Critical success factors of community based ecotourism: case study of Miso Walaihomestay, Kinabatangan, Sabah

Abstract

Community Based Tourism or Community Based Ecotourism (CBT/CBET) is often regarded as a panacea by creating an alternative source of livelihood once protected areas are gazetted around or close to local communities who used to be dependent on the forest resources. Previous studies have shown that CBT projects are easy to start but difficult to sustain, especially those that were initiated by international donors. Without proper planning, management and monitoring, CBT initiatives are often not commercially viable and its initial promise as an alternative source of livelihood seldom fully materialise. Based on a longitudinal study from 2005 to 2010, the authors analysed the performance of Miso Walai Homestay in the Lower Kinabatangan, Sabah in relation to 3 other CBT projects in the same area. The researchers used the qualitative approach combining semi-structured interviews and participant observation etc. to model the critical success factors that ensured the success and sustainability of Miso Walai Homestay as it moves up the value chain. Dynamic leadership and organisation, the setting up of a tourism cooperative, partnerships with government agencies and tourism industry players and a strong commitment to biodiversity conservation have made Miso Walai Homestay into a model Community Based Ecotourism initiative.