SELANGOR launches its first national geopark with a size of 112,955ha spanning across Gombak and Hulu Langat districts.
Named the Gombak Hulu Langat (GHL) Geopark, it features 31 geosites, with 20 sites recognised as eco- and geo-tourism areas with natural and geological landscapes.
Held at Gua Damai Extreme Park in Batu Caves, Gombak, the launch ceremony was officiated by
Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.
Tourism Selangor spearheads the GHL Geopark, which is supported by several key government and community partners, including PLAN Malaysia, the Department of Mineral and Geoscience (JMG), Kajang Municipal Council, Ampang Jaya Municipal Council, and Selayang Municipal Council.
Natural Resources and Environment Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the GHL Geopark is the only geopark situated within an urban area in Malaysia.
“This is unlike most other geoparks, which are primarily located in rural regions.
“Its recognition of GHL as a National Geopark is another significant achievement for the country, particularly Selangor.
“This is the nation’s seventh geopark under the Geopark Development Programme by the Federal Government,” he said.
With aspirations for UNESCO Global Geopark recognition in 2028, the GHL Geopark has been designed to meet international standards while preserving the area's natural landscapes.
Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the state supports initiatives that geared towards sustainable projects and impact tourism in line with the First Selangor Plan (RS-1).
“There is a high demand for eco and geotourism among tourists, and the state government is confident that the Gombak Hulu Langat Geopark will be the key component in promoting tourism attractions that preserve their natural landscape,” he said.
The launch ceremony was also held in conjunction with the annual Gua Damai carnival at the extreme park, where visitors can indulge in various extreme sports such as rock climbing and flying foxes.
