Support for Future Tourism Development, Quality of Life and Perceived Impacts of Tourism Industry Within Indigenous Community: Mah Meri of Carey Island, Malaysia

Abstract

Tourism industry has been an important industry in Malaysia for a number of years. The industry does not only impact the lives of major community, but also the minor ethnic including the indigenous people. Tourism developers in Malaysia have launched several indigenous community-based tourism programmes in order to encourage more tourism activities and improve the livelihood of the community. Indigenous community participations and supports towards tourism industry are crucial for the success of future sustainable tourism development plan. This study investigates the relationships between perceived impacts of tourism industry, quality of life and support for future tourism development. A total of 234 self-administered questionnaires have been distributed to the Mah Meri peoples within five villages in Carey Island, Malaysia. The findings reveal that the Mah Meri community in Carey Island was affected by tourism industry in term of economy, social, culture and environment. As they perceived that tourism industry enhances their quality of life, they are willing to support future tourism development in Carey Island. The findings also reveal that the Mah Meri community's quality of life mediates the relationships between impacts of tourism and support for future tourism development. Results of this study are consistent with the social exchange theory. The Mah Meri community in Carey Island willing to support future tourism development at their living area, as long as it is sustainable towards their life.