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The Role of Place Attachment in Empowering Residents in Conservation of Heritage Site: A case study in Lenggong Valley, Malaysia
- Sotheeswari Somasundram School of Management and Marketing, Faculty of Business and Law, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor Malaysia Liveable Urban Communities Impact Lab, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor Malaysia
- Malarvilly Ramayah School of Accounting and Finance, Faculty of Business and Law, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor Malaysia Liveable Urban Communities Impact Lab, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor Malaysia
- Rabi’ah Abd Rahman School of Pre-University, Taylor’s College, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor Malaysia Sustainable Tourism Impact Lab, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor Malaysia
Keywords:
place attachment, empowerment, Lenggong Valley.
Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between the two theoretical constructs, building on earlier research that asserts place attachment as an antecedent to empowerment. The moderating effect of length of residence is also examined using data from a sample of 358 residents within Lenggong Valley. The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) analysis found that the place dependence and nature bonding provided a strong sense of empowerment to Lenggong residents while place identity influenced psychological empowerment and political empowerment but not social empowerment. The moderation effect with length of residence revealed that residents who have resided in Lenggong for a considerable length of time, had a strong sense of place identity and were socially empowered. Future research can explore the influence of place identity and social empowerment on conservation participation initiatives among long-term residents. The findings have important implications for government and organisations involved in initiatives focusing on mobilizing residents in the area.
