Integrating Maritime Education and Local Empowerment in Coastal Ecotourism Development: A Case Study of the Kelabit Highlands Border Region
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This study explores the integration of maritime education into community-based ecotourism in the Kelabit Highlands, a transboundary highland area between Sarawak, Malaysia, and North Kalimantan, Indonesia. While existing research on the region focuses on cultural preservation and environmental conservation, the connection between maritime literacy, river ecosystem conservation, and local empowerment remains underexplored. Using a mixed-method approach including maritime literacy surveys, semi-structured interviews with local guides and homestay operators, and participatory observation during conservation workshops this study reveals how maritime education can strengthen local livelihoods, enhance cross-border cultural narratives, and support sustainable ecotourism. Findings show that incorporating maritime concepts into highland ecotourism activities (e.g., river conservation campaigns, downstream ecosystem storytelling) not only enriches visitor experiences but also fosters a sense of stewardship among local youth. The study proposes a new inclusive blue economy model that connects highland and coastal ecosystems, offering policy insights for transboundary sustainable tourism development.
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