THE International Society Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the wellbeing of the local people, and involves interpretation and education”.

It seeks to promote greater understanding and appreciation for nature, local society, and culture.

​Being a nature lover, I have invested heavily in ecotourism, setting up a number of eco-resorts that I have named after my children. It’s because I see the long-term potential of the industry.

We need to preserve our rich natural heritage. According to CNN Travel, Malaysian rainforests are estimated to be over 130 million years old. They go back to the dinosaur age, and our tropical rainforests are known to the world to be older even than their counterparts in the Amazon or the Congo.

Appreciating what we have

​Malaysia, being just a short drive away from neighbouring Singapore, has the potential of attracting ecotourists from across the highway. 

With the exchange rate in favour of the Singaporeans, our eco-resorts can be attractive destinations for those who live in concrete jungles.

​To Middle Eastern tourists, who experience extreme heat in their home countries, Malaysia is a dream holiday destination with lush tropical rainforests, vast biodiversity and lovely beaches. There’s also lots of halal food.

​Someone from the United Kingdom made a very good observation about Mother Nature, and I quote her: “Looking at life’s energy, my energy is my life force. That’s why protecting my physical, emotional and spiritual energy is a priority.”

The Malaysian government, in particular the minister in charge of tourism, should begin paying more attention to the potential of ecotourism because of what we have to offer.

​The ministry can invite journalists from the West and Middle East to travel to Malaysia. 

I am sure that with more efforts to put Malaysia on the world ecotourism map, we will see the industry boom. – December 5, 2022. 

* Shariffa Sabrina Syed Akil reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.