National Ecotourism Plan 2016-2025

1. Improve and streamline coordination between investment related agencies and MOTAC at the federal, state and regional corridor levels Lead § MIDA Supporting § MOTAC § Regional corridors

2. Ensure transparent application processes through consistency § UPEN between the application criteria disseminated online and the actual § DCG process. § UKAS § TERAJU 28 Detailed Action 1 Improve and streamline coordination between investment related agencies and MOTAC at the federal, state and regional corridor levels. § To create a clear channel of communication between federal and state investment related agencies LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 FEDERAL: MIDA/MOTAC STATE/CORRIDOR AGENCIES ① Financial incentives ① Specific tourism ② Investment areas incentives channel of map communication (e.g. low land premium, manpower training) Example of incentives coordination: MIDA State Regional Income tax Income tax exemption of MIDA should adopt exemption of 70% 100% for 10 years ECERDC’s tax exemption for of statutory commencing from the ecotourism sector as it income for a the year company suits the needs of ecotourism period of 5 years derives statutory business operators. income 29 IV2: ATTRACTING ECOTOURISM INVESTORS BY PROMOTING AND EMPHASISING THE UNIQUENESS, STRENGTHS AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES OF MALAYSIA’S ECOTOURISM SITES OBJECTIVE To undertake campaigns to promote ecotourism investments. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Realign and expand the scope of existing tourism incentives beyond tax holidays to match the specific needs of potential ecotourism investors. Lead § MIDA § MOTAC Supporting

2. Publicise investment opportunities through the publication and § MNRE dissemination of ecotourism investment areas maps that highlight § Regional Corridors the unique features of designated locations for investments, § UPEN existing connectivity, incentives offered and potential projects. § KePKAS § MOT Sarawak § Tourism Malaysia

3. Organise and participate in ecotourism investment tradeshows and § State Investment events to showcase ecotourism investment opportunities to local Agencies and foreign investors. § DCG 30 Detailed Action 2 Publicise investment opportunities through the publication and dissemination of ecotourism investment areas maps that highlight the unique features of designated locations for investments. § Promote investment STATE AGENCIES MOTAC areas in tradeshows, Collaborate events, trade missions, UPEN MIDA with etc. § Publish Expression of PA agencies Tourism Malaysia Interest (EOI) § Determine suitable Local Authority Regional Corridors incentives § Develop promotional materials Criteria to Develop Investment Areas q Uniqueness of the location according to cluster q Accessibility & connectivity (town, access road, transportation) q Availability of human resource q Environmental risk q Land availability 31 IV3: REFINING EXISTING INVESTMENT FACILITATION PROGRAMMES COMPRISING FISCAL INCENTIVES, ONE-OFF GRANTS AND MICRO CREDIT FACILITIES SPECIFIC TO THE NEEDS OF ECOTOURISM OPERATORS OBJECTIVE To remove impediments that are restricting the effectiveness of existing financial incentives to scale up entrepreneurship in ecotourism. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Introduce an Ecotourism Innovation Matching Grant to kick start innovations in state-of-the-art ecotourism products in Malaysia.

2. Expand the eligibility for accessing UKAS’s Infrastructure Grant from a single entity to a consortium.

3. Expand the existing 10-year tax holiday scheme for investments in less developed areas to include the ecotourism sector. Lead: § MOTAC

4. Complement the existing hotel star rating system with a separate § MOF category for high end ecolodges that recognises innovation and Supporting: adherence to sustainability principles. § MITI § UKAS

5. Provide consultancy services to small/medium scale ecotourism § MIDA operators to ensure better access to the Special Tourism Fund § Development Bank (STF) and Tourism Infrastructure Fund (TIF). § SME Bank § Tourism Malaysia

6. Expand the scope of micro credit facilities to include soft loans for § MYCEB the purchase of high end boats for sports fishing and specialized § Event Organisers equipment for eco-adventure products and activities.

7. Review the scope and procedures of the Special Tourism Fund and Tourism Infrastructure Fund so as to be effective in scaling up small-medium scale local entrepreneurship related to ecotourism

8. Organise exhibitions for specialised eco-adventure equipment suppliers to facilitate potential sponsorships for local eco-adventure operators as brand ambassadors. 32 Detailed Action 4 Complement the existing hotel star rating system with a separate category for high end ecolodges that recognises innovation and adherence to sustainability principles MOTAC Criteria for ecolodge star rating should embrace sustainability principles, use of green technology and best practice To develop Among criteria that need to be included in the criteria BUILDING PREMISES Star Rating Criteria for § Construction of premises result in ECOLODGE minimal impact to the environment § Align building orientation to maximise air ventilation & natural lighting § Use local and recycled materials for building premises To enable ecolodges to qualify for foreign equity incentives GREEN TECHNOLOGY § Use electricity and water saving equipment § Utilise sustainable technology for water & electricity 4 - 5 star ecolodges § Use environmentally-friendly sewage qualify for & solid waste system 100% FOREIGN OWNERSHIP HUMAN RESOURCE § Majority of staff/workers are hired from the local community Significance to Investments: § Conduct frequent training courses to § The most important factor to local staff foreign investors (Investor survey, 2015) 33 Tourism Concessions in National Parks There are 2 strategies and 9 actions for tourism concessions in national parks. 34 02 09 STRATEGIES ACTIONS 35 TC1: INTRODUCING A PROTOCOL FOR ECOTOURISM CONCESSIONS THAT ENHANCES THE QUALITY OF THE TOURIST EXPERIENCE IN NATIONAL PARKS AS WELL AS ENSURE SUSTAINABLE FINANCING OBJECTIVE To provide high quality and responsive visitor services compatible with conservation as well as create a sustainable financing system to facilitate the management of tourism in national parks. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Embrace tourism concessions as the opportunity to create a sustainable form of financing conservation in national parks.

2. Publicise clear, transparent and consistent processes and Lead: procedures in awarding tourism concessions. § MNRE and its related agencies

3. Prepare a tourism concession development strategy and physical § KepKAS plan to be incorporated in the overall park management plan. § MRPE § MOA

4. Award long-term concessions, gradually up to 30 years or more, to Supporting: reputable concessionaires through a transparent and formal § State Forestry process. Departments § UPEN

5. Enhance the current revenue capture mechanism to be § SFC complemented by the establishment of a trust fund for better § Sabah Parks / SWD / financial autonomy. SFD § Dept. of Fisheries

6. Establish specific units with trained personnel to manage and § MOF monitor tourism concessions as well as contribute to the creation of a centralised database system. 36 Detailed action 3 Prepare a tourism concession development strategy and plan to be incorporated in the overall park management plan. PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN Action and Concessions Resources and Policies Management Management Characteristics Plans Plan COMPONENTS OF THE CONCESSIONS MANAGEMENT PLAN: • Concession goal and objectives • Concession process and procedure • Concession fees and incentives • Site management plan • Concession zoning plan • Concession management staff and training plan • Concession evaluation guidelines 37 9 1 LAW & POLICY 2 PROCESS & PROCEDURE § Provide the outline and framework for commercial activities § Outline specific limitations § Document the process and only when necessary. procedure through websites § Provide specific details of and other accessible how concessions are to sources operate § Notify applicants regarding any applications with clearly Components in stated criteria Tourism Concession Development Strategy 5 FEES, COST 6 STAFF 7 EIA, MONITOR, RECOVERY & § Establish tourism concession team or unit that would include: COMPLIANCE INCENTIVES o Decision makers o Concession manager o Concession staff § EIA – Since the concession is only focusing on the operation and management of resorts or chalets § Develop and design and activities, an EIA is not o Administration staff minimum fee that is flexible o Field staff necessary. However EIA is across ecotourism sites and required for new and large-scale protected areas development in ecotourism sites § Review regular fee over or protected areas time § Monitoring & Compliance - ecotourism sites or protected areas agencies in Malaysia carries out monitoring to ensure that concessionaires are operating according to their concession contracts 38 3 PLANNING 4 STANDARD § Plans should include: § Biodiversity strategy and tourism at national, CONTRACT state and local level. § Develop procedures and § Types and levels of standard-form contracts activities, services, and rooted in domestic law that facilities will be clearly outline the rights and provided and how they responsibilities of each can be managed by the party, but covering certain in the most effective basic elements that and efficient manner. characterize good practice everywhere. § Example of general provision in a standard contract can be seen in the next page 8 WEB INFO, 9 DATABASE APPLICANTS/ § Provide centralised database to track and record all concessions, and the revenue management PUBLIC § systems used to collect fees. Must be maintained and kept up- § Provides a range of to-date at all times concession information on § Example of information to be kept its website to assist people in the database can be seen in who are interested in the next page. investing in protected natural areas and to maintain public confidence in commercial arrangements on public lands. § Example of information that can be included in the website is shown in the next page 39 TC2: BUILDING CAPACITY FOR ENGAGING IN COMMERCIAL AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS OBJECTIVE To ensure national park managers and tourism officials are up-to-date with international trends in concessions management and understand the opportunities and challenges presented by Malaysia’s new national concessions protocol. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Provide special training programmes for national park managers to be trained in managing tourism and concessions. Lead: § MNRE and its related agencies § KePKAS

2. Embrace staff exchange programmes with existing networks in the § MRPE region such as ASEAN Heritage Parks and the Asian Protected § MOA Areas Partnership (APAP), etc. Supporting: § State Forestry Departments § UPEN § SFC

3. Include local communities as concessionaires through their § Sabah Parks / SWD / respective cooperatives. SFD § Dept. of Fisheries § MOF 40 Detailed action 1 Provide special training programmes for national park managers to be trained in managing tourism and concessions. § Proposed special training programme for national park managers: 1 Lead Agency § MNRE/MOTAC TOURISM TRAINING CONCESSION TRAINING Tourism 2 Programme: Scope/Module: Scope/Module: Special Training ① Visitor management ① Managing cases (either tenders or for PA manager ② Hospitality applications) ③ Services ② Completing reports ③ Drafting contracts/tender ④ Critically review applications ⑤ Monitoring concession operations § MOTAC § Sabah Park § Tourist guide associations § EPU 3 Master Trainers § Local universities § Etc. § Etc. 4 Targeted Trainees § Related PA managers (Manager, Ranger, Front Desk etc) § Hands on Training 5 Methods of Training § Practical /Internship Training 6 Training Frequency § Twice a year § PA managers to be able to manage tourism concessions and visitors 7 Expected Outcomes § Develop skills, capacity and capability 41 SynergY Between Ecotourism and Conservation There are 7 strategies and 33 actions for synergy between ecotourism and conservation. 42 07 33 STRATEGIES ACTIONS 43 SY1: ENHANCE THE ROLE AND EFFECTIVENESS OF THE NATIONAL ECOTOURISM COMMITTEE OBJECTIVE To enhance the National Ecotourism Committee (Steering Committee and Working Group) to enable better implementation, planning and coordination of ecotourism in Malaysia. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Expand the role and membership of the National Ecotourism Steering Committee and Working Group. Lead:

2. Facilitate better involvement of the private sector and local § MOTAC communities in developing ecotourism in synergy with § MNRE conservation. Supporting: § Members of the National Ecotourism Committee

3. Provide support for clusters in seeking funding for infrastructure development and capacity building programmes. 44 Detailed action 1 Expand the role of the National Ecotourism Steering Committee to focus on coordinating and overseeing the implementation of the National Ecotourism Plan 2015-2025. § Proposed additional roles and membership PROPOSED ADDITIONAL ROLES PROPOSED ADDITIONAL COMMITTEEMEMBERS § Related Protected Area Agencies From Sabah and Sarawak § Coordinate the implementation of National Ecotourism Plan 2016-2025 § Review policies and strategies of Sarawak Sarawak Sabah Wildlife Sabah Yayasan Sabah the National Ecotourism Plan and Forestry Forestry Parks Department Forestry Sabah Group make changes where necessary Department Corporation Department § Review sites’/states’ application for financial assistance and act as a § MOF, MITI, MIDA etc. clearinghouse mechanism for the final recommendation to the Secretary General of MOTAC § Advice the Cabinet on legislative § Local community representative (National issues related to ecotourism CBET Network) § Include specific ecotourism custodians § Regional Corridors (ECERDC, NCIA, IRDA, RECODA, SEDIA 45 Propose Specific Roles and Additional Committee Members LEVEL 1 National Ecotourism Committee (NETC) Co-chair: MOTAC Minister & STEERING MNRE Minister COMMITTEE Members: Government Ministry of Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Ministry of Education Economic Planning Unit, PM’s Department State Economic Planning Department Ministry of Tourism Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah Ministry of Resource Planning and Environment, Sarawak (MRPE) Other Members (refer to current list of members) Proposed Role: • ENDORSEMENT 46 LEVEL 2 National Ecotourism Working Groups (NEWG) PENINSULAR SABAH SARAWAK WORKING GROUP WORKING GROUP WORKING GROUP Co-Chair: Chair: Co-Chair: Secretary General MOTAC & MNRE Permanent Secretary KePKAS Permanent Secretary MOTS & MRPE Members: Members: Members: Government Government Government Department of Wildlife and Sabah Parks Sarawak Forestry Cooperation National Parks (PERHILITAN) Department of Marine Park Yayasan Sabah Forest Department Sarawak Malaysia Department of Environment Sabah Wildlife Department State Economic Planning Unit State Economic Planning Units State Economic Planning Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) Economic Corridors (ECERDC, Department NCIA, IRDA Sarawak Biodiversity Centre Tourism Malaysia Sabah Tourism Board (STB) Tourism Industry/NGO State Forestry Departments Tourism Industry/NGO Other related agencies Sarawak Tourism Federation Tour Operator Association Tourism Industry/NGO Sarawak Tourist Guide Association Tour Operator Association Guide Association Guide Association Sarawak Homestay Owners Persatuan Homestay Malaysia Association Persatuan Homestay Malaysia Other NGOs (MEA, WWF, MNS) Other NGOs (MEA, WWF, MNS) Other NGOs (MEA, WWF, MNS) Local Community Local Community Local Community National CBET Network National CBET Network National CBET Network WORK ON EXISTING AND PROPOSED ADDITIONAL ROLES 47 SY2: ESTABLISHING A MALAYSIAN COMMUNITY-BASED ECOTOURISM NETWORK TO IMPROVE REPRESENTATION AND SHARE BEST PRACTICE OBJECTIVE To establish a national platform for the sharing of experiences and best practice in community-based ecotourism. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Establish a community-based ecotourism network driven by CBET operators.

2. Designate Miso Walai Homestay/KOPEL in Sabah as a training centre for CBET.

3. Conduct ‘community to community’ training to enhance capacity of CBET operators. Lead:

4. Set up a website and relevant social media accounts to promote § CBET Network and share best practice in CBET. Supporting: § MOTAC § KKLW

5. Organise annual meeting/seminar to discuss issues pertinent to the § MNRE development of CBET in Malaysia and to share experiences. § KePKAS § Relevant NGOs § Local Universities

6. Include the CBET Network in the National Ecotourism Steering Committee. 48 Detailed action 1 Establish a community-based ecotourism network driven by CBET operators. § Proposed National Community Based Ecotourism Network structure, roles and function MOTAC KePKAS MOTS §Establish §Advisory §Sponsorship §Advisory Representative National Ecotourism NGO §Partnership National CBET Network Steering Committee Peninsular Sabah Sarawak Potential Members: Potential Members: Potential Members: § Persatuan Sahabat Sg. Nenggiri § KOPEL (Misowalai Homestay) § Mulu Special Parks Committee § Persatuan Anak Kurau § Persatuan Malim Gunung § FORMADAT (Bakalalan, Bario Long § Persatuan Ecotourism Kuala Kinabalu Semado) Sepetang § FORMADAT (Long Pasia) § Ulu Menyang Local Community § Persatuan Homestay Malaysia § Community Bundu Tuhan § Sarawak Homestay Owners Association § Ulu Geroh § Persatuan Homestay Malaysia § Special Parks Committees in NPs § Etc. (Sabah) § Etc. § Etc. Roles and Function: Programme: § Knowledge sharing § Joint training § Future planning § Meeting and discussion § Problem solving § Workshop/seminar § Represent CBET in § Internship the National Ecotourism Steering Committee 49 SY3: CONSOLIDATING RESEARCH THROUGH THE RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH CENTRES IN SELECTED NATIONAL PARKS OBJECTIVE To revitalise the educational component and activities of national parks. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES 1. Establish/re-establish Nature Education Centres at selected National Parks and urban ecotourism sites through partnerships with local universities and NGOs. Lead § MNRE § PA agencies in Sabah 2. and Sarawak Seek sponsorships from the corporate sector through their Supporting Corporate Social Responsibility programmes to finance Nature § MOHE Education Centres. § MNS § WWF Malaysia § Local Universities 3. § Regional Corridors Strengthen partnerships with local universities and research § Local NGOs centres to expand the existing scope of research to include § Corporate Sector carrying capacity and visitor management studies. 50 Detailed action 1 Establish/re-establish Nature Education Research Centres (NERC) at selected National Parks and urban ecotourism sites through partnerships with local universities and NGOs NPs and Ecotourism Management (Federal & State Agencies) Partnership Universities NGOs + Corporate Sector Sponsorship through CSR programme Proposed new NERC at 01 Revitalise and re-establish former NERC 02 selected NPs and urban ecotourism sites § Revitalising former NERC § Establish NERC at selected such as Endau Rompin NPs and urban ecotourism National Park and sites such as: Fraser’s Hill by emulating ① Lambir Hills Danum Valley’s model. ② Taman Negara NP ③ Tasik Kenyir ④ Setiu Wetlands + Activities & Programmes + § Research Centre & Laboratory § Carrying Capacity Studies § Training Centre § Social Science Study § Environment Education § Community Study § Nature Interpretation & § Ecotourism Education § Conservation & Preservation § Visitor Management Studies § Publication Sustainable Business & Marketing Plan 51 SY4: DEVELOP AND SHOWCASE KEYSTONE ECOTOURISM SITES AS EXCELLENT MODELS OF SYNERGY BETWEEN ECOTOURISM AND CONSERVATION OBJECTIVE To elevate the management of keystone sites identified in the 60 ecotourism clusters as best practice for ecotourism and conservation management. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Identify keystone sites according to the 60 ecotourism clusters

2. Incorporate a tourism management plan within the overall Lead: management plan of Protected Areas identified as keystone § MOTAC § MNRE and its related

3. Prepare guidelines and best practice for ecolodge development agencies within buffer zones or at staging points to national parks Supporting: § PA agencies in Sabah and

4. Gazette keystone sites that have not yet been protected as Sarawak Protected Areas using appropriate legal instruments. § NGOs § JPBD

5. Utilise Special Area Plans and its equivalent in Sabah and § Sarawak State Planning Sarawak; or other appropriate statutory planning tools to control Authority § Land & Survey development in areas adjacent to keystone sites that are facing Department significant development pressure. § State EPUs § Jabatan Warisan Negara

6. Identify natural areas with distinctive keystone features to be § DCG nominated into UNESCO’s World Heritage List, Man and Biosphere Programme and RAMSAR list. 52 Detailed action 5 Utilise Special Area Plans and its equivalent in Sabah and Sarawak; or other appropriate statutory planning tools to control development in areas adjacent to keystone sites that are facing significant development pressure. Peninsular Malaysia SARAWAK Process for SAP formulation under the LAND & SURVEY DEPARTMENT Town and Country Planning Act 1976 Publicity in connection with preparation Prepare non-statutory of Draft SAP plans Preparation of Draft SAP Design brief & design guide for non- protected areas: • Mangroves & Wetlands (i.e. RAMSAR Publicity and public inspection of Draft sites) SAP (inspection period not less than 4 • Rivers weeks) • Etc. Public inquiries and hearings Endorsed by: Approval or rejection of Draft SAP STATE PLANNING AUTHORITY Gazette SAP Recognised as law 53 SY5: REPOSITIONING MARINE PROTECTED AREAS IN MALAYSIA AS ECOTOURISM DESTINATIONS THAT CHAMPION THE CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF MARINE AND TERRESTRIAL RESOURCES FOR THE ENJOYMENT OF TOURISTS IN A RESPONSIBLE MANNER WHILE ENHANCING THE WELL BEING OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY OBJECTIVE To reduce the pressure on marine resources especially coral reefs due to unsustainable tourism development and irresponsible tourist behaviour during diving and snorkelling activities ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Conduct carrying capacity studies using technique such as Limits of Acceptable Change (LAC) and implement visitor management strategies at marine ecotourism sites facing high tourist visitations. Lead:

2. Embark on comprehensive reef restoration programmes that § DMPM combine initiatives to restore damaged coral reefs and the § Sabah Parks construction of artificial reefs. § Sarawak Forestry Corporation

3. Regulate diving and snorkelling activities through stringent Supporting: enforcement and use of visitor management techniques such as § MOTAC diving zonation and education § Local Authorities § Perbadanan Taman

4. Empower locally-based NGOs to spearhead voluntary and CSR Negara Johor programmes related to conservation, such as beach clean up, coral § NGOs restoration and reforestation. § Local Communities § Corporate Sector

5. Prepare and implement a climate change mitigation and adaption plan for coastal and island tourism that incorporates marine spatial planning. 54 Detailed action 3 Regulate diving and snorkelling activities through stringent enforcement and use of visitor management techniques. DMPM & Jabatan Laut organise Awareness Training Programmes Programmes § Codes of conduct § Workshops Roles and § Safety briefing § Forums contribution § Visitor safety § Seminars towards sustainability assessment § Visitor arrangement Resort/Chalet Dive Shops Snorkeling Operators Operators 55 SY6: SCALING UP ECOTOURISM THROUGH WORLD-CLASS GUIDING AND INTERPRETATION OBJECTIVE To support continuous development of local nature guides to provide high quality guiding and interpretation. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Institutionalise specialised training courses for nature guides to enhance product knowledge and communication skills for special interest tourism.

2. Create a sponsorship programme for certified local nature guides Lead: to attend specialised training. § MOTAC Supporting: § MTGC § State TGAs § PA Agencies § Guide Associations

3. Develop suitable and innovative interpretation material for clusters § NGOs and keystone sites such as trail maps, interpretation panels, videos § Private Sector and guide books. § KKLW § Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran

4. Increase ‘buy-in’ from the local community, tourists and industry players through public education and awareness programmes. 56 Detailed action 1 Institutionalise specialised training courses for nature guides to enhance product knowledge and communication skills for special interest tourism § Localised and nature guides to be given training in special interest product knowledge and communication skills. § Specialist badges (i.e. frogging, orchids, bird watching, etc.) to be awarded to guides that complete the specific course. Collaboration: Course modules: MOTAC • Prepare interpretation materials Special Interest Training: + • Appoint master trainers § Botany • Organise training § Frogs & Amphibians NGOs courses § Avitourism (Birdwatching) § Wildlife + § Marine (Snorkelling / Diving) § Local & Indigenous Culture PA AGENCIES § History § Trekking / Hiking + § Ecosystems and Biodiversity Training Conversational English & Other Foreign institutions Languages Wilderness First Responder Swift water Rescue Improve product knowledge and skills • Fulfil demand for special interest interpretation Nature / LocalISED Guides • Increase guiding fees 57 SY7: SCALING UP HOMESTAYS AS STAGING POINT TO ECOTOURISM SITES OBJECTIVE To improve the tourist experience at homestays located near ecotourism sites and offer a comprehensive ecotourism package. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Encourage variants of the homestay concept by guiding providers to offer a mix of ‘live in’ homestays, annex type homestay, kampungstay, farmstay etc. according to the needs of specific market segments Lead Agency

2. Encourage the setting up of tourism cooperatives under the § MOTAC auspices of Suruhanjaya Koperasi Malaysia to strengthen the Supporting Agencies organisation and financial management of homestays § PHM

3. Consolidate the Unique Selling Proposition (USP) of the existing § KKLW homestays in line with the themes of the clusters and keystone § MOA attractions § MNRE and its agencies

4. Create a pool of localised guides at homestay sites and villages in § MTGC Marine Parks through capacity building programmes § State TGAs § Sabah Parks / SWD /

5. Enhance local stewardship of nature by empowering youths at SFD CBT/homestay sites through systematic conservation projects § KPSAS driven by government agencies and funded by international donors § SFC

6. Empower local communities surrounding national parks by § International donors strengthening integration between CBET/homestay programme and ecotourism 58 Detailed action 1 Encourage variants of the homestay concept by guiding providers to offer a mix of ‘live in’ homestays, annex type homestay, kampungstay, farmstay etc. according to the needs of specific market segments Offer innovative and distinctive Homestay + Kampungstay + Farmstay packaging Reassess the distinctness Stand alone Merged between and performance of existing Annexed accommodation ecotourism and agriculture homestays products and activities Increase MOTAC to depth of Identify endorse Limited to less tourist Increase the depth of tourist USP as a annexed type than 30% of experience experience in creating Establish form of accommodatio number of through outdoor activities related to tourism/ differentiati n at existing registered more agriculture on registered homestays Homestay and interactive homestays Kampungstay activities cooperative under the SKM Market Segment Market Segment Market Segment § Families § International Families Scaling up § Local university students/groups § Domestic Families § Domestic Families § International students/groups (Japan/Korea) Social enterprises Setting up rural entrepreneurs related to CBT 21st Century Village Guesthouses (Illegal Homestay) KPKT / Local Authority to develop guidelines 59 Ecotourism Marketing There are 6 strategies and 26 actions for ecotourism marketing 60 06 26 STRATEGIES ACTIONS 61 EM1: LEVERAGING ON MAINSTREAM TOURIST FLOWS BY HIGHLIGHTING SOFT ECOTOURISM AND URBAN ECOTOURISM PRODUCTS WITH EASY ACCESS FROM MAJOR CITIES OBJECTIVE To identify and promote soft ecotourism modules for mainstream market segments in major cities and combine with the promotion of urban ecotourism. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Embrace urban ecotourism by designing a domestic promotional campaign linking the urban ecotourism clusters to Tourism Malaysia’s “Dekat Je” campaign and other programmes in the future.

2. Embark on an aggressive marketing and promotional programme selling fly-drive packages through partnerships with airlines, hotels/ Lead: resorts as well as international independent tour companies. § Tourism Malaysia Supporting:

3. Facilitate self drive holidays by developing mobile apps to § Sabah Tourism Board showcase thematic routes that link ecotourism attractions and § Sarawak Tourism enhancing R&Rs along major roads and highways. Board § PLUS

4. Develop and promote thematic urban ecotourism routes/clusters radiating from the major cities in Malaysia. § FINAS § Airlines

5. Promote and brand Malaysia as a major filming location by § MAH leveraging on its rich natural resources and the presence of § CRAM Pinewood Studios in Iskandar Malaysia § KTMB

6. Encourage seamless travel and longer stays by developing and promoting soft ecotourism products.

7. Encourage rail ecotourism by increasing the frequency of train services between Singapore and Johor Bahru and promoting rail travel to ecotourism sites 62 Detailed action 2 Embark on an aggressive marketing and promotional programme selling fly-drive packages through partnerships with airlines, hotels/resorts as well as international independent tour companies Airlines Hoteliers (MAH) Partnership Car Rental Association International Independent Tour (CRAM) Operators (Traifinders, Audley Travel) Fly-drive Packages Airlines Ticketing + Accommodation + Car Rental + Entrance Fee, etc. Destination Ecotourism Clusters 63 EM2: MARKETING AND PROMOTING ACTIVITY DRIVEN, ECO-ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES TO THE GEN Y, YOUTH ASSOCIATIONS, SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY GROUPS AND URBAN FAMILIES OBJECTIVE To build on domestic and neighbouring markets demand for eco-adventure and implement new packages that appeal to Gen Y, urban families and youth. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Bid for the right to host international competitions and tournaments related to eco-adventure.

2. Brand Malaysia as a destination for eco-adventure by leveraging on its rugged tropical rainforest image. Lead: § MYCEB Supporting:

3. Embark on a targeted marketing campaign by reaching out to youth § Malaysian Sports associations, local and international schools and universities. Tourism Council § State Convention Bureaus

4. Participate in related eco-adventure events and expositions in the § Malaysian Scuba region and beyond. Diving Association § Other related associations

5. Design attractive mobile applications and promote eco-adventure § Eco-Adventure packages using video footage and presentations. Operators § MDEC

6. Emphasise safety as the most important aspect of eco-adventure activities through ISO certification, staff training, conforming to international safety standards, etc. 64 Detailed action 3 Embark on a targeted marketing campaign by reaching out to youth associations, local and international schools and universities Status of Market: § Students from universities and international schools and youth groups who are interested in conservation, biodiversity, voluntourism, etc. Geographic/ Southeast Asia (Philippines, Students Demographic Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand) Interests Conservation and biodiversity education, voluntourism, ecotourism Conditions Settings/Facilities Direct flights from primary Southeast Asian cities to secondary cities near ecotourism sites Development of a Research and Interpretation Centres in ecotourism sites Events to attract students during school holidays Locations Both terrestrial and marine ecotourism sites, prioritising National Parks Approach Develop voluntourism packages with local communities and international schools/universities International safety certification of camp sites, accommodation, diving facilities, etc. Specialist tour guides for school trips, voluntourism programmes and conservation/biodiversity education Aspirations: § Malaysia as an ecotourism destination that emphasises conservation education and local community participation 65 EM3: PROMOTING SPECIAL INTEREST ECOTOURISM THROUGH APPROPRIATE CHANNELS OBJECTIVE To attract more high spending special interest tourists to Malaysia ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Consolidate staff specialisation according to special interest markets in Tourism Malaysia. Lead Agency

2. Promote special interest ecotourism at regional and international § Tourism Malaysia events such as diving, bird watching, etc. Supporting Agencies § MMU § Universities § NGOs

3. Develop and disseminate mobile apps aimed at providing detailed information according to the needs of the specific special interest § State Tourism Agencies market segments § Private Sector § Universities

4. Organise and promote international events to showcase the § DCGs diverse special interest ecotourism attractions according to clusters 66 Detailed action 2 Promote special interest ecotourism at regional and international events, such as diving, bird watching, etc § Dive Operators Tourism Malaysia + Private Sector § § Dive Resorts Dive Associations Joint venture International (Long-haul) Regional Dive Expos Dive Expos Set Up Promotion Booth • The Birmingham Dive at Regional Dive Expos Show • The World Festival of • Malaysia Underwater Pictures International Dive • BLUE Ocean Film Expo (MIDE) Festival • ADEX Singapore • DEMA Las Vegas Promotion Activities • World Deep • Global Diving Philippines Conference • Raise awareness • DRT Philippines • Paris Dive Show about diving in • Thailand Dive Expo • Dutch Dive Whos Malaysia (TDEX) • London International • Sell diving packages • DEEP & Extreme Dive Show Indonesia • Our World Underwater • Give presentations • DRT Hong Kong Chicago (facts, figures, • DRT Shanghai • European Dive Show research findings, etc.) • China Beijing • Australia International about diving sites in International Dive Dive Expo Malaysia Expo • Scuba Show California • Networking with • Diving for Science international dive Symposium operators and clubs 67 EM4: CELEBRATE AND REWARD INNOVATIONS IN ECOTOURISM PRODUCTS AND SERVICES THOUGH AWARDS OBJECTIVE To encourage innovation in the ecotourism industry through ecotourism categories that also provides priority access to special grants. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Introduce ecotourism categories in the National Tourism Awards.

2. Organise a separate National Ecotourism Awards as industry matures. Lead Agencies § Tourism Malaysia § MOTAC Supporting Agencies

3. Tie up awards to special grants for innovation in ecotourism product development. § MEA § Private Sector

4. Embrace the MyTQA programme by incentivising voluntary certification in the effort to move up ecotourism products along the value chain. 68 Detailed action 1 Introduce ecotourism categories in the National Tourism Awards. § Expand the annual Malaysia Tourism Awards to include ecotourism categories to encourage innovation, high quality product development and service delivery in the ecotourism industry. Existing Categories Proposed Ecotourism Criteria of Ecotourism (2015) Categories Categories Expand Based • Best Local Tour Operator • Best Ecolodge on • Sustainability these • Best Foreign Tour Operator • Best Ecocamp criteria • Respect nature • Best Tourism Article • Best Eco-Adventure Operator • Benefits local communities • Best Tourism Publication • Best Nature Guide • Contribution to conservation • Best Hotel Services • Best Local Guide • Components of education • Best Tourist Attraction • Best Community-Owned and awareness • Best Tour Package Ecotourism Enterprise • Best Tourist Guide • Best Community Engagement • Innovative Shopping Centre & Development Project • Best Homestay • Best Protection and • Best Spa Conservation Programme • Innovative Restaurant • Best Travel Documentary on Malaysia • Best Online Promotion of Malaysia Award winners to be offered special ecotourism product development grants 69 EM5: IDENTIFYING MEASURES OF ECOTOURISM ACTIVITY INCLUDING DATA ON VISITORS AND VISITOR MANAGEMENT ISSUES IN PROTECTED AREAS. AWARDS OBJECTIVE To arrange for pooling of data collected in PAs and other key ecotourism sites in order to identify trends in ecotourism ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Coordinate visitor data to national parks and other ecotourism sites to create a national ecotourism database. Lead Agency § Tourism Malaysia Supporting Agencies § State parks

2. Map visitor arrival data to produce an annual ecotourism metrics corporations map to show spatial trends in arrivals and receipts to national parks § MNRE and its within corresponding clusters agencies § Sabah Parks § SFC

3. Enhance and compile existing NAPIC PRISM database and tourist § DCG arrivals to supporting attractions within clusters to show trends at § NAPIC the cluster level. 70 EM6: ORGANISING ANNUAL NATIONAL ECOTOURISM SEMINARS AS A PLATFORM TO SHARE EXPERIENCES AND BEST PRACTICE OBJECTIVE To organise annual national ecotourism seminars as a platform for sharing of knowledge and experiences as well as improving processes ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Organise an annual national ecotourism seminar to be attended by stakeholders in the national ecotourism industry. Lead: § MOTAC Supporting: § MEA

2. Incorporate ecotourism related events such as ecotourism § Industry Players investment tradeshows, ecotourism travel fair, etc. during the § Tourism Malaysia national ecotourism seminar. § MIDA § CBET Network 71 Ecotourism CLUSTERS There is one strategy and 5 actions for Ecotourism Clusters. 72 01 05 STRATEGY ACTIONS 73 EC1: DESIGNING ECOTOURISM CLUSTERS AND THEMED CIRCUITS BY NETWORKING PUBLIC SECTOR, INDUSTRY AND COMMUNITY PLAYERS OBJECTIVE To prepare detailed cluster diagrams for the identified 60 ecotourism clusters. ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES

1. Prepare six detailed ecotourism clusters (action plans) as models for other proposed ecotourism clusters.

2. Utilise proposed toolkit to develop action plans for 54 conceptual clusters. Lead: § MOTAC

3. Establish Destination Coordination Groups (DCG) for each cluster Supporting: to carry out integrated planning, knowledge sharing and conflict § MOTS resolution. § KePKAS § UPEN (all states) § Local Authority

4. Identify and promote scenic drive routes, cycling trails and river § DCG cruises based on the clusters to be complemented by signage and rest areas, etc. 5. Refine all 54 conceptual and 6 detailed clusters after initial implementation phase. 74 Detailed action 1 Prepare six detailed ecotourism clusters (action plan) as models for other proposed conceptual ecotourism clusters. 01 02 03 Model Proposed for Proposed DETAILED CLUSTERS CONCEPTUAL CLUSTERS (Action Plans) 6 Ecotourism Clusters 54 Ecotourism Clusters Content Content Taiping-Batu Setiu-Merang- Kota Kinabalu- Kurau-Bukit Penarik Papar- Keystone Keystone Merah Ecotourism Beaufort-Klias- Ecotourism Cluster Kuala Penyu- Supporting Product Supporting Product Cluster Menumbok- Sipitang-Long Tourist Flow Tourist Flows Pasia Ecotourism Market Market Cluster Issue/Gap Prospect 04 05 06 Action Plan Product Development Destination Management Human Resource Marketing Sandakan- Bako- Miri-Sibuti- Infrastructure Kinabatangan Santubong- Niah-Loagan Development Ecotourism Kubah- Bunut Cluster Semenggoh- Ecotourism Bau-Padawan Cluster Ecotourism Cluster 75 04 DEVELOPING ECOTOURISM CLUSTERS Sungai Sireh, Selangor 77 Tourism Cluster Definition “a critical mass of competitive (and/or complementary) tourism products including one or more major attractions in a concentrated geographical area” 78 Proposed 60 Ecotourism Clusters Divided into 2 types of clusters Proposed Proposed DETAILED CLUSTERS CONCEPTUAL CLUSTERS (Action Plans) 6 Ecotourism Clusters 54 Ecotourism Clusters Content Content Keystone Keystone Supporting Product Supporting Product Tourist Flow Tourist Flows Market Market Issue/Gap Prospect Action Plan Product CLUSTER Development Destination Management TOOLKIT Human § Design (base map, boundary, etc.) Resource § Populate Marketing § Database (revenue, arrival, inventory etc.) Infrastructure § Issues/gaps identification Development § Etc. 79 PROPOSED Ecotourism Cluster Proposed 60 ecotourism clusters, with 43 clusters in Peninsular Malaysia, 9 clusters in Sarawak and 8 in Sabah. 60 Perlis 1 cluster Kedah 3 clusters Ecotourism Clusters in Malaysia Perak 4 clusters Selangor 4 clusters Melaka 3 clusters N. Sembilan 4 clusters Pahang 6 clusters Kelantan 3 clusters Terengganu 7 clusters Sarawak 9 clusters Penang 2 clusters Johor 6 clusters Sabah 8 clusters Perlis (1) Kelantan (3) Kedah (3) Sabah (8) Penang (2) Terengganu (7) Perak (4) Pahang (6) Sarawak (9) Selangor (4) Negeri Sembilan (4) Melaka (3) Johor (6) 80 List of 60 proposed ecotourism clusters STATE MACRO/REGIONAL CLUSTER Perlis 1. Kangar - Timah Tasoh - Sungai Batu Pahat - Cuping Hill - Perlis State Park

2. Jitra - Alor Setar - Gunung Jerai Kedah 3. Sungai Petani - Ulu Muda

4. Langkawi Geoparks - Pulau Payar Pulau Pinang 5. Penang National Park - Georgetown - Pulau Jerejak

6. Sedim - Seberang Perai

7. Taiping - Batu Kurau - Bukit Merah

8. Ulu Geroh - Gua Tempurung - Gopeng - Batu Gajah Perak

9. Royal Belum - Lenggong - Kuala Kangsar

10. Pulau Sembilan - Teluk Senangin - Segari Melintang

11. Selangor State Heritage Park

12. Sepang - Putrajaya - Shah Alam Selangor / Kuala

13. Kuala Lumpur Urban Ecotourism Cluster Lumpur

14. Kuala Selangor - Bukit Malawati - Sabak Bernam

15. Melaka Urban Ecotourism Cluster (Melaka Historical City - Ayer Keroh) Melaka 16. Tanjung Keling - Pengkalan Balak - Sungai Linggi - Tanjung Tuan

17. Jasin - Selandar - Tebong - Asahan

18. Rantau - Port Dickson - Sg. Menyala - Sg. Timun Negeri Sembilan 19. Jelebu Ecotourism Valley (Jelebu - Kenaboi - Seremban)

20. Seremban - Kuala Pilah - Jempol

21. Rembau - Tampin 81 STATE MACRO/REGIONAL CLUSTER

22. RAMSAR Johor - Gunung Pulai - Sungai Johor

23. Kota Tinggi - Sungai Johor - Desaru - Sedili

24. Mersing - Sultan Iskandar Marine Park Johor

25. Kluang - Endau Rompin - Segamat

26. Tangkak - Sagil - Gunung Ledang

27. Batu Pahat - Parit Jawa - Muar

28. Lanchang - Jerantut - Kuala Tahan/Taman Negara

29. Tioman - Rompin - Endau

30. Pekan - Chini - Bera

31. Cherating - Kuantan - Sg. Lembing Pahang

32. Cameron Highlands - Lojing

33. Kenong - Kuala Lipis - Raub - Bentong

34. Pergau - Jeli - Gunung Stong - Nenggiri Kelantan 35. Merapoh - Gua Musang - Stong - Kuala Koh

36. Kota Bharu - Pasir Mas - Bachok

37. Kampung Raja - Besut - Pulau Perhentian - Jerteh

38. Setiu - Merang - Penarik

39. Ajil - Kuala Berang - Tasik Kenyir

40. Kuala Terengganu - Kuala Nerus Terengganu

41. Marang - Pulau Kapas

42. Dungun - Rantau Abang - Al-Muktafi Billal Shah - Pulau Tenggol

43. Kemaman - Kijal - Chukai - Kerteh 82 STATE MACRO/REGIONAL CLUSTER

44. Lundu - Sematan - Telok Melano - Tanjung Datu

45. Bako - Santubong - Kubah - Semenggoh - Bau - Padawan

46. Sri Aman - Batang Ai - Ulu Sungai Menyang - Maludam

47. Sibu - Kapit - Tunoh - Baleh - Palagus

48. Mukah - Daro - Pulau Bruit - Tanjung Manis Sarawak 49. Bintulu - Bakun - Belaga - Lusong Laku - Nanga Merit - Murum

50. Miri - Sibuti - Niah - Loagan Bunut

51. Limbang - Mulu - Gunung Buda

52. Lawas - Bario - Ba’kalalan - Baram

53. Kota Kinabalu - Papar - Beaufort - Klias - Kuala Penyu - Menumbok - Sipitang - Long Pasia

54. Sandakan - Kinabatangan

55. Kota Kinabalu - Kota Belud - Kota Marudu - Kudat

56. Kota Kinabalu - Tambunan - Crocker Range Park - Keningau - Tenom Sabah

57. Kota Kinabalu - Tamparuli - Kundasang - Ranau

58. Maliau Basin - Imbak Canyon

59. Danum Valley - Tabin (Lahad Datu)

60. Tawau - Semporna - Mabul - Sipadan - Kunak 83 Proposed Detailed Ecotourism Clusters § 2 clusters from Peninsular Malaysia § 4 Mature clusters § 2 clusters from Sabah § 2 Emerging cluster § 2 clusters from Sarawak Perak Terengganu Sabah 01 02 03 Taiping-Batu Kurau-Bukit Setiu-Merang-Penarik Kota Kinabalu-Papar-Beaufort- Merah Ecotourism Cluster Klias-Kuala Penyu-Menumbok- Ecotourism Cluster Sipitang-Long Pasia Ecotourism Cluster Mature Cluster Mature Cluster Emerging Cluster 84 Sabah Sarawak Sarawak 04 05 06 Sandakan-Kinabatangan Bako-Santubong-Kubah- Miri-Sibuti-Niah-Loagan Ecotourism Cluster Semenggoh-Bau-Padawan Bunut Ecotourism Cluster Ecotourism Cluster Mature Cluster Mature Cluster Emerging Cluster 85 05 SUMMARY AND IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Pulau Perhentian, Terengganu 87 Investments in Ecotourism Implementation Phase Monitoring Phase QUICK WIN (2016) SHORT TERM MEDIUM TERM LONG TERM (2017-2018) (2019-2020) (2021-2025) Prepare guidelines and best practice for ecolodge development Foreign ownership New Star Rating for liberalisation for 4 & 5 Ecolodges star ecolodges Improve and Identify and publicise streamline coordination investment opportunity between investment areas agencies and tourism Organise and participate in ecotourism investment tradeshows onwards Realign and expand scope of ecotourism incentives Introduce one-off Ecotourism Innovation Grant Provide STF Review the scope and consultancy services to procedures of the STF & small/medium TIF onwards ecotourism operators 88 Tourism Concessions in National Parks Implementation Phase Monitoring Phase QUICK WIN (2016) SHORT TERM MEDIUM TERM LONG TERM (2017-2018) (2019-2020) (2021-2025) Prepare concession development strategy and Review protocols for Introduce protocols for physical plans to be ecotourism concessions ecotourism concessions incorporated into park onwards management plans Publicise clear, transparent and Award long-term concessions, consistent processes and gradually up to 30 years, to procedures in awarding reputable concessionnaires onwards tourism concession Monitor and refine Concession pilot project at concession protocols based Taman Negara Sg. Relau, on performance of pilot Merapoh project Establish specific units Staff exchange programmes with trained personnel to with collaborative networks in manage and monitor the region onwards tourism concessions Provide special training for park managers in managing tourism concessions onwards 89 Synergy between Ecotourism and Conservation Implementation Phase Monitoring Phase QUICK WIN (2016) SHORT TERM MEDIUM TERM LONG TERM (2017-2018) (2019-2020) (2021-2025) Expand role and Provide support for membership of the clusters in seeking National Ecotourism funding and capacity Steering Committee building onwards and Working Group include new CBET Network Establish a CBET network driven by operators Designate KOPEL as Conduct community- a training centre for to-community training CBET to CBET operators onwards (Re-)Establish NERC Build partnerships at selected National with local universities Parks and urban and NGOS ecotourism Expand scope of research to include visitor management and carrying capacity onwards 90 Synergy between Ecotourism and Conservation (CoNT.) Implementation Phase Monitoring Phase QUICK WIN (2016) SHORT TERM MEDIUM TERM LONG TERM (2017-2018) (2019-2020) (2021-2025) Conduct carrying capacity studies and implement visitor management strategies at sites with high visitation Identify keystone Incorporate tourism sites according to the management plan within 60 ecotourism overall management cluster plan of keystone sites Gazette keystone sites that are not yet protected using legal instruments Identify natural areas to Prepare guidelines be nominated into and best practice for UNESCO’s World ecolodge Heritage List, RAMSAR, development etc. Regulate diving and snorkeling activities through enforcement and onwards visitor management Empower locally- based NGOs to Embark on spearhead voluntary comprehensive reef and CSR restoration programmes onwards programmes 91 Synergy between Ecotourism and Conservation (CoNT.) Implementation Phase Monitoring Phase QUICK WIN (2016) SHORT TERM MEDIUM TERM LONG TERM (2017-2018) (2019-2020) (2021-2025) Encourage variants of the homestay concept Set up tourism cooperatives in Consolidate USP of homestays to homestays in line strengthen with keystone sites organisation and and cluster themes financial management Create a pool of localised guides at homestays and villages Empower youths at CBT sites through systematic conservation projects funded by international onwards donors 92 Ecotourism Marketing and Promotion Implementation Phase Monitoring Phase QUICK WIN (2016) SHORT TERM MEDIUM TERM LONG TERM (2017-2018) (2019-2020) (2021-2025) Link urban ecotourism clusters to Tourism Malaysia’s ‘Dekat Je’ campaign Develop partnerships with airlines, Develop new and accommodation enhance existing providers, tour R&Rs along major operators to offer fly- roads and highways drive packages Develop mobile apps to showcase thematic routes linking ecotourism attractions Promote and brand Malaysia as a major filming location onwards Design mobile applications to promote eco-adventure packages using video Bid to host international eco- adventure competitions and tournaments Participate in eco- adventure events and expos in the region onwards and beyond 93 Ecotourism Marketing and Promotion Implementation Phase Monitoring Phase QUICK WIN (2016) SHORT TERM MEDIUM TERM LONG TERM (2017-2018) (2019-2020) (2021-2025) Consolidate staff specialisation for Promote special interest special interest ecotourism at regional markets in Tourism and international events onwards Malaysia Develop and disseminate mobile apps aimed at providing detailed information Tie up awards to Introduce ecotourism Organise a separate special grants for categories in the National Ecotourism innovation in National Tourism Award ecotourism product Awards development Consolidate visitor Compile existing NAPIC data to ecotourism PRISM database to show sites to create a trends at the cluster level national database Map visitor arrival data to producce annual ecotourism metrics map Organise an annual national ecotourism seminar onwards 94 Ecotourism Clusters Implementation Phase Monitoring Phase QUICK WIN (2016) SHORT TERM MEDIUM TERM LONG TERM (2017-2018) (2019-2020) (2021-2025) Prepare six detailed Implementation of six Utilise proposed Refine ecotourism ecotourism clusters detailed ecotourism toolkit to develop clusters after initial as models for other clusters as pilot action plans for 54 implementation phase ecotourism clusters projects conceptual clusters Establish Destination Coordination Groups Planning and engagement of stakeholders in six detailed ecotourism clusters Identify and promote scenic drive routes, cycling trails and river cruises based on onwards clusters Pilot project at Taiping-Kuala Sepetang cluster 95 Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) No 2, Tower 1, Jalan P5/6, Presint 5, 62200, Putrajaya, Malaysia Tel: +603 8000 8000