BAU: Sarawak is on track to be declared a UNESCO Global Geopark, which in turn will become a point-to-point route from other geoparks around the world.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg highlighted the strategic potential of Sarawak’s upcoming Geopark status.
“Imagine, we are already a candidate for UNESCO Global Geopark status. God-willing, it won’t be long now. In general, we meet all the qualifications.
“It’s just a matter of the official declaration that Kuching is a UNESCO Geopark,” he said in his speech during the opening ceremony of the Siniawan Waterfront, held in conjunction with the Siniawan Country Music Festival, the 185th anniversary of Siniawan Town, and the 15th anniversary of the Siniawan Night Market here on Saturday.
He said the Geopark also encompasses parts of Bau, including Siniawan and Serian, which will also become a focus of global attention.
“These areas, with their unique character, will draw global attention as they become part of the UNESCO Geopark network,” he added.
Abang Johari also proposed linking Sarawak’s Geopark with Jeju Island in South Korea, another UNESCO-recognised Geopark.
“Imagine Korea – their Geopark is Jeju Island. We have AirBorneo. We connect Korea with Sarawak’s Geopark. This is what we want to showcase to the global community,” he said.
He emphasised the need for bold thinking in Sarawak’s development strategy, in light of the upcoming recognition of the Sarawak Geopark.
“We have to think big. Once UNESCO status is confirmed, this will become a point-to-point route – a circuit. We will be part of a Geopark route, and this will become an attraction that transforms the local economy,” he said.
Previously, Sarawak Delta Geopark has been awarded the Green Card (Accepted) Status by the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council.
The decision will be presented to the UNESCO Executive Board for final endorsement before the sites are officially declared as UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp).
On another matter, Abang Johari also informed that he had approved all projects to be implemented under Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA) for Serembu constituency.
