Kota Kinabalu: Unesco Global Geopark status should be viewed as a responsibility rather than a symbolic accolade, said State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew.
She underscored the need for stronger cooperation across all levels of government and civil society to maintain and grow Malaysia’s geopark credentials.
“Let us not treat Unesco recognition as a mere badge of honour. It comes with responsibility to protect, educate and uplift,” she said at the opening of the Malaysia Geopark Network Conference 2025 on Thursday,
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Kinabalu Geopark is now celebrating its second anniversary as part of the Unesco network, said Liew, and affirmed Sabah’s commitment to sustainable environmental leadership.
Liew emphasised that geoparks are not simply tourist attractions, but critical sites for environmental education, community empowerment and heritage preservation.
“They are spaces where we preserve history, empower communities and prove that conservation and economic development can progress side by side,” she said.
Despite progress, she warned of ongoing challenges, including funding constraints, lack of skilled personnel, low public awareness of geoheritage and insufficient coordination between agencies.
The conference brings together stakeholders from across the country, including government agencies, academics, NGOs and local leaders, to share insights and develop strategies for more resilient and inclusive geopark management.
Liew also called for greater involvement from the private sector, urging responsible investments in ethical geo-tourism and asking local communities to actively champion the preservation of their natural heritage.
Jointly organised by Sabah Parks and the Malaysia Geopark Network, the conference is expected to shape future national policies and deepen Malaysia’s role in global geoconservation efforts.