SUSTAINABLE AGROTOURISM IN MALAYSIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENT, SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACTS, AND FUTURE CHALLENGES

Abstract

This study aims to provide a systematic review of agrotourism in Malaysia, including its development, socio-economic impacts, challenges, and potential to assist in post-COVID-19 recovery, all while aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Utilising a systematic review approach based on the PRISMA guidelines, literature from key academic databases was scrutinised, yielding 20 relevant articles from 2011 to 2024. The review highlights that Malaysia’s agrotourism, strengthened by government policies and entrepreneurial efforts, has potential benefits such as rural income diversification and cultural heritage preservation. However, it also faces challenges, including skill gaps and infrastructure limitations. The study emphasises the need for improved skills training, infrastructure upgrades, sustainability promotion, and targeted marketing efforts. This review contributes to the theoretical understanding of agrotourism’s role in sustainable rural development and the integration of agrotourism within Malaysia’s post-pandemic recovery strategy. The study suggests practical measures for incorporating agrotourism into Malaysia’s recovery plans and identifies avenues for future research, including exploring tourist motivations, assessing community and environmental impacts, examining technological innovations, and evaluating its integration with broader rural development strategies. Overall, this review underscores agrotourism’s potential as a key driver of sustainable rural growth, economic resilience, and the preservation of Malaysia’s cultural and natural heritage.