The relevance of protected areas and biodiversity to the quality of life of local people

The quest for more land and its services for the survival and well being of people are inevitable. Among the important pursuits of land uses is ecotourism, within and around protected areas. This offshoot of tourism is an increasing trend where local people can benefit by involving themselves in this industry. Low impact and compatible nature-related activities in protected areas such as the mangrove forest reserves will produce mutual benefits both for the natural resources and people. It is important that local populations have the basic awareness and participate in this industry. In the long term, this participation can help to ensure the continuous existence of mangrove forest and income generation of local villagers. Protected areas and their resources are consumed directly or indirectly in order to provide goods and services to tourists. A study was conducted at the human settlement of Kuala Sepetang Fishing Village located close to the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve in Peninsular Malaysia to determine the ecotourism development potential impacts on the local communities and the conservation of natural resources. This, study found that the local communities recognised the benefits, economic rewards and relevance of the mangrove forest to the people. It can be said that the quality of life such as income, employment, market for local goods, knowledge and education of the people who are involved in ecotourism activities and the local basic infrastructures can be improved. The management of Matang which is under the Taiping District Forest Department however needs to safeguard the biodiversity, the quality of the resources and to control ecotourism activities in the protected areas. Local participation is vital in planning and development of the social aspects, economics and conservation of the area.