Abd Shukor, Suryati and Abdul Razak, Norhanim (2014) Langkawi as an event destination in Malaysia: An assessment of the calendar of events. In: 2nd Tourism and Hospitality International Conference (THIC 2014), 5-6 November 2014, Langkawi, Malaysia.

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Abstract

Events are important in tourism as they can enhance the attraction of tourist destinations and enrich the experiences of tourists.In general, events are commonly classified as special hallmark, mega, sports, arts and exhibitions. In the context of large-scaled events, particularly mega and hallmark, it is claimed that destination hosts can win international recognition and boost the destination‘s image. Additionally, hosting other types of events such as political and state occasions, cultural celebrations and arts festivals can generate a positive impact, revitalise traditions and culture; enhance national pride; and develop a sense of belonging. Although it is acknowledged that a tourist‘s destination can be an important venue for hosting events, there are limited studies which focus on the topics of event destination in the context of Malaysia. Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to explore the types and levels of events which are commonly organised in Langkawi, a prime tourist destination in Malaysia. In assessing this island as an event destination, the calendar of events published by the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) from May 2010 to 2014 was analysed using a content analysis method.Overall, numerous types of events, including mega, major and community, were held in Langkawi during this period. Amongst the well-known and recurring events included in this calendar are the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA), Le Tour de Langkawi and Langkawi International Lawn Bowls.The majority of these events fall into three main categories: i) sports and recreation, ii) cultural, arts and entertainment and iii) business and trade exhibitions.The analysis of Langkawi as an event destination demonstrates that a well-known tourist destination is ideal for organising different types and levels of events. This also shows that hosting such events can be one of the ways for destinations to attract a steady stream of tourists‘ arrivals annually.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Additional Information:	ISBN:978-983-2078-83-8 Organized by: School of Tourism, Hospitality and Environmental Management, Universiti Utara Malaysia.
Uncontrolled Keywords:	event, destination, content analysis
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > G Geography (General)
Divisions:	College of Law, Government and International Studies
Depositing User:	Mrs. Suryati Abd Shukor
Date Deposited:	08 Mar 2015 03:08
Last Modified:	08 Mar 2015 03:08
URI:	https://repo.uum.edu.my/id/eprint/13310

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