The thesis investigated the ethno-space negotiation of the Baduy ethnic group in Banten Province, Indonesia, in order to maintain their conventional culture and lifestyle amid the moves towards development by the government in marginalized areas. The data were collected on site by interviewing the ethnic people and by document research. Before gaining its independence, Indonesia was occupied by and had trade contacts with Portugal, the Netherlands, England, and Japan. The policies and government patterns of these countries were different from one another. After gaining independence, the country was governed by successive governments. More important was the short- and long-term development plans of the Suharto government, which brought about economic development activities and popular migration to expand arable land. During this change, the Baduy ethnic group chose to move to marginal land with the rights of land ownership from the government. The movement subsequently expanded the area of the ethnic group.

In Indonesia, the Javanese are the majority population, and are considered to be of a higher social and political status than other ethnic groups, especially those residing in islands remote from the capital city. Previously, these ethnic groups were regarded by the government as an impediment to the progress of the country. However, with the rising trend of ecotourism, it is found that these ethnic groups are able to gain more income, enabling them to have more administrative autonomy and participation in development plans in their respective areas (p. 54).
    
Besides the problem of being marginalized, the Baduy are facing the problem of increasing population growth while resources and land for income generation remain the same (p. 73).
    
Tourists visiting the Baduy territory are required to go to Kadukeng Jaro for registration and permission to visit other villages. Travelers in groups must receive a permit from the Tourism Office before visiting the ethnic group and the decision to grant a permit is under the jurisdiction of Jaro Pamarentah (p. 103). The territory is not open to travelers in large groups. However, tourists traveling in a small group or individually can visit the territory with a permit from Jaro. In general, about ten travelers visit the territory during weekdays and up to 30 during weekends.
    
The investigation revealed that the Baduy lead their lives according to the ways of their ancestors and do not wish to change them. The community is divided into two parts. The external part is used for adapting to and filtering external cultures. The inner part strictly adheres to traditional customs and culture of the ethnic group. Since the territory has been designated an ecotourism destination by the government, the status of the ethnic group has changed from being marginalized to being important due to tourist visits and income generation. As a consequence, the ethnic group is able to negotiate with the government on the basis of respect and understanding of their indigenous culture.