SHAH ALAM, Sept 26 — Every year, on September 27, World Tourism Day reminds us of the role tourism plays in shaping economies, societies, and cultures. This year’s theme, 'Tourism and Sustainable Transformation', calls on the industry to rethink growth beyond numbers, ensuring that its benefits are lasting and equitable.
Tourism has always been more than just travel; it is a driver of economic growth, cultural exchange, and global connections. But as the industry grows, so do the conversations around its impact.
Beyond the promise of revenue and jobs, questions about environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and overtourism have become pressing global concerns. For Malaysia, a country blessed with rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, these questions strike close to home.
As Malaysia’s economic hub, Selangor is at the forefront of this conversation. With a target of eight million tourist arrivals in 2025, in conjunction with Visit Selangor Year 2025 (VSY2025), the State is poised for growth.
Yet, this growth must be carefully managed. Without responsible planning, the influx of tourists could strain resources, disrupt local communities, and compromise the very cultural and natural treasures that make Selangor unique.
A holistic approach to sustainable tourism
True sustainability extends far beyond protecting the environment. It must also ensure economic resilience and community well-being.
The real challenge lies in building models that yield lasting benefits, not just short-lived projects with minimal impact.
In Selangor, experiential and community-based tourism plays a key role in this transformation. Homestays like Nazbell Cottage and Garden and Haji Dorani Homestay offer tourists authentic rural experiences, ranging from paddy farming to cultural activities.
These initiatives generate income for small-scale entrepreneurs while fostering a deeper appreciation for local traditions. However, the success of such models depends on balance.
Tourism Selangor is working to ensure that visitor numbers are carefully managed so that communities are empowered rather than overwhelmed, and traditions are celebrated rather than commercialised.
Preserving heritage through responsible tourism
Selangor is also home to historically rich districts like Gombak and Hulu Langat, which house landmarks like Batu Arang, Batu Caves, and Kajang Heritage sites. Preserving these treasures requires a thoughtful approach.
That is why local communities, trained as Geopark champions, now lead guided tours. Their authentic storytelling not only enriches the visitor experience but also ensures minimal environmental disruption.
The Gombak-Hulu Langat Geopark exemplifies this balance, integrating geological wonders, biodiversity, and cultural heritage into an educational journey. Guided tours, visitor caps, and conservation practices are in place to safeguard these areas from overtourism.
Such efforts underscore Tourism Selangor’s commitment to ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from these unique landscapes.
Looking ahead: Visit Selangor Year 2025
As we prepare for VSY2025, our strategies are guided by a clear vision that tourism growth and sustainability must go hand in hand. Our initiatives are designed not only to attract millions of visitors, but also to protect cultural identity, foster community resilience, and preserve the environment.
In the long run, the future of tourism in Selangor and Malaysia at large will depend on our ability to embrace sustainable transformation. This is not a passing trend; it is the only viable path forward for a thriving, responsible, and resilient tourism industry.
Sustainability is no longer optional; it is the foundation upon which the future of travel rests. And in Selangor, we are committed to ensuring that this future is one where people, culture, and nature flourish together.
This is the personal opinion of the author/contributor and does not necessarily represent the views of Media Selangor.
Chua Yee Ling is the chief executive officer of state agency Tourism Selangor.
