Pengurusan Pemuliharaan Bangunan Warisan di Tapak UNESCO George Town, Pulau Pinang: Perspektif Peniaga dan Pelancong Tempatan

Heritage Building Conservation Management at UNESCO Heritage Site in George Town, Penang: From Traders and Local Tourist Perspectives

Abstract

George Town, Penang is one of the historic tourist destinations that have been recognized as the World Heritage Site (WHS) by UNESCO in July 2008. However, there are heritage buildings that are not well conserved. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the conservation management of heritage buildings in this UNESCO site from the perspective of traders and local tourist whether the heritage buildings were well restored or vice versa. A total of 80 respondents were chosen by aiming the selected traders and local tourist in the study area. The survey method was conducted through a questionnaire and also unparticipate observation which is the observation from the researchers themselves without disturbing or participate in heritage management. Respondents' assessment of the conservation management of heritage buildings is in good shape despite the issue of damage to buildings, maintenance, environment, hygiene and safety. They are hoping to keep the heritage buildings in George Town conserved and maintained for future generations. This study is important to know the management of heritage buildings in the study area from the perspective of traders and tourists. Evaluation of these studies also can help identify the various parties, especially the UNESCO heritage site management to address issues and problems in terms of building management.