Peran Dinas Pariwisata dan Kebudayaan dalam Pelestarian Rumah Adat di Kecamatan Wanokaka Kabupaten Sumba Barat

This study aims to analyze the role of the Department of Tourism and Culture in preserving traditional houses in Wanokaka District, West Sumba Regency. The research employed a descriptive qualitative method with a field study approach through observation, interviews, and documentation. The informants consisted of officials from the Department of Tourism and Culture, district and village governments, traditional leaders, traditional house owners, and young generations. The findings indicate that the Department of Tourism and Culture has carried out its role as regulator, dynamizer, and facilitator in the preservation of traditional houses. The regulatory role is reflected in cultural preservation policies and supervision of traditional house construction, although specific technical regulations concerning traditional house preservation are still limited. The dynamizing role is implemented through cultural socialization, mutual cooperation activities, and collaboration with traditional leaders and local communities in maintaining the sustainability of traditional houses. Meanwhile, the facilitating role is realized through financial assistance, provision of supporting infrastructure, and promotion of traditional houses as regional cultural heritage. However, the preservation efforts still face several obstacles, including limited budgets, difficulties in obtaining traditional building materials, declining participation of younger generations, and uneven supporting facilities in traditional villages. Therefore, stronger regulations, increased community collaboration, and sustainable government support are needed to optimize the preservation of traditional houses.