STAKEHOLDERS’ INVOLVEMENT AND THEIR PERCEPTIONS IN SUPPORTING COMMUNITY-BASED ECOTOURISM IN MIN HOUSE CAMP, KUBANG KERIAN

Abstract

One of the new forms of ecotourism product is community-based ecotourism (CBE) which is involved and managed locally by the communities in its development and management, and substantial benefits remain within the community. Stakeholders involvement in CBE development plays an important role in the success and sustainable development in rural Min House Camp, Kubang Kerian Kelantan. Stakeholders such as governments, private enterprise, local communities, institutions, non- governmental organization and volunteer tourist involved in the planning and decision-making process of the rural ecotourism management and conservation. This study has been conducted in Min House Camp which located at the village of Kampung Pulau that involved different stakeholders using partial least square structural equation modeling method. The findings show stakeholders involvements have significantly influenced on perceived benefit and perceived cost. The business operator should understand the importance of perceived benefits and costs of community-based ecotourism as this construct has a strong influence to support community-based ecotourism development in rural MHC. This study provides useful information for the policymaker, government, and tourism operators to enhance greater stakeholder participation in developing and sustaining community-based ecotourism.