Evaluating the ecotourism sustainability of Langkawi Island, Malaysia : A community -resource administrator perspective

Ecotourism is a rapidly growing and sustainable form of tourism that offers social, environmental, and economic benefits. However, to ensure ecotourism sustainability, it is necessary to evaluate and address potential issues such as environmental degradation, cultural impact, and economic disparities. This study aims to fill a gap In the literature by examining the perspectives of local and foreign residents in Langkawi Island, Malaysia, regarding the sustainability of ecotourism. By Considering the viewpoints of resource administrators, local residents, and foreign residents as key stakeholders, the study employs a stakeholder relationshipsustainability framework to assess the environmental, economic, and socio-cultural dimensions of ecotourism. Overall, Langkawi Island has the potential for ecotourism sustainability. This research found that socio-cultural sustainability is relatively strong, while economic sustainability is less favourable. Environmental sustainability falls within the potentially sustainable range. The study further analysed the sustainability levels within each stakeholder relationship. The effect of local residents on resource administrators achieved the highest sustainability level, followed by the effect of foreign residents on resource administrators. The effect of resource administrators on local residents and foreign residents showed varying levels of sustainability. These results highlight the importance of stakeholder interactions and Its influence on ecotourism sustainability. The study's theoretical implications contribute to the narratives of ecotourism on the application of sustainability frameworks, stakeholder interactions, dimensions of sustainability, and the importance of involving local and foreign residents for achieving sustainability goals. The study enhances understanding of the factors influencing sustainability and provides insights for policymakers, administrators, and stakeholders involved in sustainable ecotourism practices. By fostering collaboration and minimizing negative impacts, these insights contribute to overall sustainable ecotourism development in Langkawi Island.