The creation of an eco-tourism site: A case study of Pulau Singa Besar

Abstract

Ecotourism is the fastest growing form of tourism in Malaysia. It currently makes up about 10% of the country's tourism revenue. The Malaysian Government, specifically the Minister of Culture, Arts and Tourism has adopted a National Tourism Policy and National Ecotourism Plan (1996-2005) to encourage visitation to rural areas in order to enhance economic development as well as to meet the demands of what was perceived to be increased interest in the natural heritage of the country by the international tourism market. The development of Pulau Singa Besar, a small island off the legendary and more famous Langkawi Island in Malaysia is among one of the many efforts. The importance of sustainable planning, design and management is critical if an ecotourism site is to continue in generations to come. This paper addresses fundamental issues in the planning, design and implementation of various projects on the island of Pulau Singa Besar. It focuses on the lessons learned for future development.