TUARAN: Sabah is pushing ahead with the expansion of the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark (KUGGP) and the Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve as part of its long-term sustainability goals under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) roadmap.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the state’s triple UNESCO recognition—Kinabalu Park as a World Heritage Site and Global Geopark, and Crocker Range as a Biosphere Reserve—places Sabah among only three such sites globally.
“This is not only an honour but also a big responsibility. We must strengthen the scientific foundation, enhance public awareness, and preserve our natural resources sustainably,” Hajiji said at the launch of the stakeholder consultation and scientific expedition here today.
He said the proposed expansion to Tuaran, rich in biodiversity and eco-tourism potential, has full government backing. A Public Awareness Center will also be set up to meet UNESCO requirements and educate locals.
“I want the KUGGP Committee and Tuaran District Office to identify a location for this center. It’s crucial to support awareness on the importance of the Geopark,” he added.
Hajiji stressed that Geopark development must also benefit communities economically, citing successful models like Nohutu EcoTourism and Kiulu Farmstay.
He noted that findings from the Geo-Sulaman Scientific Expedition (EGOS 2025) would inform future planning and revealed that further expeditions are planned in Ranau and Tuaran.
“The success of the Geopark does not rely on its name, but on our collective effort to learn, share, and protect this natural treasure for future generations,” Hajiji said.
The event brought together agencies, researchers, local communities, and NGOs in a unified effort to expand and sustain Sabah’s UNESCO sites.
