The Impact of Geopark Recognition on Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Langkawi

Abstract

Geoheritage refers to areas of geodiversity that have been specifically identified as having conservation significance. Nowadays, heritage and tourism have significant impacts on the ecotourism sector. Geoparks have a clear vision to develop and manage a geological heritage site using concepts such as protection, education and sustainable development. However, geoheritage tourism will impact the ways Geopark recognition affects the surrounding environment which, in the case study area, is the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park (KKGP). The study used an in-depth interview method, with the target respondents being experts and professionals in this field. All the interview structure and questions were strategically arranged into a smaller number of aspects and elements. The results were analysed using the Atlas.ti software version 8. The qualitative data analysis was transferred into a Conceptual Model Network (CMN). Based on the Conceptual Model Network, it was recognised that positive and negative impacts were affected by several factors. Geotourism activity resulted in the most disturbances in KKGP; proper management planning could solve these problems. This study hopes to organise and produce precise and accurate data concerning the impact of Geopark recognition on the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park (KKGP), Langkawi. The findings also will inspire further Geopark-related studies directed towards potential future Geoparks in Malaysia and other countries.