Gua Niah is Malaysia’s fifth Unesco World Heritage site. — Bernama
THE recognition of the Archaeological Heritage of Niah National Park’s Caves Complex last month as a world heritage site by Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) is a great boost for Sarawak’s tourism sector, especially with archaeological tourism – or archaeotourism – identified as a niche market for the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 programme.
The Unesco inscription will elevate the global profile of not only the Gua Niah National Park, but also the rest of the state, and draw more visitors, says Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) chief executive officer Sharzede Salleh Askor.
“The Unesco designation enhances the site’s international prestige, which could stimulate tourism and generate economic benefits for the local community through sustainable tourism practices.”
She says the recognition is highly significant due to Sarawak’s immense archaeological, cultural, and historical value.
“This solidifies Sarawak’s reputation as a custodian of unique and globally-significant heritage sites. This status is expected to increase conservation efforts, promote sustainable tourism, and foster greater international cooperation in preserving this priceless heritage for future generations.
“Additionally, local communities continue to uphold the ancient tradition of ‘molong’ with the ‘take only what you need’ philosophy when harvesting guano and valuable edible bird’s nests from the caves.
“This tradition reflects a harmonious relationship between the local communities and their environment.”
Sharzede: This designation highlights Sarawak’s historical and cultural value, likely increasing tourist arrivals and benefiting local communities economically. — MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/ The Star
In the bigger picture, Sharzede says the latest development is also in tangent with STB’s vision of establishing Sarawak as a global leader in ecotourism.
“This designation highlights Sarawak’s historical and cultural value, likely increasing tourist arrivals and benefiting local communities economically.
“In line with its CANFF Pillar –Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festival – STB aims to offer a holistic and sustainable tourism experience.”
“It is where responsible practices, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability converge to provide unforgettable and enriching experiences for visitors.
“This comprehensive approach ensures that the benefits of increased tourism are maximised while preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage for future generations.”
She adds the recognition also underscores Sarawak’s dedication to preserving its historical and cultural heritage.
Gua Niah is Malaysia’s fifth Unesco World Heritage Site. Its inscription also positions Sarawak as Malaysia’s first home to two world heritage sites.
The first, with a status conferred in 2000, is Mount Mulu National Park. Located in the Gua Niah National Park in Miri, the cave complex houses some of the longest-known records of human interaction with rainforest environments, spanning at least 50,000 years from the Pleistocene to the Mid-Holocene periods.
“This extensive timeline is evidenced by rich archaeological deposits, prehistoric rock paintings, and boat-shaped burials found within the caverns, providing invaluable insights into human development, adaptation, and migration in South-East Asia and beyond,” Sharzede says.
