Abstract
Tourism is one of the leading sectors in developing national and local economic growth, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. As one of the Indonesian tourist destinations in the “10 Bali Baru” Program, Wakatobi Regency is expected to develop its tourism to support the economic growth. As part of Wakatobi, the Tomia people face social and economic dynamics when responding to tourism policies in this region. This study discusses the impact of tourism policies on the Tomia people. This research uses qualitative methods with data collection techniques through observation, literature study, and official websites. Using sustainable development theory, this study's findings demonstrate that tourism policies on Tomia Island, in addition to increasing state revenue, also support local economic development, such as job and business creation. Furthermore, tourism development can promote cultural and environmental preservation and food security. However, tourism management also creates inequality in economic distribution, lacks local community involvement, lacks support for women, creates social conflict, and threatens food security and local culture.