540 Revitalization of the Walet Park in Sukun Village. Malang as a TOGA Tourist Attraction Anis Zubair*, 1Viry Puspaning Ramadhan, 1Rahmatina Hidayati, 1Elsa Dame Ripka Hasugian. Valentinus Savsavubun Universitas Merdeka Malang. Indonesia *Corresponding author Email: anis. zubair@unmer. Volume Issue Edition November Page Year Abstract Purpose: This community service project aims to revitalize Walet Park by improving its cleanliness and using it for planting TOGA (Family Medicinal Plant. , addressing cleanliness issues and vacant land in the park. Method: The project involved cleaning the park and planting TOGA in selected areas, with volunteers participating in both activities to enhance the parkAos ecological value. Article History Submission: 29-5-2023 Review: Accepted: 12-10-2024 Keyword TOGA. Revitalization. Domestic Tourist Attraction. Practical Applications: The revitalization transformed Walet Park into a domestic tourist attraction, promoting local tourism and educating the community about the benefits of medicinal plants. Conclusion: Walet Park's transformation into a tourist site highlights the impact of community projects in improving public spaces and addressing local environmental How to cite Zubair. Ramadahan. Hidayati. Ripka Hasugian. Savsavubun. Revitalization of the Walet Park in Sukun Village. Malang as a TOGA Tourist Attraction. Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat, 5. , https://doi. org/10. 32815/jpm. Introduction Parks around residential areas offer numerous benefits for both the community and . Revitalization of the Walet Park in Sukun Village. Malang as a TOGA Tourist Attraction. Zubair. Ramadahan. Hidayati. Ripka Hasugian. Savsavubun. the environment. Parks can serve as ecotourism zones (Tiga et al. , 2. Ecotourism refers to travel to less-exploited natural destinations to appreciate nature, gain knowledge about wildlife, and enjoy local culture (Khanra et al. , 2. One such park in the Sukun Subdistrict of Malang is Taman Walet. Taman Walet is located on Walet Street, in the residential area of RW 7 in the Sukun Subdistrict of Malang. Sukun Subdistrict is part of the Sukun District. Malang, covering an area of 137. Administratively. Sukun Subdistrict consists of 9 RWs . eighborhood unit. and 110 RTs . ommunity unit. (Anwar, 2. The issues faced by Taman Walet in the Sukun Subdistrict include environmental cleanliness, and some parts of the park are still empty land. This less-than-ideal condition became the focus of this community service project. The problem was discussed with several community leaders from Sukun Subdistrict and LPPM Universitas Merdeka Malang to find solutions. The consensus reached from these discussions became the objective of the project. It was finally determined that the goal of this service is to revitalize Taman Walet, making it clean and turning it into a place for cultivating TOGA plants. Additionally, it is hoped that Taman Walet can become a domestic tourist destination for residents around the park. TOGA, an acronym for "Tanaman Obat Keluarga" (Family Medicinal Plant. , refers to plants widely cultivated by the community around their homes. These plants are commonly used for their medicinal properties, benefiting health. Some examples of TOGA plants include ginger, turmeric, temu kunci, kencur, galangal, betel leaf, temulawak, and lemongrass. Ginger is a plant that can be used as a drink, a cooking spice, and medicine. Ginger rhizomes can be used as an external remedy for treating rheumatic diseases. In addition to treating rheumatism, a drink made with ginger can be used to treat impotence (Aryanta, 2. Turmeric is a plant used to treat gouty arthritis, as it contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin's potential as an anti-inflammatory agent makes turmeric a strong basis for treating gout (Fahryl & Carolia, 2. Betel leaf is a plant used as an ingredient in natural mouthwash, as it has antibacterial properties that help prevent dental plaque (Rahmi et al. , 2. Temu kunci is a plant known to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, a fungus that causes vaginal yeast infections in women (Maulana et al. , 2. Galangal also has properties that inhibit the growth of Candida albicans (Cahyaningrum et al. , 2. Kencur (Kaempferia galanga ) is a plant with antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties (Soleh & Megantara, 2. Temulawak can be processed into ice cream (Al Fatina et al. , 2. Lemongrass can be used as an air freshener (Gultom et al. , 2. Method The method for carrying out the community service activities for the revitalization of Taman Walet involves a process with several key stages: preparation, execution, and Each of these stages plays a significant role in achieving the main goal, which is to make Taman Walet clean and a successful site for cultivating TOGA (Family Medicinal Plant. The first stage is the preparation phase. During this phase, the implementing team begins by conducting intensive coordination. Effective communication between team members is crucial to ensure that all necessary steps are carried out properly. Next, the team organizes a systematic schedule and phases of activities in accordance with the previously established working groups. In this phase, each team is responsible for identifying the data and requirements needed for the implementation of the community service This includes mapping the condition of Taman Walet, analyzing the problems, and preparing the necessary equipment. Following the preparation stage, the next step is execution. In this phase, the implementing team will carry out activities according to the carefully prepared schedule and Each team must perform their tasks and responsibilities to the fullest. For example, the cleaning team will clear Taman Walet of any waste and weeds that hinder plant growth. Revitalization of the Walet Park in Sukun Village. Malang as a TOGA Tourist Attraction. Zubair. Ramadahan. Hidayati. Ripka Hasugian. Savsavubun. The TOGA planting team will plant various selected family medicinal plants such as red ginger, turmeric, temu kunci, kencur, galangal, betel leaf, temulawak, and lemongrass. The construction team will build borders and retaining walls using materials like lightweight bricks, paving blocks, and used plastic bottles. Meanwhile, another team will be responsible for installing corrugated iron sheets to repair the damaged roof of Taman WaletAos entrance. Throughout the execution phase, it is essential for the team to coordinate effectively, ensure high-quality work, and monitor the progress of activities regularly. After the execution stage, the final step is the evaluation phase. In this stage, the implementing team will prepare an accountability report to the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) of Universitas Merdeka Malang as the funding body. This report will include a summary of all the activities carried out, the results achieved, the challenges faced, and recommendations for improvements in the future. Evaluation is important to ensure that the community service activities have achieved the desired goals and provided significant benefits to the community. Result According to the schedule and phases of activities that had been organized, the community service activities were carried out from January to February 2023 at Taman Walet. RW 7. Sukun Subdistrict. In this project, the TOGA planting material was delivered directly by Hary Soejanto. Hary Soejanto is the owner of CV Kurnia Kitri Ayu Farm Malang. CV Kurnia Kitri Ayu Farm Malang was chosen because it is an organic vegetable farming company located in the same neighborhood as Taman Walet. In addition to the proximity factor. CV Kurnia Kitri Ayu Farm Malang was selected due to its frequent reference in several scientific publications. The next activity was cleaning Taman Walet. Essentially, cleaning Taman Walet was an effort to ensure that the park area remained free from all forms of waste. In addition to clearing the waste, the activity also involved handling weeds. Weeds are unwanted plants that interfere with cultivated plants (Anggraini, 2. In this park, the weeds in question were wild grasses, which were handled using grass herbicides. Herbicides are chemicals that, either temporarily or permanently, can stop or inhibit the growth of wild grasses when used in the proper dosage (Istiqomah, 2. Figure 1. Cleaning Taman Walet The next activity was the construction of borders and soil retainers. The materials used were lightweight bricks, paving blocks or concrete bricks, and used plastic bottles. Lightweight bricks are made from a mixture of cement, sand, adhesive materials, and water . Revitalization of the Walet Park in Sukun Village. Malang as a TOGA Tourist Attraction. Zubair. Ramadahan. Hidayati. Ripka Hasugian. Savsavubun. (Aprilyanti & Suryani, 2. Concrete bricks were chosen because they are eco-friendly products and excellent for groundwater conservation (Sari & Nusa, 2. Plastic bottles were chosen and used to help reduce the growing amount of plastic waste. The reduction in plastic waste is hoped to decrease the accumulation of non-biodegradable plastic trash. Figure 2. Construction of Borders and Soil Retainers The next activity was the planting of TOGA. The TOGA plants planted included red ginger, turmeric, temu kunci, kencur, galangal, betel leaf, temulawak, and lemongrass. These were planted in designated areas according to the previously constructed borders. The TOGA plants can be used by the residents around Taman Walet to maintain their health. Figure 3. TOGA Planting The next activity was installing corrugated iron sheets. Corrugated iron was chosen because, aside from being inexpensive, it is a corrosion-resistant roofing material. The purpose of this activity was to repair the damaged entrance roof and enhance the park's Figure 4. Installation of Corrugated Iron Sheets . Revitalization of the Walet Park in Sukun Village. Malang as a TOGA Tourist Attraction. Zubair. Ramadahan. Hidayati. Ripka Hasugian. Savsavubun. The final activities were painting the fence, leveling the park's ground, and building a The fishpond in this park was made from tarp. Tarpaulin is a waterproof material, making it useful as a water-retaining layer in fishponds. In addition to this, tarp ponds were chosen for their ease of construction and low cost (Abidin et al. , 2. Figure 5. Fishpond Discussion One interesting aspect of this activity is the use of TOGA planting material as part of an effort to promote the health of the surrounding residents. TOGA (Family Medicinal Plant. offers various health benefits, and by planting TOGA in the park, local residents can easily access these plants for their health needs. This is a positive step in encouraging a healthy lifestyle and the use of traditional medicinal plants. In addition, the project includes efforts to clean the park and manage weeds. Park cleaning helps maintain a clean environment and prevents the accumulation of waste. The use of grass herbicides for weed management is also important in preserving the beauty and growth of the desired plants in the park. However, it is essential to ensure that herbicides are used wisely and in appropriate doses to avoid harming the surrounding environment. During the construction of borders and soil retainers, the use of lightweight bricks, paving blocks, and recycled plastic bottles demonstrates a creative approach to utilizing available materials to create the necessary structures. The choice of concrete bricks as one . Revitalization of the Walet Park in Sukun Village. Malang as a TOGA Tourist Attraction. Zubair. Ramadahan. Hidayati. Ripka Hasugian. Savsavubun. of the border materials also reflects attention to environmental sustainability and groundwater conservation. The installation of corrugated iron sheets, painting of the fence, and leveling of the park's ground were steps taken to repair and enhance the appearance of the park. These efforts can improve the visual appeal of the park and create a more pleasant environment for Finally, the creation of a fishpond using tarp illustrates a practical and economical The fishpond adds aesthetic value to the park and brings more life to the environment with the presence of fish. Using tarp as a water-retaining layer is a suitable choice due to its waterproof properties. After all the community service activities were completed, the next step was to conduct a sentiment analysis among residents around Taman Walet. Some of the sentiment analysis results are presented in the table below. Table 1. Respondent Data Respondent Response Taman Walet is now beautiful and lovely. Taman Walet now has a fishpond. Hopefully, it won't be dirty again. I really enjoy visiting Taman Walet because of its calming natural atmosphere and fresh air. Taman Walet is a great place to learn about nature and the This park is very beautiful and relaxing. There isn't much to enjoy here. It's a shame there are no benches. The calming natural atmosphere and fresh air. It's nice and clean. The sentiment analysis results indicate that most respondents provided positive feedback regarding their experience and the condition of Taman Walet. Several respondents highlighted the beauty and tranquility of the park, appreciating its calming natural atmosphere and fresh air. Additionally, the presence of the fishpond was welcomed positively by the respondents. This suggests that the efforts undertaken in the community service project, such as park cleaning. TOGA planting, and the creation of facilities like the fishpond, have successfully created an attractive and enjoyable environment for the surrounding residents. The positive feedback also demonstrates that the community service activities have had a beneficial impact on the public's perception of Taman Walet. Furthermore. Taman Walet has become a local tourist attraction for nearby residents, especially teachers and kindergarten students. This shows that the project not only benefits the environment and local residents but also serves as an educational resource about nature and the environment for younger generations. Through learning activities in Taman Walet, kindergarten students can learn about the importance of protecting nature and the environment from an early age, particularly through the introduction of TOGA. Revitalization of the Walet Park in Sukun Village. Malang as a TOGA Tourist Attraction. Zubair. Ramadahan. Hidayati. Ripka Hasugian. Savsavubun. Despite the majority of positive feedback, some respondents pointed out areas for A few expressed a desire for seating in Taman Walet and mentioned that there arenAot many activities to enjoy there. While these comments may be viewed as criticism, they provide constructive suggestions for improving the parkAos facilities and visitor experience in the future. Overall, the sentiment analysis shows that the community service activities at Taman Walet have succeeded in creating a beautiful, calming, and beneficial environment for the surrounding residents. These results serve as a foundation to continue enhancing and developing Taman Walet as a local tourist attraction and an educational platform for the community about nature and the environment. Conclusion The conclusions drawn from this community service project are as follows: Majority positive response: Most respondents gave positive feedback about Taman Walet, expressing appreciation for its beauty, tranquility, and calming natural atmosphere. The addition of the fishpond was also well-received by respondents. Success of the community service project: The efforts carried out during the project, such as park cleaning. TOGA planting, and the creation of facilities like the fishpond, successfully created an attractive and enjoyable environment for the surrounding residents. The positive feedback indicates that the community service activities had a favorable impact on public perception of Taman Walet. Taman Walet as a domestic tourism and educational site: Taman Walet has become a popular local attraction, especially for teachers and kindergarten students. This shows that the project also functions as an educational resource on nature and the environment for younger generations. The introduction of TOGA and the importance of environmental conservation has become a point of interest for kindergarten students. Constructive feedback: Some respondents provided critical feedback regarding the lack of certain facilities, such as a request for seating and suggestions for more activities to enjoy at Taman Walet. However, this feedback can be taken as constructive input to improve the facilities and visitor experience in the future. Overall, the sentiment analysis indicates that the community service activities at Taman Walet have achieved positive results by creating a beautiful, calming, and beneficial environment for local residents. By considering the constructive feedback from respondents. Taman Walet can continue to be enhanced and developed as an appealing domestic tourism site and an educational platform on nature and the environment for the local community. Acknowledgements The project team extends their gratitude to LPPM Universitas Merdeka Malang and the residents of RW 7 Kelurahan Sukun for providing the opportunity and facilities for this community service project. Reference