Celebrating the Sustainable Vision of Sulthan Alfathir and Kampung Inspirasi

Situbondo, a regency rich in natural resources—from the sea to the forests. So much potential to explore!

I have this dream. It’s one that has tugged at my heart for as long as I can remember. I want Situbondo to be recognized not for accidents, disasters, or sensational news, but for the brilliance of its people and the beauty of its villages. I want Situbondo to grow, hand-in-hand with its community, utilizing knowledge and natural resources and uplifting the potential of its people.

This dream took me on a journey across East Java. I visited Bondowoso, with its vibrant organic village, and heard stories of communities across the region, each one building something beautiful, transforming quiet villages into destinations of sustainable, meaningful tourism. Recently, I encountered the inspiring story of Sulthan Alfathir and his remarkable project, Wisata Kampung Inspirasi, in Lamongan. Just imagining sharing his story fills me with excitement—it’s a story that can spark change and inspire all of us to dream bigger, together.

The Rise of Wisata Kampung Inspirasi

At Kampung Inspirasi, children play and learn in the rice fields, connecting with nature. (Photo credit: Instagram @kampung.inspirasi))

Amid the fast pace of city life, a small village in Lamongan has quietly transformed into a remarkable spot known as Wisata Kampung Inspirasi. This innovative blend of educational and sustainable tourism was created by Sulthan Alfathir, who saw an opportunity for growth where others might have seen just another village.

Sulthan’s background in community education helped him recognize the hidden potential within his village. To him, it wasn’t just a hometown, but a place filled with promise. Motivated to create a lasting impact, he began developing Kampung Inspirasi—a project that has evolved into a celebrated educational tourism destination in East Java. Officially launched on April 1, 2018, Kampung Inspirasi now stands as a powerful example of how one person’s vision can drive an entire community toward positive change.

At Kampung Inspirasi, you don’t just explore; you engage, learn, and reconnect. The village offers a rich blend of organic farming, local arts, and traditional crafts, weaving them together to create an immersive learning experience. Visitors are welcomed not only by serene natural views but by hands-on workshops that bring the essence of sustainable practices to life. From organic farming to local crafts and traditional arts, every activity showcases the beauty and wisdom within the land and its people. The village is a canvas, and each visitor is invited to add their own brushstroke.

From Small Steps to Major Impact

Sulthan Alfathir, founder of Kampung Inspirasi. (Photo credit: Instagram @alfathirsulthan)

But Sulthan’s journey wasn’t easy. At first, he was on his own—painting walls, setting up pathways, guiding the few guests who ventured to visit. The village was quiet, almost too quiet. Skepticism lingered in the air, as many locals were uncertain that this unusual idea could succeed. Young people were reluctant to join him; they didn’t yet see the promise of this endeavor. But Sulthan pressed on, undeterred. His belief was steadfast, and step by step, he began to build what we see today.

With time, his persistence began to bear fruit. What was once a small, unassuming project evolved into a vibrant community that the residents now embrace as their own. The beauty of Kampung Inspirasi isn’t just in its picturesque fields or welcoming spaces but in the involvement of its people. Local residents, who once commuted to distant cities in search of work, now find purpose and livelihood in the village. Sulthan's initiative provides not only additional income but also fosters a sense of pride and connection to their heritage.

The village is not just a visitor's stop—it’s an experience. Educational tourism takes on many forms here: kids can splash in pools filled with colorful balls, plant rice seedlings, learn hydroponic farming techniques, or care for rabbits. For the adults, the history trails, railway education tours, and interfaith learning spaces offer an entirely different kind of journey—one that builds awareness and appreciation for cultural and spiritual diversity. This variety makes Kampung Inspirasi a true tapestry of learning, suited to all ages.

A Symbol of Inspiration

The impact of Kampung Inspirasi has not gone unnoticed. With numerous awards from both local and national levels, Sulthan’s work has gained recognition for championing sustainability and community empowerment.

In 2023, Kampung Inspirasi received the prestigious SATU Indonesia Award in the environmental category—a remarkable achievement that reflects Sulthan’s dedication and vision for creating an environment where learning and sustainable tourism thrive in harmony. The SATU Indonesia Awards, organized by Astra, celebrate individuals who drive lasting change in health, education, environment, entrepreneurship, and technology, representing the core values that Sulthan has poured into his village.

Sulthan’s accomplishments go beyond individual awards. His work is a testament to how sustainable development can be a force for good, encouraging rural youth and families to stay, grow, and prosper in their hometown. He is a model for those of us who envision change but sometimes feel daunted by the scale of the challenges we face. Sulthan reminds us that meaningful change often begins in the quietest places, with the simplest acts of belief and dedication.

Building a Sustainable Future Together

Sulthan Alfathir, inspiring change at Kampung Inspirasi. (Photo credit: Instagram @alfathirsulthan)

Seeing Sulthan’s achievements fills me with a deep sense of pride and admiration. His journey lights a spark of hope, not just for my own dreams for Situbondo but for anyone who reads his story. His work reminds us that even the smallest steps can lead to big changes and that impact doesn’t need to begin with vast resources—it begins with one person, one idea, and a strong community.

I find myself inspired, hoping to follow in his footsteps and bring similar change to Situbondo. And if it’s not me, perhaps there’s someone else out there, reading this, who feels that same call to action.

Imagine what we could achieve if we embraced Sulthan’s vision—a village where children connect to nature, where arts and culture are woven into daily life, and where environmental stewardship is passed down as a legacy. His work shows us that sustainability isn’t just a goal but a lifestyle, one that breathes life into communities and preserves beauty for future generations.

Sulthan’s success has built more than just a tourist destination; he’s crafted a living community focused on growth, conservation, and unity. His story is a reminder of what’s possible when people come together with purpose, of the resilience that communities hold, and of the future we can build together—a legacy for those who come after us.

Together for a Lasting Impact

Sulthan’s journey with Kampung Inspirasi is a powerful reminder that lasting change is built on collaboration, creativity, and unwavering commitment. In his story, I see the potential of our own community, the potential of berkarya (working together) and berkelanjutan (sustainability) that will drive us forward. As we aspire to make Situbondo a beacon of culture and conservation, let’s hold onto this shared vision, and step forward with determination.

Let Sulthan’s story inspire us as we build our own path, crafting a future of togetherness, sustainability, and hope for the generations that will inherit the legacy we leave behind. Together, we can achieve the extraordinary, just as Sulthan has done, by believing in the beauty of our land and our people.

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