Geoheritage Tourism in Lenggong Valley, Perak, Malaysia: Local Community Involvement

Academic studies in the Lenggong Valley area have facilitated the careful recording of primary data on the location and current condition of each geoarchaeological site. This research has facilitated the sustainable empowerment of the heritage tourism sector by emphasising the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)—leaving no one behind. Stakeholders plan to help local communities by participating in tourism activities to achieve this goal. Therefore, t hey conducted this study to document the involvement of local communities in tourism initiatives at geoarchaeologi cal sites, particularly in Lenggong Valley, Perak, Malaysia. The research method used to enable the primary data to be recorded is to focus on survey and participation activities related to organised tourism programmes involving local communities. The recording of field activities allows primary data related to the location of the site to be mapped into a 2-dimensional map as well as being able to record the latest conditions and tourism facilities available at the heritage sites. In addition, by participating in activities, it has enabled data related to tourism activities involving the participation of the local community to be systematically recorded. In fact, by conducting observations through the organisation of geoguide workshops, it also allows data related to the involvement of stakeholders and the local community at the same time to be recorded for the purpose of creating certified geoguides at heritage sites in the Lenggong Valley area, Perak, Malaysia. The results indicate that certain segments of the local community in the Lenggong Valley have received training and are now actively participating in the role of certified tour guides. Additionally, some local communities serve as traditional food operators and provide homestay accommodations. This study indicates that the local community has played an active role in empowering the heritage tourism sector in the Lenggong Valley area. The study unequivocally demonstrates the successful alignment of tourism activities in the Lenggong Valley with the SDG principles, thereby safeguarding heritage tourism locations. Thus, this study has clearly documented the best actions of stakeholders and local communities, which have so far succeeded in directly involving the community in geotourism activities, especially in the Lenggong Valley area.