EXPLORING THE ROLE OF SOCIAL CAPITAL IN COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM IN BUM BUM ISLAND, SEMPORNA, SABAH, MALAYSIA

The application of social capital theory or concept in tourism studies is a growing phenomenon, but the studies related to community-based tourism are still in their infancy in the context of developing countries. This study explores the role of social capital in a community-based tourism project in Bum Bum Island, which is located in the District of Semporna, Sabah, Malaysia. The primary data were collected through in-depth interviews with 19 informants from government, private agencies, local heads, tourist, Non-Government agencies and the local community. The results present evidence on the role of social capital in the development of community-based tourism projects. In addition, this research contributes to the enhancement of the body of knowledge studies related to social capital and community-based tourism. Finally, this paper concludes with some practical implications and suggestions for future research directions.