Geoparks key to sustainable growth, says Liew

The Star

23-05-2025

Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew (centre) joins others in cutting a Mt Kinabalu-shaped cake to mark the second anniversary of the Declaration of Kinabalu Geopark as a UNESCO Global Geopark in Kota Kinabalu on Thursday (May 22).
KOTA KINABALU: Geoparks are more than just scenic destinations as they are also vital platforms for sustainable development, says Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
The Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister also said geoparks are sites for geological heritage conservation, education, and community-driven economic growth.
'Geoparks show that conservation and economic progress can go hand in hand.
"They empower local communities, raise public awareness of natural heritage, and support sustainable tourism,' she said at the launch of the Malaysia Geopark Network Conference 2025 here on Thursday (May 22).
She added that in addition to offering stunning landscapes, geoparks also give visitors the chance to learn about the planet's history, local culture, and the importance of sustainability.
Liew noted that Malaysia has made significant progress in this area, starting with Langkawi's designation as South-East Asia's first Unesco Global Geopark in 2007.
With Kinabalu Geopark gaining global recognition in 2023, Malaysia now has 12 national geoparks rich in geological, biological and cultural value, she said.
'This effort strengthens Malaysia's role on the global stage in geoheritage preservation and supports sustainable development at both national and international levels,' she said.
Given Malaysia's rich geology, culture and ecosystems, Liew said, the country holds strong potential for more geopark designations.
She called on all stakeholders to continue supporting effective geopark management, urging local communities to become ambassadors for their respective sites and encouraging the private sector to develop tourism responsibly.
However, she acknowledged several challenges, including limited resources, low public awareness and weak coordination among stakeholders.
Describing the conference as timely, Liew said it provided a crucial space for experts to exchange ideas, build networks and forge a stronger path forward.
'That is why Sabah Parks organised this conference … to bring together stakeholders from across the country to share insights and experiences in managing geopark areas,' she said.
Commending Sabah Parks and the Malaysia Geopark Network for hosting the event, she reiterated Sabah's commitment to becoming a leader in geoconservation.