Environmental Governance Strategies in Riau's Grand Forest Park

¹ Public Administration, University of Riau-Indonesia,
² Forestry Management, University of Riau, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: mayarni@lecturer.unri.ac.id

Abstract

The Sultan Syarif Hasyim Grand Forest Park (Tahura) in Riau Province serves as a strategic conservation area that supports biodiversity preservation, environmental education, research, and ecotourism. Effective management of this area requires strong institutional governance supported by sustainable policy frameworks. This study examines the institutional governance of Tahura Sultan Syarif Hasyim with a focus on how sustainability-oriented policies are formulated, implemented, and integrated into management practices. Using a qualitative research approach, data were collected through document analysis, literature review, and in-depth interviews with stakeholders involved in conservation, government, and local communities. The findings indicate that while sustainable policy instruments are available, their implementation often encounters challenges such as overlapping authority, limited institutional capacity, and inadequate stakeholder collaboration. Moreover, socio-economic pressures and land- use conflicts further complicate the pursuit of sustainable governance. The study highlights the importance of strengthening institutional capacity, harmonizing policies across sectors, and fostering participatory and collaborative approaches to ensure adaptive and sustainable management of the Sultan Syarif Hasyim Grand Forest Park.