Fairy Cave, a popular tourist destination located in Bau. Sarawak is known for its natural attraction, making it an ideal destination to promote eco-tourism. File photo
Sarawak is renowned for possessing some of the richest biodiversity in the world, thus making it an ideal location for eco-tourism.
Eco-tourism, being considered as part of a sustainable tourism, involves visiting natural areas in order to learn and carry out activities that are environmentally friendly which then enables economic and social development of local communities.
These past few years, youths have been showing great influence in spreading environmental awareness.
This is because they feel responsible for protecting the natural environment both in the present and the future and Sarawak is no exception in this as local youths are passionate in protecting their home state.
Eco-tourism is a growing industry; apart from the expanding opportunity in job employment, here are some ethical reasons why young people in Sarawak should consider it as a career.
Creating awareness in others
An important component of eco-tourism is to inform the public the importance of Earth’s ecosystem and create awareness of environmental degradation.
This is because eco-tourism centres around activities that promote nature and fosters appreciation and understanding of natural heritage.
By promoting eco-tourism, it provides opportunities to teach others the fragility of our ecosystem and the significance of local biodiversity.
Helping local communities
Apart from environmental conservation, eco-tourism takes into account the knowledge about the local communities and therefore can help improve the quality of life of the people living in these locations.
From here, local communities can largely benefit from eco-tourism as it uses natural assets and resources sustainably and productively.
As such, eco-tourism helps in sustainable community development by providing an alternative source of income to locals.
Furthermore, youths who build their career around eco-tourism get to learn more about their own community and custom, thus awakening a sense of belonging and appreciation for their own culture.
Respecting local culture and custom
Eco-tourism promotes and highlights local cultures to visitors.
It also involves educating and respecting places through the preservation of the natural, cultural, and historical landmarks that are unique to the destination.
By promoting local customs and natural beauties, it helps visitors learn more about local customs and traditions.
For instance, in promoting local food, learning new language and the best spot for outdoor activities, no one knows it better than the local communities.
So, from tasting new foods to learning phrases in a foreign language, eco-tourism interprets cultural traditions and experiences that provide long-lasting impressions to visitors.
Read more: COVID-19 and Employment in Tourism
Read more: Thinking about a career in tourism?
Read more: Heritage Preservation in Sarawak
