KOTA KINABALU: The Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark has the potential to bring an economic boost to thousands of villagers, and at the same time, multiply tourist arrivals and social activities in the vicinity.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the geopark, sprawling 4,750sq km over the districts of Ranau, Kota Marudu and Kota Belud, is home to some 423 villages.“The geopark will provide tonnes of economic and social benefits to villagers, especially in tourism, homestay programmes and cultural activities,” he said after officiating at the Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark and the Sabah Park Diamond Jubilee in Kota Belud yesterday.
He said the geopark could boost trade activities, work opportunities, and tourism and cultural preservation, among others.
“The chance to market our local uniqueness globally is now available, and we should make full use of this to better our standard of living, social development and economic well-being,” he said.
Hajiji also said educational and awareness programmes on sustainable development and practices within the geopark will add value to agricultural activities there as well.
With the ensuing infrastructure development that is set to be in place, more job opportunities will be opened up for locals too.
He said the geopark is part of the Sabah Maju Jaya development plan and vision, where one of the three main trusts focuses on sustainable development.
