PELAKITA.ID – Yusuf and Nanang, two members of the Makassar Max Community, were in awe as they took in the breathtaking scenery of Laa Waa River Park in Matano Village.
They arrived with the team from The COMMIT Foundation, eager to explore the tourism potential of East Luwu’s mining belt.
They described the area, where crystal-clear and refreshingly cold water flows from the heart of South Sulawesi and Central Sulawesi, as an ideal destination for motorcycle communities like the Max Owners Family.
“We should definitely bring our fellow community members on a tour here, Mr. Vice President,” said Yusuf, a member of MMC, to Ashar Karateng of the Indonesia Max Owners organization. Ashar serves as the Vice President of IMO, which boasts 220 clubs across the archipelago.
The Charm of Laa Waa River Park
The stunning landscape of Laa Waa River Park is undeniable. We observed its vibrant atmosphere, featuring three relatively large buildings serving as cottages.
“As far as I know, these were funded by the Ministry of Villages,” said Jumardi Lanta from The COMMIT Foundation during a visit on Saturday, January 25, 2025, as reported by Pelakita.ID.
Jumardi, also known as Ustaz Mardi, highlighted several successful examples of tourism development collaborations in East Luwu, including Laa Waa River Park.
“There are similar initiatives, such as the development of Mata Buntu in Wasuponda, Bura Bura in Matano, and Magani Park in Nuha,” he added.
Pelakita.ID documented the lively morning scene at Laa Waa, where students and community members gathered at three different locations. Some engaged in discussions on environmental and youth leadership topics, while others enjoyed music while waiting for grilled fish.
Another group sat in a gazebo, savoring snacks.
The park appears well-equipped with a management office housing various facilities, including life jackets, floating rings, paddles, and other water sports equipment. Boats and canoes are also available for rent.
Stakeholders Behind the Development of Laa Waa River Park
Several stakeholders have played a crucial role in developing Laa Waa River Park, which has the potential to become a premier tourist destination. The region’s natural assets—untouched forests, pristine rivers, and a stunning lake—serve as key attractions.
Key contributors include the Matano Village Government, the East Luwu Tourism and Creative Economy Office, the Ministry of Villages and PDT, the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (evidenced by Minister Sandiaga Uno’s signature at one of the park’s landmarks in Matano Village), the Inter-Village Coordination Agency, the Subdistrict Government, and PT Vale Indonesia Tbk.
Matano Village Government has been particularly active in promoting its tourism potential, receiving significant support from PT Vale through its community development and empowerment programs.
“For instance, through the PKPM program, we have received funding for the construction of docks and boat landing areas, making it easier for visitors to explore the park,” explained Ustaz Mardi.
Additionally, PT Vale has supported the development of ecotourism and conservation areas by establishing tree nurseries and vegetable farms, as well as replanting vegetation along the riverbanks and lake.
Local community groups have also contributed by managing facilities and participating in conservation efforts.
Economic and Social Benefits of Tourism in Laa Waa River Park
How does Laa Waa River Park contribute to the local economy? Tourism generates income, and Laa Waa River Park has already driven economic activity. Visitors, including the author and colleagues, spent over a million rupiahs renting rafting boats.
If tourism continues to grow, it will create broader economic benefits, increasing demand for accommodations, attractions, transportation, and local cuisine. The involvement of local youth in tourism-related businesses further demonstrates its role in job creation.
Government investments, such as funding for cottages, show how tourism development often leads to infrastructure improvements, including better roads, airports, communication systems, and utilities—all of which benefit the local community.
For instance, as tourism at Laa Waa River Park expands, businesses in Sorowako that provide accommodation, transportation, and food services will also thrive.
Community Empowerment and Cultural Preservation
Tourism can significantly impact community development. By involving local residents, tourism initiatives empower them, improve their livelihoods, and foster social cohesion. Such initiatives often support local businesses, handicrafts, and community-based tourism.
Furthermore, tourism at Laa Waa can help preserve local languages and traditions. The promotion of cultural heritage ensures that traditions and historical sites are maintained for future generations.
The involvement of PT Vale in environmental conservation at Laa Waa River Park highlights how sustainable tourism can attract funding for protecting natural resources, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity.
Bridging Economic Gaps Through Tourism
For East Luwu, tourism models like Laa Waa River Park can help bridge economic disparities by developing remote or economically underdeveloped areas into attractive tourist destinations.
In other words, there’s no need to travel far—Lutim itself offers incredible spots worth exploring.
As the author reflects on the region’s development, Laa Waa River Park stands out as a promising example of sustainable tourism. It has captured the attention of locals, the district, the province, and even the global community.
If Laa Waa River Park continues to thrive with support from the government, private sector entities like PT Vale, NGOs, and civil society, it will further enhance the region’s visibility and reputation on a global scale, fostering cultural exchange and international goodwill.
Imagine if Laa Waa River Park hosted a gathering of motorcycle communities like the Makassar Max Community—think of the multidimensional impact of thousands of motorcyclists visiting the area!
Sustainable tourism, as demonstrated by Laa Waa River Park, can drive economic diversification and long-term development.
What’s happening at Laa Waa River Park represents an outstanding model of ecotourism and collaborative sustainability—an initiative that aligns with global environmental and sustainability goals.
So, who among you is ready to take the initiative in unlocking the tourism potential of your region’s natural resources?
Writer: Kamaruddin Azis
