BY NEVILLE TIMOTHY SANDERS & RASHEEQA BAHIDA
KUCHING: Sarawak is optimistic that its status as a UNESCO Global Geopark will be formally endorsed by the UNESCO Executive Board in Paris next May.
Deputy Natural Resources and Urban Development Minister Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the state was confident the Executive Board would give the green light, based on past practice.
“The council has endorsed us, and now it only awaits confirmation from the Executive Board in Paris next May.
“We are very confident — 99.9 percent sure — that it will be endorsed,” he told reporters after attending the 2nd Natural Science and Technology Conference (NaSTeC 2025) at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here on Wednesday.
Len Talif said the recognition capped a long journey which began in 2009 but gained serious traction in 2019 with strong backing from Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“It has been a collaborative effort involving many agencies. The assessors who came in June gave only minor comments, which we have already addressed. Overall, they agreed that we deserve to be inscribed,” he said.
He added that the recognition would bring global visibility, enhance Sarawak’s prestige, and open doors for eco-tourism and research in areas such as geology, biodiversity, culture and society.
“This recognition is not just about prestige. It is about putting Sarawak on the world map while ensuring development goes hand in hand with conservation,” he said.
For the record, Sarawak Delta Geopark was among nine new sites accepted worldwide, and one of only two from Malaysia, alongside Lenggong in Perak.
The endorsement makes Sarawak part of the global network of geoparks recognised for their outstanding geological, biological, cultural and ecological value.
Covering more than 300,000 hectares, the geopark showcases four main pillars: geology, biology, sustainable development and ecotourism.
Earlier, The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) said 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.
