Indigenous entrepreneurs and the mainstream tourism industry related businesses: a case of Orang Asli in Malaysia

Abstract

The Malaysian government has made continuous efforts in stimulating the Malaysian Orang Asli involvement as entreprenuers, specifically in tourism related businesses. This paper reports an empirical investigation on the attributes that support the success of Orang Asli entrepreneurs in tourism businesses. Using a qualitative approach this research interviewed ten Orang Asli established entrepreneurs. Through a thematic analysis some useful insights significantly obtained. Attitudes, role model, encouragement, knowledge, skill and competency, interest, patience and persistence are the attributes that support them in venturing into mainstream tourism industry business. In addition, the government support, involvement in the community and social networking somewhat aids in creating more business opportunity and increased confidence in expanding their business.

Keywords: indigenous; entrepreneurs; tourism; Orang Asli; Malaysia