Assessing the sustainability of the homestay industry for the East Coast of Malaysia using the Delphi approach

Authors

• Fatin Amira Zamzuki
• Muhamad Safiih Lola
• Elayaraja Aruchunan
• Mohana Sundaram Muthuvalu
• Ribed Vianneca W. Jubilee
• Nurul Hila Zainuddin
• Abdul Aziz K. Abdul Hamid
• Nor Aieni Mokhtar
• Mohd Tajuddin Abdullah

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-1-2023

Abstract

Homestay ecotourism in Malaysia has been extensively examined in terms of its concepts, approaches, activities, and community engagement. However, a comprehensive assessment of the sustainability factors pertaining to host families remains a critical area awaiting exploration. This is paramount for ensuring the long-term viability of homestays and fostering economic benefits within rural communities. The present study seeks to establish direct subjective measurements for evaluating the interplay between local communities, tourism, and resources in safeguarding sustainable homestays. Utilizing the Delphi approach, this research conducted interviews with 51 experts who were actively involved in six homestays located on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The objective was to identify key evaluation indicators pertinent to the homestay industry. The findings underscored the pivotal roles played by community resources and tourism in the sustainability of homestays. Additionally, environmental, economic, and social factors emerged as crucial components for maintaining the industry's sustainability. This innovative assessment methodology offers a valuable instrument for enhancing the sustainability of the homestay sector, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. By embracing this approach, homestay operators can fortify their sustainable management practices and prepare themselves for future pandemics. This study represents a significant contribution to the field of homestay ecotourism, emphasizing the imperative for continued research in this dynamic domain.

Keywords

Homestay management, Sustainability, Ecotourism, Delphi approach, COVID-19, Tourism

Publication Title

Heliyon

Recommended Citation

Zamzuki, Fatin Amira; Lola, Muhamad Safiih; Aruchunan, Elayaraja; Muthuvalu, Mohana Sundaram; Jubilee, Ribed Vianneca W.; Zainuddin, Nurul Hila; Abdul Hamid, Abdul Aziz K.; Mokhtar, Nor Aieni; and Abdullah, Mohd Tajuddin, "Assessing the sustainability of the homestay industry for the East Coast of Malaysia using the Delphi approach" (2023). Research Publications (2021 to 2025). 3634.
https://knova.um.edu.my/research_publications_2021_2025/3634

Divisions

Faculty_of_Business_and_Accountancy

Funders

MNRECC-DWNP Giant Panda Protection and Research Programme [Grant No: 53161],Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS - Universiti Malaysia Pahang Matching Grant [Grant No: 015MC0-033]

Volume

9

Issue

11

Publisher

Cell Press

Publisher Location

50 HAMPSHIRE ST, FLOOR 5, CAMBRIDGE, MA 02139 USA