PARTICIPATION IN CULTURAL TOURISM PROMOTION BY KAMPONG AYER WATER COMMUNITY IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Abstract

The purposes of this research was to explore participation of the Kampong Ayer water community in cultural tourism promotion of Brunei Darussalam using the qualitative research method.  Data were collected through observation and in-depth interviews with five residents, three academics and five tourists, and the data were validated and concluded using descriptive analysis. The study found that Kampong Ayer water community participated in tourism promotion 3 aspects 1) by greeting, giving advice, offering services, providing basic information, giving directions 2) offering homestay accommodations to tourists. Three styles of homestay accommodation were available. 2.1) Renovated native houses with services in the traditional way of life reflecting Brunei identities with no televisions and no alcoholic drinks corresponding with Islamic tradition, and the services were in a business style. 2.2) Renovated modern houses with luxury interior decorations featuring invented ancient artifacts, and the services were in an official style as the home of a community leader; and 2.3) Modern houses without renovation in the actual Brunei family lifestyle with services in a typical Brunei style.  Residents of the water village community participated in cultural tourism promotion 3) making to learn and providing knowledge and understanding of culture of the water village to tourists.  Some people were trained to be state representatives in public relations for tourism.  Participation emerged from planning through community representatives, practices, gaining mutual economic and social benefits and taking responsibility for community cultural resources.