Boat operators of Kilim Geopark, Langkawi - profiles, business practices and perception towards tourists

Geopark as a special tourism product has encouraged high-income economy with a lower impact on natural resources. Local community is becoming more involved and actively participating in the development of geopark, thereby taking the opportunity to enhance their social economic activities. The local community engagement and participation in tourism sector is crucial particularly to provide employment opportunities for local residents. Data for this study is gathered via questionnaire administered using census method conducted through postal services on 26 respondents selected from boat operators who registered under the cooperative community Kilim Village Langkawi Berhad in July 2012. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the profile information of boat operators in Kilim Geopark. Subsequent, this study was to examine the business details as well as to analyse the pattern of tourist arrivals at Kilim Geopark. Their involvement as boat operators is seen as a good way to raise living standards and thus reducing poverty among its population. The authorities should take the initiative in developing the tourism industry in the Kilim Geopark without prejudice to the adverse effects on the economy, society and environment. The finding showed the majority of 18 people (85.7%) of boat operators started the business with RM0 to RM75, 000. The study revealed that 10 people (47.6%) of boat operators earned RM1001 to RM2000 monthly income. According to the boat operators, the highest tourist visiting Kilim is in June and November. For the Arab countries, 47.6% of respondents expressed the highest visit in June while 19% of respondent state the highest number of European tourists recorded in January and June. This study also showed 10 people (47.6%) of respondents indicated the concentration of tourist visiting the Kilim Geopark during school holidays. This study concludes that the success of a program to encourage entrepreneurs to venture into business operations should be supported by strengthening the background and their identities, as well as business management skills and leadership