Unveiling the narratives of dark tourism development from local communities’ perspectives in Penang, Malaysia

Najmuddin, Nabilla Nazeera and Abdul Latif, Samshul Amry and Maria Kirana, Sriwinarsih and Abas, Siti Aishah (2025) Unveiling the narratives of dark tourism development from local communities’ perspectives in Penang, Malaysia. In: International Conference on Responsible Tourism and Hospitality (ICRTH) 2024, 7th - 11th August 2024, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

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Abstract

Penang, an island in northern Peninsular Malaysia, offers an idyllic facade: a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial charms, vibrant multicultural life, and aromatic hawker delights. However, beneath this sun-kissed veneer lies a history of dark tourism, drawing travellers to sites associated with death, tragedy, and suffering. This phenomenon has spotlighted Penang's hidden chapters, from the chilling whispers of Fort Cornwallis dungeons to the eerie shadows of the Penang Hill Tunnel. Despite its economic allure, dark tourism raises concerns about exploiting past suffering, commodifying pain, and eroding cultural sensitivities. Studies suggest that while dark tourism can boost local economies, it often risks undermining community integrity and dignity. This research delves into the untold narratives of Penang's communities, amplifying their voices to reveal their experiences and concerns about dark tourism. By engaging with these communities, the study seeks to balance the narratives of dark tourism with a respectful acknowledgement of local sentiments (Sharpley & Stone, 2009). It aims to uncover stories from Penang's often-overlooked local perspectives, providing a nuanced understanding of dark tourism's impacts on cultures and histories. The goal is to develop sustainable tourism practices that respect and preserve Penang's heritage and dignity while accommodating diverse visitor interests. Globally, dark tourism reached US$30 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow to US$36.5 billion by 2032, highlighting significant economic impacts and rising demand (Future Market Insights, 2022). In Asia, countries like Cambodia and Vietnam face similar concerns with sites such as the Killing Fields and the War Remnants Museum (Stone, 2013).

Item Type:	Proceeding Paper (Plenary Papers)
Additional Information:	8063/120472
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Dark Tourism, Local Community, Malaysia, Penang
Subjects:	BPG Islamic geography > BPG80 Islam and tourism. Sustainable tourism G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > G Geography (General) > G156.5.S87 Sustainable tourism
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Sustainable Tourism and Contemporary Languages
Depositing User:	Dr Samshul Amry Abdul Latif
Date Deposited:	02 May 2025 12:08
Last Modified:	02 May 2025 15:32
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/120472

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