Authors : Adnan Jusoh, Yunus Sauman Sabin, Nasir Nayan, Farhana Abdullah and Zuliskandar Ramli
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.
Adnan Jusoh, Yunus Sauman Sabin, Nasir Nayan, Farhana Abdullah and Zuliskandar Ramli, 2020. A Prospect Analysis of Natural Environment for Ecotourism Development in the Archaeological Site of Bujang Valley, Kedah. Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 15: 159-164.