CULTURAL HERITAGE TOURISM: OVERCOMMERCIALISATION OF KRETA AYER

Abstract

This study focuses on the impact of inauthenticity caused heritage tourism in Singapore. Looking through the lenses of the public, this study seeks to assess the authenticity of heritage tourism in Kreta Ayer. Due to the unsustainable nature of unauthentic cultural heritage products, this study also looks at literature works regarding the concepts of cultural heritage tourism, tourism-local divide, development-conservation dilemma, authenticity and cultural heritage conservation. Using Kreta Ayer as a representation of most cultural heritage tourism practices in Singapore, an observational study and survey questionnaire are conducted to effectively evaluate public perceptions and policy objectives. Study findings show policy objective regarding the ambience of Kreta Ayer were not met, and only preservation of physical elements were successful. Public perceptions generally feel Kreta Ayer to be inauthentic and a static product that represents the perception of tourists than part of the community identity. Recommendations for public consultation and increased participation will serve to revitalize cultural heritage in a organic way. State policy goals need to react to new shifts instead of being set in stone.