Cultural Heritage Tourism Preservation: Kota Tua Jakarta Indonesia Versus Old Town Central Hong Kong

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the cultural heritage tourism preservation in two heritage sites: Kota Tua Jakarta in Indonesia and Old Town Central in Hong Kong. This was done to produce cross-national comparisons in similarities, differences, and how the sites are preserved. The study focused on preservation systems and efforts, such as funding, management, ownership, stakeholder involvement, spatial distribution within the sites, community concerns of tourism and signage, and the physical settings of the sites. This explorative research used a qualitative approach to obtain more accurate results within the context of comparisons between the two cultural heritage sites. In this study, we conducted field and online observation techniques, documentation, notes, and literature studies. To obtain the primary data, onsite observation sessions were conducted directly in the Old Town Central Hong Kong and Kota Tua Jakarta areas, and in-depth interviews and photo documentation were done as well. Moreover, the secondary data collection for the Old Town of Jakarta was completed through an online literature study in the form of news, trip advisors, and travel notes. This paper raises suggestions to settle some ways of preserving historical heritage by making a comparative discussion on the differences in legislation, administration, and government support in the two countries of Hong Kong and Indonesia that can be applied to any kind of cultural heritage tourism site performance for sustainability purposes.