Dynamic Development of Community-based Ecotourism Management: Tungyeepeng, Sala-dan Sub-district, Koh Lanta District, Krabi Province

Abstract

                This article is aimed to study a process of community development on Tungyeepeng’s community-based ecotourism management by using a method of qualitative research. The data were collected using non-participant observation, in-depth interviews and focused group with 15 persons from community tourism board, local leader, travel boat/fishing group, mangrove conservation group leader and community based tourism member. The qualitative data were categorized, interpretation, conclusion and was presented by descriptive analysis. The results show that Tungyeepeng community context has changed from its original to be in line with the dynamic development of tourism in Lanta Island in terms of environmental resources, socio-culture and economy. The community has turned crisis into opportunity by using the community-based tourism management process as a tool for its development. This community enables to adapt itself and creates a barrier to prevent it from flowing along the stream of disadvantages. Lessons learned from tourism development process are holding on to the principles of self-reliance along with traditional knowledge as well as the link between bottom-up and top-down to plan community development. The Community set up tourism operations committee and there is the rules and regulations for working together tangibly Including is a clear community based ecotourism management master plan by the participation of members. Tourism activity is related resource and focused on local experience and participation in mangroves conservation as well as the distribution of benefits to the group members and the community, both directly and indirectly. Internal and external stakeholders are obliged to engage in the tourism management through ideas/actions contributing in discussions and substantial operations. However, the community must be continuously adjust itself to the dynamic development enclosed by tourism by using not only the internal power but also outside cooperation to sustain its resources while flowing along the current of development.