Assessment of tourist perception on ecotourism in Lojing Highlands

Ecotourism in Lojing Highlands has a great potential to become an international ecotourism destination due to the presence of Rafflesia kerri. The aim of the study is to assess the situation of ecotourism in Lojing Highlands from the perceptions of tourist point of views. In this study, the specific objectives are to determine the perception and expectations of tourists and to provide the information of ecotourism management plan to related agencies. The methods used in this study are survey and field observations in tourism facilities provided in Lojing Highlands. The data collections were extracted by using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS). The results shows that 100% tourists are foreigner and 48% of tourist agreed that Rafflesia kerri is the main attraction in Lojing Highlands. As recommendation, the related agencies should implement a rules and regulations in conserving Rafflesia kerri. Therefore, a comprehensive tourism input plan is needed. Hopefully it will increase in tourist’s arrival in Lojing Highlands and ultimately improvise the socio- economic the development of the state.