By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, April 3: The Sarawak Delta Geopark is approaching a crucial assessment stage in its bid to be inscribed as a UNESCO Global Geopark, with the evaluation process set to take place this year.
Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment Sarawak, Datuk Len Talif Salleh, confirmed that preparations are progressing according to schedule and emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum.
“The assessment for the geopark’s UNESCO status will take place this year, and the application will be reviewed by the committee in 2026,” he said when met by reporters after receiving a Hari Raya Aidilfitri visit from Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at his residence today.
Len Talif further stated that the geopark concept encompasses four key elements: geology, cultural and social heritage, flora and fauna, and tourism, all of which will enhance Sarawak’s global visibility.
“All of us have a role to play, and we must follow the roadmap to achieve that [UNESCO recognition]. If we miss this opportunity, we won’t be able to inscribe it by 2026, which means another delay of one or two years.
“That’s why I have instructed the staff in the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), the Forest Department, the Sarawak Museum Department, and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC) to stay committed to the plan. We just need to follow the roadmap—otherwise, we risk missing it again,” he elaborated.
The Sarawak Delta Geopark, covering key natural and cultural sites, aims to join other recognised locations such as Niah National Park and Gunung Mulu National Park, which already hold UNESCO status.
Len Talif acknowledged that the process has been a long journey, dating back to initial groundwork in 2009.
The initiative was revived in 2017 under the leadership of the current Sarawak Premier, accelerating efforts toward international recognition. – DayakDaily
