The Role of Government for Ecotourism Development: Focusing on East Coast Economic Region

Abstract

Problem statement: This study explored the plans and strategies of government for ecotourism development in Malaysia as well as ECER. Government participation is necessary in developing economies where tourism planning and promotion tend to be controlled directly by governments. The ecotourism activity should have a strong focus on learning through interpretation of local ecosystems and cultural heritage. Malaysia has formulated separate plan for sustainable ecotourism development in the country. This plan ensures conservation of Malaysia’s natural and cultural heritage. Ecotourism activities can be remaining vital tool for economic development in the ECER. The objective of this study is to examine the various plans of Malaysia relating to ecotourism development. The study also analyzes the challenges and prospects of ecotourism development in Malaysia as well as in ECER. Approach: The data for analysis was perceived from the secondary sources. National Ecotourism Plan, Ninth Malaysian Plan and Tenth Malaysian Plan of Malaysia have been thoroughly reviewed in this regard. Results: The study shows that the major activities of Malaysian Government for ecotourism development were strategies, improving ecotourism products, improving accessibility, employment and training, marketing promotion, sustainable tourism development, investment, research and planning, safety and security. The initiatives of government for ecotourism development in ECER are guidelines, market segmentation, infrastructure development, cooperation among state authorities, commercial interest and investment, local entrepreneurship and Bumiputera participation. Conclusion: The study reveals that some activities may be taken for the ecotourism development in Malaysia. These are ecotourism action plan, building institutional capacity; invest in ecotourism projects, creation of protected areas, image and branding, linkage to other types’ tourism, advertising and publication, human resource development and SME operation. The government must be ensured the local people participation in ecotourism development for their social, ecological, economic and cultural benefits.