THE proposal to turn Langkawi into the “Monaco of the East” and tourist destination for luxury tourism is not impossible.
Langkawi is the most developed tourist island in the country in terms of infrastructure, facilities, accessibility and amenities due to the development strategy as mapped out by the Langkawi Development Authority (Lada), the federal agency responsible for its operations.
It’s aiming for greater heights, thus the big plans for the island, including luxury tourism.
What do we understand by “luxury tourism”?
Luxury comes from the Latin word “luxus”, which means “excess”.
In today’s context, the concept of luxury tourism fits into its original meaning, where it can be plainly described as excess tourism.
Considered more as a niche tourism segment for the upscale market, the question is whether Langkawi is geared up for the tagline “Monaco of the East”.
Indeed, Langkawi has all the trappings to go up one notch with the availability of five- and six-star hotels, marinas, cruise port, golf clubs, signature spa outfits, helicopter rentals and duty-free shopping status.
Going big in luxury tourism the way of Monaco means becoming a magnet for high rollers and a hedonistic haven, which will bring in more tourism revenue for the island, famed for its geological wonders.
However, does this form of tourism fit the bill for Langkawi, although the government says it will allocate part of the island for the said purpose and balance the move with people-tourism?
Unlike Monaco, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea with a gift of natural wonders in the form of Unesco Geopark, lush ancient rainforest teeming with unique flora and fauna.
I prefer Langkawi to be a tourist destination for all, the way of Bali and Phuket are.
Luxury tourism can be promoted in Langkawi, preferably not on the main island, but on islands nearby.
Luxury tourism, without the participation of the people, especially locals, is not a good idea.
Are locals ready for the influx of the rich and famous?
Langkawi has yet to reach the number of tourists like those in Bali, Phuket, the Maldives and Mauritius.
Like the “Caribbean of the East”, the regional island tourism potential can be synergically promoted.
Meanwhile, it’s best that we mould our own brand of tourism and practise sustainable tourism.
Tourism is a people’s business. Where will tourism and travel be, without the people?
AZHARI MAHMOOD
Petaling Jaya, Selangor