Beyond Borders: A Comprehensive Exploration of Tumpat, Kelantan's Culture-Infused Economic Landscape

Abstract

The culture-based economy holds a crucial role in rural Southeast Asian regions, yet it remains relatively unexplored. This study delves into traditional food products, handicrafts, and cultural goods, examining their factors and significance in Tumpat, Kelantan. Employing semi-structured interviews with local entrepreneurs and inductive content analysis, the research identifies two main categories: factors influencing business initiation and the significance of a clustered pattern in culture-based enterprises. Business location in Tumpat is notably influenced by familial land heritage, resource accessibility, transportation convenience, and labor availability. Businesses adopt a clustered pattern to reduce production costs, share information, and enhance market reach. Beyond comprehending the driving factors, the study advocates for increased support in developing nations, emphasizing the pivotal role of culture-based economic activities in shaping Tumpat, Kelantan's socio-economic landscape.