JOURNAL OF TOURISM, HOSPITALITY AND ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT (JTHEM)

THE ROLE OF ENGLISH TRAVEL MATERIALS IN PROMOTING RESPONSIBLE TOURISM BEHAVIOR IN TRA QUE VEGETABLE VILLAGE

2026-03-02T10:21:04+08:00

Tourism is a crucial driver of Vietnam’s economy, with sustainable tourism receiving increasing attention. Among Vietnam’s ecotourism destinations, Tra Que Vegetable Village (TQVV) in Hoi An stands out for its cultural heritage and ecological significance. While sustainability initiatives are in place, challenges remain in effectively promoting responsible tourism behaviors. This study examines the role of English-language travel materials (ETMs), including guidebooks, brochures and online articles on travel websites in fostering sustainable tourism practices in TQVV. Adopting a mixed-method approach, the research integrates document analysis, surveys with international tourists, and interviews with local stakeholders. Findings reveal that while ETMs help raise awareness of sustainability issues, they often lack persuasive messaging, interactive features, and engaging narratives. The study underscores the need for clearer sustainability-focused content, the integration of digital tools, and more visually compelling materials. Based on these insights, practical recommendations are proposed to enhance ETMs, including improved storytelling techniques, QR code integration, and culturally relevant sustainability messages. These findings provide valuable guidance for local tourism authorities and content creators in strengthening responsible tourism communication and supporting the sustainable development of TQVV.

PSYCHOLOGICAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL DRIVERS OF RURAL ACTORS’ BEHAVIOURS: EXPERT INSIGHTS FOR RURAL TRANSFORMATION

2026-03-16T17:23:27+08:00

Unexpectedly, psychological and technological behavioural dimensions exhibit statistically significant inverse relationships with progress in rural transformation, despite the widespread assumption that rural actors’ behaviours are critical drivers of development. These findings challenge prevailing assumptions that enhanced behavioural capacities consistently lead to positive transformation outcomes in rural contexts. Guided by the Transformational Rural Actors’ Behavioural (TRAB) conceptual framework, developed by Samsudin et al. (2024), which conceptualises rural transformation as a function of behavioural, psychological and technological capabilities embedded within socio-cultural and structural contexts, and drawing on insights from Organisational Citizenship Behaviour (OCB), the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), the Theory of Interpersonal Behaviour (TIB), and the Citizen-Centric Smart Cities (CCSC) framework, this study examines the qualitative explanatory phase of a larger mixed-methods approach to unpack these counterintuitive findings identified through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) structural modelling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with elite informants, each with extensive rural development experience (minimum 5 years, most over 10 years), purposively selected to provide in-depth explanatory insights into the quantitative findings. The findings reveal that psychological attributes, particularly coping strategies, decision-making processes, and mental health well-being, emerge as the most salient manifestations of the observed adverse effects in rural transformation. Specifically, expert insights indicate that these weaknesses arise from broader contextual mechanisms, including knowledge and awareness gaps, dependency-oriented mindsets, generational disparities, and culturally embedded lifestyle practices. Within the technological dimension, low digital literacy, limited e-commerce adoption, weak Information and Communication Technology (ICT) utilisation, and low mobile banking uptake emerge as key technological constraints. Moreover, these technological constraints are amplified by infrastructural deficits, affordability barriers, and uneven digital exposure, restricting the effective translation of technological access into transformative outcomes. Experts further emphasised that psychological readiness and technological capability are interconnected; misalignment between the two reduces the effectiveness of rural development initiatives. The findings suggest conditional and context-dependent behavioural effects rather than uniformly positive influences. The study advances rural transformation theory by demonstrating that behavioural drivers may become counterproductive when psychological readiness and technological capability are misaligned within structurally constrained environments.

THE PARADOX OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION: HOW INCREASING DATA CENTER ENERGY CONSUMPTION FOR DIGITAL LOGISTICS AFFECTS NET-ZERO GOALS

2026-03-16T09:49:36+08:00

The rapid evolution of digital technologies in supply chains and logistics domains is widely regarded as an enabler of achieving global and corporate net-zero visions. However, this vision overlooks a fundamental paradox: the carbon and energy cost of the digital infrastructure (e.g., artificial intelligence, data centers, and cloud computing) required to make these efficiencies affordable is massive and rising exponentially. This study introduces a new theoretical approach to quantitatively examine this "digital sustainability paradox." We develop a discrete-event simulation model of a multi-echelon supply chain to compare the quantity of carbon reduced by optimizing logistic operations with that of the carbon emissions caused by the enabling digital infrastructure. Our scenario analysis reveals that while digital transformation always increases operational effectiveness, overall carbon impact may not necessarily be minimized. The study's most significant discovery is that the environmental benefits of digital logistics are very much contingent upon the source of energy powering the data centers. We demonstrate that without substituting to renewable power for digital equipment, carbon reductions from efficiency improvements are largely reversed, and in some cases, the total carbon footprint increases. This research provides 3a critical and integrated perspective on the green implications of digitalization, providing actionable policy recommendations for policymakers and practitioners to ride out this paradox and guide a truly sustainable digital future.

UNRAVELING CLOTH RECYCLING TRENDS: A CONSUMER BEHAVIOR PERSPECTIVE USING SCOPUS AI

2026-03-02T10:08:24+08:00

This paper presents a data-driven systematic review of global cloth recycling trends through the lens of consumer behaviour, utilising Scopus AI to synthesise cross-disciplinary literature. While the fashion industry generates 92 million tons of textile waste annually, only 15% to 20% is currently collected for recycling, highlighting a critical need for circular interventions. The study identifies four interconnected pillars: the environmental pillar, which shows that while recycling significantly reduces resource depletion, its benefits depend on high material substitution rates; the industrial pillar, which tracks the transition from traditional upcycling to modern chemical recycling standards; the technological and economic pillar, examining how AI-enabled sorting improves fiber identification accuracy despite high capital costs and the lack of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks; and the human pillar, which reveals a significant "attitude-behaviour gap". By integrating these findings into the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), the research develops a conceptual framework where technological innovation and policy instruments act as primary drivers for a consumer's perceived behavioural control. The results suggest that bridging the gap between environmental awareness and actual participation requires shifting recycling from a high-effort task to a convenient "default" choice through automated infrastructure and stable policy incentives. This review offers essential insights for stakeholders aiming to enhance cloth circularity by aligning macro-level industrial advancements with micro-level consumer psychology.

SERVICE FAILURES AND PERCEIVED FAIRNESS IN MALAYSIAN HOTELS- EVIDENCE FROM LOW-RATING CHINESE-LANGUAGE REVIEWS ON CTRIP AND AN ACTIONABLE RECOVERY PLAYBOOK

2026-03-16T14:49:10+08:00

Malaysia’s tourism growth agenda heightens the need for scalable hotel service-quality governance under the public visibility of review platforms. This study analyzes low-rating Chinese-language reviews of Malaysian hotels posted on Ctrip, treating low ratings as diagnostic texts that concentrate critical incidents and fairness cues. Using review-level multi-label coding anchored in a critical incident lens and a distributive–procedural–interactional justice framework, we identify recurring failure domains, test travel-type heterogeneity with category-wise association tests under false discovery rate control, assess robustness to an alternative low-rating threshold, and examine compound failures via co-occurrence intersections. The complaint landscape is highly concentrated: check-in/out and process failures (21.6%), cleanliness and hygiene failures (21.5%), and maintenance and facilities failures (17.9%) dominate low-score narratives, whereas other domains are notably less prevalent. Incident prevalence differs systematically across travel types, with residual-based contrasts indicating distinct segment emphases within the same overall hierarchy. The incident ordering remains stable when tightening the low-rating definition from rating < 3 to rating ≤ 2. Co-occurrence analysis shows that compound failures among the top three domains are common, suggesting layered vulnerabilities spanning front-desk workflow, housekeeping execution, and engineering response rather than isolated mishaps. Fairness-related complaints occur in a meaningful minority of low-score reviews and vary by travel type, while justice discourse is dominated by distributive and interactional concerns and procedural justice is least salient. The study contributes a monitorable recovery instrument that maps incident triggers to justice lenses, executable actions, and platform-reply SOP priorities, enabling hotels to standardize what is monitored and to audit recovery quality as a platform-facing capability.

RESILIENCE OF ECHOES: THE HISTORICAL EVOLUTION AND MODERN HERITAGE OF GANNAN TEA-PICKING OPERA IN THE TRANSITION OF SOCIETY

2026-03-16T09:31:51+08:00

This study investigates the historical evolution and contemporary preservation of Gannan Tea-Picking Opera, a distinctive regional art form that embodies the cultural identity and collective memory of southern Jiangxi, China. It examines how this traditional opera has navigated major socio-political transformations particularly the Cultural Revolution (1966–1976) and how it has sustained its vitality in the post-revolution era. Employing a qualitative research design that integrates archival analysis, field observation, in-depth interviews, and case studies of modern performances, the study explores the mechanisms through which Gannan Tea-Picking Opera has demonstrated cultural resilience. The findings reveal a tripartite trajectory of growth (1949–1966), survival (1966–1976), and rebirth (1976–2023). The results highlight the crucial role of dedicated artists, educational institutions, and community initiatives in ensuring the opera’s transmission and adaptive innovation. By conceptualizing Gannan Tea-Picking Opera as a living cultural heritage rather than a static tradition, this research contributes to the broader discourse on intangible cultural heritage preservation. It underscores the need for dynamic conservation strategies that integrate tradition and innovation.

MEMORABLE WELLNESS TOURISM EXPERIENCES, SATISFACTION, AND SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING AMONG ENTREPRENEURIAL TRAVELER: A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK AND RESEARCH AGENDA

2026-03-01T14:21:42+08:00

Wellness tourism has gained increasing scholarly attention for its potential to enhance travelers’ satisfaction and subjective well-being. Nevertheless, limited research has examined how memorable wellness tourism experiences (MWTE) influence these outcomes among entrepreneurial travelers, particularly within emerging wellness tourism contexts such as Malaysia. This paper proposes a conceptual framework that integrates MWTE, satisfaction, and subjective well-being, focusing on Traditional Malay Medicine (TMM), including massage therapies, postnatal care, and herbal treatments. In addition, a research agenda is outlined to guide future empirical investigations, including methodological considerations and potential measurement approaches such as Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). By synthesizing existing literature and contextualizing wellness tourism within Malaysia, this paper contributes to theory development and offers strategic insights for policymakers, wellness tourism providers, and destination managers aiming to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a competitive and sustainable wellness tourism destination.

SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW: THE USE OF VIRTUAL REALITY AS A MEDIUM OF KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER IN HERITAGE PRESERVATION

2026-03-16T13:20:41+08:00

The increasing application of Virtual Reality (VR) technology in heritage preservation has evolved from static documentation towards immersive and interactive knowledge experiences. Despite this growing adoption, the role of VR as a structured medium for heritage knowledge transfer remains insufficiently synthesised in the existing literature. This study investigates the use of VR for heritage knowledge transfer, its effectiveness compared to conventional methods, and its main benefits. A Systematic Literature Review analysed 41 articles published between 2019 and 2025. VR is applied through digital reconstruction, interactive applications, and storytelling-based education. It improves learning outcomes and user engagement, but its impact on long-term knowledge retention is mixed. VR offers four main benefits: immersive learning, skill development, personalised learning, and tacit knowledge transfer. Rather than functioning as isolated advantages, these dimensions operate as interrelated mechanisms that collectively support experiential and structured heritage knowledge transfer. VR is significant as both a pedagogical medium and a heritage conservation tool, but challenges such as cost, infrastructure, and standardisation need to be addressed. Future research should explore hybrid strategies integrating technical, pedagogical, and sociocultural dimensions to maximise the sustainability of heritage knowledge transfer.

STRATEGI PENGURUSAN PEMBAJAAN TANAMAN MANGGA: INTEGRASI DATA KESUBURAN TANAH DAN KLIMATOLOGI

2026-03-07T13:31:54+08:00

Kajian ini bertujuan menentukan strategi pengurusan pembajaan yang tepat untuk tanaman mangga varieti MA 224 (Chokanan) di tanah bekas lombong, Tasik Utama Kampus Sultan Azlan Shah, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris. Metodologi kajian melibatkan pendekatan kuantitatif berasaskan reka bentuk eksperimen terhadap 73 sampel pokok mangga dengan 2 strategi pembajaan yang dilaksanakan dalam tempoh 1 tahun (Mei 2024 hingga April 2025). Dapatan kajian tertumpu pada penilaian kesuburan tanah dan pola cuaca tempatan untuk membangunkan strategi pembajaan yang bersesuaian dan berasaskan bukti. Analisis tanah menunjukkan kawasan penanaman mangga adalah bersifat berasid sederhana (pH 5.3–5.4), kandungan bahan organik dan kalium yang sangat rendah, serta tekstur berpasir (60–65% pasir halus). Analisis cuaca bagi tempoh Mei 2024 hingga April 2025 merekodkan suhu purata 27.2–28.7°C dan taburan hujan bermusim, dengan bulan Disember 2024 dan Januari 2025 adalah paling lembap (>250 mm/bulan). Berdasarkan dapatan ini, 2 strategi pembajaan organik dicadangkan: (i) penggunaan Baja Organik Bioaktif Diptia dengan foliar Bio-Grow untuk meningkatkan aktiviti mikroorganisma dan ketersediaan fosforus; dan (ii) penggunaan Baja FN Rich Bio-Organik dengan foliar Bio-Grow untuk membekalkan kalium, kalsium dan bahan organik kepada tanah berpasir. Sudut pandang baharu kajian ini terletak pada pemilihan jenis bahan pembajaan organik dan bioaktif yang spesifik untuk mengatasi ciri ekstrem tanah bekas lombong. Integrasi data kawasan penanaman mangga yang spesifik dengan strategi pembajaan organik-bioaktif dapat menjadi model lestari untuk rehabilitasi tanah di ekosistem yang sudah rentan dengan tanaman bernilai ekonomi. Kesimpulannya, strategi pembajaan berasaskan analisis tanah dan cuaca yang spesifik kepada kawasan penanaman adalah penting untuk mengatasi kekurangan nutrisi tanah bermasalah dan mencapai pertumbuhan optimum tanaman mangga.

This study aims to determine an appropriate fertilization management strategy for MA 224 (Chokanan) mango trees in ex-mining soil at the Main Lake of Sultan Azlan Shah Campus, Sultan Idris Education University. The study methodology involves a quantitative approach based on experimental design on 73 mango tree samples with 2 fertilization strategies implemented over a period of 1 year (May 2024 to April 2025). The study findings focus on assessing soil fertility and local weather patterns to develop appropriate and evidence-based fertilization strategies. Soil analysis shows that the mango growing area is moderately acidic (pH 5.3–5.4), very low in organic matter and potassium, and sandy texture (60–65% fine sand). Weather analysis for the period May 2024 to April 2025 recorded an average temperature of 27.2–28.7°C and seasonal rainfall, with December 2024 and January 2025 being the wettest months (>250 mm/month). Based on these findings, two organic fertilization strategies are proposed: (i) the use of Diptia Bioactive Organic Fertilizer with Bio-Grow foliar to enhance microbial activity and phosphorus availability; and (ii) the use of FN Rich Bio-Organic Fertilizer with Bio-Grow foliar to supply potassium, calcium, and organic matter to sandy soil. The new perspective of this study lies in the selection of specific types of organic and bioactive fertilizers to overcome the extreme characteristics of former mine soils. The integration of data from specific mango planting areas with organic-bioactive fertilization strategies can be a sustainable model for soil rehabilitation in vulnerable ecosystems with economically valuable crops. In conclusion, fertilization based on site-specific soil and weather analysis is crucial for addressing nutrient deficiencies in problematic soil and achieving optimal growth of mango trees.

EXTENDING THEORY OF CONSUMPTION VALUES IN CULINARY TOURISM: A VALUE–INTERACTION–SATISFACTION FRAMEWORK FOR REVISIT INTENTION IN MALAYSIA

2026-02-24T11:27:26+08:00

Culinary tourism has become an important source of destination differentiation, as local food experiences allow tourists to engage directly with culture, authenticity, and everyday social life in a destination. Although research in this area has expanded, the literature remains conceptually fragmented, particularly in explaining how local food experiences translate into tourist loyalty and revisit intention in multicultural settings. To address this gap, this paper develops an integrated conceptual framework that explains revisit intention in culinary tourism by linking local food consumption values to loyalty outcomes through satisfaction. Drawing on the Theory of Consumption Values, Expectancy–Disconfirmation Theory, and Social Exchange Theory, the framework conceptualises functional, emotional, social, epistemic, and conditional values as key antecedents of tourist satisfaction, and positions satisfaction as a central mediating mechanism leading to revisit intention. In addition, tourist–local interactions are incorporated as an experiential component that strengthens value evaluation and satisfaction formation, while destination image is proposed as a contextual boundary condition that moderates the satisfaction–revisit intention relationship. Based on an integrative conceptual analysis of prior literature, the paper advances theoretical propositions that clarify the roles of consumption values, social exchange, and destination-level perceptions in shaping loyalty-related outcomes. The study contributes by offering a holistic application of consumption values in culinary tourism, embedding tourist–local interactions within value-based explanations, and extending the role of destination image beyond a direct antecedent. Practical implications are also outlined for destination managers and policymakers seeking to strengthen culinary tourism strategies to support sustainable tourism development, and the framework provides a foundation for future empirical testing.

DEVELOPING A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK OF HALAL CERTIFICATION, EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCE, SERVICE INNOVATION, AND DESTINATION LOYALTY IN MALAYSIAN ISLAMIC TOURISM

2026-03-16T11:38:41+08:00

The primary objective of this study is to propose a conceptual model consisting of the relationship between halal certificates for food and beverages, emotional experience, service innovation, tourist satisfaction, and destination loyalty in the context of Malaysian Islamic tourism. As a preliminary study, this study used a self-administered questionnaire to gather the data for the pilot survey, which focused on Muslim tourists from international Islamic nations visiting Malaysia’s Islamic tourism sites. Purposive sampling was used to choose the respondents with certain criteria. SPSS version 26 was used to examine the demographic profile of the respondents and reliability analysis of halal certification for food and beverages, emotional experience, service innovation, tourist satisfaction, and destination loyalty. The findings indicate a high consistency of measuring items for each construct, which provides a strong foundation for the actual study. Consequently, the administration of Islamic tourism and tour companies will gain profit from the devoted foreign Muslim travellers who come to Malaysia.

A CASE STUDY ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF KAMPUNG TANJUNG ARU LAMA AS A POST COVID-19 RESILIENT COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM DESTINATION IN KOTA KINABALU, SABAH

2026-03-07T13:08:24+08:00

This research explores strategies to enhance post-COVID-19 resilience and promote sustainable growth in community-based tourism (CBT) in Kampung Tanjung Aru Lama, Sabah. In order to guarantee long-term sustainability and profitability, the study assesses the impact of CBT on local communities, looks into the challenges they encounter, and suggests a conceptual framework for CBT. The results of a quantitative approach that includes questionnaire surveys, with field observations and literature review highlight important issues such limited marketing, skill gaps, environmental concerns, and unstable finances. However, the study also identifies possibilities for CBT progress in the community, including a high interest in tourism business, rich cultural assets, and natural coastal resources. To improve local involvement and promote long-term resilience, the suggested approaches include collaborative networking models, financial management systems, and capacity-building initiatives. According to the study's findings, Kampung Tanjung Aru Lama has the potential to develop into a viable CBT model for Tanjung Aru and entire state of Sabah with the right institutional support and community involvement.

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK AND FUTURE RESEARCH DIRECTIONS FOR A WEB-BASED AUGMENTED REALITY FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

2026-03-16T10:02:09+08:00

This paper is a systematic review of the new role of Web-Based Augmented Reality (WebAR) in the promotion of sustainable tourism with particular focus on the educational and environmental value that it adds. The review is conducted using a scoping methodology in line with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines to make the review transparent and methodologically rigorous. The search was conducted in academic databases (Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) on the keywords WebAR, augmented reality, sustainable tourism, heritage management, and digital learning. It screened 52 articles published since 2012, 26 of which passed through the inclusion criteria in thematic synthesis. The review presents three clusters of dominant research, namely: (i) WebAR as a cultural heritage preservation and environmental protection, (ii) educational and behavioural effects of immersive technologies, and (iii) governance and policy mechanisms to facilitate sustainable adoption. Although the adoption of digital data is fast in Southeast Asian studies, comparative data in Europe and the Middle East shows that there are advanced integration with cloud learning, artificial intelligence, and open-access education platforms. Based on the synthesis, it is proposed to create a conceptual framework that would connect WebAR applications to sustainability results in the environmental, social, and economic aspects. The paper ends by offering recommendations on how the study can be empirically tested, work with other parts of the global community, and more closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 4 on quality education and SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities.

HAJJ MANAGEMENT MODELS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW AND FUTURE RESEARCH AGENDA USING SCOPUS AI ANALYTICS

2026-03-02T10:13:06+08:00

The management of the hajj pilgrimage presents one of the most complex logistical and organizational challenges in the world, involving millions of pilgrims in a confined geographical area within a limited timeframe. Despite numerous technological and managerial innovations such as RFID-enabled tracking, e-Hajj systems, AI-based crowd management and blockchain-supported healthcare logistics. These current practices remain fragmented and lack a comprehensive framework that integrates operational efficiency with the spiritual, cultural and social dimensions of the pilgrimage. Addressing this gap, the aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive review of hajj management models and propose directions for future research that align technological integration with Islamic perspectives and sustainable practices. Using Scopus AI Analytics, the review synthesizes evidence through a systematic exploration of academic literature, including summaries, expanded summaries, concept mapping, topic expert identification and emerging theme analysis. The findings highlight four consistent research trajectories: (i) technological integration through AI, IoT and machine learning for predictive crowd and health management; (ii) supply chain frameworks adapted for resource allocation and service delivery; (iii) Islamic perspectives emphasizing Maqasid al-Syariah, financial stewardship and conflict resolution; and (iv) holistic models that incorporate pilgrim well-being, education and inclusivity. These insights suggest that while significant progress has been made in addressing operational challenges, future research should focus on developing integrative frameworks that unify technology, governance and spirituality. The study contributes both theoretically by situating hajj management within interdisciplinary management discourse and practically by offering policymakers, hajj authorities and service providers actionable guidance for safer, more efficient and spiritually enriching pilgrim experiences.

COMMUNITY-BASED ECOTOURISM (CBET) AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN GHANA: A CASE STUDY OF MOGNORI ECO-VILLAGE ON THE FRINGE OF MOLE NATIONAL PARK IN GHANA

2026-03-16T17:08:29+08:00

The study explores CBET and sustainable development in Ghana, using Mognori Eco-village as a case study. The study seeks to explore how CBET contributes to livelihood diversification, community empowerment, environmental awareness, and socio-economic development at the local level. This study utilises a qualitative approach by integrating key informant interviews, direct observation and Focus Group Discussions to explore the socio-economic, cultural, and environmental implications of the Mognori Eco-Village CBET initiative. The findings highlight that, while the initiative has created increased economic opportunities, fostered stronger community cohesion, and raised awareness about conservation, several challenges remain, including limited market access, infrastructure deficiencies, and issues related to equitable participation in tourism governance. The study concludes that while Mognori Eco-Village represents a promising CBET model within protected-area contexts, sustained institutional support, equitable benefit-sharing mechanisms, and inclusive governance frameworks are critical to consolidating development gains. The paper contributes empirical insights to CBET scholarship and offers practical implications for policymakers and practitioners seeking to enhance the resilience of rural ecotourism initiatives in Ghana and comparable contexts.

FROM TRADITIONAL CLASSICS TO MODERN CULTURAL LANDSCAPES: CREATIVE TRANSFORMATION OF CULTURAL RESOURCES THROUGH THE CASE OF ZHENGDING RONGGUO MANSION

2026-03-16T09:41:58+08:00

This study takes Zhengding Rongguo Mansion as its focal case to explore how cultural resources can be creatively transformed from traditional literary classics into contemporary cultural landscapes. Through a spatial lexical analysis of A Dream of Red Mansions (Cao & Gao, 1978), an examination of Rongguo Mansion’s on-site narrative structure, and sentiment and text mining of visitor reviews, this study identifies key challenges in current literary landscape transformation. It also draws on Rongguo Mansion’s operational model to propose targeted improvements and practical recommendations. Revitalizing the classic landscapes requires establishing a Three-dimensional transformation mechanism, including establishing a layered participation script which evolves from the passive viewing to active co-performance in the behavioral dimension, and upgrading static symbols to dynamic production systems in the value dimension. The study proposes integrated recommendations encompassing multi-dimensional convergence, composite dissemination, and regional coordination, aiming to provide a theoretical framework and practical pathways for overcoming the symbolic consumption dilemma in traditional cultural tourism sites.

A PILOT STUDY ON SUSTAINABLE FOOD MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN ISLAND HOTELS: EXPLORING READINESS TOWARDS LOW-CARBON OPERATIONS

2026-03-01T14:28:11+08:00

Food management is a major contributor to carbon emissions and waste generation within the hospitality industry. Island hotels face additional operational challenges due to geographical isolation, heavy reliance on imported food supplies, and limited waste management infrastructure, which collectively intensify their environmental footprint. Although numerous hotel sustainability assessment tools exist, most are generic and do not adequately reflect the specific operational context of island-based hotels. Accordingly, this pilot study aims to develop and preliminarily test a sustainable food management instrument tailored to the island hotel context by assessing hotel managers’ levels of awareness, understanding, and readiness to adopt low-carbon practices. A quantitative research design was employed using a structured questionnaire comprising 80 items across seven food management constructs. The pilot study involved food and beverage managers and kitchen supervisors from ten island hotels. Content validity and face validity were established through a systematic literature review and pilot field testing, while internal consistency reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s Alpha. The results indicate high reliability across all constructs (α = 0.82–0.95), with an overall alpha value of 0.92. Preliminary descriptive analysis further provides exploratory insights into variations in awareness and implementation levels of sustainable food management practices among island hotels. In conclusion, the pilot findings confirm that the developed instrument is clear, appropriate, and reliable for use in a full-scale study. This study contributes by providing a context-specific measurement tool that reflects the operational realities of island hotels and offers an empirical foundation to support sustainable food management and the transition towards low-carbon hospitality operations in environmentally sensitive island destinations.

BIOPHILIC URBANISM IN DEVELOPING REGIONS: A SUSTAINABILITY FRAMEWORK FOR BAHRIA TOWN, KARACHI

2026-03-16T14:34:01+08:00

Urbanization in developing nations has accelerated construction activities, often creating adverse effects on environmental quality and human well-being. This research explores how integrating biophilic design principles with stakeholder engagement can foster sustainable construction practices, particularly in Karachi, Pakistan. The study critically examines the biophilia hypothesis, stakeholder theory, and sustainable stakeholder value creation frameworks, resulting in the development of an inclusive sustainability model that integrates environmental, economic, and social benefits. Using Bahria Town, Karachi as a case study, surveys were conducted to understand stakeholder perceptions, identify barriers, and evaluate the feasibility of biophilic design implementation in urban development. The findings emphasize the necessity of inclusive, multi-stakeholder collaboration and policy support to realize sustainable urban development. The proposed framework offers practical recommendations for policymakers, developers, and urban planners, positioning biophilic design as a viable strategy to achieve resilient, eco-friendly, and health-enhancing urban environments in developing regions.

IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON DECISION-MAKING BEHAVIOR OF PUTAOJIU TOURISTS: THE NEGATIVE MODERATING ROLE OF OBJECTIVE KNOWLEDGE

2026-03-15T16:01:50+08:00

With an emphasis on the moderating influence of subjective Putaojiu knowledge, this study uses the Information Adoption Model (IAM) to analyze factors influencing Putaojiu tourists’ decision-making intentions. The decision-making intentions of Chinese Putaojiu tourists in the context of social media are ignored by current tourism research, and the importance of Putaojiu knowledge in the decision-making process is not explored. Argument quality, eWOM, perceived usefulness, decision-making intention, subjective and objective knowledge are integrated into the research paradigm. The finding reveals that argument quality and eWOM positively impact perceived usefulness, and perceived usefulness positively affects decision-making intents, mediating the factors influencing wine tourists’ decision-making intention, according to a survey of 432 respondents in the Helan Mountain wine area of Ningxia. Interestingly, the relationship between argument quality and perceived usefulness is negatively moderated by objective knowledge. This study offers ramifications for Putaojiu tourism locations and management organizations as well as theoretical support for some aspects of the impact of social media on wine tourist behavior.

VIRTUAL MUSEUM RESEARCH: A BIBLIOMETRIC MAPPING

2026-02-27T14:28:35+08:00

The rapid advancement of immersive technologies has significantly transformed how cultural heritage is preserved, experienced, and disseminated through virtual museum platforms. Despite the growing scholarly interest, there remains a need to systematically map and analyze the intellectual structure and research trends in this emerging domain. This study addresses this gap by conducting a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of virtual museum research to uncover its key themes, influential contributors, and collaborative networks. Data were collected using Scopus advanced search with the keywords “Virtual Museums,” “Virtual VR,” and “Digital Heritage,” yielding a total of 844 documents. The dataset was cleaned and harmonized using OpenRefine to ensure consistency and accuracy. Statistical distributions and trend analyses were performed using Scopus Analyzer, while network visualizations were generated through VOSviewer software to explore co-authorship, co-occurrence of keywords, and country collaborations. The findings reveal a steady increase in publications over the past decade, with significant contributions from China, Italy, and the United Kingdom as leading research hubs. Keyword co-occurrence analysis identified dominant themes such as virtual reality, cultural heritage preservation, interactive experiences, and educational applications. Nine country collaboration clusters were detected, highlighting the global and interdisciplinary nature of this field. Overall, the study provides a structured overview of the knowledge landscape, identifies research hotspots, and highlights emerging directions for future work in virtual museum research. These insights not only contribute to the theoretical development of digital heritage studies but also inform practical strategies for enhancing cultural access, preservation, and innovation through technology.

EXAMINING PERSPECTIVE ON PAYMENT ECOSYSTEM SERVICES: A CASE STUDY OF MELAKA AMONG GENERATION Z

2026-03-16T12:00:46+08:00

Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) is a market-based environmental policy instrument that provides financial incentives to individuals or organizations for managing land and natural resources in ways that generate ecological benefits, such as water purification, biodiversity conservation, and carbon sequestration. Despite the increasing implementation of PES initiatives worldwide, limited empirical studies have examined how younger generations, particularly Generation Z, perceive and respond to such environmental policy mechanisms. Therefore, this study aims to examine the affective, cognitive, and behavioural attributes of Generation Z toward Payment for Ecosystem Services initiatives. A quantitative research design was employed using a structured survey instrument adapted from previously validated studies to ensure reliability and measurement accuracy. Data were collected from Generation Z respondents in Melaka and analysed using statistical techniques to assess the relationships between affective, cognitive, and behavioural dimensions and overall perceptions of PES. The findings indicate that Generation Z demonstrates varying levels of awareness and attitudes toward PES, with affective and cognitive attributes significantly influencing their behavioural intentions to support ecosystem conservation initiatives. These results contribute to the understanding of youth perspectives on environmental economic instruments and provide insights for policymakers in designing more effective PES awareness and engagement strategies.

FROM SCREEN TO SUITCASE: THE INFLUENCE OF GENDER PORTRAYALS IN VIVA LA ROMANCE ON YOUNG CHINESE WOMEN'S TOURISM CONSUMPTION BEHAVIOURS

2026-03-07T13:18:54+08:00

This study examines the effects of gender images in the Chinese reality television production Viva La Romance on young Chinese female tourism consumption patterns. The study is guided by the theory of feminism and media effects, with a qualitative-centred mixed-methods design using qualitative content analysis and interviews as the primary source of data, accompanied by descriptive survey data. Analysis of content passed through ten well-designed episodes during different seasons to apply an inductive interpretation to destination framing and gendered behaviors applied regularly. Also, twenty-five semi-structured interviews were conducted with female viewers (the age ranged between 18 and 35), which were thematically analyzed in the NVivo application with hybrid approaches to coding and sentiment analysis. The results indicate that femininity is shown through the prism of romantic and aesthetic travel stories when power and career identities are minor in terms of representation. The outcomes of surveys revealed that 84 per cent of viewers were inspired to travel, 72 per cent were aware of gender role depictions, and only 40 per cent of the audience were opposed to stereotypes, which indicated the passive internalization of post-feminist ideals. Behavioural data supported that it had a substantial effect on destination choice and quality tourism expenditure, yet little effect on the trust to travel alone. These findings imply that Viva La Romance constructs a media space where harnessing power is watered down, and traditional gender conventions are implicitly reaffirmed. The research recommends changes in the media to reflect more representations that would embrace real female independent tourism consumption. The research contributes to tourism research by showing the role of gender representations in the media in travel motivation and consumption, and to feminist media research, as the empirical research has related postfeminist narratives to tourism behaviour.

A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS: RESEARCH TREND ON HALAL TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY

2026-02-22T12:53:43+08:00

The global expansion of the halal tourism and hospitality industry has drawn increasing scholarly attention as Muslim-friendly travel, ethical consumption, and religious compliant services become integral to the broader tourism sector. Despite this growing interest, there has been limited effort to systematically map and evaluate the intellectual structure, publication patterns, and collaborative networks within this emerging research domain. This study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research trends in halal tourism and hospitality using data retrieved from the Scopus database. A total of 708 documents published up to 2025 were collected through Scopus advanced searching. The data were cleaned and harmonized using OpenRefine, while descriptive statistics and trend analyses were conducted through the Scopus Analyzer. Network visualization and mapping of co-authorship, keyword co-occurrence, and country collaboration were performed using VOSviewer software. The results reveal a steady increase in publications since 2015, with significant growth observed from 2019 onward, reflecting the rapid globalization of halal tourism scholarship. Malaysia and Indonesia emerged as the leading contributors in terms of publication output and collaboration strength, while highly cited works focused on consumer behavior, Muslim-friendly destinations, and halal certification in hospitality management. Keyword analysis identified evolving thematic clusters around halal tourism, Islamic marketing, service quality, and sustainable tourism. The co-authorship and country collaboration networks indicate a strong regional focus in Southeast Asia, alongside emerging global partnerships. Overall, this bibliometric analysis offers valuable insights into the developmental trajectory, influential contributors, and thematic evolution of halal tourism and hospitality research. The findings highlight the need for broader international collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches to advance theoretical and practical understanding in this expanding field.

ASSESSING THE CHALLENGES AND CONSTRAINTS WITH SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN GHANA

2026-03-16T11:18:07+08:00

This study examines environmental tourism promoted in Ghana as a means of biodiversity conservation, employment generation, and the livelihoods of rural communities. Environmental tourism, commonly referred to as ecotourism, has emerged as a sustainable alternative to mass tourism by promoting conservation, community participation, and environmental awareness. Despite its intended sustainability objectives, environmental tourism has increasingly been associated with a range of environmental, socio-cultural, and economic challenges that undermine its core principles. This study assesses the challenges and constraint with sustainable tourism in Ghana and examines how poor management practices and weak regulatory frameworks contribute to these challenges. The study adopts a qualitative and analytical approach, including thematic analysis, to identify recurring themes and patterns in the data, drawing on secondary data from academic literature, policy documents, and case studies from developing and developed countries. Findings reveal that increased tourist activities often lead to habitat destruction, soil erosion, water pollution, and excessive waste generation, particularly in destinations lacking proper infrastructure and visitor control mechanisms. The assessment further highlights governance-related challenges, including inadequate policy implementation, insufficient funding for conservation, lack of skilled personnel, and weak stakeholder collaboration. In conclusion, while environmental tourism holds significant potential for sustainable development, its effectiveness is constrained by multiple interrelated problems. Addressing these challenges requires integrated planning approaches, strong institutional frameworks, community-based tourism models, environmental education, and strict enforcement of conservation regulations.