Policy Framework for Enhancing Sustainable Tourism Development: A Case Study of Chang Island, Trat Province

Abstract

This research has three objectives which are: 1) to study problems and hindrances to implement tourism policy in line with the National Tourism Development Plan 2012-2016 in Trat province; 2) to study the past performance and the prospective progress of tourism development on Chang Island; and 3) to propose a policy framework to develop sustainable tourism for Chang Island. The researcher has employed a qualitative research methodology by conducting documentary reviews, performing in-depth interviews, and undertaking participant observations.

It was found that the Trat Governor’s Office and the Koh Chang Sub-district Municipality do not apply the National Tourism Development Plan 2012-2016 into the tourism strategic planning process and that the Trat Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports gives little importance to sustainable tourism development. The policies of the local administrative organizations lack of continuity and the organizations have little understanding of the objectives and the operational guidelines of other organizations. These organizations tend to view government regulations as a constraint upon tourism development. Furthermore, it was found that organizational budgets and human resources are insufficient. For past performance and prospective progress, it was found that the benefits and income distribution to local communities are low and that local communities and the private sector have a low rate of participation in tourism development. Tourism causes changes to society, lifestyle and culture of local people as well as negatively affects natural resources and deteriorates the environment. The researcher proposes a policy framework which addresses these issues and consists of four facets: public management, economic, social and cultural, and natural resources and environment.