Tasik Kenyir is expected to be declared a Geo Park next year
KUALA BERANG: The Terengganu government hopes that the desire to make Lake Kenyir a Geo Park can be realized next year, said Deputy Chairman of the State Tourism, Culture and Information Technology Committee Sulaiman Sulong.
Sulaiman said the state government in collaboration with several agencies is working hard to prepare the necessary documents to obtain the recognition from the responsible body.
He said the effort had been carried out since 2015 but had been delayed due to several technical factors and the local community’s acceptance of the measure.
“We are in the process of announcing (Tasik Kenyir as a Geo Park), at the technical level we have a master committee and at the work level there is also a committee.
“We hope Lake Kenyir can be declared a national Geopark next year, and we will also work harder to make it on par with Langkawi Geopark and other similar parks recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO),” he said.
He said this to reporters after the closing ceremony of the basic Geo Park guide course which was organized for three days and was attended by 30 tourism activists in the state at the Kenyir Natural Research Station near here yesterday evening.
Also present, Terengganu Mineral and Geoscience Department Director Habibah Tahir.
Sulaiman said the state government was committed to getting the recognition to attract more foreign tourists to Terengganu in addition to preserving the natural treasures and sustainability around Lake Kenyir.
“People need to understand that the declaration of Tasik Kenyir as a Geopark is not a burden to them, but rather an opportunity that needs to be seized together.
“The effect will be enjoyed by the people of Terengganu, especially the local residents who will benefit more through the creation of job opportunities, economic activities and tourism,” he said.
According to Sulaiman, the declaration will also attract the interest of people from inside and outside the state to explore historical remains such as ancient humans, ‘Bewah Man’ which is currently only popular among local residents.
source – BERNAMA
