A Prospect Analysis of Natural Environment for Ecotourism Development in the Archaeological Site of Bujang Valley, Kedah

Abstract

This study focuses on the prospects of the natural environment for ecotourism development in Bujang valley (Kedah), a protohistoric archaeological heritage site. This is because Bujang valley has the prospects to grow as one of the potential domestic tourism destinations in this country, especially in terms of ecotourism. Blessed with the geographical endowments of hilly terrain, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, beachs, islands, bays and forest reserve, Bujang valley is a suitable destination for tourists to visit. However, with all these specialities, to what extent are the important natural prospects made use of, especially with respect to the development of ecotourism in Bujang valley? In order to answer that question, this study has applied qualitative methods by referring to books, journals and proceedings in the library. Quantitative methods were also applied in this study by conducting field research through questionnaires and interviews to identify the natural prospects for ecotourism development in Bujang valley. The findings discovered that three locations are the main choices of local tourists to visit, namely Pantai Merdeka, Tanjung Dawai and Gunung Jerai. The findings also showed that all locations with natural attractions in Bujang valley have the potential to become ecotourism areas, including Gunung Jerai, Pantai Merdeka, Pulau Sayak and Hutan Simpan Merbok. However, as a whole, in terms of popularity, Gunung Jerai is the most popular tourist destination, followed by Pantai Merdeka and Tanjung Dawai.

Field Studies in Heritage Education: Assessing Impact on Tourism and Sustainability at Bujang Valley, Kedah, Malaysia

“…However, although the number of related research has been conducted, while there is still lack of scholarly attention on looking into the detail about assessing the impact of tourism and sustainability through heritage education from field study context, mainly Bujang Valley. Moreover, there is a growing perception among the general public that the conventional lecture approach is ineffective at reinforcing students' mastery and skills, especially in the subject of history [27,28]. It has been proven through assignments and examinations, showing that some students struggle to express fundamental concepts in history.…”