Ecotourism as it is :)

     What does eco tourism really mean? Im pretty sure an environmentalist and a nature lover will be very familiar with this particular term. My classmates and I have been coming across this term almost every single day this semester. But how does the public respond to this term.. Well that's something to ponder on.. So yah buckle up people..Im gonna enlighten you with the nitty grittty details on eco tourism.. I promise you that no scientific terms will be involved ;).. But forgive me if there is one or two geeky science terms.. Blame me for being a science student...

    Lets start with the basics.. Ecotourism simply means responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and at the same time improves the well being of the local people. It is mainly environmental friendly tourism. But don't get mistaken as not all nature based tourism is ecotourism. Nature based tourism is associated with travel to places with authentic natural setting and beauty without much attention focused on conserving the environment. There are several criterias that can be used to distinguish tourism from eco tourism.

            Ecotourism promotes conservation and awareness; meanwhile nature based tourism is based on the natural setting of the particular area. Ecotourism prioritizes the welfare of local communities by improvising the socio-economic status of these local communities who are often neglected in chase of development. Eco tourism also provides direct financial benefits for conservation and provides positive experience for both hosts and visitors. National Parks and protected areas are examples of highly visited eco tourism spots.The picture below clearly depicts the target of eco tourism. 

            Another exclusive component of eco tourism are our friends from kingdom animalia. Wildlife sanctuaries and wildlife reserves are categorized under eco tourism as well. This is due to their countless effort of educating public and conserving the endangered species out there. Also not forgetting marine parks and and some waterfalls.

      So since we know what ecotourism is really about, let's have a look at some of the ecotourism destination in Malaysia.  Malaysia is definitely blessed with an abundance of natural beauty coupled with various species of flora and fauna.. 

Peninsular Malaysia

• National Park, Pahang
• Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, Pahang
• Kenong Rimba Park, Pahang
• Sungai Chilling Waterfall, Kuala Selangor, Selangor
• Royal Belum Forest Reserve, Perak
• Gua Tempurung, Perak
• Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary, Perak
• Penang National Heritage Park, Penang
• Kilim Geopark, Langkawi Island
• Rantau Abang Turtle Hatchery, Terengganu
• Redang Island, Perhentian Island, Gemia Island, Terengganu

Sarawak

• Bako National Park
• Mulu National Park
• Niah National Park
• Batang Ai National Park
• Lampir Hill National Park

Sabah

• Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary
• Kinabalu National Park
• Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
• Danum Valley
• Maliau Basin
• Tabin Wildlife Reserve
• Kinabatangan Floodplain, Sukau
• Turtle Island
• Gua Gomantong, Kinabatangan, Sabah

*source : Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board

   However  awareness level among society on ecotourism is still low as not everyone knows what ecotourism is.. We simply assume its just another term of traveling and tour. So nature lovers lets work hard to educate and enlighten our friends out there. Lets get everyone to appreciate mother nature in a sustainable way.. :)