By Ling Hui
KUCHING, May 15: Sarawak hopes to secure Unesco recognition for its Sarawak Delta Geopark (SDGp) in 2026, says Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
He said in preparation for the recognition, various efforts are being actively implemented to ensure that SDGp nominations meet and comply with Unesco Global Geopark (UGGp) criteria.
“Among the initiatives that have been and are being carried out are the establishment of the Geopark Management Unit, the preparation of dossier, implementation of various public awareness activities and the construction of infrastructure for the SDGp visibility,” he said.
He also said the recognition of SDGp as a Unesco Global Geopark will boost the geotourism industry in Sarawak as well as improve the socioeconomic status of the population in line with the aspirations of the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Awang Tengah, who is also Sarawak Deputy Premier, said in September 2023, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) based in Paris has made a technical evaluation of the proposed nomination of Niah National Park as a Unesco World Heritage Site.
“Accordingly, an Integrated Consservation Management Plan document was prepared and submitted to the Unesco office, Paris in February 2024 to support the nomination,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech in the august House here today.
The nomination proposal is expected to be decided during the 46th World Heritage Committee conference, scheduled for July 2024 in India. — DayakDaily
