<![CDATA[This study investigates the need for English language skills in business communication within the maritime and tourism industries of Labuan Bajo, focusing on the development of digital-based English for Specific Purposes (ESP) teaching strategies through a case study in the English Terms for Business and Professional course at Politeknik eLBajo Commodus. It addresses challenges faced by 12 first-semester students in distinguishing bargaining (competitive, price-focused) from negotiation (collaborative, value-added), essential for professional communication in maritime contracts and tourism packages. Using a qualitative case study design integrated with action research, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with 5 industry stakeholders and discourse analysis of 10 authentic business documents to identify priority skills, followed by a 4-week trial of a digital ESP module using Zoom simulations and AI chatbots. Results revealed significant improvements: 92% of students correctly differentiated bargaining and negotiation, 75% enhanced their negotiation speaking skills, and 83% improved in business writing. These findings highlight the effectiveness of digital tools in bridging curriculum gaps and aligning vocational education with industry needs in Labuan Bajo’s tourism-driven economy. ]]>
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