– extracted and adapted from RAKAN Sarawak October-December 2021 –
Sarawak is renowned for possessing some of the richest biodiversity in the world, thus making it an ideal location for eco-tourism.
Ecotourism, 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 the local communities.
These past few years, the 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 the environment.
Eco-tourism is a growing industry and apart from the expanding opportunity in job employment, here are some ethnical reasons why the youths in Sarawak should consider it as a career.
Help build awareness in others
An important component of eco-tourism is to inform the importance of the ecosystem and create awareness of environmental degradation.
This is because eco-tourism centres around activities that promote nature and foster appreciation and understanding of natural heritage.
By promoting eco-tourism, it provides opportunity to teach others of the fragility of our ecosystem and the significant of local biodiversity.
Helping local communities
Apart from environmental conservation, eco-tourism also takes into account the knowledge about the local communities, people and therefore can help improve the quality of life in these locations.
From here, local communities can largely benefit from eco-tourism as it uses natural assets and resource sustainably and productively.
Thus, eco-tourism helps in community development by providing an alternative source of income to local community which is more sustainable.
On the other hand, youths who build their career around eco-tourism also get to learn more about their own community and custom, therefore awakening a sense of belonging and appreciation for their own culture.
Respecting local culture and custom
Eco-tourism also promotes and highlight local cultures to visitors.
It also involves educating and respect for the places you are visiting, preserving the natural, cultural, and historical landmarks that are unique to the destination.
By promoting local customs and natural beauties, it helps visitors to know 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, ecotourism interprets cultural traditions and experiences that provide long-lasting impressions to visitors.
