Community Development Through Community Based Tourism: The Case of Thandaunggyi

MYANMAR INSTITUTE OF THEOLOGY
COMMUNITY BASED TOURISM FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT:

THE CASE STUDY OF THANDAUNGGYI
A
Thesis
Submitted to the
Myanmar Institute of Theology
In Partial Fulfillment of
The Requirements for the Degree of
Master of Arts in Community Development
By
Aung Mya Soe
SEMINARY HILL, INSEIN

OCTOBER, 2017
Liberal Arts Program
Community Development Studies Department
Thesis Title: COMMUNITY BASED TOURISM FOR COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT: THE CASE STUDY OF THANDAUNGGYI
Aung Mya Soe
MIT- LAP 0020
SEMINARY HILL, INSEIN, YANGON
September8, 2017
For the partially fulfillment of the degree of
Master of Arts in Community Development,
this Thesis is submitted by __Aung Mya Soe___ ___
and is accepted by Thesis Advisory Team.
Advisor Thesis Coordinator
Date: Date:
Declaration
I hereby declared that this thesis is based on my own independent work, except for
quotation and summaries which have been dully acknowledged. I also declare that
no part of this work has been submitted for any degree to this or any other
university.
Date: 8 September, 2017 Signature:
Name: Aung Mya Soe
Student ID: MIT-LAP 0020
Supervisor: Daw Aye Min Khaing
Head of Department- Community Development Studies
Liberal Arts Program

Acknowledgements
Glory be to God for the special blessing giving me a second chance to
pursue my dream after 30 years of my first graduation. I would like to express my
sincere appreciation to MIT and Liberal Arts Program for the learning opportunity
provided to me to complete this Master’s Program in Community Development
Studies. The accomplishment of this study would not have been possible without
the inspiration and guidance of Dr. Nicole Haeusler, my thesis advisor. Without
your assistance my effort would not have been completed. I would also like to
express my special gratitude to my supervisor, Daw Aye Min Khaing, Head of the
department for your most valuable supervision, your kind instruction and your
great patience to me. Dear Sayama thank you very much for your kindness and
understanding.
My credits also go to the all my classmates who have been great motivation
through the two years for your support and companion. Finally, I pay my warmest
appreciation and gratitude to my wife for your understanding, patience and helping
hands during the two years’ study. Thanks for your support.
Abstract
Tourism is widely considered as a tool for development and many
developing countries have taken up the approach in the aim of benefiting a
destination economically and socially. Community based tourism is mainly
developed in a region to promote interaction between the host and the visitors,
providing unique experience about the local way of life. CBT in return expects to
bring in positive changes to the community. The significant effects tourism can
have on a destination and its population led the researcher to examine the host
capacity to implement the development, identify the level of their participation in
the process which is a determinant for the achievement and examine the
contribution that will benefit the local community. The first stage of this study
involved review of existing literatures on tourism development and the major
theories developed for community approaches to tourism. After a comprehensive
understanding of CBT development approaches, visits to the proposed area has
been conducted to examine the ground situation. Careful constructed questions
have been prepared to reach the research objectives. Tourism management students
were trained to conduct research interviews and the mission was assisted by the
local community leaders. Tourism research trip was organized and physical
observation of the development process was conducted. Intensive interviews were
carried out to collect information required to answer the research objectives. The
research findings contribute a great deal to understanding of appropriate approach
to tourism development for community development purpose.

Table of Contents
Chapter One
Introduction 1
1.1 Statement of problem 3
1.2 Objective of the Study 8
1.3 Hypothesis 10
1.4 Significance of the Study 11
1.5 Scope and Limitation 12
1.6 Terms of Definition 13
Chapter Two
Review of Related Literature and Studies 16
2.1 Community Development 16
2.1.1 Basic Concept 16
2.1.2 Definition 18
2.1.3 Brief Historical Background 18
2.1.4 Community Participation and Development 20
2.2 Tourism 21
2.2.1 Concept and Theories 21
2.2 2 Definition 22
2.2.3 Tourism in Developing Countries 22
2.3 Community Development and Tourism 24
2.3.1 Tourism as an Agent of Community Development 24
2.3.2 Community Based Tourism 25
2.3.3.1 Planning 25
2.3.3.2 Management and Implementation 26
2.3.3 Contribution and Impacts of Tourism 31
2.4 Myanmar and Tourism 34
2.4.1 Community Involvement in Tourism 34
2.4.2 Brief History 37
2.5 A case of Thandaunggyi 41`
2.5.1 Geographic Background and Information 41
2.5.2 Community Assets for Tourism 42
2.5.3 Thandaunggyi Tourism Development Working Group 43
2.5.4 Supporting Partner Organizations 45
Chapter Three
Research Methodology and Data Collection 47
3.1 Methodology 47
3.2 Data Collection 48
3.3 Sampling 48
3.3.1 Key Informant Interviews 49
3.3.2 In Depth Interviews 50
3.3.3 Observation 50
Chapter Four
Finding of the Study 52
4.1 Thandaunggyi and Tourism Development 52
4.2 Presentation of Information Collected 58
4.2.1 Amazing Restaurant 60
4.2.2 I Wish Bed and Breakfast 61
4.2.3 Ebenezar Local Products Gift Shop 62
4.2.4 TTDWG Chairperson Reverend Bo Thar 63
4.2.5 The Retired Karen Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock 63
4.3 Presentation of Data on Research Questions 65
4.3.1 Leadership Capacity 65
4.3.2 Community Participation 68
4.3.3 Benefits to the Community 71
4.4 Observation 79
4.5 Analysis
4.5.1 Sharing Local Way of Life; the Unique Experience 79
4.5.2 Leadership Capacity 80
4.5.3 Community Participation 82
4.5.4 Tourism Contribution to the Community 83
Chapter Five
Summary, Conclusion and Recommendation 85
5.1 Summary of Finding 85
5.2 Conclusion 87
5.3 Recommendation 89
References 91
Interview Questions 93
Profiles 104
Illustrations 105
COMMUNITY BASED TOURISIM 1
Chapter One
Introduction
1.0 Tourism and Thandaunggyi
International tourism has experienced continuous growth in the last decades
and 2015 set the record of 1,184 million tourists travelling the world. (World
Tourism Organization-2016) Tourism has become one of the fastest growing
industries turning to be a key driver for socio-economic development of the
nations. For the developing countries, tourism creates opportunity for foreign
exchange earnings and direct or indirect employment. In the book, Reducing
Poverty through Tourism, Bolwell and Weinz, (2008) regarded tourism as a mean
to generating incomes; acting as a tool for community development and poverty
alleviation.
In December 2015, the United Nations declared 2017 as the International
Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-
moon on World Tourism Day 27 September 2014 stated “Harnessing tourism’s
benefits will be critical to achieving the sustainable development goals and
implementing the post-2015 development agenda” (UNDG, 2015). UNWTO
mandates to promote tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive
development and environmental sustainability and a global solution for a better
future for the world and its people.
Myanmar has emerged as the latest destination in South East Asia and with
that it has seen international tourists’ arrival as stated in Ministry of Hotel and
Tourism’s Statistics (2015), increased from 791,505 in 2011 to 4,681,020 in 2015.
Tourists’ expenditures increased from US$ 319 Million in 2011 to US$ 2122
Million in 2015. Tourists’ spending disbursed, generated income for tourism
related businesses and service providers. The data distinctively proved that tourism
plays important role in a country’s socio-economic development.
Thandaunggyi is situated in north of Kayin state, 200 miles away from
Yangon. It has been a summer getaway for the British during the colonial era since
1852. As indicated in 2014 Population and Housing Census (Myanmar Information
Management Unit-MIMU), Thandaunggyi township is composed of 5,809
households with approximately a population of 29,415. The majority of the
population is Karen ethnic believing in Christianity with few other Buddhists and
Hindus. The late military regime has initiated to transform Thandaunggyi into a
mountain resort in 1990-2000. But the process was stranded as ceasefire agreement
with Karen National Union (KNU) broke down in 2005-2005.
The Ministry of Hotel and Tourism believing in tourism as a tool for
development established Responsible Tourism Policy in 2012 and has come up
with Tourism Master Plan. Community Involvement Tourism Policy has been
developed in 2013. The Ministry of Hotel and Tourism under the late Union
Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) government has selected Thandauggyi
as a new destination to boost community based tourism. Together with 5 other
destinations; Indawgyi lake in Kachin state, PaO region in Inlay, fresh water
Irrawaddy dolphin near Mandalay, Myaing in Magwei division and Padaung tribes
in Kayah state, Thandaunggyi has been launched as pilot project during recent
National League for Democracy (NLD) government’s first 100 days. To prevent
unwanted socio-cultural impacts, the Ministry recommended Bed and Breakfast
types of accommodation to be set up in the village alternate to accommodating
tourists in homestay as in other countries.
Myanmar Tourism Federation coordinated with Peace Nexus and
Myanmar Hannseidel Foundation to give tourism awareness to the Thandaunggyi
local residents. Tourism development concept, hospitality training, environmental
and tour guiding, cultural activities and handicraft development trainings have
been organized to prepare the local community to implement the Community
Based Tourism CBT. (MRTI, 2016)
Thandaunggyi Tourism Development Working Group (TTDWG) has been
formulated, chaired by respected Christian leader composing advisory board from
KNU, civil society, government organizations, implementing action body
consisting 15 villagers with strong gender equality, and supportive body
cooperated by INGOs.
1.1 Statement of Problem
Community based tourism requires community involvement to be
implemented successfully. Suansri (2003) explains that in community based
tourism, the tourism is operated, managed and owned by the locals with the
purpose of enabling visitors to increase their awareness and learn about the
community and local ways of life. Therefore, it implies that high level of
involvement and participation plays critical role in viability of the development.

Beeton (2006) stressed that empowerment of the local community to decide
and plan their own future and to exert cooperative effort for the total development
is the key driver. Usually community based tourism is developed in rural area and
the initiative fails due to the community not being able to maintain the initiative.
Effective leadership plays a crucial role in the success of the development. Dredge
and Pforr (2008) addressed parameters of effective local tourism governance
including:
▪ Positive cultures, constructive communication and engaged communities
▪ Transparency and accountability
▪ Vision and leadership
▪ Acceptance of diversity and the pursuit of equity and inclusiveness
▪ Developing knowledge, learning and sharing expertise
▪ Clear roles and responsibilities of participants and clear operational
structures and processes of the network
1.1.1 Leadership Capacity
Newly formed Tourism working group in 2013-14 composed of local
stakeholders with their initial effort for the development, holds a very critical role
in successful implementation of community based tourism in Thandaunggyi.
The working group which is composed of both government and ethnic armed
group KNU together with local stakeholders, assisted by development partners,
presents great challenge in its collaboration and collective leadership for the
development. Even though peace and understanding has been developed, it is still
crucial how the leaders with differences will work together in a long run. It is the
research interest that the working group really represents the community and has
the capacity to facilitate all members to contribute to the wellbeing of the
community. If involvement revolves around a small group of people catering for
their own benefits, the community as a whole will not gain much from tourism
development.
In the initial state, tourism development usually faces many challenges and
it really demands for strong leadership. Planning phase is usually done with care
assisted by international partners. TTDWG’s operational knowledge and
management skill in the field of tourism raises questions. It is crucial how well the
working group is able to deliver after receiving guidelines and training from
international partners.
The working group is to bring the community together to develop a vision
of where they would like to see their community in the future and how tourism fits
into that vision. Tourism awareness and its benefits addressing poverty alleviation
and local economic development, needs to be clearly communicated to the
community. Otherwise tourism will gradually pose as an unwanted intervention
Capacity of the working group to enforce tourism as a change agent for
development and to promote tourism in the region is an issue to be explored (Page,
2003).
Tourism is a service industry and it is essential that service providers are
efficient and professional in every service encounter. Tourism products too require
quality in order to attract buyers and generate income. Leaders must have capacity
to initiate long term investment in human capacity building and provision of a
learning environment.
1.1.2 Participation
Murphy (1985) stressed that the success of tourism relies on the goodwill
and cooperation of local people. He argues that if tourism development and
planning does not match with the local aspirations and capabilities, this can destroy
the potential of its success and will not gain participation from local community.
Questions are raised in Thandaunggyi tourism development on how broad the
benefits from the development will be distributed back in the community.
Uncertain and impossibility to ensure broad based benefits will reduce
community’s interest and participation.
Community members are often not involved in ownership of the tourism
development due to the lack of assets or social status in the community. They are
usually excluded in decision making and participation opportunity for them is
limited. Legal system or policy sometimes fails to protect the rights of the local
community therefore, creating barriers for the community to have high degree of
control over activities taking place. Tendency of high participation from small
group or the elite who have advantage of enjoying the direct benefits thereafter is
likely to happen whereas the community as a whole is not involved.
Without local empowerment and community involvement the development
will be fragmented. The development effort that doesn’t involve widespread local
members risks dividing the community, damaging the existing unity and
barricading the implementation and its final outcome. Local community members
will begin to perceive tourists and tourism as the cause of problems that interferes
their peaceful lifestyle.
Community development through tourism integrates professional business
operation with community benefits oriented practices. Healthy competition if not
exercised, creates conflicts affecting mutual understanding and cooperative effort
among participants and stakeholders. It is therefore necessary to look into
stakeholders’ cooperation and broad based participation for the development effort
(Simons, 1994).
1.1.3 Benefits to Local Community
The study will examine benefits of tourism development in the area and
distribution of the benefits to the community. Community based tourism is
developed mainly to benefit the local population.
It is usually the case that the poor, disadvantaged and grass root level rarely
have fair share of the fruits of the development. Job creation for only few people,
income that is not supportive for daily living, economic development that affects
only the elites, accessibility to education and health for everyone that is
unreachable, unproven social and infrastructural improvement in the region, is not
all that is expected from tourism development and its outcome.
Usually business owners and operators are the only beneficiaries of the
development whereas the community members, whose resources have been
utilized, are left unaffected with little or no share of the tourism contribution
(Kalisch, 2001).
Stakeholders in tourism are; accommodation owners, restaurant owners,
transportation companies, employees, products suppliers, souvenir shops, travel
and tour companies, tour guides and importantly the community members
themselves. It is still in a critical situation whether tourism will have positive
impact on local socio economic development and widespread benefits.
It is essential that individual goods and services providers generate income
directly or indirectly from tourism. Tourism must create income opportunity for
stake holders and community members and thereby improve the living standard
and assist in poverty alleviation. Proper and effective strategy for benefits
distribution must be in hand to contribute well back to the community. Tourism
should encourage conservation of natural and cultural resources. It is able to
promote local identity or either brings in damage. These are all the issues needed
to be explored in the research.
1.2 Objective of the Study
Most community based tourism (CBT) development took place in
underdeveloped region (UNDESA, 2005). The approach ultimately aims to bring
in social and economic development, reducing poverty and creating better
opportunities for the community members. Research on community based tourism
development is necessary in order to understand the challenges faced in the process
and finding appropriate approaches most suited to the region. There had been
success and failure in efforts executed in different parts of the world and many
lessons learned are at hand to adopt and adapt to the specific region targeted for the
development. The specific research will explore current endeavor in the region and
see that the introduction of CBT really contribute to socio-economic development.
The main objective of the research is to analyze stakeholders’ cooperation and
participation in implementing CBT in Thandaunggyi.
The research project is aimed to contribute to knowledge gap for the
developers and the community as beneficiaries.
The following specific objectives are set down in order to reach the solution for the
main research.
1. To examine the leadership capacity of Tourism Group
2. To study the participation of community in implementing CBT in Thandaunggyi
3. To study the perspective of the potential benefits of community resulting from
implementing
CBT in Thandaunggyi
To meet the objectives of the study, the research, through visiting the site
and observing the development, and based on qualitative interviews will draw up
its evaluation on the potential development tourism brings into the community.
Community development will be the final outcome to be examined. The
development will be measured both on tourism stakeholders’ basis and also on
community as a whole. Individual stakeholders may benefit from CBT
development and improve their business, livelihood and living standard.
Community as a whole may also directly or indirectly share tourism contribution
and enjoy the benefits.

1.3 Hypothesis
Based on literature reviews and prior studies conducted on community
development through tourism, the research hypothesizes that tourism development
in Thandaunggyi can be a tool for community development if it is implemented
through effective leadership, enabling broad based community participation and
widespread benefits sharing.
In terms of the objectives of the study the research hypothesizes that
Thandaunggyi tourism development working group, supported technically by
development partners as Peace Nexus and Hannsiedel foundation, has the potential
to implement community based tourism for improving the region’s socio-economic
status.
With community based tourism policy in hand backed up by the Ministry
of Hotel and Tourism, leaders who are locally respected and well instructed and
built up in capacity, gain conceptual intellect to select appropriate approach
suitable for the community and drive the development. Constant capacity building
programs, regular meetings and monitoring could be identified as favorable steps
in successful implementation of tourism development.
Well set mission and vision, specifically drafted out strategies, hand in
hand collaboration of the stakeholders, and participation of the community
members for the wellbeing of the community is a strong foundation for the
achievement.
At the beginning stage the progress may seem slow. Community readiness
and marketing capacity of CBT operators can result in obscure and unpromising
business. The ultimate outcome of community based tourism development effort
could be made possible through continuous monitoring and evaluation of the
leaders. Implementation of improved strategies through community involvement
thereafter, will secure improved income, upgrade living standard, result in regional
peace and prosperity, and ultimately achieve socio economic development of the
region.
1.4 Significance of the Study
Thandaunggyi community based tourism development is in its initial state
even though it has been a project imposed years ago. The study, after being
successfully completed, will become a document that will help bridge the gap for
tourism development aimed to achieve socio-economic change in the community.
The research will highlight appropriate approaches for the development through
introducing tourism into the community, evaluating the positive and negative
aspects of the development. The resulted document will be helpful for similar
development plans to be further carried out in other parts of Myanmar. The
research will become an essential learning for a new destination to successfully
implement community based tourism for development purpose. Since
Thandaunggyi has been selected as one of the pioneer projects for Community
Based Tourism development by the Ministry of Hotel and Tourism, the research is
right in time to analyze appropriate approach for the community development and
its success.
1.5 Scope and Limitation
The research will mainly focus on capacity of the TTDWG in leading the
development, community participation and potential benefits, and its distribution
thereafter. Therefore target groups will be tourism stakeholders such as
accommodation owners, restaurants owners, tour companies, tour guides,
employees, immigration, regional government, related leaders both religious and
community, youth, tourism related business such as suppliers, transportation,
souvenir etc. The study will be carried out to cover various stakeholders. Sample
size will be approached for gathering information and data. Community based
tourism development could integrate important issues like peace building, national
reconciliation and holistic development, however the research will only touch on
community based tourism and socio-eco development it brings to the region.
1.5.1 Accurate Data
Accurate data on tourists’ arrival in detail is difficult to attain due to weak
practices in data collection in the region. Inconsistency in data is also a limitation
for the research. Information from sources such as KNU and Military officials will
be hard to gather for its sensitivity to be exposed.
1.5.2 Local Interest in Tourism
The majority of the population is Karen national ethnics. Agriculture is
their main livelihood and most educated locals are employees in government
services. Traditional way of life causes lack of interest in tourism and related
development. Tourism is a new venture for the region too. Therefore, it will be a
great challenge in gaining respondents’ insight and comments on tourism
development for a better comprehension of current progress.
1.6 Terms of Definition
1.6.1 Community Based Tourism
Community based tourism is a type of tourism which is usually operated in
rural area. The objective of CBT is to provide experience to tourists to learn local
way of life and culture, and in return generate income for the community. Local
residents, often poor and economically marginalized invite tourists to stay in their
homes and share their way of living, their culture and indigenous knowledge
through activities like handicraft workshop, village walks and storytelling. CBT
upgrades local pride in their culture, heritage, food and lifestyle. It empowers the
community members to own and manage their own assets and resources, and foster
cross cultural learning between tourists and the host community. CBT is aimed to
promote interaction between the hosts and the visitors, offering unique experiences
and thereby encourage the visitors to contribute directly or indirectly to the
wellbeing of the locals. For CBT to achieve its objective community participation
is critical and equitably sharing of the benefits is essential to make it a success.
CBT if developed effectively can contribute significantly towards poverty
alleviation, especially in developing countries.
1.6.2 Community Involvement Tourism
Community Involvement Tourism is a term used by Union of Myanmar
Ministry of Hotel and Tourism alternative to CBT. This is community based

tourism that put emphasis on community empowerment. Communities must be
consulted and involved in decision-making processes on tourism planning and
management, which directly affect their livelihoods.
The concept of Community Involvement in Tourism (CIT) in Myanmar is
to involve local communities, encompassing ethnic groups, fostering respect for
their cultures and beliefs. Through provision of accommodation, food and
beverage, transportation, local arts and crafts making, weaving demonstration,
cultural performance, local cooking attraction and selling of local products,
community can generate income and lead to economic development. It also aims to
encourage community members to start their own small and medium enterprises or
act as investors or even joint venture partners with the public or private sector
(MOHT, 2013).
Leadership capacity plays an integral part in tourism development strategy.
Community development is strongly related to leaders’ characteristics and the level
of community participation In order to develop current economic and social
environment, communities need leaders who can help local group, businesses, and
non-profit organizations to work together to address challenges and promote local
strengths. Effective leaders have the capacity to analyze current status and address
problematic issues. They can provide important insights into the need for change
and are able to work on the solution together with the community. Their roles,
formal and informal, in the community make it possible to earn respect and foster
involvement of the members. It is crucial for the leaders to have the capacity to
make important decisions and encourage the community involvement. Their
leadership will increase the potential of the community to act in tourism
development. Constant capacity building of the community will elevate their
knowledge and understanding of the development, create a shared vision and
induce successful collaboration Building community capacity without community
leaders’ efforts is not possible. Leadership capacity is therefore a necessary
ingredient for the success of a community development.
1.6.4 Tourism Contribution
Developing countries usually select tourism as part of their approach to
development. Often, countries perceive positive economic benefits as the major
type of tourism impact (Mason.1995). Tourism contributes to the economy of a
country in foreign exchange earnings, revenues, generated income, job
opportunities and improved infrastructure.
Promotion of local identity and community pride, admiration and respect of
local arts and crafts, revitalization of local way of life and traditions are some
visible socio cultural contribution of tourism (Ritchie & Zins, 1978).
Even though CBT features interaction between the host and visitors as the
main activity, environment such as landscape, river, mountain and forest are added
to unique selling points in CBT. Protection of natural resources such as national
parks, community forests and wildlife reserves, promoting the preservation of
these resources are regarded as positive contribution of tourism to the community.

Chapter Two
Review of Related Literatures and Studies
2. Introduction
Literature on tourism development specifically community based tourism
development could be accessed through various sources and they offer valuable
knowledge and insight to the topic and related issues. A great number of
researchers have done various studies on the development issues and even basic
principles apply, there is still knowledge gap depending on geographic implication.
In the context of Myanmar, community based tourism concept is in its early
stage and Thandaunggyi being a new project, extensive research is still essential to
answer the research questions posted. The question of whether community
development could be achieved through community based tourism is yet to be
answered. The review of literature is presented here, examining the following
topics: tourism in developing countries, the importance of leadership capacity; the
participation of community in CBT implementation and the perspective of
potential benefits to the community resulting from CBT development
2.1 Community Development
2.1.1 Basic Concept
Community Development, as defined by Rhonda Philip and Robert H.
Pittman (2009) is an improvement in any or all dimensions; physical,
environmental, cultural, social, political, economic, etc. Social capital which is the
abilities of the residents to organize and mobilize their resources for the
accomplishment of their defined goals is crucial in facilitating and leading the

community development. Physical evidences like improved road system, better
means of transportation, extensive properties development and establishment of
infrastructure are materialistic and visible impacts of development.
The ability of the community to work together effectively is enhanced
through strengthen institutional environment and improved organizational
structure. It fosters the community to develop and sustain strong relationships,
solve problems, make group decisions, and collaborate effectively to plan, set
goals, and get things done.
Such development in economic dimension as creation of job opportunities
and increased income leads to improved living standard. Development of local
micro enterprises, business expansion and new business startups with increased
competition, are some expected outcomes that potentially grow with the
development. Paralleled to asset based development, social capacity of the
community is a more desirable dimension of development. The community’s
capacity to work together in sharing their interests and visions for the proposed
future, monitoring and managing their own resources, can ultimately enforce the
community achievement.
Cultural and environmental factors are some other development dimensions
comprising in the process. Promoted community identity, strengthen pride in
unique community value, revitalized cultural heritages, and preservation of local
ways of life is likewise entailed in parts of the development. United Nations
secretary general, on world tourism day (2015), reminded the world of inclusive
and sustainable development. He stressed that tourism development should protect
the environment and foster conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
2.1.2 Definition
A community is defined by Mattessich and Monsey (2004) as people who
live within a geographically defined area and who have social and psychological
ties with each other and with the place where they live.
Development was defined by Chambers (2004) as continuous ‘change’ in a
variety of aspects of human society. The dimensions of development are extremely
diverse, including economic, social, political, legal and institutional structures,
technology in various forms, the environment, religion, the arts and culture.
There are many definitions of community development but United Nations
defines community development as a process where community members come
together to take collective action and generate solutions to common problems.
Therefore community development could be defined as improvement in a
community in physical, environmental, cultural, social, political and economic
realms resulting in a better place to live in. And the outcome is achieved through
collective effort of the people taking decision and working together to achieve the
change.
2.1.3 Brief Historical Background
Community development can be traced back to the social reform movement
in Britain and North America in the latter half of the eighteenth century. In
nineteen thirt34ies development projects were carried out in Kenya and Africa
where development practitioners worked with local communities and in particular

with disadvantaged people. The decolonization era founded community
development principles to be applied in third world development efforts. In the
fifties and sixties, community organization, as it came to be called, has been
established to help deprived and underdeveloped urban and rural communities in
North America (Smith, 1979, p. 52).
In nineteen sixties and seventies various anti-poverty programs were
launched for under-developed and developing countries. The initiative started with
the effort to help the poor, marginalized and disadvantaged population in the
community. Development practitioners endeavored to work on local empowerment
and create effective collaboration. They assisted the community to tackle
inequalities in the distribution of wealth, income and land and foster social
changes.
In nineteen sixties, Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation in
Brooklyn, United States, worked on social mission in uplifting low income
residents and their neighborhood. The firm attempted to apply business and
management skills in their social works. Eventually such groups became known as
"Community development corporations" or CDCs. The idea of urban renewal
prevailing in United States in 1960s which focus solely on physical development
was generally replaced by community development which entails a more holistic
approach. In the 1970s and 1980s, United Nations Agencies and the World Bank
adopted community development as part of integrated rural development strategy.

2.1.4 Community Participation and Development
Community participation is an integral part of the development and without
it the development goal will not be achievable. Community members must be
involved in voicing their concern regarding the development effort which in fact
will affect them in the future. They must be assisted to develop their own
community in a way that they want it developed. People participating in their own
development must be involved from the early planning stages through to the
completion. By doing this people are more likely to manage and maintain their
development. Sarah Craig (1995) stated that community participation has different
levels ranging from involvement in which there is no real power to make decision,
then representation which generally refers to the individuals and organizations who
come together at management committee and sub-committee levels and,
participation which is being able to have an input into structures in which decisions
are made.
According to Brager, Specht, and Torczyner (1987) participation can be
attained through educating the community to increase their competence. Then they
can make influencing decisions that affect their lives and retain empowerment to
manage their resources. The World Bank’s Learning Group on Participatory
Development (1995) defines participation as a process through which stakeholders
influence and share control over development initiatives, and the decisions and
resources which affect them.

2.2 Tourism
2.2.1 Concept and Theories
Tourism involves all activities that take people away from their usual place
of residence for any reason. Common reasons include holidays, recreation,
business, visiting and experiencing new cultures and to visit family and friends.
Tourism has become a very significant global activity and as disposable income
and the ease of travel continues to prosper, so will the tourism industry. As an
industry tourism consists of an enormous network of people, places and services
that affect relationships within a country's borders and between nations.
More and more, tourism is becoming a giant among industries that shape
the health, wellbeing, prosperity and social consciousness of the world. As
international barriers to travel continue to fall, and as tourists broaden their travel
patterns to learn more about cultures and environments, understanding between
peoples of different nations and regions increase. Travel for other reasons – escape
from the stress of daily routine, search for fun and excitement will continue as dual
income families with discretionary income and leisure time prevail.
Tourism is categorized into different types depending on travellers’ motives
and the features; Eco tourism, community based tourism, urban tourism, heritage
and culture tourism, adventure tour, marine tourism, cruises and many other more.
Tourists too are classified into inbound and outbound tourists as well as domestic
tourists in regard to the destinations of travel. Tourists are further clustered into
different groups as leisure travellers, business travellers, religious travellers,
sporting teams, honeymooners, etc. Tourism comprises of various sectors;

accommodation, attractions and theme parks, tour operators, inbound tour
wholesalers, outbound tour wholesalers, retail travel agents, local, regional and
national information services, meetings and events, corporate agents and airlines.
Tourism is a composite of activities, services, and industries that deliver a
travel experience: transportation, accommodations, eating and drinking
establishments, shops, entertainment, activity facilities, and other hospitality
services available for individuals or groups that are traveling away from home. It
encompasses all providers of visitor and visitor-related services (Goeldner &
Ritchie, 2009).
2.2.2 Definition
Tourism as defined by institute of tourism in Britain (1976) is the
temporary short-term activities during their stay at these destinations; it includes
movement for all purposes, as well as day visits or excursions. World tourism
organization (1993) identified tourism as activities of persons travelling to and
staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one
consecutive year for leisure, business or other purposes.
2.2.3 Tourism in Developing Countries
Tourism especially in the developing country contributes enormously to
local and national economic growth. Direct and indirect income, employment
creation, small and medium enterprises in tourism business, foreign currency
earned, taxes generated and infrastructure development are positive and desirable
impacts of tourism.
According to David J. Telfer and Richard Sharpley (2008), developing
countries share common characteristics with the conditions of underdevelopment.
Traditional agriculture is the main economy in developing countries and, it has
become their primary source of income and foreign exchange earnings. Due to
insufficient income they are prone to survive in a low standard of living. The
population in developing countries usually grows dramatically, and with high
population they suffer from high unemployment, leading to poverty. As the
characteristics of a developing country, unstable political situation drives the
country to fragile economy. With these situations developing countries turn to
tourism for its potential contribution to the economy and as a development option.
Since tourism is regarded as labor intensive industry, it has the potential to
solve unemployment problem. Tourism has proven to be a constantly growing
industry, so it is perceived as a safe development option. Direct and indirect
contribution of tourism is one of the compelling factors for a developing nation to
adopt it as economic driver. The existing natural resources and cultural heritage
itself are tourist attractions and it is considered to have a very low start-up cost
compared to other industries. With increasing travel habit and barrier free travel
options, developing countries have easy access to enter tourism market, receive
tourists and enjoy its benefits thereafter.

2.3 Community Development and Tourism
2.3.1 Tourism as an Agent for Community Development
Tourism is regarded as change agent and is promoted in the perspective of
its positive contribution to the society, economy and natural environment. Sue
Beeton (2006) in her book Community Development through Tourism mentioned
that tourism, when it works properly well, is an outstanding community
development tool.
From year 2000 to 2015, global tourism had been driven to contribute to
some of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Poverty reduction has
been achieved as figures shown in reports on tourism contribution in the
developing countries. Various development partners initiated tourism development
collaborating with local community. Increasing tourism awareness among
stakeholders and visitors enable conservation of natural resources and strived for
environmental sustainability. Employment opportunities especially for women
promote gender equality and helps generate income for local community.
In September, 2015, member countries of United Nation adopted 17 new
global goals namely Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to guide the world in
achieving sustainable development.
Exploring tourism contribution to economy, United Nation World Tourism
Organization UNWTO’s report of 2016 stated the following:
The direct contribution of Travel & Tourism to GDP in 2015 was USD2,229.8bn
(3.0% of GDP). This is forecast to rise by 3.3% to USD2,304.0bn in 2016.This
primarily reflects the economic activity generated by industries such as hotels,

travel agents, airlines and other passenger transportation services (excluding
commuter services). But it also includes, for example, the activities of the
restaurant and leisure industries directly supported. The direct contribution of
Travel & Tourism to GDP is expected to grow by 4.2% pa to USD3,469.1bn (3.4%
of GDP) by 2026.
2.3.2 Community Based Tourism
2.3.2.1 Planning
In tourism development, planning plays integral part to the success of the
development. Planning requires sound policy to support the development process
and ensure expected outcome reached.
Tourism planning according to Joseph D. Fridgen (1991) involves creating
a future that is acceptable to the community carefully considering visitors’ needs
and also meeting the desires and expectation of the locals. The ultimate aim of
tourism planning is to develop the community and improve the living standards of
the people. As tourism is developed it can put pressure on the locals in increased
numbers of people flocking to the destination, increased use of roads and
transportation, increased demands on services and local hospitality where it can be
perceived by the locals as interruption to their peaceful lives. Tourism planning
and development, therefore requires time, funding, desire, expertise and extensive
programs to be systematically implemented. United States Travel and Tourism
Administration (USTTA) developed tourism planning model consisting of the
following steps.
1. Developing tourism leadership within the community
2. Develop tourism organizations to implement planning
3. Inventory and describe community assets, tourism resources, and liabilities;
assess the social, political, physical and economic conditions of the
community
4. Project what assets and resources to come to the community in the future
5. Set goals and objectives for tourism plan
6. Investigate alternative methods and means of obtaining the established
tourism goals and objectives
7. Select and approach and use it as a guide for tourism plan and development
strategy
8. Prepare and put in place implementation strategy
9. Execute the plane
10. Reassess and evaluate the plan.
2.3.2.2 Management and Implementation
As tourism development requires leadership. First step is to identify leaders
in the community to drive the development. Soon as the leaders are selected,
tourism working groups and committees need to be organized and formed. The
committees will take responsibility to assess community existing resources in order
to identify opportunities and requirements. Then future projection of the upcoming
changes will be made and objectives set. Contingency plan in mitigation of the
original plan has to be in place in case of alteration necessity. The most appropriate
approach suitable for the community will be chosen and implemented with
properly designed strategies. Finally evaluation needs to be done to find out the
effectiveness of the development which meet or fail the expected objective and
necessary modification taken.
Usually the planning process involves government and local authority and
also private sectors and stakeholders. The development phase entails building,
managing attractions, transportation, accommodations, services and facilities for
the tourists. Tourism development as mentioned, results in increased employment,
stimulation of entrepreneurship, diversification of business, taxes collected,
community pride, conservation and preservation natural and cultural resources. On
the contrary, development bears some costs such as increased use of natural
resources, costs of maintenance and repairs, people and vehicles congestion, socio
cultural shift from its originality, endangered environment and species, investment
costs and increased expenses.
Understanding the positive and negative impacts tourism can cause, and
analyzing the strength and weakness of the community will provide insight to the
leaders in driving the development.
Effective community leaders supported by development partners in
capacity building is perceived to be the driving force in involving community
participation and leading to desired development outcome. As the community
engaged in the development process, tourism definitely opts to bring in benefits
and positive impacts. Well planned strategies in hand are keys to improving the
community in socio economic status.

Sue Beeton in her manual, Community Development through Tourism,
highlighted empowerment and capacity building in the development effort. A well
planned strategy could not be successfully executed without efficient and effective
leadership and stake holders’ cooperation.
Capacity building is not only education and training but also include other
forms of development.
She mentioned four different kinds of capacity:
• Organizational capacity
• Technical capacity to deliver specific services
• Infrastructure capacity, and
• Community capacity
Capacity building of community leaders assists them in engaging local
people in the development process and capacity building of the community
member results in better delivery of services to the tourists and meeting their
interests and expectations. She recommended that consideration need to be taken in
capacity building to suit the local requirements. Joint action or partnership tends to
have better effect on some communities in developing collective capacity and
encouraging entrepreneurial initiatives as well as participation. Sometimes the
development process can take longer and most probably noted as failure yet
development partners are recommended to have enduring view to reconsider time
frames in the crucial situation and exert longer effort for capacity building phase.
Local involvement, engagement and trust usually take time. It depends on how
well the leaders could translate the development issues and motivate the members
to take responsibilities into their hands and take active roles in the transformational
process.
Nicole Häusler and Wolfgang Strasdas (2002) stated that CBT is a kind of
tourism that empowers the local to take control over the development and
management. But in many cases, CBT is usually developed in the community
where community leaders rarely have experience and educational background to
play leading roles in administration, marketing, service provision and
interpretation. And without proper capacity threat and problem is more viable than
development expected.
As stated, capacity in marketing is crucial in analyzing tourism trends and
potential market thereafter utilizing the information to build up strategy for
business success. The unique features of a particular region attracts the tourists and
creates desire to visit the place. The community and its leaders need to realize their
unique selling points, take advantage of it, improvising innovation and creativity to
gain competitive edge in the market. From the beginning the community has to
look for profitable markets and devise its own marketing strategy to attract
business and benefit from that. In the case of Thandaunggyi, it is recommended
that the region takes other forms of tourism such as ecotourism, pilgrimage,
cultural and agro-tourism, applicable to the regions and integrate it into CBT to
secure benefits to its full potential
Aref (2011) stressed that the success of CBT development centrally lies in
leadership capacity. The leader has to act as a bridging agent between local
community and external development experts. They need to motivate the

community and provide information to both internal and external actors. As
mentioned by Blackman (2004) successful CBT development process demands for
an individual champion to make it a success.
Kontogeorgopoulos (2014) researched CBT development in Thai and
revealed the importance of leadership in CBT development in Mae Kampong of
northern Thailand which has been awarded for its significant and successful CBT
implementation. The village headman Poo Yai Baan initiated the idea, led the
development and managed the implementation process. The high level of respect
for him among different groups within the community, his skill in developing
relationship with external actors, the capacity to educate local community with
knowledge and awareness, the power to mobilize the community into participation
gained him active community involvement in the development process in all
aspects such as decision making, implementation, benefits sharing, monitoring and
evaluating of project. In addition, his leadership went beyond to equitable benefits
distribution forming various occupational groups which bring together residents—
such as the bamboo weaving, blacksmithing, folk dancing, herbal tea pillow,
homestay, Thai massage, and traditional music groups all benefit directly from
tourism. Local participation in tourism generates income for the groups and the rest
of the community share the benefits from annual dividends. His leadership in
development was proven in the establishment of a forest fire buffer line, the paving
of the village road, and the construction of a toilet for every household in Mae
Kampong. Prommin executed CBT development plans practicing transformational
leadership and inspired motivation. He showed optimism and enthusiasm for the
common goals of the community, he explored new ways to tackle old problems,
mentored others tackling their individual needs, induced respect through display of
sound behavior and created community desire to participate.
2.3.3 Contribution and Impacts of Tourism
As indicated in the report, tourism has become a major contributor to
national income and prosperity. Tourists’ expenditure, incomes and employment
for the locals as well as tax generation and foreign currency earnings are main
economic impacts of tourism development. Tourism not only brings direct income
and employment but can also have significant ripple (multiplier) effects on the
local and national economy. Together with the income earned directly from
tourism some other business indirectly related to travel and tourism such as gas
stations, Laundromats and food suppliers somehow share the benefits as well. That
explains multiplier effect. The primary tourism business such as hotels, food and
beverage establishments and transportation generate direct monetary benefits
whereas percentage or portion of each dollar spent by the visitors goes to the
pocket of local fisherman, farmer or retailers alike. Therefore tourism industry is
increasingly seen as an appropriate vehicle to aid economic growth for developing
countries.
John Beech and Simon Chadwick (2006) highlighted the contribution of
tourism and development issues not only in economy but also its sociocultural
impacts such as revival of local arts and crafts, traditional cultural activities, local
architectural traditions and conservation of natural resources and beauty. Tourism
especially in rural community promotes the production of unique arts and crafts as
tourism products. It enhances local identity and pride through cultural
performances and events, helps to preserve local architects as heritage attractions
and conserve natural resources for its sustainability. These socio cultural impacts
are also considered as components of development. Development in a broader
sense encompasses at least five dimensions as categorized by Goulet (1992)
namely, economic, social, political, cultural and full life paradigm. Political
component reinforces human rights and institutional structure whereas full life
paradigm as its definition refers to preservation and strengthening of a society’s
symbols and beliefs.
Deepak Chhabra (2009) explained that tourism based development can
provide both direct and indirect economic benefits to the community. The direct
economic contribution goes to accommodation, catering, entertainment, recreation,
transportation and other travel related service. The follow-through effect is
perceived by beneficiaries such as financial services, food, drinks and products
suppliers, manufacturing and construction firms, laundry services, oil and gas
suppliers, wholesalers, security services, administration and tourism promotion.
Job creation and employment opportunities even it means low paid,
seasonal and part time, generates some income and helps in alleviation of poverty.
A variety of jobs available and well compensated job characteristic encourage
workforce to pursue tourism related employment. Pilots, website developers,
accountants, tour operators, fishing guides, resort operators, and golf and ski sector
positions, too are considered critical tourism-generated jobs. Tourism offers a wide
range of employment options with ranging pay scale. A wide variety of small
businesses benefit from tourism, from bed and breakfasts, cafes and restaurants,
adventure tourism companies to the less obvious – gas stations, grocery stores and
marine supply stores. All of these businesses support the needs of visitors and,
therefore, benefit from tourism revenue.
With the development of tourism related business and infrastructure, local
residents too have access to same services and facilities. Increased revenue leads to
extension of businesses and enhanced services. Visitors can help local restaurants
improve their range of menu offerings. Local hotels and guest houses may improve
their amenities as business increases (e.g., meeting facilities, spa, souvenir shops,
swimming pool, etc.) The local attractions may provide better displays and longer
hours accommodating visitors and locals alike. Special events like music festivals,
fairs and sporting events are enjoyed by residents while also potentially attracting
large numbers of visitors. Development of recreation facilities such as golf course
and other outdoor activities attracts tourists and provide opportunities for the locals
to enjoy it too.
Tourists not only bring dollars and physical upgrades to a community, they
also bring in new ideas and information which benefits local residents.
Cooperating with some organizations which came into the community for research
and educational purposes can upgrade the skill and knowledge of the community
members. Visitors’ appreciation of the scenery, heritage and culture of a
community will promote the civic pride and inspire the residents to preserve,
develop and share these unique treasures. CBT integrating ecotourism realizes the
importance of the natural resources in drawing visitors and providing economic

benefits. In addition, tourism activities often inform and educate visitors about the
value of local ecosystems and the need to protect them. A strengthened tourism
industry will also add to local tax revenue and support additional community
development.
Together with employment opportunities, income generation and
infrastructure development, gender inequality, social change and increased
pressure on existing infrastructure are some other effects that are not expected. The
internal structure of the community is seen modified, however, tourism creates
social separation between the have and have not in regard to interaction with
tourists .The hidden and irreversible nature of some of the negative effects, have to
be taken into consideration when introducing tourism into the community as a sole
development tool. The negative cost of tourism is high and it is noticed only when
damaged is done.
2.4 Myanmar and Tourism
2.4.1 Community Involvement in Tourism
CBT should be developed through local involvement. Local participation in
the development process will increase community acceptance and commitment
towards a collective vision and own wellbeing. Taking ownership to determine
priorities, decide action plans and take step in implementation will ensure
achieving expected outcome.
Tourism Standards Consortium (TSC Western Canada) 2009 puts a
recommendation to begin the development process with formation of the
community tourism planning committee (CTPC) consisting of key tourism

stakeholders and local leaders to guide the development and implementation of the
community-based tourism plan. The members with local knowledge and expertise
should include local authority, governmental bodies, individual tourism operators
and businesses, local business associations, destination marketing organization and
visitor center if applicable, non-profit and community-based organizations such as
cultural and heritage associations, environmental organization, and educational
bodies. Once CTPC is organized they will lead the implementation and act as key
advocates for sustainable tourism development within the community.
Potjana Suansri (2003) in her Community Based Tourism hand book stated
the importance and necessity of cooperating as a success factor for sustainable
development. Tourism is associated with different stakeholders having varying
interests and in order to gain support it is essential that they are given opportunities
to participate as partners and foster cooperation among them. Local authority and
government bodies, transportation and accommodation providers, food service and
products sellers, souvenir and handicraft producers, local tour guides and tour
operators, food suppliers and tourism related business, all need to be given fair
share in participation and all parties involved opt to accept tourism as a tool for
community development. The level of cooperation may include sharing
information, exchanging ideas and experiences, sharing of resources, partnership,
joint venturing and participation as stakeholders. As the mechanism for
participation and cooperation established the sense of responsibilities among
parties involved will increase and it will build up the capacity of the local
community to monitor and evaluate the development and take charge of the
process even manage to coordinate with external parties.
David J. Telfer and Richard Sharpley in Tourism and Development in the
developing world identified CBT as a type of tourism that incorporates high level
of community participation. Indigenous people particularly could be involved in
promoting their culture in CBT as tourists’ attraction. Tourism activities are
developed and operated mostly by the local community and their involvement is
inevitable. Attractions, services and infrastructure must be under the control of the
local, therefore, policy makers are required to encourage entrepreneurship, small
and medium enterprises in integrating local economic development. Community
participation should not be limited to a small number of members but wider scope
of participation is essential for the success. Arnstein (1969) categorized
participation into eight levels varying from followers progressing to member with
right to have a say, then moving to advisory position and finally to decision
making power and managerial status.
Centralization, lack of coordination between stakeholders and lack of
information available to locals has become barriers to the development progress.
Structural limitation, weak legislation and scarcity of experts, human resources and
social capital are all constraints for community involvement to reach its full
potential.
Myanmar, included in the list of least developed countries, most
communities are characterized by low levels of education, high rates of poverty
and lack of adequate health care. Report of the World Bank in May 2014 showed
that Myanmar has a national poverty rate of 37.5%. Illiterate rural community,
limited accessibility to health care services, access to safe drinking water and
electricity, lack of transportation system and infrastructure are some common
characteristics of Myanmar poor communities.
Myanmar Tourism Sector Wide Impact Assessment (2015) p 116, states;
The 2010 poverty rates in certain key tourist areas in Myanmar were:
16.1% in Yangon Region; 16.3% in Mon State where Mawlamyine and the Golden
Rock are located; 26.6% in Mandalay Region, (includes Bagan and Pyin Oo
Lwin/Maymyo); 44% in Rakhine State 4 4.2 (Ngapali beach, Mrauk-U); 32.2% in
Ayeyarwady Region (Chaungtha and Ngwesaung beaches); and 33% in Shan State
(Inle Lake, Taunggi).
2.4.2 Brief History
The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism in Myanmar (MoHT) prepared Myanmar
Tourism Master Plan in in 2013 with Myanmar Responsible Tourism Policy as its
guiding principles. Tourism Master plan develops strategic programs, priority
projects, and activities to be implemented covering the timeframe of 2013-2020.
The key objectives are to;
• Strengthen the Institutional Environment
• Strengthen Safeguards and Procedures for Destination Planning and
Management
• Build Human Resource Capacity and Promote Service Quality
• Develop Quality Products and Services

• Improve Connectivity and Tourism-related Infrastructure
• Build the Image, Position, and Brand of Tourism Myanmar
The Master Plan ultimately aims to maximize tourism’s contribution to
national employment and income generation, and ensure that the social and
economic benefits of tourism are distributed equitably.
In 2013, Myanmar has come up with Community Involvement Tourism (CIT)
policy emphasizing the empowerment of communities towards meaningful
participation in the tourism development and economic enhancement. CIT aims to
involve local community members to have substantial control over the
development and manage tourism activities in their own region.
CIT policy in Myanmar was developed with the objectives of strengthening
institutional environment and civil societies, and building up community
capacities, It assists in setting up system to strengthen community planning and
management. It encourages local entrepreneurship, develops quality products and
services of the community and monitors the impacts of community involvement.
Reinforcement of institutional environment and constantly developed leadership
capacity increases accountability and induces community participation. Systematic
planning and management, results in improved service level and upgraded product
quality. As more community members engage in micro enterprises, it enables and
strengthens their control over local economic development. It poses more vital role
of the locals in managing and deciding their expected future.

MoHT released Community Involvement Tourism policy in May 2013 with
a framework for ensuring local communities access to opportunities in tourism. It
encourages the development of community-run tourism activities and enterprises in
Myanmar. Engaging communities in tourism skills training, planning and
management will enhance the opportunities for people from local communities to
gain employment in the tourism sector, and to sell goods and services to visitors.
Promoting local products’ sales in tourism market and improving local transport
infrastructure helps maximize local economic benefits in major destinations.
Beyond the monetary benefits tourism strengthens community
organizations’ capacity in management and improves social capital. It promotes
socio-cultural and environmental sustainability and enhances empowerment of the
local in decision making and managing their tourism resources
Ministry of Hotel and Tourism of the Union of Myanmar has piloted six
community involvement in tourism (CIT) as stated in the previous section, in the
aim of developing socio economic of the region.
Indawgyi Lake in Kachin state being a wildlife sanctuary it is the
responsibility of the locals to protect biodiversity of the region and flora and fauna.
CIT with the support of Flora and Fauna International (FFI) was introduced into
the region in the aim of creating new sources of income, and also to involve the
communities in a participatory conservation planning through tourism. CIT with
homestay is integrated with ecotourism activity like bird watching, and outdoor
recreation such as kayaking, cycling, trekking and cultural festivals.

The freshwater Irrawaddy dolphin is an endangered species. The dolphins
play a particular role in traditional local fishing and it is of great interest for the
tourists. In the unique phenomenon of cooperative fishing, the dolphins, together
with the fishermen, voluntarily drive fishes into the net. The development of a
community-based ecotourism concept in the six fishing villages in Irrawaddy river
near Mandalay, gives fishermen an alternative source of income and thereby an
incentive to reduce environmentally damaging fishing methods and dolphins
protection. It helps raising awareness and reducing negative impacts. Eco-friendly
dolphin watching, lunch at village, local handicraft-pottery production process,
village guiding are some activities developed for CIT. The project was assisted by
Wildlife Conservation Society(WCS).
Myaing in Magwer region is a CIT village developed with the collaboration
Inn Yaung village, Kan Gyi Taw 1 and 2 and Su Lae Pan Village, and is near
Bagan. The development of CIT aims to promote tourism, offer destinations in
Myanmar which is off the beaten track, and generates income to improve the
livelihood of the community. One Lodge in the middle of 4 villages was developed
to give customers experience of community activities. Introducing traditional
thanaka, service of lunch with local cuisine and exploring of neighboring area by
bicycle, and evening dinner in the lodge with traditional dance show were some
tourism products typically developed to offer visitors community based tourism
experience. The project was initiated by action aid.
The unique Padaung ladies with long neck and bronze neck rings has great
potential as a CIT destination and since it was an area affected by armed conflicts
it really is in need of reduced poverty through tourism development. The aim of the
project is to create more jobs in the tourism sector, which the local communities
and businesses can benefit from. Currently, CIT in Kayah supported by
International Trade Center- ICT is already being implemented in two villages of
the Demoso Township: Htaa Ne La Le and Pan Pet.
The villages are characterized by ethnic minorities; Kayaw in Htaa Ne La
Le and Kayan in Pan Pet, which are also known as the "Long Neck Women". To
gain CIT experience package such as full day or half day tour to gain cultural
insight of the culture, sharing local art and music, enjoy Kayah BBQ, short forest
trekking with trained guide and buying local unique products, were developed.
The hotel group Golden Island Cottage (GIC) by PaO National party
assisted by GIZ and PaO National development, executed CIT projects in PAO
towns; Inne Ne, Hti Nae and Loi Khaw of Shan states, near Inle Lake to promote
sustainable development in the region through generating income and
strengthening the identity of subsistence farming communities. The pilot phase of
the project started in March 2016. They establish first bed and breakfast, launched
capacity building programs for organizations and the communities. The
community tried to expand their tourism products, promote their local way of life
and open up new trekking trails.
2.5 A Case of Thandaunggyi
2.5.1 Geographic Background and Information
Thandaunggyi has been a British hill station since 1852 with the other two
hill stations; Kalaw and May Myo now known as Pyin Oo Lwin. British officers
chose to visit it as a summer get away to enjoy the cool weather in humid summer.
Crosette, B (1999). It is situated in the northern most of Kayin State, just twenty
nine miles away from Taungoo which is only five hours drive from Yangon. The
town itself in on the hill top with scenic views of mountain ranges and green
forests. During the colonial era the town was used as a resort for soldiers and
administrators for recreation purpose.
The town is better known for its Prayer Mountain named Naw Bu Baw with
Karen legendary folktale and it attracts many Christian pilgrims around the
country. Thandaunggyi has been under conflicts for many years due to the flight
between Myanmar Military and Karen National Union (KNU) since 1989. The
attempt to build mountain resort during Union Solidarity and Development Party
(USDP) government failed, however, after U Thein Sein’s government cease fire
agreement signing, the town has been released from brown area and regarded as
safe place to visit.
2.5.2 Community Assets for Tourism
The cool climate and lovely nature itself is a big draw to attract visitors all
over the country for summer recreation. The old British fort built hundred years
ago on a small hill top, the spiral stairways to the top of Naw Bu Prayer Mountain
and the Karen New Year Mountain nearby add to the attractions of the town. The
tea plantation with tea factory on a hill top which has been built hundred years ago
as a school, the old Church and Hindu temple are all places not to miss for the
visitors coming to Thandaunggyi. Most inhabitants of Thandaunggyi are Christian
therefore three Church buildings in a separate area of the town representing three
denominations stand tall in the community. A military fort named Bayint Naung is
mainly composed of Buddhism, so Buddhist temples and Stupa erected on the hill
top has become a prominent place to visit for Buddhist visitors. The waterfall
nearby and scenic trekking trails are added to the attractions. With the development
of CBT in the region, eight bed and breakfasts have been set up in the community
to receive visitors.
2.5.3 Thandaunggyi Tourism Development Working Group
To manage the CBT development a group of community representatives was
selected to lead the development process. Thandaugngyi tourism development
working group is composed of advisory board, support body and implementing
action body at the community level. Well defined roles and organized structure
enhances collaboration and mobilized community members to execute their effort
to achieve the development objectives.
The most prominent achievement of tourism development in the region as
reported in the CBT conference held in 27th Oct 2016, is strengthened peace and
trust building between conflict actors. Increased tourists arrival improved the
economy and stabilized the region. The development of tourism infrastructure such
as bed and breakfast and restaurants increased employment opportunities, created
income generation, reduced poverty and made it easy for tourists to find
appropriate accommodations with acceptable service standard. Business innovation
and entrepreneurial spirit are the most optimistic impacts received from tourism
development.
Safety and security is still an issue in the region therefore, tourists do not
have access to certain areas as it has been post conflict region. Improved
interaction among stakeholders and effective communication internally still needs
to be strengthened as it has become barrier to cooperation. Through continuous
learning, service skill and capacity of the community members to host the visitors
has yet to be constantly built up. Lack of marketing, quality products development,
ability in business forecasting and handle financial management, results in
unachieved return on investment and difficulty in calculating business profit. The
ongoing process is, TTWG has appointed a treasurer to set aside a portion of
tourism to share it back into village development.
TTDWG has set up tourism information center supported by Business
Innovation Facility (BIF). In order to diversify tourism products new trekking
trends were developed and Leiktho is integrated into Thandaunggyi tourism
destination package plan, Construction of hot spring basin is underway and
standards of local products such as honey, coffee and tea packaging are to be
upgraded. Branding and marketing strategies development is to be boosted and a
network tower installment to improve telecommunication infrastructure has
already been planned. Other issues such as waste management, mitigation of
negative impacts to environment, safety and security concern and public-private
partnership have been discussed in the conference to follow up on the development
progress in order to achieve CBT development objectives.

2.5.4 Supporting Partner Organizations
2.5.4.1 Peace Nexus
Peace Nexus Foundation is an independently-funded private Swiss
foundation. The primary function of Peace Nexus is to promote integrated solution
to peace building. The foundation supports conflicts affected areas find
development opportunities and at the same time strengthen peace building,
democracy and security. Working with UN Peace building support Office (PNSO),
Life and Peace Institutes (Sweden), Peace Direct (UK) and Insider Mediators in
Africa, it has extensive experience across the world in regards to conflict areas.
(Retrieved from https://peacenexus.org)
In 2013, Peace Nexus had agreed to work with Myanmar government to
support facilitation of dialogue between Myanmar government and ethnic minority
groups in cooperation with Myanmar Peace Center. Peace Nexus initiated
Community Based Tourism development project in Karen State at Thandaunggyi
in the aim of promoting responsible and inclusive development to strengthen
ongoing peace process between Karen National Union (KNU) and Myanmar
Government.
2.5.4.2 Hann Seidel Foundation Myanmar
With the aim to support the democratization process in Myanmar,
Hannseidel foundation opened up a representative office in Yangon, Myanmar on
23rd of October 2012. Hann Seidel Foundation (HSF) cooperated closely with the
Ministry of Hotels and Tourism (MoHT) and the Myanmar Tourism Federation
(MTF) to develop Responsible Tourism Strategy in Myanmar. As a result
Responsible Tourism Policy for Myanmar was published in 2012 and the Policy on
Community Involvement in Tourism also launched in the next consecutive year
2013.
Hannseidel supported CBT project in Thanddaunggyi in the aim of helping
economic, political and social reforms as well as developing policy strategies for a
sustainable and eco-friendly economic development. It also assisted capacity-
building measure to reduce poverty, focusing on education and training
2.5.4.3 Myanmar Responsible Tourism Institute
The Myanmar Responsible Tourism Institute (MRTI) established in 2016,
is a non-profit organization aiming to support responsible tourism development in
Myanmar through knowledge sharing, training, and research. For knowledge
sharing it constructed e-library and discussion forum as a platform to share
knowledge, resources, ideas and issues related to responsible tourism in Myanmar.
MRTI provides expert assistance in research fields coordinating responsible
tourism projects. It also organizes and conducts education and training programs
related to responsible tourism, destination management, heritage and cultural
management, corporate social responsibility (CSR), methodologies and multi-
stakeholder meetings. MRTI also co-organizes CBT conferences for
Thandaunggyi.
Chapter Three
Research Method and Data Collection
3.1 Methodology
The research is qualitative in nature since extensive discussion and
interviews were used and instead of questionnaires, face to face meeting with
various stakeholders and interviewing targeted groups give in depth understanding
of the research questions. The researcher adopted qualitative approach due to
uncertainty of data availability and knowledge capacity of the community to
comprehend surveys and questionnaire does not meet expectation.
Through a number of visits to the region, observation of community
involvement in CBT and seeing current progress, the research is able to identify
how the leaders are playing important roles in the development, how well they can
lead the progress and the necessity of capacity building in order to achieve its
development objectives. For this research altogether forty five persons, forty five
from students’ research program and twelve form researcher’s individual approach,
were interviewed. By hearing respondents’ voices and insights, the researcher can
evaluate the extent of local awareness of tourism, their willingness to participate,
and their understanding of its benefits. Further to this, after understanding
community involvement in CBT development, the third objective can be met to
identify how well the community benefits from tourism contribution and what
distribution schemes are in hand to share the fruits back to the region. As the
objectives of the study have been uncovered, in depth studies will further support
to answer research questions and hypothesis that introduction of community based
tourism to the region can bring in community development, will be tested.
3.2 Data Collection
Research for this study was done via a combination of documentary study,
field research and stakeholders’ interviews. Although there are few reports on the
case, certain concept and information to the research questions have been
reviewed. The first visit was back in 2016 April 13th to 17th during water festival
and the following three visits were done in the next consecutive year. Continuous
approach to the development progress as it rolls on, gained the researcher an
understanding of crucial requirements in the development of CBT in that particular
region.
The field research conducted four times within two years gathered the
primary data for the study. Due to unavailable records and poor data recording
practices in the region, qualitative method has to be applied. And it is perceived
that the best approach to understand current situation is through intensive
interviews with the targeted groups.
3.3 Sampling
To reach the research objectives sampling has to be done carefully to cover as
many main actors and stakeholders as possible that represent CBT community. A non-
probability sampling has been selected with snowball sampling approach where the
researcher met up with key informants and then preceded to quota sampling. The
population of Thandaunggyi is comprised of the community directly affected by tourism
which is 6767 in numbers in the five quarters or wards. Another population which is a
community of military forces who are least likely to be affected by current tourism
business was left out. So when talking about community, it mostly means the community
which has immediate involvement in CBT development.
3.3.1 Key Informant Interviews
CBT study trip was organized by Star Academy for hospitality and tourism
management diploma students from 27th February to 1st March 2017 and thirty
eight students participated in the research interviewing twenty six households
covering approximately 150 family members. Questions are developed in a way to
gain comprehension of the research objectives. Since thirty eight students stayed
across eight bed and breakfasts, they were able to interview the owners and
employees. The tour guides were watched on their guiding skill and were
interviewed too to understand capacity building requirement for the service
providers. Restaurants were patronized in dinner time and service providers were
interviewed on their perception of benefits gained from tourism development. The
interviews with twenty six household members covered a wide range of
stakeholders including government employee, young school drop outs,
transportation providers, suppliers of food and goods, souvenir and retail shops
owners and all other tourism related business. Interview questions were
constructed to contribute to in depth knowledge of current development situation
and community response to CBT development in the region. CBT programs were
pre planned in order to experience and understand the capacity of the community
to host visitors and to watch their willingness, involvement and cooperation.

3.3.2 In Depth Interviews (IDI)
Meetings with elderly leaders of the community ranging from pastor and
writers to political party leaders and members of parliament contributed to the
research objectives. A special sit down discussion and interview were conducted
with Thandaunggyi Tourism Development Working Committee members, to
collect essential information on how the development has been carried out, the
challenges faced and how the community was motivated to involve in CBT
development. Discussion with Thandaunggyi tourism development working group
provides in depth comprehension of the development. Focus group discussion,
individual interviews, in depth knowledge and opinion shared on 8th and 9th of
July 207, were used to obtain data required and the CBT program executed in the
two nights three days itself somehow answered a number of questions posted for
the research.
3.3.3 Observation
The pre CBT study trip was done one week ahead of the actual trip and
programs were discussed to organize activities aiming to give students CBT
experience and at the same time to evaluate the community capacity to host CBT.
A welcome party for visitors with traditional performance and local refreshments
and destination brief were requested as the initial stage of the program. All the
eight bed and breakfasts were assigned to accommodate groups of students and this
was planned to analyze the services and skill gaps of the employee with concern to
capacity building. Starting from Taungoo, on the way up to Thandaunggyi, local
tour guides were encouraged to give commentary and throughout the trekking trip
and on the way up to Naw Bu Baw prayer Mountain, the participants had the
opportunity to experience their guiding service. The local cuisine were prepared in
traditional way and served. Local restaurants were visited to see the standard of
food service, hygiene and sanitation practices. Attractions such as Tea factory,
Hindu temple and old church were visited to see and hear the historical aspect of
the region and how well they are preserved to be showed case as heritage asset of
the region. Cultural performance and exchange were organized in the evening and
discussion and knowledge sharing with local youth took place in the Church. Even
night bazar was set up to host the participants and sell some local products and
souvenir. The CBT showcase and observation of the programs executed itself
poses a number of answers to the research questions.
The researcher constructed categorized questions for different stakeholders
and trained the students how to conduct the interviews. Eight groups of students
who stayed in eight B&B were assigned to five different quarters to conduct
interviews at TTDWG’s selected households. Questions were constructed to cover
the three research objectives. Individual responses were recorded, compiled and
sent for researcher’s analysis. The researchers too did several interviews with key
stakeholders and community leaders. Then all the compiled answers were
personally analyzed by the researchers himself to come up with data interpretation.
The conclusion on research objectives were drawn using the data analyzed.
Chapter Four
Finding of the Study
4.1 Thandaunggyi and Tourism Development
Thandaunggyi is only 5 hours’ drive from Yangon and has easy
accessibility compared to the other CBT sites in Myanmar. It is situated on the
mountain top 4824 feet above sea level with picturesque hills and scenic views
across the mountain ranges. Taungoo, the capital of Kayin state, which is 29 miles
away, serves as transit for travelers. Karen ethnic group makes up the majority of
the population and by nature they are living peacefully in the area. Most of the
locals earn their living in agriculture planting tea, coffee, cardamom, durian, betel
and growing rice.
The 4824 feet high Naw Bu Baw Mountain with a mythical legendary was
set up as a prayer mountain for Christian pilgrimage. 374 steps stairways to the
mountaintop were erected in 1995 and it has become tourist destination for
domestic travelers. The cool weather, the tranquility sensed in the nature, Karen
ethnic residents with simple and unrushed day to day life style, are reasons
drawing visitors to experience the place.
The population of the whole township which is composed of more than 20
villages is 29415 as per 2014 census, however, the town itself is divided into 5
quarters and the population breakdown is as shown as follow.

No Quarter Household Male Female Total
1 Quarter-1 454 1413 1453 2867
2 Quarter-2 200 512 560 1072
3 Quarter-3 347 994 960 1954
4 Quarter-4 124 334 332 666
5 Quarter-5 32 110 98 208
1157 3363 3404 6767
Map of Thandaunggyi Town; courtesy of TTDWG
Thandaunggyi has one state high school, three primary schools and seven
nursery schools with three other church based nursery schools. The town has one
hospital accommodating 70 beds and one regional health care center. The majority
of the population earns their living through agriculture and 20% are estimated to be
working in public sector employment. It is estimated that more than two hundred
people are involved directly or indirectly in tourism related business such as
accommodations, restaurants, retail shops, tour guiding and transportation services.
Community Involvement Tourism Policy encouraged local residents to
participate in the development of their community and protect the area from
external influence and dependence. Thandaunggyi tourism development working
committee was formed in 2013 with the vision of developing the region.
Source: Conference report of Thandaunggyi Community Tourism Development-
27thOct 2016 Hpa An, Myanmar.
The vision statement of TTDWG stated;
We aim to establish a community-based organization that promotes
responsible tourism development in the Thandaunggyi region, and acts as a

role model, supporting locally owned tourism-related businesses, educating
the community and helping to conserve natural and cultural resources
TTDWG developed eight objectives with action plans to implement the progress
(Hann Seidel Foundation, 2016).
• To provide a platform for information exchange for locally-owned tourism-
related businesses and development actors
• To spread economic benefits among the local community
• To educate and raise awareness of local communities about conserving
natural resources
• To provide skills development and capacity building in tourism and
hospitality
• To promote and provide gnuidance for sustainable principles (waste
management/ hygiene/monitoring and evaluation, etc.)
• To establish role model for CBT in the region
• To maintain Kayin Culture and revive traditional craft and activities
• To share knowledge and lesson-learned on community development in post
conflict area in Kayin state.
With the objectives at the center of every endeavor, TTDWG working
together with the Ministry of Hotel and Tourism has been able to set up eight bed
and breakfasts and secured operating license within a year of the planning phase.
From overnight stays in family homes, visitors had been accommodated in the
building of Bed & Breakfasts, and from giving away local products and handicrafts
to visitors as presents the status changed to setting up an infrastructure for local
shops, where goods can be sold. The achievement dramatically benefits local
business and community members who were involved in providing services to the
tourists.
The planning phase unfolded training series for receptionists, B&B owners,
hygiene in restaurants or for tour conductor in collaboration with development
partners and public sector. At least two nights and three days package has been
developed covering not only Thandaunggyi but also neighboring villages and
surrounding areas.
Bed and breakfast development is the most prominent achievement of the
TTDWG and the accommodation can provide 59 rooms for the visitors. They have
been able to provide standard lodging to both domestic and international guests
alike.
List of B&B with the numbers of room
No Name Rooms
1 Khaing’s Villa 8
2 Star of the East 6
3 Home Sweet Home 4
4 San Su Ci 7
5 I Wish 9
6 Peace House 7
7 Grace for Grace 9
8 Golden crown 9
9 Total 59
List of the restaurants
No Name
1 Amazing
2 Taung Baw Tha
3 Chit Tha
4 Kayin Ma
5 Bo Bwa Myitta
6 Ebaneza
7 See Zar
8 Wai Linn
9 Daw Maw
10 Ya Haw Bote
11 La Wun
Total restaurants - 11
During the high season (October-May) many domestic tourists visit
Thandaunggyi. There are no official figures kept on the exact numbers, but in
weekends and during special events including; Christmas, Easter and Karen New
Year, hundreds perhaps a thousand tourists visit the town for celebrations.
Thandaunggyi Community Tourism Development conference took place
in Hpa An on 27th Oct 2016 and the report indicated some achievements in
tourism development. Thandaunggyi being a post conflict area encountered many
challenges in setting up tourism development in the region. Current achievement is
that through tourism and increased tourists arrival, peace between conflict actors
has been strengthen. Securing operating license for the existing eight bed and
breakfast benefits the community in earning income through proper
accommodation and food provision to both domestic and international visitors.
Consequently jobs in tourism sectors for school dropouts somehow help to solve
unemployment among the youth. Opening up of new shops and restaurants to cater
for visitors, and local transportation benefits from increasing tourists’ arrival are
evidences of tourism achievement in the area. Community members taking the
initiative to start investing in tourism related business show the entrepreneurial
spirit spurred up from tourism development.
4.2 Presentation of the Information Collected
Forty five key informant interviews of community members were
conducted by Star Academy students to find out answer to the research questions.
Researcher selected carefully constructed interview questions as preferred methods
to have comprehensive answers than that of questionnaires. Even interview
questions sometimes require extensive explanation.

The following list is the breakdown of 45 key informant interviews of
stakeholders conducted by Star Academy students, into various categories.
• 8 school teachers
• 6 community members in the field of Agriculture
• 8 Retail shops
• 8 B&B Operators
• 4 Restaurants
• 6 Government Staff
• 5 Tour related business(Tour guide, transport)
Within the four visits to Thadaunggyi, in depth interviews (IDI) with
twelve community leaders and elders were conducted by the researcher in the first
visit 13-17 April 2016 and the final visit on 8-9 July 2017. The in depth
interviewees includes pastors, Karen People Party leader, current member of
parliament, writer, retired government officer and TTDWG leaders. Data on
visitors’ arrival and income generated. Five persons have been selected to report on
in depth interview in order to meet the objectives of the research and answer the
research questions. Extensive interviews and discussion were conducted face to
face individually with the focus group to understand tourism development and its
impact.
The five persons representing different key stakeholders (9th July 2017)
No Name Representation
1 Naw May Say Amazing Restaurant Owner
2 Naw Hser Gay & Saw I Wish Bed and Breakfast Owner
Johnson
3 Naw Sein Pan Ebenezer Local products gift shop
4 Reverend Saw Bo Thar Chairman of TTDWG
5 Saw Christopher Retired Karen Minister of Agriculture and
Livestock
4.2.1 Amazing Restaurant
Naw May Say aged 40, has opened up Amazing restaurant on August 25,
2015 at the prime location where visitors entering Thandaunggyi stop for
information and food. The restaurant has the capacity to cater for 60 people. With
a see through kitchen, the restaurant offers a variety of menu ranging from Karen
traditional cuisine to local and international has become a busy spot providing food
for both local and visitors.
Having 18 years’ working experience in Singapore including the position
of assistant manager at a food establishment, Naw May Say gained business
concept to start the place. She understands hygiene, sanitation and service,
therefore, transfers the knowledge to her employee and stands as role model among
other local restaurants. When asked about her objective, she enthusiastically
explained that it is not only for generating income but she aimed to train up local
youth to pursue a career to the professional level and share standard practices and
business mind set.
In busy period she employs up to 7 workers to assist her with both
production and service. The head cook earns 200,000 kyats while the remaining
staff gets paid 70,000 to 140,000 kyats including accommodation and food. She
provides them with Basic English language training in order to cater for
international visitors. She persistently trains up her staff in service standards and
hygiene practices however she admitted that it is a tough job to persuade the locals
to maintain the standards.
4.2.2 I Wish Bed and Breakfast
Naw Hser Gay and Saw Johnson are the owners of I Wish bed and
breakfast. I Wish was opened in 2012 with increase visitors’ arrival in
Thandaunggyi and the demand for accommodation. Firstly it was catered for
pilgrimage, accommodating and cooking food for them without any charges. The
cool weather and scenic view attracts many visitors in summer time and it has
become summer getaway for the locals in modern time as well.
I Wish secured it license in 2015 and started operating as official B&B in
Thandaunggyi. This particular B&B is different from others in that it is situated on
the hill top with scenic view of the green mountains and valley and it has a lager
compound serving as garden to the visitors. The old colonial building adds to the
reason people choose I Wish as preferred place to stay. The B&B is composed of 9
rooms including a new extended building in the compound Naw Hser Gay has a
son who is operating Dream Land travel and tour in Yangon and sometimes he is a
source for business to link visitors with I Wish B&B.
She employed two staff to work with her in the B&B and it is more like a
family business. The two permanent staff received hospitality training provided by
development partner such as Myanmar Responsible Tourism Institute (MRTI) and
either hospitality training conducted in Taungoo.
CBT introduction into the region acts as a tool to open up the eyes and ears
of the locals in the post conflict area. Due to limited opportunity in the region,
local participation narrows down only to small numbers of current operators. I
Wish plans to extend new rooms as future requirement yet B&B license permits
only 9 rooms to operate.
4.2.3 Ebenezar Local Products Gift Shop
Naw Sein Pan, aged 53, being TTDWG member leading local products
sub-committee, opened up the gift shop in 2016. The shop is small, selling local
products and also serving local food as a small eating place. Neatly laid on the
shelves and displayed are varieties of local products ranging from local organic
fruits such as banana, pineapple, durian, longan, citron, chayote, pomelo and rare
local sweet chiretta, yellow ginger and jam made from different fruits. Local
unique products such as tea leaves dried or preserved, local made grapes wine,
honey, and coffee are all made in Thandaunggyi and usually purchased by
domestic travellers to take away home as destination gifts.
When asked about the reason for opening the shop she simply stressed her
eagerness to promote local products. The products not only sell as gifts for visitors
but locals, especially the family members at nearby military base usually buy from
the shop.
4.2.4 TTDWG Chair Person Reverend Bo Thar
Reverend Bo Thar is the pastor of Zion Karen Baptist Church in
Thandaunggyi. He was appointed as the chairman of TTDWG and he also operates
Star of the East B&B which has 6 rooms that also sells local products such as
coffee, tea leaves and honey. According to him Thandaunggyi is the dead end town
itself with no trading therefore, the town is depending on Taungoo which is 28-29
miles away, for goods and supplies. There is no regular public transport to and
from Thandaunggyi, yet private transport is available up and down all day
especially leaving the town in the morning and transport goods and passengers
back in the afternoon.
The community has always received visitors and accommodated the guests
at home out of their traditional hospitality. Pilgrimage and visitors usually flock at
Naw Bu Baw Prayer Mountain, especially on special occasions such as Christmas
and Karen New Year. Visitors’ arrival increase yearly and as B&B started
operating in town, standard accommodations can be provided to both domestic and
international guests alike.
4.2.5 The Retired Karen Minister of Agriculture and Livestock
To have a comprehensive understanding of the research objectives, the late
Karen Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Saw Christopher contributed his
opinion on tourism development in the region.

Regarding B&B operation in the region there is still room for improvement
to upgrade the cleanliness and standard of service to meet expectation of
international visitors. The comment is given on finding from a casual visit to some
B&B in the town.
It is essential that B&B and service providers promote local organic
products and proudly serve it to the visitors. Agriculture and livestock products’
sales will generate more income and benefits local economy.
Regarding non-governmental organizations’ endeavor in some
development project, he clearly stated that the local benefits only few percentages
and more than 85% goes to the expenditures of the project. It is merely a failure
and waste of effort and, the external support causes great damage to the attitude of
the local people who tend to always rely on external assistance without exerting
any effort for their own development.
Mutual trust and cooperation of conflict actors can bring about stability and
peace in the region. Carefree mobilization in the region with more business
opportunities open up will definitely result in socio economic development of the
region. Local empowerment does not work if the locals do not have assets and
resources to manage. It is advisable that external investments are invited,
controlled and managed to boost up the development and achieve maximum
benefits in return. Safeguarding of local business in dealing with large investment
from external stakeholders such as hotel groups is crucial to secure maximum
benefits to the community.

4.3 Presentation of Data on Research Questions
4.3.1.1 Students’ Result
Regarding research question on leadership capacity most of the
interviewees expressed that TTDWG leaders still need to improve on broad based
involvement of the community. The key informant interviewees (KII) mentioned
that the working group is working on tourism development yet lack in sharing
information and giving awareness to the public.
Students’ finding
Leadership
Working on it Still need improvement
36%
64%
Researcher’s finding
Leadership
Working on it Still need to improve
42%
58%
4.3.1.2 Researcher’s Findings on Leadership
According to Naw May Say, owner of Amazing restaurant and vice secretary of
TTDWG, there is still lack of development communication and flow of
information among stakeholders. Tourism awareness and development objectives
need to be disseminated down to the roots and widely reached out to achieve broad
based and holistic development. Another important note is TTDWG has to
carefully control external influence such as business investment intention of large
commercial groups and some tour companies trying to contract and influence local
business for their own benefits.
TTDWG is planning to be legally registered in order to promote Thandaunggyi
CBT and its local products using its own logo. The region needs to develop new
tour routes and other local CBT products in order to attract more visitors and
tourists. Karen culture and tradition has to be revitalized in the aim of promoting
local identity and unique feature of the region. The most challenging situation in
the development is restriction imposed by KNU on trekking trails and routes.

Public private partnership is still in crucial stage though the development process is
rolled out.
Naw Hser Gay and Saw Johnson of I Wish B&B expressed that technical
assistance of the development partners such as Peace Nexus and Hann Seidel
foundation is essentially important to guide and move the process. KNU’s
sensitivity on security concern is a major constraint for the development work to
move forward.
Naw Sein Pan who operates the gift shop did it as a role model for the locals, to
educate them on the idea that well packaged local products add to the value. She
also highlighted the requirement of product diversification and improved
packaging for local products to generate more sales and income for the community
members. She is leading TTDWG’s sub-committee in local products development.
She found it hard to change local mindset on improving packaging and promoting
local products. Karen traditional costumes and local handicrafts which can add to
CBT products have yet to be reintroduced back into the community. She comments
that technical assistance in the matter of products development is still required and
the locals need to understand that increased local products sales could generate
higher income and support the community in livelihood.
According to Reverend Saw Bo Thar, the chairman, TTDWG works hard to
educate and give awareness to the community. Technical knowhow and technical
assistance is still required to drive the development process effectively. The future
plan of TTDWG in year 2017 is to increase up to 10 B&B with at least 70-90
rooms and new tour routes. The package tentatively includes trekking to Spirit
Mountain (Lo Ta Ray Koh), newly found waterfall and hot spring nearby. There is
still struggle between TTDWG and local authority to secure permit to operate the
route. Local products diversification and packaging improvement is also another
action plan to be implemented in 2017. Traditional weaving, bamboo handicraft,
cultural performance and national costumes will be improved to add on to CBT
products.
Patriotic and enthusiastic about the development of the Karen people, the late
Karen minister of agriculture and livestock, Saw Christopher stressed that tourism
development should not be limited to few elites who are operating for their own
benefits. The whole local community needs to be given awareness on the
objectives of the development and information disseminated, so it will gain willful
participation of the community as a whole.
4.3. 2 Community Participation
4.3.2.1 Students’ Findings
When asked about community participation most of the answers show that the
community is directly or indirectly involved one way or the other in tourism
related activities. They may either serve the visitors or involve in supply chain.
Calculation done on community participation in CBT activities including 8 B&B,
12 restaurants, 8 retail shops and around 15 transportation operators in town, show
that the total numbers approximately 150 -200 community members are directly or
either indirectly involved.

Students’ finding
Community Paticipation
Involved Not involve
29%
71%
Community Participation
Involved Not involved
42%
58%
4.3.2.2 Researcher’s Finding on Community Participation
Naw May Say of Amazing restaurant expressed her concern in community
participation that even though community realizes the benefits of tourism
development there is still a need to involve them in meetings, trainings and tourism
related activities. Broad based participation in different activities will strengthen
CBT experiences provided to the visitors and make Thandaunggyi a more
distinctive destination.
Naw Hser Gay and Saw Johnson of I Wish B&B explained that public sector’s
involvement plays an important role in strengthening the development effort. The
late township administrator was very enthusiastic about tourism development in
the region and actively supports the process.
In depth interview (IDI) participants responded as follow;
The meetings held usually involve only TTDWG members who are mostly
B&B and restaurant owners. The Church leaders who chair the working
group took the decision making role. They still need to involve the
community as a whole.
The statement was summarized from the researcher’s personal interviews
with several key stakeholders conducted on the 8th and 9th of July 2017.
Reverend Saw Bo Thar highlighted requirement of more local involvement
especially in fostering better understanding of tourism development objective, and
getting rid of misunderstanding due to cultural and religious belief. To gain
participation of the community, the community needs to understand the benefits of
CBT. Peace and stability is essential to fully operate CBT in the region. Military,
KNU, current government and the community needs to cooperate in the
development process and brings in prosperity for the region. The development
process still encounters constraints. Being a post conflict area, it really demands
for cooperation among related stakeholders. Community involvement can
strengthen the development and peace and, stability regained as a result of
economic development.
Saw Christopher highlighted the importance local empowerment since the
community has always lived under dictatorship and conflicts. The mindset of the
local requires change as stated in freedom of fear. The locals are still living under
the influence of Military, KNU and current authority. Therefore they never have
opportunity to manage their own community and find solution for their own
development. Even in dealing with external investment the community needs to
stand firm to guard against improper use of local resources and make a deal that
will retain prosperity of the region. Local participation and ownership will
strengthen the development work.
4.3.3 Benefits to the Community
4.3.3.1 Students’ Finding
For final question, government staff and teachers mostly responded that the
development did not affect them and they have less interest in tourism since they
have regular income whereas they think tourism is seasonal and does not guarantee
regular income. Overall, the community understands the benefits resulting from
tourism development in the region. The increase in guests stay at B&B, increased
restaurant sales, more income generated from local products sales and increase in
car rental business all proves that the community enjoys the benefits of tourism
development. According to TTDWG members there is still no community fund set
aside from tourism contribution yet, it is clear that the community as a whole
generates more income as tourism development in the region makes it progress.

Some of the benefits stated by interviewees are as follows;
• Increase of household income
• Increased room sales
• Local products sold at gift shops with higher price
• Livelihood options improved with better living standards
• Youth employment in tourism related business
• Small business opportunities and start up related to tourism
• Better infrastructure and road system
Students’ finding
Benefits sharing
Benefitial Not affected
21%
79%
Benefit sharing
Benefitial Not affected
33%
67%
4.3.3.2 Researcher’s Finding on Tourism Benefits
Visitors' stay at B&B in 2017
300
250
200
Jan
Feb
150
March
100 April
May
50
0
I Wish Grace for Golden Star of the Peace Khaing
Grace Crown east House Villa
The chart mentioned, shows guests’ record between January- May in 2017 at
the listed six B&B. It is difficult to collect data on guests’ stay since the B&B do
not usually keep the record properly. Researcher visited individual B&B to obtain
the data, especially to compare business between 2016 and 2017. But due to
missing and insufficient data in some B&B, only 5 months’ record can be
exhibited on guests’ arrival. San Su Ci is more a Church based accommodation
Monthly Arrival
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
Jan Feb March April May
and proper record is not obtained. Home Sweet Home stops operating due to health
problem of the owner. It is calculated that total of 2,106 guests stay in the 6 B&B
during January to May in 2017. Overall increase in numbers of guests’ stay at
B&B is perceived as improvement in visitors’ arrival in 2017. Compared to
domestic visitors, only a total of 86 international guests were noted in the record.
They are from different countries such as Germany, France, Australia, Denmark,
Switzerland, England, United States, Canada, Singapore, Japan and Korea.
Researcher found out variation between the report and actual findings obtained
from individual B&B.

Monthly room sales of Khaing’s Villa & Grace for Grace B&B
300
250
200
January
150 February
March
100
April
50
May
0
Grace for Grace Khaing's Villa Grace for Khaing's Villa
Grace's rooms rooms sold
sold
Monthly room sales of Khaing’s Villa & Grace for Grace B&B
Total income in Kyats

4000000
3500000
3000000
2500000
2000000 Grace for Grace
1500000 Khaing's Villa
1000000
500000
0
January February March April May
TTDWG’s report on B&B stay is described as follow.
Years Domestic Foreigners Total
2016 627 89 761
2017-until May 1684 110 1794

Usually pilgrims stay at Church based accommodations. There are three
Churches in Thnadaunggyi and they provide accommodations for stay not on
commercial basis but accepting only donation in whatever amount the visitors like
to offer. At the mountain base, buildings were constructed to accommodate
pilgrims on group and even cooking for guests is provided on request. Visitors stay
at Church based accommodations outnumber the stay at B&B. There are also day
return visitors that do not stay overnight and the numbers add to the arrivals. There
is a record book kept at Naw Bu Baw Mountain base. Although not all visitors
recorded down their visits in the book the total numbers of two months; January
and February showed 2012 visitors. To calculate the total numbers of visitors a
year B&B stays have to be added to Church accommodations visitors and day
returns. As per TTDWG report it is estimated that around 100,000 visitors arrived
in the year 2016.
For Amazing restaurant, at the beginning in 2015, daily revenue summed up to
100,000kyats but yearly increased up to 300,000 kyats average income per day in
2016 and 500,000 to 600,000 kyats daily in 2017. The business saw an increase up
to 150 guests per day from November to May in 2017. Basically, local products
such as meat, poultry, vegetables and fruits which she proudly claims organic are
promoted in the restaurant and the rest of the supplies are bought from Taungoo. It
has become a local spot for eating and caters also to international travellers due to
its service and better hygiene standard than any other establishments in town. Since
international arrival in Thandaunggyi is still very few, the ratio of domestic and
international travellers at the restaurant is 90:10. The restaurant received
international guests from Germany, Australia, United States, England, Netherland,
Japan, Thai and Singapore; top consumers recorded as German guests. In return
benefits will be shared widely to the community as a whole rather than benefiting
only to a small circle of stakeholders.
According to Naw Hser Gay, I Wish is always the first choice for visitors due
to its location and usually visitors refer to face book, trip advisor and other friends’
recommendation to stay at I Wish. In the case of full house, she has to turn away
the visitors but used to recommend other B&B such as Khaing Villa, Golden
Crown and Grace for Grace to the guests. Local produce are used to serve the
guests and local products such as honey, tea leaves, coffee and bamboo shoots are
sold at the B&B for take away gifts especially for domestic travellers.
The total sales for Ebenezar gift shop sum up to 3,500,000 kyats a year and the
business is doing well. Naw Sein Pan expressed that the better the packaging of the
product the higher will be the sales and it will benefit not only the retail shop but
also suppliers.
Reverend Saw Bo Thar, said 2016 received not less than 100-150 international
visitors and up to 100,000 domestic travellers; 10-15% increase in domestic and
100% increase in international visitors. With the 8 licensed B&B providing 59
standard rooms, the town has the capacity to host up to 100 international visitors a
day. Increase in visitors’ arrival also boosts the sales of local products such as
home-made coffee, tea, honey, food and Karen national costumes. Local
transportation too benefits from tourism development and has seen business
increase in car rental service.
4.4 Observation
Apart from extensive interviews conducted, the 2 nights 3 days study tour
purposely programmed to observe the community capacity in delivering CBT
activities, provided most information required of the research questions. The
program was preplanned by researcher and TTDWG to host 38 students from Star
Academy sharing CBT experience of Thandaunggyi.
The welcome culture performance by young Karen children with traditional
costume, and local refreshment offered to the arriving students was stunning and
provided great experience of the local culture. The 2 nights stay at 8 different
B&Bs also proved the hospitality of the Karen ethnic. Evening dinner hosted in the
Church building with culture exchange program really highlighted the community
identity and pride in promoting their culture and tradition.
Walking up the stairs to scenic Naw Bu Baw Prayer Mountain with story told
about its romantic legendary background by the local guide added to the
experience. Trekking trials to Lo Ta Ray Ko, known as Spirit Mountain led by
local guides and local cuisine cooked in traditional way served in local forest house
created a great memory for all. A visit to century old tea factory and old Hindu
temple unfolded the history of the hill resort years ago. Youth exchange program
in the second night opened up opportunity to share CBT concept between the hosts
and the guests. The night ended with night market created to sell local products to
the visitors.
4.5. Analysis
The overall picture of CBT development in Thandaunggyi is perceived through
observation of activities in town during the four visits and also from meeting,
interviewing and discussing with stakeholders individually or through questioning
community members. As stated, Thandaunggyi CBT development was purposely
projected and implemented in the aim of strengthening peace process and
development in the region. The town was selected specifically by the government
due to its natural and cultural assets which have potential for implementing CBT.
Visiting the destination as a tourist, inspires the researcher with the feeling of the
uniqueness in the cool weather which is very relaxing and the green environment
with natural resources extremely rejuvenating.
4.5.1 Sharing Local Way of Life; the Unique Experience
CBT, as in its definition, is a tourism that promotes the identity of the
community, encourages interaction between the hosts and the visitors and creates
mutual learning, contributing to the wellbeing of the host community,
economically and socially. The story and beauty of Naw Bu Baw Prayer Mountain
itself adds to the attraction of the region so does the unique culture of the Karen
ethnic. CIT policy in Myanmar does not permit homestay; therefore lessen the
opportunity of the guests to interact with the host and learn their daily way of life
in a close proximity. B&B acts more like a commercial establishment rather than a
home to share. The experience of B&B accommodation could not be the same as
homestay however, some owners works on providing hospitality to the guests as
close to family service in a homestay.

It is understood that Karen ethnic is rich in culture and traditional way of life
but in the case of Thandaunggyi, it is a rare opportunity to experience the unique
features of the community if not organized and showcased. The Karen traditional
costume is rarely worn except on special occasions such as Christmas, New Year
and on Sundays when they go to Church. Traditional dance and performance,
weaving, handicraft and local food still need to revitalized and promoted to share
local way of life which is the essence of CBT. Lack of traditional and cultural
activities and deficiency of local products innovation and promotion, restrains the
potential of the destination to be projected explicitly as CBT. Packages that offer
unique experience still need to be developed, organized and implemented to give a
competitive edge to Thandaunggyi as a CBT destination. Researcher and some of
the TTDWG members came to a conclusion that tourism operated in
Thandaunggyi need to execute more effort to add to features and characteristics of
CBT.
The four visits to Thandaunggyi were fully supported by TTDWG in the aim of
helping the researcher understand and comprehend CBT development process in
the region. Close relation and in depth talk with individual leaders and on the other
hand, opinions gathered from community members, helps answer leadership
capacity question. The majority of the interviewees expressed their understanding
of tourism benefits to the community. They perceive tourism as a development
tool. Despite their positive view on tourism a deliberate strategy to strengthen the
awareness and the desire to participate in the process is lacking. The initiative of
TTDWG Chairman to compete in Product Package and Innovation Competition
(PPIC) organized by Business Innovation Foundation (BIF) funded by UK aid,
resulted in technical support to install information center for Thandaunggyi CBT.
CBT in Thandaunggyi was initiated by the previous government in
collaboration with KNU in the aim of stabilizing peace and development in the
region. TTDWG and development partners, invite government officials and have
regular meetings on review of the progress and setting up of future strategies.
However the lack of harmony and compatibility between the current government,
the community and KNU is seen as constraint for the progress.
Both TTDWG chairman and secretary are well respected religious leaders.
They are Church pastors and have full influence on the community who are their
Church members. CBT study trip organized for Star Academy is the evidence. The
programs and activities were executed perfectly as requested and planned. It
implies that they have the capacity to get the community involved and drive them
to certain expected outcome. However comments received from community
members unfolded the full picture of leadership. One of the restaurant owners said,
“Most meetings were organized within closer circle of TTDWG core group and
only randomly selected participants gained access to capacity building programs.
We were not informed and were always left out”. The community leaders need to
work on improving development communication.
Visitors’ record showed that the average stay in B&B was not more than two
nights. Except for Naw Bu Baw Mountain and few other places, there is nothing
much to see in town. Leaders understand that CBT products diversification needs
to be improved. Initiative effort of the leaders to reintroduce the cultural and
traditional activities, revitalize local handicraft skill back to the community and
upgrade packaging standard and product quality is critical in providing visitors
with local experience. It is understood that marketing effort needs to be strengthen
yet the community has to get ready to receive visitors and provide authentic CBT
experience.
4.5.3 Community Participation
The research found out that the development effort implemented within the
community was through the leadership of TTWDG. The community leaders
together with some members have the opportunity to plan and decide on CBT
activities in the region. Local empowerment is a positive sign but on the other hand
the nature of participation in terms of inclusiveness is still low. The research
revealed that community involvement is still limited to interested participants
catering for their own benefits.
B&B, restaurants, local retail shops, tour guides and transportation personnel
are direct participants in CBT. They have the opportunity to serve the tourists and
sell local products to visitors. Provision of service and products creates job and
generates income. Even food suppliers and local products producers were
indirectly involved. Cultural dance performers, people working in tea and coffee
plantation, workers in tea factory and food preparation team in Church based
accommodations can also be counted as indirect participants in CBT. The total
numbers across the community including the family members come to 150-200
people. Involvement of local in meetings, voicing opinions, decision making and
information sharing, according to some locals, is still limited to the closer circle.
Community members expected to participate and get informed, yet many times,
B&B owners and some close members within the circle were the only participants
in the meetings and trainings. It is perceived that limited participation lessen
community motivation and has become the main reason to slow down the
development process. The research revealed community leaders’ lack of giving
constant awareness, disseminating information on tourism development, and
limiting involvement in trainings and capacity building programs.
4.5.4 Tourism Contribution to the Community
Monetary benefit is difficult to calculate regarding tourism contribution since
record keeping and reliable data is not present. Remarkable business increase in
food sales such as Amazing restaurant, accommodation income such in Khaing’s
Villa, Grace for grace and local products sales as in Ebenezar gift shop are
evidences of financial contribution gained from tourism in town.
Transportation business too, improves with the increase of visitors’ arrival to
the region. A number of transportation such as cars and motorbikes enjoy better
income with more orders for pickups and return trips add up. According to Ah
Kwee who has been in transportation services for more than 13 years, there are
around 15-20 persons operating transportation services in town, ranging from 4-
seater to 22-seater. Usually vehicles transportation goods also accommodate
passengers to and from Taungoo. A passenger is charged 2000 Kyats for one way
trip. Newly constructed road at the entrance to town is a proof of infrastructure

development. Increased restaurant numbers and upcoming addition of
accommodation are positive signs of local spirit in entrepreneurship. Small 4-seater
usually charge 30,000 Kyats and 22-seater charge 60,000 kyats for the trip. Total
income of transportation operator increases as tourism business flourishes in town.
Even though broad based benefits across the community in terms of data could
not be indicated, tourism undoubtedly contributing to the economic development
of the region. Agriculture remains major source of income and the majority of the
population is still unaffected by tourism.

Chapter Five
Summary, Conclusion and Recommendations
5.1 Summary of Findings
Tourism is usually perceived as a tool for community development. The
research follows the hypothesis and focuses on three questions; leadership
capacity, community participation and tourism contribution to the community. To
have a comprehensive understanding of the tourism initiative in Thandaunggyi, a
preliminary visit was carried out a year ahead of the actual research in 2016 April
13 to 17. Individual interviews with different community leaders reconfirm
community willingness to adopt tourism as a development tool. The majority
members of the community interviewed, wish to see the region with stability and
peace and, better economy. Literature review of CBT theories and its
implementations in different countries contributes invaluable knowledge enhancing
the research.
Researcher conducted the second visit in February 2017 to preplan and
facilitate CBT activities purposely set up for observation of community
coordination. Study trip conducted by Star Academy on 27th February to 1st March
2017 made way for a closer observation. Interviewing of 26 households covering
45 community members unveil positive perception the community holds regarding
tourism development in the region. Questions were constructed for different groups
of stake holders to reach the research objectives. The CBT activities catered for
Star Academy students gave a clear picture that the community has great potential
to make CBT a success.

The final visit done on 8-9 July 2017 summed up the research and assisted
the research come to a conclusion. In the thesis, three research questions have been
posted to answer whether the community based tourism development in
Thandaunggyi can really result in development of the community. The research
has a closer look at of the leadership. It is found out that leadership has influence to
motivate the community yet the capacity of the leaders requires to be strengthened
if the development is destined to reach to its full potential. Next objective is to see
if the community as a whole willing to participate in the process and how well they
are involved in the implementation. Focus groups’ interviews and in depth
discussion reveals that despite the community willingness to participate,
involvement is still limited to a closer circle.
Finally tourism contribution to the region and its positive impact on the
community has been measured in terms of economy and social benefits. Data
collected and extensive interviews covering different tourism stakeholders prove
that tourism inevitably contribute to the local economy and development. Physical
evidences and infrastructure improvement seen in the area confirm the notion that
tourism has gradually taken the role of a change agent in local development.
The research overall contribute to practical understanding of CBT development
process in Thandaunggyi context. The results of this study are expected to be
useful for the tourism policy makers, tourism entrepreneurs, government
authorities, academicians and other key stake-holders in the tourism industry. The
study findings have confirmed that local community in Thandaunggyi has been
enjoying economic benefits resulted from tourism development. Better road

system, new buildings and shops, more job opportunities, increase local household
income, and market created for local products are positive impacts of CBT
implementation in the region.
Concerning community participation, the research found out that people
who are directly involved in tourism have positive attitude towards CBT
implementation whereas those who are in other trades have less interest especially
those in government employment see tourism as seasonal with irregular income.
However, overall opinion on tourism development is optimistic as the community
accepts tourism as a potential driver for local development. The majority members
of the community are Christians and through church organizations they are
committed to participate in any activities required of them if requested by the
church leaders. The unity and team spirit observed during the research poses as a
constructive element exiting in the community.
5.2 Conclusions
The research finds that the help of external actor such as Hann Siedel
Foundation, Peace Nexus and Myanmar Responsible Tourism Institute (MRTI)
was indeed crucial for the initiation and implementation of CBT project. However,
it is also found out that the local population nowadays has high levels of control,
and even self-mobilization, which indicated the highest level of local participation.
The research can firmly state that the local community still holds empowerment in
deciding and leading the development on their own without any external influence.
The involvement of the local population in tourism planning and development

merely depends on leadership. Tourism awareness needs to be extensively
communicated to the public so as to gain holistic participation. It is observed that
only a small part of community is involved in CBT activities whereas wide spread
community willingness is seen positive. Therefore cooperation between
stakeholders needs to be strengthened and broad based involvement of community
requires reinforcement.
The most important finding is tourism development in Thandaunggyi is
said to be community based tourism yet the feature of CBT is totally missing.
Interaction between the host community and the visitors rarely exists and
opportunity to learn local culture, tradition, handicraft, and share their way of life
is harder to find. TTDWG also admits the requirement to create extensive tourism
products to attract visitors and increase products sales. Tourism information center
supported by Business innovation foundation (BIF) has to be more prominent and
actively functioning. Not only product development but also marketing effort and
branding pose as priority issues to be instantly handled.
Although this research has given a good insight into CBT projects, there are
also several limitations. First of all the research is limited in its scope. Questions
were developed for different categorized focus groups and intended numbers have
been approached for interviews. But the numbers compared to the total population
is relatively small. And the majority of respondents are from tourism related circle
except for some government employees which play a part in the interviews.
Therefore the conclusions remain only valid for the limited community. It is hard
to conclude that the finding really represent the entire community of

Thandaunggyi. Another limitation is the data collected. Since record keeping in the
region is still poor the data interpretation is mostly a close approximation.
5.3 Recommendation
CBT in nature, is intended as a low-impact and often small scale,
alternative to standard commercial (mass) tourism. Hence quality experience plays
important role in the success of the CBT. The research findings pose a serious
emphasis on leadership capacity. As TTDWG increases their ability to involve a
larger number of participation, a better result can be reached and the community
will have more possibility to meet the development goal. It is essential that
constraints to local participation caused by low interest and lack of cooperation
between stakeholders such as government bodies, KNU and community members
are given immediate attention. Issue such as area security and limitation of access
has to be given priority and sorted out in order to diversify tourism routes and
provide more activities to the tourists. Cultural performances, traditional
handicrafts production, ethnic costume weaving, local cuisine preparation and local
way of life, all need to be revitalized in the aim of providing visitors a more unique
CBT experience. Connection with mainstream tourism (Goodwin, 2006) and
cooperation between the CBT group and other tourism facilitators such as tour
operators and travel agencies will enhance the business and create a win-win
situation between the host and external partners. Small scale business with large
investment usually finds it difficult to succeed therefore it is recommendable to
call for assistance in capacity building for the community from development
partners and institutions. Monitoring and review has to be constantly carried out in
order to find the gap and make a timely revision.
Finally CBT development is a complicated and complex endeavor
nevertheless; many have experienced success in meeting their development goal. It
takes time and the slow progress can extinguish the spark to result in failure.
Thandaunggyi CBT development should bear in mind that community
development is attainable through strengthening the leadership, involving broad
based participation and sharing the contributions to benefit the local population.
The study focuses on the implementation of CBT particularly in a post conflict
area. Since local communities engaging in CBT are the main target in this research,
inclusion of the non CBT participants and comparison of the results from the two
groups will provide the overall and a clearer picture of CBT in Thandaunggyi
context. In addition, the integration of small business management capacity
building program and systematic record keeping practices should be executed prior
to the research in order to achieve a more precise result.

References
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Interview Questions
Target groups
 Accommodation owners, employee
 Restaurants owners, employee
 Tour companies
 Tour guides
 Government Employees
 Immigration
 Regional government
 Related leaders both religious and community
 Youth
Questions for Accommodation owners

1. When did you open the B&B? How many rooms do you have? What are your
room rates?
2. How many visitors did you receive in 20…? Guest numbers each year
3. What is the ratio of domestic and international guests? What nationalities did
you receive most? One to three top countries
4. How many nights did the guest spend in your B&B?
5. Did you make any other income apart from room charge?
6. Where do you get daily supply for the guests? Do you use local produce for the
guests?
7. How do you support your employee? Wage, training and others?
8. How do you share visitors with your competitors? Do you have cooperation
among accommodations? Do you have any conflicts of interest?
9. Were you involved in any tourism related meeting, planning and decision
making?
Questions for Restaurant Owners
1. When did you open your restaurant?
2. What is your seating capacity?
3. How many employees do you have?
4. What are your menu options?
5. Who usually come to your restaurant?
6. Any foreigners?
7. How much do you earn? Day/month/yearly
8. What do you think about tourism development in TDG? Do you think it affects
your business?
9. Were you involved in any CBT activities?
10. Do you receive any training for you and your employee?
Tour Guide
1. When did you get your guide license? Do you think there should be more
training opportunities for you to improve your tour guiding skill?
2. What is the ratio of local and international visitors? What are the challenges
you faced as a tour guide?
3. Do you think guests are satisfied with the destination, the CBT and your
service?
4. What are foreigners’ favorite activities in TDG?
5. Is TTDWG assisting to improve CBT products and services? Or is there any
requirement for external assistance to upgrade products and services standards?
What is your opinion as a tour guide?
6. Do you have fair share of the tourists among yourselves with your colleague
tour guides?
7. How did you connect with external tour companies?
8. Were you able to create income generation opportunity for the community
members? How?
Tour companies
1. How long you have been registered? How many staff do you have? Were you
able to provide standard/proper training for your staff?
2. Do you have proper technical and IT support for your business?
3. Did you do sufficient marketing and networking for your business?
4. How did you get your customers? Who are your source markets?
5. Were you able to provide efficient service to your customers? What are you big
challenges?
6. How do you cooperate with other competitor tour companies in the region?
7. Were you able to share benefits with the community or contribute to the
community development?
8. How did you cooperate with TTDWG in assisting CBT development? Did they
give you any guideline regarding CBT business in the region?
Immigration
1. What important role immigration plays in TDG CBT development?
2. Did you have accurate record of tourists’ arrival? Domestic and International?
3. Did you get full cooperation from the accommodation and community houses
in regard to the number of arriving tourists in the region?
4. Did you have any up to date IT and technical support for effective data
collection?
5. How can immigration participate better in CBT development?

Government Employees
1. Is the majority of the population in the region, government employee?
2. Why did you choose to work as government employee?
3. What is your opinion on tourism related employment? Do they earn more than
you?
4. How many of your family members are government employee?
5. What are the advantages of being a government employee?
6. With the regional development do you think people will become more
interested to work in business than in public sector?
7. What is your opinion on CBT development in the region? Do you have any
involvement with CBT development?
8. How can public sector work together with private sector in CBT for the
community development?
Regional government
1. Is tourism considered a priority sector by government in its own development
policies?
2. How much support is given to tourism development in the region?
3. Is there sufficient coordination between the government, TTDWG and the
community for tourism development?
4. Is the government involved in progress and results monitoring and review?
5. How can the government support CBT development more effectively and
better?
Questions for employee

1. Did you have any other job before?
2. How much do you earn? Is it a better income than other Job? Is the income
reasonable to support your daily living? Family?
3. Did you get any training related to your job? Or certificate? Were you able to
perform your task efficiently? Or do you still need some more skill?
4. Do you regard your current job as a career or just a tentative job? What do you
do in off season?
5. Are any of your family members involved in any tourism related supply chain?
6. Do you receive good comment from the guest regarding your service? Are they
satisfied with your service?
7. Can you speak English? Did you get any English speaking training?
TTDWG & Religious Leaders
1. What is your opinion on CBT development in the region? Positive and
Negative?
2. As community leaders how are you leading the implementation of CBT
development ?
3. With the differences and diverse backgrounds did you have any challenges to
gain collaboration?
4. What significant achievements did you accomplish up to date on CBT
implementation in Thandaunggyi? Were you able to drive the development
with minimum guidance, support and monitoring from MoHT and
development partners?
5. Did the community members have passion to develop CBT as a tool for
community development? Were you able to give them awareness on CBT and
its benefits? Were you able to motivate and involve them in the development
process?
6. Have you learned how CBT is implemented in ASEAN countries? Did the
community understand their uniqueness and how to utilize their unique selling
points in implementing CBT in the region?
7. With the domestic and international arrival, do the service providers have the
capacity to deliver satisfactory standard of service to the visitors? Are there any
plan for continuous capacity building and service trainings?
8. Did you face any conflict of interest among the community in CBT
development? How did you handle it?

Youth
1. Are you interested in the development of CBT in the region? Do you think
youth can generate income tourism related employment?
2. Do you have interest in preserving and promoting Karen culture and identity?
What do you think youth today need to learn and hand over from the older
generation?
3. Are you interested to work in government sector or private business? Why?
4. If you have the opportunity to start or involve in tourism business what do you
have in mind to do?
5. As member of the youth, are you involved in some activities of TTDWG?
What are the activities?
6. Are you given awareness on what is CBT and how it can benefit the region?
Tourism related business such as suppliers, transportation, souvenir etc.
1. Do you think CBT increase your earning more than before?
2. Do you have a fair share of the business? Is there conflicts of interest and
competition?
3. How do you cooperate with each other in providing standard service and
products to the visitors?
4. Are you given any training on customer service and product development?
5. If you have the opportunity what would you like to do to improve your
business?
6. How would you like TTDWG to support you in CBT development
participation?
In Depth Questions for Thesis

Leadership Capacity:
1. We understand that TTDWG was initiated by KNU, Community and the

Army. With the differences and diverse backgrounds did you have any
challenges to collaborate well in tourism development works?
2. Since the formation of the working group, what were the significant
achievements of CBT implementation in Thandaunggyi? Were they able to
drive the development with minimum guidance, support and monitoring
from MoHT and development partners?
3. Can we say that the TTDWG members represent tourism stakeholders and
the community? Are they leading CBT development for the benefits of the
community?
4. As community members, do you understand what CBT is, how it works

and what are the potential benefits to the community? Were TTDWG able
to give awareness about CBT?
5. Do you think CBT can bring development to Thandaunggyi? Or do you

perceive CBT as an unwanted intervention to the community?
6. Is the TTDWG able to involve the community in the development process?

Do they have the drive to motivate the community?
7. Do you have any idea how CBT is implemented in ASEAN countries? Did
you have opportunity to learn about it? Did the community understand their
uniqueness and how to utilize their unique selling points in implementing
CBT in the region?
8. With the domestic and international arrival, do the service providers have
the capacity to deliver satisfactory standard of service to the visitors? Are
there any plan for continuous capacity building and service trainings?
Participation
1. As a community member do you feel motivated to participate in CBT

development in Thandaunggyi? Why and why not?
2. Even though you don’t have any asset or social status do you think you are
given the right to participate as a community member in CBT development
and share the benefits directly or indirectly?
3. Do you think the community will benefit from CBT development or the
benefits will go only to just a small group of people?
4. Is adequate empowerment given to the local community to implement CBT

or is there any external influence that hinders their full participation?
5. Did CBT development in TDG gain widespread local members’

involvement? Or did it cause community discord and damage the existing
unity?
6. Is there healthy competition among business with mutual understanding

and community benefits oriented practices?
7. Did the tourism development and planning match the local aspirations and
capabilities, and gain participation from local community?
Benefits to local community
1. Do you believe that community based tourism is developed mainly to

benefit the local population?
2. Up to now, do the poor, disadvantaged and grass root level have fair share
of the fruits of the development?
3. Has CBT created Job for the locals, generated supportive income for daily
living, and affected economic development of the community compared to
pre development period?
4. Has CBT brought better opportunity for education, improved healthcare,

social and infrastructure development in the region along with CBT
implementation
5. Did individual goods and services providers generate income directly or

indirectly from tourism?
6. Has CBT improved the living standard and assisted in poverty alleviation in
the community?
7. Is there proper and effective strategy for benefits distribution well back to
the community?
8. Does CBT development encourage conservation of natural and cultural

resources? Does it promote local identity or just bring in damage?
Profiles
No Interviewees Number
1 Pastor 1
2 Karen People Party 1
3 Eastern Star Tour 1
4 Author of Karen Traditions 1
5 Member of Parliament 1
6 Village Elder 1
7 Bed and Breakfast Owner 1
8 Restaurant Owner 1
9 Gift Shop Owner 1
10 Retired Karen Minister 1
11 Chairman TTDWG 1
12 Secretary TTDWG 1
Total 12
Profile of the In-depth Interviewees
No Target Group Number
1 School Teachers 8
2 In Agriculture fields 6
3 Local Products Gift Shop 8
4 Bed and Breakfast Operators 8
5 Restaurant Owners 4
6 Government Staff 6
7 Tour Related Business 5
Total 45
Key Informant Interview

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MYANMAR INSTITUTE OF THEOLOGY

COMMUNITY BASED TOURISM FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT:

Aung Mya Soe

SEMINARY HILL, INSEIN

Liberal Arts Program

Community Development Studies Department

Thesis Title: COMMUNITY BASED TOURISM FOR COMMUNITY

DEVELOPMENT: THE CASE STUDY OF THANDAUNGGYI

Aung Mya Soe

MIT- LAP 0020

SEMINARY HILL, INSEIN, YANGON

Master of Arts in Community Development,

this Thesis is submitted by __Aung Mya Soe___ ___

and is accepted by Thesis Advisory Team.

Advisor Thesis Coordinator

Date: 8 September, 2017 Signature:

Name: Aung Mya Soe

Student ID: MIT-LAP 0020

Supervisor: Daw Aye Min Khaing

Head of Department- Community Development Studies

Liberal Arts Program

Myanmar Institute of Theology

Glory be to God for the special blessing giving me a second chance to

pursue my dream after 30 years of my first graduation. I would like to express my

provided to me to complete this Master’s Program in Community Development

Tourism is widely considered as a tool for development and many

developing countries have taken up the approach in the aim of benefiting a

destination economically and socially. Community based tourism is mainly

capacity to implement the development, identify the level of their participation in

involved review of existing literatures on tourism development and the major

theories developed for community approaches to tourism. After a comprehensive

understanding of CBT development approaches, visits to the proposed area has

been conducted to examine the ground situation. Careful constructed questions

observation of the development process was conducted. Intensive interviews were

research findings contribute a great deal to understanding of appropriate approach

to tourism development for community development purpose.

1.0 Tourism and Thandaunggyi

International tourism has experienced continuous growth in the last decades

Tourism Organization-2016) Tourism has become one of the fastest growing

industries turning to be a key driver for socio-economic development of the

exchange earnings and direct or indirect employment. In the book, Reducing

to generating incomes; acting as a tool for community development and poverty

In December 2015, the United Nations declared 2017 as the International

Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-

moon on World Tourism Day 27 September 2014 stated “Harnessing tourism’s

beneﬁts will be critical to achieving the sustainable development goals and

implementing the post-2015 development agenda” (UNDG, 2015). UNWTO

mandates to promote tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive

development and environmental sustainability and a global solution for a better

future for the world and its people.

Tourism’s Statistics (2015), increased from 791,505 in 2011 to 4,681,020 in 2015.

Million in 2015. Tourists’ spending disbursed, generated income for tourism

plays important role in a country’s socio-economic development.

Thandaunggyi is situated in north of Kayin state, 200 miles away from

1852. As indicated in 2014 Population and Housing Census (Myanmar Information

Management Unit-MIMU), Thandaunggyi township is composed of 5,809

households with approximately a population of 29,415. The majority of the

with Karen National Union (KNU) broke down in 2005-2005.

The Ministry of Hotel and Tourism believing in tourism as a tool for

development established Responsible Tourism Policy in 2012 and has come up

Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) government has selected Thandauggyi

as a new destination to boost community based tourism. Together with 5 other

unwanted socio-cultural impacts, the Ministry recommended Bed and Breakfast

this Thesis is submitted by Aung Mya Soe_ ___