PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM MANAGEMENT IN KOH SAMUI AREA, SURATTHANI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research objectives were 1) to study public participation in sustainable tourism management in Koh Samui, Suratthani Province, 2) to study problems and obstacles for public participation in sustainable tourism management in Koh Samui, Suratthani Province, and 3) to propose recommendations for public participation in sustainable tourism management in Koh Samui, Suratthani Province. This research was qualitative. Key informants consisted government executives, local administrators, local personnel, private sector entrepreneurs, tourism associations/clubs, community leaders, and local residents, totaling 25 key informants. The research instrument was an interview form. Data were analyzed using descriptive summary.

The research results found that 1) the public participation in sustainable tourism management in Koh Samui, Suratthani Province, showed limited public participation. In collaborative decision-making and planning, the public played a limited role, in collaborative work, the public participated in activities to preserve the environment, culture, and local wisdom. However, the public benefited economically, socially, and environmentally. Monitoring and evaluation included observation, committee membership, consultation, and questionnaires, 2) the problems and obstacles revealed a lack of public awareness, a lack of knowledge and understanding, and inadequate public relations, and 3) the recommendations suggested that training should be provided on sustainable tourism participation and management, raised awareness among the new generation, organized activities to promote continued participation, and applied modern technology.