Proposed Virtual Reality Implementation in Toraja Tourism to Improve Accessibility and Foreign Interests

The COVID-19 epidemic has had a substantial impact on the tourism sector in Toraja, producing a large drop in regional income. Despite efforts by the local government and Toraja tourist administrators to resuscitate the tourism industry through exhibitions and promotion, these programs have had minimal success. Digital disruption and a lack of corporate interest are stifling the growth of Toraja tourism. As a result, the purpose of this paper is to investigate tourism innovation by providing an integrated platform with 3D tourism adventures, as well as enabling government partners and local MSMEs with the use of virtual reality as a method of attracting domestic and foreign tourists. This study focuses on the use of virtual reality technology to improve access in Toraja, which currently suffers from a lack of amenities and infrastructure. Tourists can now enjoy and explore many tourist spots in Toraja digitally, allowing them to appreciate the dynamic ambiance and natural beauty of the place from afar. Furthermore, the purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy of the virtual reality tourism innovation concept in enhancing the interest of domestic and foreign tourists in Toraja, with a particular focus on accessibility. Local governments and tourist managers in Toraja can establish more effective strategies to promote and improve the tourism sector in the future by knowing the possibilities and benefits of virtual reality technology.