THE DEVELOPMENT OF GLAMPING ACTIVITIES IN MALAYSIA BEFORE AND AFTER THE PANDEMIC PHASE

Beginning 2015, Tourism Malaysia introduced glamping activity as one of Malaysias new tourism products, but its development seems has been very slow. Theactivity which is usually expensive and luxurious, besides the lack of ideas in highlighting its uniqueness, makes glamping an activity that is considered for the elites only. Therefore, this study was conducted to discuss the development of astronomy-based glamping activities in Malaysia before and after the pandemic phase. This research is qualitative, using the approach of document analysis and observation regarding the topic under study. Results of the study found that glamping activities which are based on astronomy are seen to be gaining popularity among the people society after pandemic period compared to normal glamping activities. This can also be observed in the increase of venues that offer astronomy-based glamping services.Astronomy-based glamping activities are one of tourism products which is offered to those who are fond of something which is unique and intriguing on objects or phenomena of the universe. This shows that the opportunity and scope for the activity to be carried out are wide. Glamping activities based on astronomy are usually closely related to dark sky areas and heavenly object phenomena such as solar and lunar eclipses. Astronomy-based glamping activity in Malaysia is one of the new products that can be popularised as a tourist attraction, and this activity is also seen capable of contributing to a rise in the nations economy.