ULUNG BUAYEH: FROM MYTHOLOGY TO ECOTOURISM
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21837/pm.v23i38.1853Keywords:
Ulung Buayeh, Lundayeh, Long Pasia, ecotourism, community-based tourism (CBT)Abstract
This study explores the potential of the Ulung Buayeh ritual practiced by the Lundayeh community as a foundation for sustainable ecotourism in the interior region of Sabah, particularly in Long Pasia. Using ethnographic methods and structured interviews, the research documents the historical context, socio-cultural values, and aesthetic dimensions of Ulung Buayeh ritual sites. It also examines how this cultural tradition aligns with the core principles of sustainable tourism, namely cultural heritage preservation, community participation, and environmental stewardship. Findings indicate that, when integrated within a community-based tourism (CBT) framework, the Ulung Buayeh ritual site holds significant potential as a unique tourism product that promotes cultural appreciation, supports local livelihoods, and strengthens the empowerment of the Lundayeh community.
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