Exploring the Perception and Involvement of Gen Y in Homestay Program Sustainability in Malaysia: A Case Study of Jorho State
Keywords:
Gen Y’s, perception, involvement, homestay programAbstract
This study aims to investigate the perception of Gen Y of their involvement in the homestay program, and to examine ways to enhance Gen Y’s passion in the homestay program. A qualitative method was employed in this study using in-depth interviews and observations. The homestay program is one of the most successful programs established by the Malaysian Government to develop rural areas as a tourist destination. Since its inception in 1988, the program has gained popularity to become an iconic rural tourism product. The program immerses tourists in the Malaysian culture and way of life when they stay together with the host family and interact with the local community through a variety of cultural performances and activities. Stakeholders involved in the homestay program comprise homestay operators, Gen Y, rural development agencies, the Government and tour promoters, each playing a separate role in a cumulative effort in ensuring the program’s viability. However, the future sustainability of the program has often been overlooked because of the uncertain involvement of Gen Y in it, despite the expectation that a high number of Gen Y will dominate the future workforce. This study revealed that Gen Y does have a positive perception of and involvement in the homestay program. The findings are crucial to provide strategies for homestay operators and the Government in establishing future policies for the homestay program.
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