By WU VUIDE
TUARAN: The Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark (KUGGP) and the Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve will be expanded to the Tuaran district to preserve Sabah’s natural treasures.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has therefore called for a public awareness centre to be established in Tuaran to meet the requirements of Unesco criteria.
“This centre will serve as a platform for educating the local community and for disseminating information,” he said at the launch of the Stakeholders and Local Communities’ Consultation Process and the Scientific Expedition for the Expansion of KUGGP and Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve at Linangkit Cultural Village here.
Hajiji said the proposed expansion of the KUGGP to Tuaran is a strategic move fully supported by the State Government.
“This area is not only rich in biodiversity but also holds high potential for the eco-tourism sector and community development,” he added.
He stressed that the development of the Geopark should also empower the community economically through geo-heritage-based tourism.
Hajiji cited successful eco-tourism locations such as Nohutu Ecotourism in Kota Belud, Kiulu Farmstay, Walai Tobilung Cultural Centre in Kota Marudu, and the Misompuru Homestay in Kudat, as models for eco-tourism development in Tuaran.
Referring to the success of the recently completed Geo-Sulaman Scientific Expedition (EGOS 2025), he expressed hope that the findings will be documented to serve as a basis for developing management plans, guidelines, and educational materials related to the expansion of the Geopark.
He added that the State Government is also planning additional scientific expeditions in the Crocker Range area, involving the districts of Ranau and Tuaran, in preparation to further expand the Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve.
