Abstract
The Mekong region is ethnically diverse, with valuable Indigenous knowledge that has become an important tool for fostering eco-tourism. This study aims to explore current situations, multi-stakeholder perspectives and development approaches for eco-tourism based on Indigenous knowledge for the creative economy in the Mekong region. The mixedmethods participatory action research was conducted in four Indigenous communities in A Luoi District in Central Vietnam. A qualitative design was implemented through focus group discussions and participatory rural appraisals with 20 key informants. These included 4 Indigenous leaders, 8 Indigenous community members, 4 local government officers and 4 Indigenous entrepreneurs from each village. A quantitative survey of 150 households was conducted to assess the SWOT dimensions of eco-tourism development. This study revealed the value of Indigenous communities and multi-stakeholder roles in strengthening both tangible and intangible Indigenous knowledge assets for eco-tourism in the Mekong region. The findings highlighted Indigenous people as active agents who shape tourism models grounded in cultural integrity and environmental sustainability rather than positioning them as passive beneficiaries. Significantly, the study illustrated the value of a multi-stakeholder approach. Indigenous communities alone cannot fully sustain eco-tourism systems without supportive partnerships. The findings not only promote economic resilience but also support the safeguarding of Indigenous knowledge and environmental integrity in the Mekong region.
Keywords: Creative Economy, Eco-tourism, Indigenous Knowledge, Sustainability