Sarawak Delta officially recognised as UNESCO Global Geopark

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PARIS, 30 April 2026: The Sarawak Delta Geopark has been officially recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark, marking a significant milestone in Sarawak’s efforts to preserve its unique geological, ecological, and cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism and community development.

Sarawak’s Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh received the official recognition from UNESCO’s Chief Earth Science and Geopark Section, Kristof Vandenberghe, on behalf of the state during a certificate presentation ceremony at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France on April 27, 2026. With this certificate presentation, the Sarawak Delta Geopark has successfully achieved its long-standing goal of being recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

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

The Sarawak Delta Geopark covers a total area of 3,112KM² which includes 2,685KM²land area and 427KM²sea is covering Kuching Division and a small part of Serian Division. This prestigious recognition highlights the Sarawak Delta’s exceptional geological features, including its intricate river systems, coastal landscapes, and rich sedimentary formations that tell the story of millions of years of Earth’s history.

The achievement reflects years of dedicated collaboration among local communities, government agencies, researchers, and conservation partners who have worked tirelessly to protect, conserve and promote the Sarawak Delta. Their collective efforts have ensured that the Sarawak Delta is not only protected but also sustainably managed for future generations, reflecting the strength commitment and partnerships between communities, scientists, and policymakers in achieving a shared vision.

The geopark also encompasses diverse ecosystems such as mangrove forests, peat swamps, and estuarine environments that support a wide range of biodiversity. Beyond its natural significance, the Sarawak Delta is home to vibrant local communities whose traditions, livelihoods, and cultural practices are deeply intertwined with the land and waterways. The recognition symbolizes global acknowledgment of the region’s outstanding geological heritage, rich biodiversity, and vibrant cultural traditions.

With its new status as a UNESCO Global Geopark, the Sarawak Delta is expected to enhance eco-tourism opportunities, strengthen community-based initiatives and promote environmental education. The certificate presentation ceremony also saw the recognition of Lenggong Geopark in Perak as a UNESCO Global Geopark, a unique landscape with outstanding geological significance, rich biodiversity and intangible cultural heritage.

Also present during the ceremony were other members of the Sarawak delegation, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development, Datu Abdullah bin Julaihi, Forest Department Sarawak’s Director of Forests, Datu Haji Hamden bin Haji Mohammad, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Morshidi Fredrick, Forest Department Sarawak’s Head of Geopark Unit, Madeline Georga Pau, Head of Forestry and Wildlife Division in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development Sarawak, Tessy Nimos and Forester at Forest Department Sarawak, Lelawati Othman.