MANGROVE ECOTOURISM AND CONSERVATION CENTRE AT PULAU KETAM, KLANG, SELANGOR

Abstract

Mangrove planting is very popular, however, many attempts to do so fall short of establishing significant, diversified, useful, and self-sustaining mangrove forests because of the community's lack of involvement, mono-species planting, and poor choices of location. The issue that inspired this project is the lack of awareness of the mangrove ecosystem and its potential benefits among the inhabitants of Pulau Ketam, in Klang. Hence, the centre presents an opportunity to explore a visionary ecosystem that redefines ecotourism for a
sustainable future. This project aims to create an ecotourism mangrove and conservation centre focusing on sustaining the future of the mangrove in Malaysia and experimenting with the mangrove potential through educative, recreational, and research approaches. There are three objectives of this research. The first objective is to propose sustainable seed cultivation techniques and research centre through advanced technology. The second objective is to establish involvement of local communities and stakeholders to promote engagement and explore new potential of the mangrove products. The third objective is to explore the potential of mangrove ecotourism as a means to promote the conservation and sustainable use of mangrove ecosystems in coastal settlement areas. The research methodologies adopted for this study are literature review, in-depth interview, case studies, and precedent studies. The proposed site is located at Pulau Ketam, Klang. The site was chosen because of the depletion of the mangrove area which needs to be revived urgently. The project will be Mangrove Ecotourism and Conservation Centre with the concept of “Interwoven Roots” with include a visitor centre, a research lab, a boat dock, an accommodation and an observatory tower that utilises advanced technology to provide visitors with an immersive experience of the mangrove forest. The centre also serves as a research and educational hub, providing visitors with opportunities to learn about the unique biodiversity of the mangrove ecosystem and the threats facing it. It is designed to engage visitors in a unique and immersive experience of the mangrove ecosystem, promoting education, conservation, and sustainable livelihoods. In addition, it promotes sustainable livelihoods and engages with the local community through programs that promote ecotourism and conservation efforts. The design incorporates local SMEs into its operations, providing economic opportunities and promoting sustainable development in the region.