Recreational Risks: Human and Wildlife Conflicts at Johor National Parks, Malaysia

Abstract

National parks are significant ecotourism destinations providing various nature attractions in a form of biological, physical and/or historical resources. However, risk issues associated with recreational activities in national parks are becoming more pertinent and crucial as safety and threats to humans and wildlife can occur. This study was conducted to identify the risks for human and wildlife for visitors at tropical rainforests, marine parks, and coastal mangroves of Johor National Park. It is a qualitative study and data was collected through semi structured interviews with the National Park Managers, Former National Park Managers, and Instructors of Johor National Park. The study found that snakebite is the main concern for tropical rainforest and coastal mangroves category of national parks while hazardous marine species are the main risk for marine parks. The findings have shown that the risk of human and wildlife conflicts exist at all these three categories of national parks. Visitors’ negligence with the existence of dangerous wildlife may cause serious injury if no preventive measures are taken. The risk of human and wildlife conflict should be managed smartly to reduce the risks and ensure the sustainable development of the national parks.