Lenggong’s Recognition As UNESCO Global Geopark A Great Success - Exco

IPOH, Sept 13 (Bernama) -- The Perak government regards the recognition of Lenggong as a United Nations (UNESCO) Global Geopark (UGGp) as a great success in positioning the state on the world tourism map.

State Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said the official recognition by the UGGp Council not only elevates Lenggong's geological and archaeological heritage but also serves as a catalyst for local socio-economic development through sustainable tourism.

He added that the official recognition was the result of collaborative efforts of various parties, including the state government, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), the Department of National Heritage, academic institutions and the local community, all of whom played an active role in the preservation and development of geological, archaeological, historical and biodiversity heritage in Lenggong.

"Lenggong is not just a district, but a treasure trove of high value with records of early human life in Southeast Asia, evidenced by the discovery of the skeleton of Perak Man, as well as various prehistoric artefacts that testify to early human civilisation.

"Now with the UGGp status, Lenggong once again proves to the world that Perak is a state rich in history, culture and unparalleled natural heritage," he said when contacted by Bernama today.

Loh also stated that this recognition not only enhances Lenggong's status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012, but also opens up wider opportunities for the development of heritage- and education-based tourism, which can attract more visitors from home and abroad.

"The UGGp status provides a significant opportunity for the local community to improve their economic standing through community tourism activities, handicraft products, traditional food, homestays and various ecotourism initiatives that will be driven by the state government together with relevant agencies.

“The state is optimistic that the economic spillover from this recognition will create new job opportunities, strengthen small and medium enterprises, and ensure that the local community becomes the primary beneficiary,” he said.

He said the state government’s commitment is to ensure that the development of Lenggong UGGp is ​​implemented sustainably by maintaining a balance between environmental protection, historical heritage conservation and economic development.

"We want Lenggong to continue to be known as a model for sustainable geopark development, where nature and heritage preservation can go hand in hand with economic growth and the well-being of the people in the true spirit of Malaysia MADANI.

"With this recognition, Lenggong is not only the pride of Perak but also of Malaysia on the world stage, and is now ready to welcome tourists from all over the world who want to witness its beauty, rich history and unique geological features," he said.

The recognition was granted at the 11th International Conference on Global Geoparks at the Universidad Católica de Temuco, Araucanía, Chile, in conjunction with the 10th Meeting of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council on Sept 7.

This official recognition also marks Lenggong’s inclusion in the UGGp network following four years after it was gazetted as the Lenggong National Geopark on Dec 16, 2021.

-- BERNAMA