Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, recently expressed optimism that Niah Caves in Niah National Park would soon receive recognition as a World Archaeological Heritage site by UNESCO. He outlined the progress of the caves’ nomination under the cultural heritage category, indicating significant advancements. The final decision on the UNESCO World Heritage Site status for Niah Caves is expected to be declared at the World Heritage Committee Conference scheduled for July 2024.Karim’s remarks reflected a prevailing optimism that Niah Caves would join Gunung Mulu National Park in achieving this prestigious designation, a development that could significantly enhance tourism in the region. Additionally, the Minister discussed his ministry’s active participation in the Technical Working Groups focused on Geotourism Product Development and Promotion, particularly with plans for the Sarawak Delta Geopark (SDGp) to achieve UNESCO Global Geopark status. He noted that the SDGp, which spans over 3,112 square kilometers across the Kuching Division and parts of Serian, was designated the 6th National Geopark on June 20, 2022, and is now striving for global recognition.Furthermore, Karim highlighted the collaborative efforts with Tourism Malaysia to develop the SDGp as a tourism destination, which have led to the creation and promotion of 37 tourism packages centered around the SDGp and the Gawai Dayak celebration this year. He pointed out that these packages, which showcase the region’s geological, biological, and cultural heritage, have already begun to show promising sales and revenue figures. The minister also emphasized the objective of empowering and engaging local communities through geotourism, aiming to enhance their well-being while conserving the environment and heritage. Plans are in place for capacity-building programs to improve the knowledge and skills of local operators and guides, along with various community development initiatives. These include tourism and conservation awareness campaigns, craft-making workshops, and training in hospitality, event management, and nature-based guiding. Karim affirmed that these efforts are aligned with several Sustainable Development Goals aimed at ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities within geoparks.The potential UNESCO designation for Niah Caves, alongside the development of SDGp, could have a transformative impact on global travel, positioning Sarawak as a leading destination for cultural and ecological tourism.
Niah Caves Poised for UNESCO World Heritage Recognition, Boosting Sarawak Tourism
