The socio-economy of local ecotourism - An analysis of the Ulu Dong community

Lata Jarum, located in Raub, Pahang is attracts tourists with its virgin forest and rich flora and fauna. Such ecotourism gives a minimum environmental impact , contributes to the preservation of the wildlife and improves the socio-economic status of the local community. The socio-economic benefits for the locals include a wide range of employment and businesses opportunities in the areas of chalet operation, traditional food production, agricultural projects, herbal medicine , and forest guide. Local residents need to understand the concept of eco-tourism and strive to be engaged in eco-tourism projects. This paper analyses the socioeconomic engagement of local communities in Mukin Ulu Dong by means of the findings of field interviews of key informants from three indigenous Malay villages and one aboriginal village in Mukim Ulu Dong. The results indicated that the majority of the local community members stand to gain by further engagement in eco-tourism activities such as retail shops, handicrafts, agricultural activities, food production, hotels and chalets. Community involvement would only make them more active and effective, thus enhancing their preparedness to participate in the further development of local ecotourism.