Malaysia features some of the most spectacular national parks in the world. The parks - most are hotspots of biodiversity - have become a major attraction for foreign and increasingly domestic tourists. Nature tourism is at the same time a source of revenues and a threat to the environmental integrity of conservation areas. This study - based on the theory of structuration and using a triangulation of methods - analyses (eco)tourism in Malaysian national parks from different angles by asking different groups of tourists and experts about their opinions, experiences and needs. In order to learn more about the often neglected group of domestic tourists a large survey was conducted in Kuala Lumpur. The needs of foreign individual and group travellers were analysed with a questionnaire in Gunung Mulu National Park. And experts of conservation and tourism (i.e. scientists, park managers, tour operators, exponents of NGOs) were asked to assess the state and potential of ecotourism in Malaysian national parks. Results show that the increasing heterogeneity and number of visitors and their different needs can put a strain on the environmental integrity of conservation areas. This study makes recommendations to mitigate such strains and to further sustainable tourism.

Nature and Nation explores the relations between people and forests in Peninsular Malaysia where the planet's richest terrestrial eco-system met head-on with the fastest pace of economic transformation experienced in the tropical world. It engages the interplay of history, culture, science, economics and politics to provide a holistic interpretation of the continuing relevance of forests to state and society in the moist tropics. Malaysia has long been singled out for emulation by developing nations, an accolade contradicted in recent years by concerns over its capital-, rather than poverty-driven forest depletion. The Malaysian case supports the call for re-appraisal of entrenched prescriptions for development that go beyond material needs. -- Book cover.

This very welcome book offers important insights into the logic of development in Malaysia, as well as its impact on local struggles for land rights. Amity Doolittle has written an exemplary work that utilizes ethnography, political economy, and historical analysis. An impressive, well-written, and well-researched book. - American Anthropologist

The A to Z of Malaysia encapsulates the development of Malaysia from prehistory to the early years of the 21st century. It covers not only Malaysia's history but also its politics, economy, multiethnic society, multiculturalism, scientific and technological developments, and the state of its environment. A host of contemporary issues and challenges are featured, including ethnic polarization, economic equity, and polygamy; concepts like Ketuanan Melayu (Malay Dominance), "Malaysian Malaysia," "Malay," and Islam Hadhari (Civilizational Islam); and terms like "Ali Baba" business, kiasi, bejalai, and "Twenty Points." Over 500 cross-referenced dictionary entries are contained in this reference, covering everything from ethno-historical entries to those on culinary favorites and personalities. A chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes, and a bibliography complement the dictionary entries, enhancing the authoritative and up-to-date information provided.

Pemeliharaan dan Pemuliharaan Alam Sekitar di Malaysia memuatkan 12 bab yang diusahakan oleh penulis dari latar ilmu yang pelbagai sebagai reaksi mereka terhadap kepentingan memelihara dan memulihara alam sekitar di Malaysia. Buku ini ditulis untuk memberi pengetahuan, maklumat dan kesedaran tentang isu-isu berkaitan pemeliharaan dan pemuliharaan alam sekitar di Malaysia agar alam sekitar terus terpelihara. Hal ini kerana persoalan alam sekitar semakin penting dan menyerlah dalam kehidupan seharian masyarakat dan menjadi agenda utama dalam pembangunan negara. Alam sekitar sangat penting dipelihara dan dipulihara kerana ia bukan sahaja memberikan perkhidmatan kepada manusia tetapi juga merupakan sistem bantuan kehidupan yang tidak ternilai. Semoga buku ini dapat mengisi ruang yang belum diliputi oleh buku lain di samping menampung kekurangan tersebut dalam usaha memupuk sikap prihatin dan sifat kecintaan yang mendalam terhadap alam sekitar.