REPOSITIONING FIREFLIES’ SANCTUARY AT THE NORTHERN BANK OF KERIAN RIVER, PENANG (NATURAL LANDSCAPE HERITAGE TOURISM)

Abstract

Mangrove fireflies from the genus Pteroptyx contribute to a nature tourism called entomotourism. This species is an ecotourism attraction in Malaysia because tourists enjoy their synchronous bioluminescent flashing in large numbers on the mangrove trees at night. However, this firefly habitat is not protected as forest reserves and is threatened by habitat destruction and fragmentation, indicating that both their numbers and habitats have been declining. Therefore, this proposed design idea is to treasure the new natural landscape heritage tourism by engaging users with the natural element in the site of Kerian River firefly sanctuary at the physical border between Penang & Perak by revealing the ecological and natural heritage values. Through targeted interviews and surveys, a comprehensive
understanding of the geographic scope, magnitude, focal species, and other attributes of the Kerian River firefly's sanctuary tourism sites was established. Our surveys revealed that light pollution of artificial light, water pollution in Kerian river caused by the nearby industrial area and the riverbank erosion caused by the destructive wave produced by the “Kenka boats” for fishing activities were major disturbances or threats to the habitat. Finally, we provide recommendations for transforming tourist behavior to minimize the impact on firefly habitats. By developing design concepts, ideas and strategic plans that incorporate these recommendations, the Kerian River firefly sanctuary at Penang sites which is an environmentally sensitive area (ESA) can enhance the visitor experience, protect natural resources, benefit local communities, and help promote the conservation of fauna biodiversity.