LOCAL COMMUNITY PERCEPTION TOWARDS THE IMPACT OF ECOTOURISM DEVELOPMENT AT PERLIS STATE PARK

Abstract

ABSTRACT

This study identifies local communities’ perceptions towards the impact of ecotourism development at Perlis State Park, Perlis. Data has been collected using questionnaires, during which the distribution with 242 local communities at Perlis was identified. A descriptive analysis shows that, in general, the community agrees with the impacts of the ecotourism development in the area. The findings of the study indicate that communities have a positive on the economy, and these include household income, location of residence from ecotourism sites, and the perception of and perceived environmental impacts. Besides, they also have a positive perception toward environmental impact, which they agree that ecotourism can preserve the beauty of the natural environment. Lastly, locals also perceive the commendable value of the sociocultural impacts, including how tourism changes the community and individual values, behaviour, community structure, lifestyle, and overall quality of life, about both the destination and the visitor. This study is beneficial for local authorities to identify possible economic options for local communities and provide skill training programs related to the tourism industry, thus further enhancing the local community's quality of life.