KUCHING: The Sarawak Delta has been officially recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark.
The recognition was formalised during a certificate presentation ceremony held at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris on Monday (Apr 27).
Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh led the Sarawak delegation to receive the certificate, which was presented by Kristof Vandenberghe, chief of the Earth Science and Geopark Section at UNESCO.
The recognition marks a major milestone in the state’s efforts to conserve its geological, ecological and cultural heritage while advancing sustainable tourism.
Covering a total area of 3,112 sq km — comprising 2,685 sq km of land and 427 sq km of sea — the Sarawak Delta Geopark spans the Kuching Division and parts of the Serian Division.
The UNESCO Global Geopark status recognises areas with geological sites of international significance that are managed through a holistic approach encompassing conservation, education and sustainable development.
The Sarawak Delta features extensive river systems, coastal landscapes and sedimentary formations that reflect millions of years of Earth’s history.
It also includes diverse ecosystems such as mangrove forests, peat swamps and estuarine environments, supporting rich biodiversity.
Beyond its natural assets, the geopark is home to local communities whose traditions and livelihoods are closely tied to the land and waterways, further strengthening its cultural significance.
The recognition is the culmination of years of collaboration among local communities, government agencies, researchers and conservation partners to protect and sustainably manage the area.
With the new status, Sarawak is expected to gain greater international visibility, boosting eco-tourism and community-based initiatives while promoting environmental education.
The recognition also aligns with the state’s broader agenda on sustainable development and environmental stewardship, positioning Sarawak as a key eco-tourism and green economy destination in Southeast Asia.
Also present during the ceremony were senior state officials, including Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development Datuk Abdullah Julaihi, director of Forests Datuk Hamden Mohammad, and representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak as well as the Forest Department Sarawak.
