Malaysian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Datuk Zakri Jaafar (centre) and Sabah Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai (3rd right) unveiling Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark at the World Travel Market in London.
LONDON: Sabah unveiled its Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark as a treasure trove of natural beauty as it pitched the site as a tourism product at the World Travel Market here.
In unveiling it on Monday (Nov 6) at the three-day event here, Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said the geopark had stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity and geological wonders with natural beauty and geological significance.
He said the declaration of the Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark in May this year made Sabah, the third location in the world, after China and Korea, to attain the prestigious triple crown status.
Sabah's two other Unesco "crowns" included the Kinabalu Park, designated a World Heritage Site in Dec 2000, and the Unesco Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve, declared in June 2014.
He said the declaration endorses Kinabalu Park as among the world's most extraordinary natural and cultural wonders.
"It is important to note that Sabah Parks plays a crucial role in the protection, management and promotion of the geological heritage within the Kinabalu Geopark.
"This involves making these unique geological assets accessible to the public and ensuring long-term conservation, while actively contributing to the pursuit of Unesco Global Geopark status.
"This recognition underscores Sabah's unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism practices.
"Sabah is not just a destination but a pledge to preserve the planet's natural wonders for future generations," Bangkuai, who is Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said.
The Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark, sprawls over 4,750 sq km and covers the districts of Ranau, Kota Marudu and Kota Belud, is also home to numerous rural villages.
Bangkuai said the communities were paramount in preserving the region's unique culture and heritage.
"The World Travel Market 2023 is a significant moment for Sabah. It's our chance to showcase our latest Unesco crown jewel to the world, emphasising its incredible geology, rich ecosystems, local communities and the conservation work.
"This recognition as the 195th Unesco Global Geopark solidifies Sabah's place on the world stage. We invite the global travel and tourism community to experience the splendour of this remarkable geopark, contributing to its sustainable development and global awareness," he added.
Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark is a unique geological formation, dating back millions of years with a diverse range of flora and fauna where indigenous communities, cultures and traditions coexist harmoniously within the area.
