USM Educational Outreach on Sustainable Management of Land for Tourism at Bukit Choras Archaeological Heritage Site
Universiti Sains Malaysia offers free educational programmes and outreach for local and national communities to promote the sustainable management of land for tourism. These initiatives connect heritage conservation, ecology, and community development, equipping people with the knowledge and skills to protect landscapes while benefiting from responsible tourism.
A key highlight in 2024 was the Bukit Choras Archaeological Heritage Programme in Kedah, conducted by the Centre for Global Archaeological Research (PPAG) in collaboration with the Department of National Heritage (JWN) and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC). The excavation, led by Dr. Nasha Rodziadi Khaw, uncovered a near-complete human figure statue and revealed ancient temple structures that offer invaluable insights into the Kedah Tua civilisation. Beyond its archaeological significance, this project serves as a living classroom demonstrating how research, conservation, and tourism can coexist through sustainable land management practices.
Through guided field visits, workshops, and interpretive tours, USM provides educational opportunities where local communities and visitors learn about land conservation, erosion control, visitor impact management, and heritage protection. Programmes also include hands-on training for local guides, homestay operators, and community leaders on sustainable trail design, waste management, and native species planting. In addition, youth and school outreach camps integrate cultural history, land science, and tourism planning, inspiring future generations to appreciate and protect their environment.
By integrating archaeological heritage, ecological awareness, and tourism planning, USM’s outreach ensures that tourism-driven land use remains both economically beneficial and environmentally responsible. These ongoing efforts directly contribute to maintaining and restoring terrestrial ecosystems, protecting cultural landscapes, and advancing sustainable tourism that respects both nature and heritage for future generations.