Muslim friendly sustainable geotourism framework based on Maqasid al-Shariah and Khalifah concepts : a study of Langkawi UNESCO global geopark

Abstract

Most of the top geotourism destination (GTD) includes Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) has certain features that make each of them a unique experience to explore. Muslim Friendly Tourism (MFT) is also part of the tourism industry and is simultaneously guided by Shariah principles. The relationship between Islamic practice related to sustainability, geotourism, and the role of the Khalifah is facing more expectations in preparing sustainable tourism because of Halal Industry ecosystem will drive the expansion of Islamic tourism in Malaysia. However, the current halal industry approach only covers selected products and services. In MFT element of geotourism industry, only limited studies in terms of enhancing the existing tourism stakeholders on Khalifah’s approach to ensure they sustain the environment, social and economic. Thus, there is a need to improve tourism stakeholders in Langkawi UGGp to develop the framework of Muslim Friendly Sustainable Geotourism (MFS-GT) based on the Maqasid Shariah and Khalifah concepts. So, the objective of this study is to determine the fundamentals of MFS-GT and emphasize Khalifah’s roles in the MFS-GT. Besides, to evaluate the current practice of tourism stakeholders in Langkawi UGGp. This study also proposed the MFS-GT framework for MFT best practices in Langkawi UGGp. The qualitative research approach was used, namely the grounded theory method, and a case study is performed at the Langkawi UGGp. Data analysis from literature and document review, observations, and interviews were implemented as a triangulation instrument using ATLAS.ti 9.0. Studies show that the fundamental of MFS-GT is based on objectives of MFS-GT (Maqasid of MFS-GT), religious components (values, culture and norms, and ethics) and sustainable components (environment, community participation, and socio-economic sustainability). The findings also show that there are two categories in Khalifah’s roles of the MFS-GT. The main role of Khalifah is to be a good servant of Allah the Almighty, protect Islamic law, and prosper the world. While the specific role of the Khalifah is to be able to protect the environment (hifz al-bi’ah), develop community (‘imarah al-insan), and preserve the economy (ri’ayah al-mal). These findings also show that among tourism stakeholders, they are limited approach on their fundamental knowledge of the MFS-GT concept. The lack of competency to decide is in line with the maslahah and mafsadah approach while practicing the role of Khalifah and provide Muslim basic needs based on MFT concept. Finally, the development of the MFS-GT framework is based on this study's findings and has been confirmed by expert reviews. Therefore, this study may help tourism stakeholders make the right approach while supporting the industry, especially in the MFT ecosystem. Hopefully, the development of MFS-GT by this research is a significant breakthrough to MFT concept in the GTD to maximize the tourist experience and benefit to local communities and contribute to the whole world- both for the Muslim and non-Muslim travelers.