Heritage, Identity, and Coastal Ecology: A Critical Analysis of the Cultural Advancement Masterplan of Tarakan City

This article analyzes the Regional Masterplan for the Advancement of Culture (Rencana Induk Pemajuan Kebudayaan Daerah or RIPKD) of Tarakan City (2023-2043), a comprehensive policy document that outlines the vision, mission, strategic directions, zoning system, and multi-phase programmatic planning for strengthening local cultural resilience.Using a qualitativedescriptive method supported by documentary analysis, spatial-cultural interpretation, and policy mapping, the study synthesizes how Tarakan formulates long-term cultural development within Indonesia's national framework for cultural advancement.Results demonstrate that Tarakan possesses significant cultural assets-including Tidung heritage, maritime traditions, World War II historical sites, diverse linguistic communities, traditional crafts, and extensive intangible cultural practices-that serve as the basis for four cultural zones: core, attractive, developmental, and buffer areas.The analysis highlights four strategic pillars: (1) capacity building for cultural human resources; (2) development of cultural objects; (3) protection and safeguarding of cultural heritage; and (4) utilization of cultural assets for education, economy, identity strengthening, and intercultural collaboration.The discussion shows how these strategies are operationalized through short-, medium-, and long-term programs involving training, standardization, revitalization, documentation, innovation, and crosscultural networking.Overall, the RIPKD positions Tarakan as a culturally resilient, inclusive, and historically grounded city capable of navigating rapid socioeconomic change while ensuring the sustainability of its diverse cultural ecosystem.