KUCHING: Two Malaysian geoparks, namely Sarawak Delta Geopark and Lenggong Geopark in Perak, have been awarded Green Card status by the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council at its 10th meeting in Kütralkura UNESCO Global Geopark, Chile.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) said both geoparks were recognised alongside seven others from various countries.
The decision will be presented to the UNESCO Executive Board for final endorsement before the sites are officially declared as UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp).
“With this recognition, Malaysia is set to have its third and fourth UNESCO Global Geoparks, after Langkawi and Kinabalu,” the ministry said in a statement posted on the ministry’s Facebook page.
Currently, Malaysia also has eight national geoparks that are being developed as potential candidates for international recognition.
According to NRES, the achievement is a significant milestone for the country, particularly for state governments and local authorities, in preserving natural heritage and ensuring sustainable management of geopark areas of outstanding international value.
The ministry added that the recognition aligns with the Madani government’s agenda, which emphasises sustainability through environmental preservation, prosperity through local economic benefits, and respect for cultural heritage and communities.
NRES expressed its appreciation to the Perak and Sarawak state governments, local councils, the Sarawak Ministry of Urban Development and Natural Resources (MUDeNR), the Sarawak Forestry Department, the Department of Minerals and Geoscience, the Malaysian National Commission for UNESCO, technical agencies, local universities, and local communities for their cooperation and commitment in achieving the milestone.
The ministry also called on geopark managers to continue strengthening sustainable development and implement recommended improvements within four years before the next revalidation exercise.
“NRES welcomes continued support from all stakeholders in advancing Malaysia’s geopark agenda, including efforts to nominate other national geoparks with potential to be elevated to UNESCO status in the future,” it added.
The Sarawak Delta Geopark covers 3,112 sq. km across Kuching, Bau, Padawan and Siburan, featuring 28 rock geosites, 12 biological geosites and 14 cultural geosites, along with eleven national parks and reserves.
It showcases various landscapes like coastlines, mangroves and river deltas, home to diverse plants and animal species, including endemic ones like proboscis monkey and Bornean orangutan.
This area is renowned for its caves and beautiful beaches enriched by the traditions and history of local indigenous communities.
