Applying the ACES Framework to Assess Halal Tourism Readiness in Penyengat Island for Strengthening the Sustainable Maritime Economy and Culture

Abstract

Halal tourism is growing rapidly worldwide as Muslim travelers increasingly demand services aligned with Sharia principles. The Riau Islands, particularly Penyengat Island with its rich Islamic cultural and historical heritage, hold strategic potential to be developed as a leading halal tourism destination. This study evaluates its readiness using the ACES (Access, Communication, Environment, Services) framework with a descriptive mixed-method approach involving observation, questionnaires, interviews, and documentation. Findings show Penyengat Island achieved a score of 69, categorized as Ready. Accessibility and environmental aspects are strong, but communication remains weak, particularly in halal certification transparency, multilingual information, and digital promotion. Pareto analysis identifies communication and halal food access as priority improvements, while fishbone analysis highlights regulatory complexity, low digital literacy and language skills, limited halal technology, and insufficient community support as key challenges. Based on these findings, development strategies should focus on enhancing communication, simplifying regulations, improving human resources, and adopting digital technology to strengthen the sustainable competitiveness of halal tourism on Penyengat Island.