced safety practices, and increased promotional exposure through media engagement. Additionally, the program helped strengthen local tourism branding and expand market reach. Despite these improvements, challenges such as limited equipment and seasonal river conditions remain. This community service highlights the importance of integrated capacity-building and community-based tourism development in fostering sustainable local economic growth. The findings have practical implications for policymakers and community service practitioners seeking to optimize rural tourism potential.