LENGGONG TO BE OFFICIALLY RECOGNISED AS UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK IN MAY - SHAMSUL ANUAR

LENGGONG, April 2 (Bernama) -- Lenggong is set to make history when it is officially recognised as Malaysia’s third UNESCO Global Geopark on May 23 in Paris, further strengthening the country’s standing within the world-class geopark network.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the recognition follows a comprehensive presentation at the 11th International Global Geoparks Conference held at Universidad Catolica de Temuco, Araucania, Chile on Sept 7 last year.

He said the recognition qualifies Lenggong to join the UNESCO Global Geopark network under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), after it was gazetted as a National Geopark on Dec 16, 2021.

“The official conferment ceremony is scheduled to take place on April 27 at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, thus finalising Lenggong’s status as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

“This recognition reflects Lenggong’s uniqueness and outstanding value in terms of geology, archaeology and natural heritage that meet UNESCO’s stringent criteria,” he said.

He said this when met by Bernama after a dinner and networking session held in conjunction with the Lenggong Geopark Academic Visit ‘Lenggong Open Education Site’ programme and the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Lenggong Geopark here last night.

Also present was Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, who officiated the event.

Shamsul Anuar, who is also the Member of Parliament for Lenggong and Chairman of Lenggong Geopark, said the recognition not only elevates Lenggong’s geological and archaeological heritage, but also serves as a catalyst for local socio-economic development through sustainable tourism.

“The main attraction is the Bukit Bunuh site, which contains evidence of a meteorite impact dating back about 1.8 million years, making it one of the key locations in the study of early human evolution and Earth’s history.

“We should be proud as this not only enhances the profile of Lenggong and the state of Perak on the international stage, but also has the potential to boost tourism growth and the local economy,” he said.

He added that he is confident Lenggong will emerge as a leading global tourism destination, bringing widespread benefits to the people and the nation.

-- BERNAMA