RRI.CO.ID, Kulon Progo: Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa visited Segajih Tourism Village in Hargotirto, Kokap, Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, to directly observe the potential for nature-based and educational tourism, which is predicted to become a future global trend, on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Accompanied by the Deputy Regent of Kulon Progo, Ambar Purwoko, officials from the Kulon Progo Regency Administration and the Borobudur Authority Agency (BOB), she also observed the palm sugar processing process in Nawang Jaya and visited a homestay owned by a local resident, Jumiran.

The Deputy Minister of Tourism took the opportunity to observe a local art form from Hargotirto, the Incling Dance. She also expressed her admiration for the atmosphere of Segajih Tourism Village, which she believes provides both tranquility and education for visitors.

"We came to Segajih Tourism Village to see and experience firsthand the natural and educational potential. This is a place where visitors not only find healing because of the cool atmosphere, but also can explore the daily lives of the local people, making them want to come back again," said Ni Luh Puspa, as quoted by official website of Kulon Progo Administration.

She emphasized that in 2026, the development of tourism villages will remain a priority program of the Ministry of Tourism. However, the main focus of tourism has now shifted to the quality of experiences.

"In 2026, the Ministry's priority program will still prioritize tourism villages. We want to increase not only the number of villages, but also their quality. We will encourage collaboration with the regional administration to improve the quality of human resources and institutions to provide a better experience for visitors," she explained.

The Deputy Regent of Kulon Progo, Ambar Purwoko, welcomed the central government's attention. According to him, synergy between the central and regional administration is needed to explore Kulon Progo's rich natural and cultural potential.

"This demonstrates the central government's involvement in the region. It's time for Kulon Progo to be explored and introduced more widely. As the Deputy Minister said, tourism here is beautiful, natural, and culture-based. It's time for us to build and synergize together," said Ambar.

The Head of the Kulon Progo Tourism Agency, Sutarman, explained that there are currently 29 tourism villages in Kulon Progo. However, only around 8 to 10 villages are categorized as independent or middle-to-upper class with active visits, such as Segajih, Tinalah, Widosari, and Nglinggo Tourism Villages.

"The challenge lies in promotion and the persistence of managers. A tourist village requires two requirements: a driving force and uniqueness. If the offerings are the same as others, they certainly won't be attractive. Managers must be persistent and resilient to attract tourists," explained Sutarman.

Sutarman cited the example of Segajih Tourism Village, which already has a stable market, such as mass visits from major schools from Jakarta. "We're already fully booked a month in advance. Up to 250 students can come at a time," he said.

To encourage under-performing tourism villages, the Kulon Progo Tourism Agency is preparing a pilot open trip program and developing a dedicated website. The future goal is to transform the tourism sector from a sideline to a primary profession that provides a decent income for village residents. ***