Exploring Micro-Weddings Concepts: A Synergy of Values for VFR Tourism in Malaysia and Indonesia

Abstract

Micro weddings have replaced large weddings during the Covid-19 pandemic. In a culture where weddings celebration is significant, the foregoing of VFR, music, traditional foods, and gifts are considered a huge sacrifice for both the host and guests. The pandemic has forced the number of attendees to be reduced, from only online participation to a micro wedding. This study analyses a celebrated event for Muslims in two Southeast Asian countries: Indonesia and Malaysia. It explores the guest perceptions, expectations, satisfaction, and experiences during the event. A qualitative method utilizing thematic analysis generated four themes: functional, social, price, and emotional values. Keywords: Micro-wedding; pandemic; perceived value; guest experience eISSN: 2398-4287 © 2022. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA cE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open-access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under the responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians/Africans/Arabians), and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia. DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v7i21.3712