Sarawak Delta Geopark officially endorsed as Unesco Global Geopark

 

KUCHING: The 3,112-sq-km Sarawak Delta Geopark has been officially endorsed as a Unesco Global Geopark. 

Forest Department Sarawak, in a statement today, said the recognition marks a significant milestone in the state's efforts to preserve its unique geological, ecological, and cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism. 

The certificate presentation ceremony was held on April 27 at the Unesco headquarters in Paris. 

Sarawak Deputy Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Minister Datuk Len Talif Salleh represented the state and led the delegation to receive the certificate from Unesco Earth Sciences and Geoparks section chief Kristof Vandenberghe. 

Unesco Global Geoparks are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic approach to protection, education, and sustainable development. 

The department said the achievement reflects years of dedicated collaboration among local communities, government agencies, researchers, and conservation partners.

"Their collective efforts have ensured that the Sarawak Delta is not only protected but also sustainably managed for future generations. It reflects the strength and partnerships between communities, scientists, and policymakers in achieving a shared vision," it said. 

The recognition places Sarawak on the global map and is expected to foster responsible tourism that supports local economies without compromising environmental integrity.

-nst online.

Lenggong Recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark

 

Official Announcement: Lenggong Recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark

We are proud to share that Lenggong has been officially recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark!

This prestigious recognition places Lenggong among a global network of geoparks that celebrate and protect outstanding geological heritage, while promoting biodiversity, cultural values, and sustainable development.

This achievement reflects the strong collaboration between local communities, government agencies, and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to preserve and promote Lenggong’s unique heritage.

As part of the global geopark network, this recognition opens new opportunities for sustainable geotourism, education, and community development, ensuring that our heritage continues to benefit future generations.

Our Heritage, Our Responsibility.

Let’s continue to protect, celebrate, and share the beauty of Lenggong with the world!

-Lenggong Geopark.

Lenggong Geopark set to make history with Unesco status

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Lenggong Geopark in Perak is set to make history as one of 12 new Unesco Global Geoparks (UGGp) to be recognised this year. 

Lenggong member of parliament Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the recognition was conveyed through the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP), with the official announcement by Unesco's Executive Board scheduled for April 23. 

The Unesco Global Geoparks certificate presentation ceremony will be held on April 27 at Unesco headquarters in Paris. 

Shamsul Anuar, who is also the Deputy Home Minister, said the achievement was a proud milestone and marked an important step in elevating Lenggong's brand to the international stage. 

He said the success was the result of collaboration among various parties, including the Perak government, the Lenggong Geopark Management Body, federal agencies and the local community. 

"This achievement will certainly strengthen our efforts towards the conservation of natural heritage as well as the sustainable management of areas with international value.

"The recognition we are set to receive also proves that Lenggong possesses highly valuable treasures of international standing that are important and must be preserved," he said in a Facebook post. 

Lenggong was previously gazetted as a National Geopark on Dec 16, 2021, making it the second geopark in Perak.

-nst online.

2026 Budget: Government allocates RM700 million to boost tourism sector

 

KUALA LUMPUR: The government has allocated more than RM700 million to boost the country's tourism sector under the 2026 Budget. 

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the bulk of the proposed allocation, or RM500 million, will be utilised for the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. 

He said RM60 million will be allocated to promote tourism, marketing, and the organisation of cultural events and activities, while RM50 million will be provided to support art and heritage entrepreneurs in generating income, including those involved in crafts, batik, and weaving. 

"A total of RM50 million in matching grants will be allocated to encourage international and charter flights to Malaysia. 

"Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) has attracted 10 international airlines to operate in Malaysia, including British Airways, Hong Kong Express, and Jiangxi Air," said Anwar, who is also the finance minister, when tabling the 2026 Budget.

Anwar added that RM25 million from the allocation will be set aside to improve tourism facilities, including the conservation of UNESCO sites such as Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak, Lenggong Valley in Perak, and FRIM Forest Park in Selangor, which was newly designated this year. 

He said the 2026 Budget will also include measures to strengthen the medical tourism sector. 

"A total of RM20 million will be allocated to enhance medical tourism programmes under the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC)," he said. 

"We have an ambitious goal which is to attract 47 million visitors and generate RM329 billion in tourism revenue. 

"This is a transformation that promises widespread economic benefits for small traders, tourism entrepreneurs, rural communities, craft producers, and the people as a whole," Anwar added.

-nst online.

PATA highlights sustainable and inclusive tourism at World Tourism Conference 2025

 

PATA showcased its commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism at the World Tourism Day and World Tourism Conference 2025, held in Melaka, Malaysia, from September 27 to 29. 

The event was officiated by Fadillah bin Haji Yusof, deputy prime minister of Malaysia; Ab Rauf Yusoh, chief minister of Melaka; Tiong King Sing, minister of culture, arts and tourism Malaysia; and Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary general, UN Tourism. The conference, held under the theme Tourism and Sustainable Transformation, focused on tourism’s potential to drive economic, social and environmental progress. 

During the session People-Centred Tourism: Unlocking Opportunities through Education, Innovation and Investments, moderated by Antonio López de Ávila of UN Tourism, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid joined panellists Amran Hamzah, Phillip Seiji Vincent, David Bardolet and Aradhana Khowala to discuss how investment in human capital, particularly youth and women, can strengthen resilience, equity and future readiness in tourism. The panel also examined how targeted investment can foster entrepreneurship, accelerate digitalisation and support sustainable development across destinations. 

PATA continues to place sustainability and social responsibility at the centre of its work, supporting long-term transformation in destinations, businesses and communities across the Asia-Pacific through initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Its programmes cover food and plastic waste reduction, climate resilience, digital transformation and social inclusion, while also developing the skills of tourism stakeholders at all levels. 

The association recently launched a 2025 World Tourism Day campaign highlighting projects from members, partners and stakeholders that advance sustainable transformation through education, governance, innovation and climate action. 

Noor said: “As a proud UNESCO Heritage City, Melaka not only showcases its rich cultural legacy but also demonstrates how well-planned tourism infrastructure can deliver real benefits to local communities through thriving community-based tourism initiatives and successful home-stay programmes. 

“As always, PATA is honoured to contribute to critical discussions that are shaping the pathway toward a more sustainable and inclusive future for our industry and the communities it serves.”

-TTG Asia.

Hari Terbuka FRIM 2025 @ FRIM Kepong ( 4 Oktober 2025 )

 

Jom sertai HARI TERBUKA FRIM 2025 sempena Ulang Tahun ke-40 FRIM untuk menikmati keindahan alam semula jadi dan menyertai pelbagai aktiviti menarik bersama keluarga.

Tarikh: 4 Oktober 2025 (Sabtu)

Masa: 9.00 pagi - 3.00 petang

Lokasi: Auditorium, FRIM, Kepong

Masuk adalah PERCUMA!

Antara aktiviti yang menanti anda:

> Lawatan Berpandu ke Denai Alam

> Pameran Penyelidikan Perhutanan

> Lawatan Herbarium, Makmal & Galeri Penyelidikan

> Jualan Anak Pokok

> Jualan Makanan & Minuman

> Permainan Interaktif

> FRIMazingRace

> Free Market (Beri dan Ambil)

> Pocket Talk

dan banyak lagi!

-FRIM.

Malaysia, China submit joint lion dance nomination for Unesco heritage list

 

GEORGE TOWN: The nomination dossiers for the lion dance and Chingay parade have been submitted to Unesco for inclusion in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity. 

State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai confirmed that the lion dance nomination is a joint effort between Malaysia and China, while the Chingay parade is a collaborative nomination between Malaysia and Singapore. 

"Unesco will announce the results of these nominations by the end of 2026," Wong said in a statement today. 

"These nominations will elevate the global recognition of these iconic traditional performances."

Wong explained that the state government worked with Malaysia's National Heritage Department and China's Department of National Heritage to compile the necessary documentation for the lion dance nomination. 

Regarding the Chingay parade, Wong highlighted its role as a vibrant cultural event featuring lion and dragon dances, floats, and other performances.

Held annually in Penang, Johor, and Singapore, it celebrates community spirit. Historical records from The Straits Times dating back to 1883 reflect Penang's longstanding Chingay tradition. 

Originally a religious celebration by the local Chinese community, the event has evolved into a state-supported tourism attraction, drawing both locals and tourists to the streets of Penang each year. 

"The Penang government, through my office, has sent representatives to workshops to prepare the nomination dossiers for both the lion dance and Chingay parade," Wong added. 

"We take pride in this collaboration and are committed to preserving these invaluable elements of our intangible cultural heritage." 

In June last year, Malaysia and China signed an agreement to jointly nominate the lion dance for Unescos' Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. 

Similarly, in November, Malaysia and Singapore announced plans to jointly nominate the Chingay street parade for inclusion in the list by March 2025. 

Singapore's National Heritage Board (NHB) noted that the decision was made jointly, given the presence of Chingay-practicing communities in both countries, including in Penang and Johor Baru.

-nst online.

Nasi Lemak among three Malaysian heritage nominees for UNESCO World Heritage status

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Three Malaysian 'symbols' have been listed as candidates this year for inclusion in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation's (Unesco) World Heritage List.

They are Kompleks Gua Taman Negara Niah in Sarawak, Kebaya Malaysia, and Nasi Lemak.

Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC) Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said this is in line with the ministry's commitment to promote the country's heritage.

He said following the listing, 2024 would be considered a Heritage Year which holds great significance for Malaysia.

"Among them (heritage listed) is the Archaeological Heritage of Kompleks Gua Taman Negara Niah in Sarawak, named as a deserving candidate for World Heritage recognition.

"Meanwhile, the 'Kebaya Malaysia', jointly applied with neighbouring countries Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand, has been nominated as a candidate for Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage, representing humanitarian culture.

"The nomination of Malaysia's Breakfast Culture, including Nasi Lemak, is also an effort by the ministry to ensure that the people's traditional meal is recognised as the National Heritage Food of Malaysia and will not be claimed by other nations."

He said this in a speech text for MOTAC's Media Appreciation Gala 2024 held in Sunway Resort Hotel, Petaling Jaya, yesterday.

The gala invited local media groups which include New Straits Times Press (NSTP), Bernama, Star Media Group Berhad, Astro, RTM, and Sin Chew Daily.

Group managing editor Datuk Ahmad Zaini Kamaruzzaman represented NSTP in receiving a certificate of appreciation from the minister.

On a different note, Tiong expressed hope to attain more achievements through various programmes and initiatives that will be carried out this year with the help of the media.

This includes Visit Melaka Year 2024, Asean Tourism Forum 2025, World Tourism Day, World Tourism Conference 2025, and most importantly, Visit Malaysia 2026, he said.

"I hope that the media will continue to be our strategic partners in successfully promoting, and enhancing tourism and cultural programmes, and elevating Malaysia's tourism industry onto the global stage.

"Your close collaboration is crucial, especially in driving the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.

"With the assistance and support from the media, we believe that together we can achieve greater goals in showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of our country's tourist destinations to the world," he said.

-nst online.

Lenggong Valley: A journey through Malaysia's archaeological wonder

 

WITHIN the serene landscapes of Perak lies the Lenggong Valley, a site of profound historical and archaeological significance. Recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site since 2012, Lenggong Valley offers a fascinating glimpse into Malaysia's ancient past, dating back over two million years.

This verdant valley, cradled by the lush greenery of northern Malaysia, stands as a testament to the early human civilisations that once thrived on this land.

UNEARTHING HISTORY

The valley is renowned for its archaeological treasures, including the Perak Man, Southeast Asia's oldest most complete human skeleton, estimated to be around 11,000 years old. Discovered in Gua Gunung Runtuh, the Perak Man is a crucial link to understanding the prehistoric life of hunter-gatherers in the region.

The area boasts numerous other archaeological sites, such as Gua Teluk Kelawar and Gua Kajang, each offering unique insights into the prehistoric era, including burial sites, cave drawings, and ancient tools.

A GLIMPSE INTO THE PAST

Visitors to Lenggong Valley can explore the Archaeological Museum, which serves as a gateway to the valley's rich history. The museum showcases a variety of artefacts unearthed from the area, including stone tools, pottery, and the remains of the Perak Man, providing a comprehensive overview of the valley's archaeological significance.

EXPERIENCING LENGGONG VALLEY

Apart from its historical allure, Lenggong Valley is enveloped in natural beauty, offering scenic views and tranquil surroundings. The landscape is dotted with limestone hills, caves, and rivers, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solace away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Trekking, cave exploration, and river activities are among the popular pursuits for visitors looking to engage with the valley's natural environment.

CONSERVATION EFFORTS

The recognition of Lenggong Valley as a Unesco World Heritage Site has heightened efforts to preserve its archaeological and natural heritage. These efforts ensure that the valley remains a source of knowledge and inspiration for future generations, maintaining its status as a cornerstone of Malaysia's cultural and historical identity.

-nst online.

Niah National Park set to join Unesco World Heritage List by end of 2024

 

MIRI: In a significant announcement for conservation and cultural heritage, Niah National Park is expected to be recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site before the end of 2024.

The Sarawak Public Communications Unit, in a report, revealed that the final survey stages for Niah National Park's recognition as a Unesco World Heritage Site were completed in November last year.

With July as the projected milestone for receiving this prestigious status, expectations are high for the ensuing tourism boom to Miri and the Sarawak region.

Sarawak's Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, shared the anticipated accreditation, which is poised to significantly boost tourist arrivals to Miri from both domestic and international locales.

"The accreditation of Niah National Park by Unesco as a World Heritage Site will position Miri as a must-visit destination when travelling to Sarawak," Abdul Karim said during his speech at the launch event for the Miri Gong Xi Bazaar 2024 on Feb 3.

-nst online.

Pulau Pinang komited jadikan ghazal parti, boria, chingay seni warisan dunia

 

BUKIT MERTAJAM: Pulau Pinang komited untuk menyenaraikan seni persembahan tempatan seperti ghazal parti, boria dan chingay sebagai antara seni warisan dunia pada masa hadapan.

Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pelancongan dan Ekonomi Kreatif negeri, Wong Hon Wai berkata, ia bagi memastikan warisan kebudayaan yang dikategorikan sebagai tidak ketara itu terus dilindungi setelah mendapat pengiktirafan antarabangsa khususnya daripada Pertubuhan Pendidikan, Sains dan Kebudayaan Pertubuhan Bangsa-Bangsa Bersatu (UNESCO).

Hon Wai berkata, ketika ini, Malaysia mempunyai beberapa seni persembahan kebudayaan yang telah diangkat sebagai warisan dunia seperti makyong, dondang sayang, silat, pantun dan wangkang.

Selain itu, katanya, songket Malaysia juga telah diberi status dunia pada tahun lepas dan kebaya pula dijangka mendapat pengiktirafan yang sama daripada UNESCO tahun hadapan.

“Justeru, seperti seni persembahan boria, saya percaya ghazal parti juga berpotensi untuk diangkat sebagai Warisan Negeri, Warisan Kebangsaan dan seterusnya menjadi Warisan Dunia UNESCO yang dikenali sebagai ‘Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage’ (Senarai Perwakilan untuk Warisan Kebudayaan Tidak Ketara),” katanya.

Beliau berucap sempena Majlis Perasmian Pesta Ghazal Parti 2023 di Pasar Raya Mydin Bukit Mertajam di sini, malam tadi.

Turut berlangsung pada majlis sama ialah penyampaian anugerah kepada para penggiat serta tokoh ghazal parti dari negeri ini.

Terdahulu, Pesta Ghazal Parti yang mendapat kerjasama daripada syarikat Omara Production serta beberapa agensi dan jabatan kerajaan termasuk Jabatan Penerangan negeri dan Majlis Bandaraya Seberang Perai (MBSP) itu telah bermula sejak Khamis lalu.

Ia susulan pelaksanaan Bengkel Ghazal Parti yang melibatkan penyertaan daripada Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Kepala Batas serta Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Permatang Tok Jaya di Dewan Belia Lebuh Acheh, George Town.

Difahamkan, pelaksanaan bengkel itu bertujuan mewujudkan lebih ramai pelapis muda demi kelangsungan warisan seni persembahan ghazal parti.

Dalam pada itu, Hon Wai memberitahu, kerajaan negeri juga berhasrat merangka satu dasar berkaitan industri kreatif di Pulau Pinang agar ketiga-tiga seni persembahan itu iaitu boria, ghazal parti dan chingay diberikan satu fokus baharu dalam menjana ekonomi kreatif.

Untuk itu, katanya, satu perbincangan lanjut akan diadakan bersama beberapa agensi berkaitan dalam masa terdekat.

-utusan online.

Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve earns UNESCO recognition

 

The International Coordinating Council (ICC) of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme has formally inducted Malaysia’s Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

With this designation, the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve, which comprises 12,481 hectares of marine and terrestrial ecosystems in the north-western part of Penang Island, will be counted among a distinguished global network of 714 Biosphere Reserves across 129 countries.

Biosphere Reserves the world over are celebrated for their exceptional biodiversity and distinct social landscapes as well as for their potential to demonstrate innovative ways of living in harmony with nature.

“This designation is a recognition of the rich natural and cultural heritage of Penang Island and an opportunity to be part of the Man and the Biosphere programme which is a unique platform for international collaboration,“ The Habitat Penang Hill and The Habitat Foundation said in a press statement.

Under the leadership of the Penang Hill Corporation, with the contribution of many state and federal government agencies involved in the preparation and eventual submission of the nomination dossier, the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve now features not only the timeless forests of Penang Hill but also encompasses the state’s forest reserves, the historic Penang Botanical Gardens, Penang National Park, and coastal and marine ecosystems in an unbroken link from the hill to the sea.

Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association (MITA) president, Uzaidi Udanis, said: “With this latest international recognition, Penang will have a new world-class attraction which should be promoted for tourists. MITA will organise a recce for its members to see and experience the places for themselves.”

Adam Kamal, head of contracting & domestic market at Ice Holidays, told TTG Asia that the recognition would raise curiosity about the destination and boost domestic and international visitor numbers once interstate and Malaysian borders reopen.

“The internationally recognised accolade makes it easier for us to promote Penang,” Kamal commented.

-TTG Asia.

1st Conference (Virtual) on A Greener Sustainable Island - Langkawi ( 26 August 2021 )

 

1st Conference (Virtual) on A Greener Sustainable Island - Langkawi

A collaboration between Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) and Asian Overland Services (AOS) under the initiatives of the Langkawi Sustainability Project; sub committee Education and Awareness

Date : August 26th 2021

Time : 9:00am-1:30pm (MST)

(GMT+08)

Platform : ZOOM

FREE ADMISSION

Register now at:

https://us02web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_4TA_wjGvTzSEv8bz9YtzOw

Register early as number of participants are limited. Based on first come first basis

Many prizes to be won and need participants to fill a questionnaire which may takes 20 seconds to fill!

For further information you can see the event's brochure at:

http://asianoverland.com.my/icgsi-2021

-Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark.

Program Geran Sumbangan Suruhanjaya Kebangsaan UNESCO Malaysia (SKUM)

 https://unesco.org.my/v2/gss-guideline-application-form/

-MOTAC.