The “bule” paradox in Indonesian tourism research: issues and prospects

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study is to explore the role of local and bule scholars (an Indonesian term for a white foreigner) in contributing to the international literature on tourism research about Indonesia. The conceptual underpinning of the study lies in the contemporary adaptation of Lewin’s force field theory for understanding behaviour. The researchers also consider insights from critical theory to evaluate the research. A thorough bibliometric approach for appraising tourism study at the national or regional destination scale is used to shape the data collection and coding process. The interpretation of the findings reveals a powerful bule paradox: local voices are rarely present in the English literature about Indonesian tourism. The researchers reflect on the forces shaping this state of affairs. Five positive possibilities (patronage, partnerships, professionalism, pathways, and patriotic pride) are suggested for ensuring that the muted local voices become more audible.

KEYWORDS:

• Cultural gaze
• bibliometric analysis
• critical theory
• bule paradox
• Indonesian research
• tourism publication

Acknowledgement

The authors thank Mr J. Ganef Pah, MT (Vice Chairman II HILDIKTIPARI and Deputy Director for Academic Affairs, Bandung Institute of Tourism) and Dr Diena M. Lemy (Secretary General HILDIKTIPARI and President of Pelita Harapan School of Hospitality and Tourism) for their support.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

ORCID

Hera Oktadiana http://orcid.org/0000-0002-7897-2534

Philip L. Pearce http://orcid.org/0000-0003-3829-4449