Application of Geographic Information System (GIS) and Analytic Network Process (ANP) for sustainable tourism planning in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

This paper discusses an approach based on an integrated use of GIS and ANP for sustainable tourism planning of Cameron Highlands, Malaysia. ANP was utilized to evaluate the relative priorities for the sustainable tourism development of the highland based on chosen criteria and indicators (elements). Pair wise comparison technique was used in order to evaluate possible alternatives from different perspectives. Having derived the weights from the pairwise comparison method, unweighted supermatrix, weighted supermatrix and the limit supermatrix were then computed. The limit supermatrix was normalized to derive the priorities; the result was then transferred into GIS framework. Elements evaluated and ranked are represented by criterion maps. The criterion maps were evaluated by reclassifying the data layers, to represent different needs for the sustainable tourism development of the highland. Spatial models reflecting the views of experts involved were aggregated using the weighted sum method of GIS. Subsequently sustainable tourism development model was generated, which will ensure that future generations benefit from the natural endowments of Cameron Highlands.