Geotourism Potential of Small Island in Semporna Sabah, Malaysia: Integrating Analysis of Volcanic Landscape and Local Cultural Heritage

This study aims to explore the geotourism potential of small islands in Semporna Sabah, Malaysia by integrating analysis from volcanic landscape and the uniqueness of local cultural heritage. The Semporna region, characterized by its Late Miocene to Quaternary volcanic formations and rich marine biodiversity, presents significant opportunities for sustainable geotourism. Coupled with the diverse cultural heritage of Bajau Laut and other indigenous communities, the area offers a unique blend of geological and cultural attractions of local wisdoms. This paper examines how geotourism can be leveraged to foster socio-economic development, promote geotourism awareness, and preserve the cultural heritage of small island communities. Through qualitative assessments from the fieldwork observation, this study highlights the role of the uniqueness of volcanic geomorphology, and the conservation strategies in enhancing geotourism in Sabah. The findings highlight the potential of integrated geotourism as a transformative tool for sustainable development and heritage preservation and community-based tourism potentials in small island settings.