Human behaviour plays a critical role in the success of biodiversity conservation initiatives, particularly in community-based conservation settings. Quantitative studies in this field commonly rely on behavioural theories to examine probable causation factors that influencing conservation behaviour; however, the applicability and reliability of theoretical constructs may vary across contexts. This study aimed to conduct a pilot test of a survey instrument grounded in the Integrative Model of Behavioural Prediction (IMBP), adapted to the local context of the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark (KUGGp), Sabah, Malaysia. A close-ended questionnaire, utilizing a five-point Likert scale, was administered to 32 local community members aged 18 years and older, who were selected through simple random sampling. Descriptive statistics were used to examine response patterns and scale functioning, followed by reliability analysis using Cronbach’s alpha to assess internal consistency of the constructs. The results indicated high mean scores for attitude, perceived norms, self-efficacy, and intention towards conservation behaviour, while skills limitation and environmental barriers showed greater variability. Reliability analysis showed that most constructs met the minimum acceptable Cronbach’s alpha threshold of 0.70, while self-efficacy and environmental barriers fell slightly below this level and were identified for refinement. Overall, the findings suggest that the survey instrument is largely reliable and suitable for full-scale data collection, with minor revisions required for selected constructs. This pilot study contributes to methodological rigor by supporting the contextual application of IMBP-based measures in UNESCO Global Geopark communities.
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