Embracing tourist behaviour in managing Melaka WHS

Abstract

Melaka WHS has inherited an outstanding universal value (OUV) that are listed as a World Heritage Site that must be properly managed. Stakeholders and agencies that manage a WHS are faced with a major challenge. In particular, making decisions for Melaka WHS is very challenging. WHS is a complex site where the management of the area requires the coordination of a large number of disciplines. Extending this line of research, the present study aims to understand the different perspectives of stakeholders and agencies that manage tourism resources through the tourist behaviour information gathered. In doing so, face to face interviews is conducted to validate the findings from those responsible and knowledgeable in managing WHS using content analysis in constructing appropriate themes which later can be used to develop a visitor management plan effectively. Evidence from five responsible agencies involved in managing Melaka WHS indicated that knowledge of tourist behaviour helps in assisting them in future planning and management. The results provide a different insights on the management actions and preferences. With proper knowledge, activities of tourists can be recorded and can be further used to inform management decisions such as wayfinding, accessibility, and carrying capacity.