Sustainable Marine Tourism as a Driver of Inclusive Growth in Coastal Communities: Comparative Evidence from Indonesia and Malaysia

Sustainable marine tourism has emerged as a strategic pathway for advancing inclusive growth in coastal communities, particularly in emerging economies where livelihoods are closely linked to marine and cultural resources. This study examines how internal factors shape the sustainability of marine tourism and its capacity to generate inclusive economic benefits in two coastal regions: Karimun Regency, Indonesia, and Terengganu, Malaysia. Using a qualitative comparative approach, data were collected through focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis involving government officials, academics, tourism operators, and community representatives. The findings were analyzed using NVivo and structured around five interrelated dimensions: Attractions and Culture, Amenities, Environment, Institutions, and Social Capital. The results indicate that the integration of natural marine assets with strong Malay cultural heritage forms the foundation of destination competitiveness and long-term sustainability. However, disparities in infrastructure development, environmental management, and institutional capacity influence the extent to which tourism benefits are equitably distributed. While Terengganu demonstrates a more mature marine tourism ecosystem supported by established infrastructure and conservation programs, Karimun Regency reflects a developing model characterized by emerging tourism villages and community-based initiatives. Across both cases, social capital and participatory governance, manifested through Tourism Awareness Groups and village enterprises, play a critical role in ensuring that local communities act not merely as beneficiaries but as active economic agents. The study highlights that sustainable marine tourism contributes to inclusive growth when environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and institutional coordination are aligned with community empowerment strategies. By offering a multi-dimensional analytical framework, this research provides policy-relevant insights for strengthening resilient, community-centered marine tourism models in Southeast Asia and other coastal regions facing environmental and socio-economic transitions.