Lenggong, located in Malaysia's Perak state, has achieved a historic milestone by receiving a dual designation from UNESCO as a World Heritage and Geological site. This recognition makes Lenggong the only site in the Malaysian peninsula to receive dual recognition, enhancing its tourism profile and placing Malaysia on the global tourism map.
In a statement, the representative for Lenggong, Dato' Seri Dr. Shamsul Anuar Nasrah, confirmed that this achievement adds to its World Heritage status since 2012, increasing its tourist appeal. This designation was announced during an official ceremony at UNESCO's headquarters in Paris, where Lenggong was honored as one of the sites of unique geological and cultural significance.
Event Details
Lenggong was recognized as a Global Geopark by UNESCO on April 27, 2026, reflecting its geological importance and rich biodiversity. The celebration was attended by a delegation from the Malaysian government led by the Minister of Perak, Dato' Seri Saarani Mohamad, who expressed pride in this achievement.
The Lenggong Geopark is characterized by its natural diversity, which includes lakes, rivers, and mountains, as well as archaeological sites dating back to human civilization. This diversity makes Lenggong an important destination not only for tourism but also for scientific research at a global level.
Background & Context
Historically, Lenggong was declared a National Geopark on December 16, 2021, contributing to raising awareness about the region's importance. Lenggong is rich in natural and historical resources, containing artifacts that date back to prehistoric times, making it an attractive point for researchers and tourists alike.
The Malaysian government aims to develop tourism in the region by enhancing infrastructure and providing more opportunities for local communities to engage in tourism activities. This dual UNESCO designation represents a significant step towards achieving these goals.
Impact & Consequences
This achievement is expected to have a long-term impact on the Lenggong area, contributing to enhanced tourism and increased awareness of the importance of environmental conservation. It will also help attract investments and scientific research, benefiting the local economy.
Moreover, this designation will elevate Malaysia's status as a global tourist destination, making it more appealing to international tourists. This is expected to lead to an increase in visitor numbers and improve the living standards of local communities.
Regional Significance
This achievement represents an opportunity for Arab countries to benefit from Malaysia's experiences in environmental and cultural tourism. Arab nations, which possess rich historical and natural sites, can learn from Malaysia's strategies in promoting sustainable tourism.
Additionally, cooperation between Arab countries and Malaysia in scientific research and tourism can contribute to strengthening cultural and economic ties between them.
In conclusion, the designation of Lenggong as a World Heritage and Geological site is an important step towards enhancing tourism and sustainable development in Malaysia, reflecting the efforts made to preserve cultural and natural heritage.