Over-development in rural tourism: Tourism impact, local community satisfaction and dissatisfaction

Abstract

Purpose of the study This study explores local community satisfaction in relation to tourism development and its impacts on the community, particularly economic, social, cultural and environmental.

Methodology This study was conducted in the Cameron Highlands. Interviews were conducted with five Orang Asli employees of the selected tourism sites; the data from these in-depth, semi-structured interviews was transcribed using ATLAS.ti and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Main findings The community members perceived social, cultural and economic impacts of tourism development positively. Modernization is recognized among the community members. However, the environmental negative impact such as crowded public place has distrupted their daily life.

Social implications New perspectives on long-term tourism development for selected places are promoted by this study, which helps the development of indigenous peoples, particularly in Malaysia. Several additional issues need to be addressed by the authorities in designing and administering tourism sites, notably in reference to community acceptability and involvement, as well as the desire for benefits to both local communities and the tourism sites themselves. '

Originality/Novelty of the study This study supports the results reported in prior studies suggesting that a more active involvement is more effective in planning and managing tourism development. Therefore, it is crucial for the government related agencies and businesses to respond strategically to local communities’ input to ensure tourism sustainability.