The Influence of Marine Tourism towards the Quality of Life among Local Tour Operators at Pulau Pangkor, Perak

Resumen

Marine tourism is one of the main factors contributing to the growth of the tourism sector in Malaysia.  Malaysia is among the countries that have the most beautiful islands with diverse marine life. It is attracting visitors to enjoy the beauty of the sea nature. The vibrant activity is an opportunity for local tour operators to engage in the tourism sector. Therefore, the business activities can provide benefits to the local tour operators, but these also have negative impacts on economic, socio-cultural and environment. A preliminary study was conducted to determine tour operator?s perceptions about the impact of tourism activities related in entrepreneurial of community in Pulau Pangkor. The study involved 150 respondents who joined the local tour operators in the tourism sector. This study used questionnaire survey as the method of data collection. The findings show the marine tourism involving entrepreneurial activity has a high impact on the socio-economic development of the local population and moderate impact to the environment.