Managing Visitor Experiences in National Parks: Factors Influencing Visitation to Tanjung Piai and Pulau Kukup, Malaysia

National parks play an important role in biodiversity conservation while contributing to tourism development and local economic growth. Despite increasing interest in nature-based tourism, limited research has examined the factors influencing visitation to Malaysian national parks, particularly day-visit parks. This study investigates the factors influencing visitation to two Johor National Parks, Tanjung Piai and Pulau Kukup. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted using interviewer-administered questionnaires with 180 visitors. Descriptive statistics were employed to examine visitors' socio-demographic characteristics and satisfaction with park attributes, while qualitative content analysis was used to analyse visitors' suggestions for improvement. The findings of the study show that visitors were majority Malaysian, working adults from Johor who visited the parks during weekends using private vehicles. Overall satisfaction was high, particularly regarding the parks' peaceful environment, aesthetic appeal, cleanliness, and availability of park information. However, supporting facilities and accessibility via public transport received comparatively lower ratings. Content analysis further revealed that maintenance and repair, shaded resting areas, sanitation, visitor facilities, accessibility, interpretive signage, and wildlife management were the most frequently suggested areas for improvement. The findings provide valuable insights for the Johor National Parks Corporation in prioritising infrastructure enhancement, visitor experience management, and sustainable tourism planning to encourage repeat visitation while supporting long-term conservation objectives.

Keywords: National Park visitation; Visitor satisfaction; Nature-based tourism; Sustainable tourism; Park management; Johor National Parks.

Management, Tourism Hospitality and Tourism Management - International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)

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