Examining the Perceived Socio-Cultural Effects of Tourism Among the Residents at Kampung Tuba, Pantu Sri Aman, Sarawak

Abstract

Tourism development has the potential to shape communities in two distinct cultural directions, i.e., cultural preservation and cultural commodification. The objective of this paper is to examine the perceived socio-cultural effects of tourism on cooperative members/residents in Kampung Tuba, Pantu, Sarawak. The questionnaires were distributed to the cooperative members/residents at Kampung Tuba, Pantu, Sarawak, in August 2025. Findings reveal that two-thirds of respondents view tourism as a positive force that safeguards cultural identity, protects traditions, fosters neighbourhood spirit, enhances social cohesion, and instils pride in heritage. One-quarter of respondents voiced moderate concerns about possible cultural change, commercial exploitation of traditions, and the erosion of authenticity, indicating that these issues are acknowledged but not regarded as urgent threats. Ten percent of the respondents associated tourism with negative outcomes, such as crime, youth misbehavior, or tension with tourists, suggesting that these impacts are presently minimal. The study emphasises that inclusive governance, cooperative structures, and community-based tourism models are critical to ensuring that residents maintain agency over cultural representation. Continuous monitoring and adaptive management remain essential for sustaining authenticity and addressing emerging challenges. Overall, the research affirms that tourism, when responsibly governed, holds significant potential to empower communities, revitalise culture, and strengthen cultural pride while mitigating risks of commodification.