KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Parks was celebrated as “A Global Champion in Conservation, Sustainability and Community Empowerment” at the Sabah Tourism Appreciation Night held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here last night.
The prestigious Special Chief Minister’s Award was presented by Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew, who represented Chief Minister Datuk Seri Haji Hajiji Haji Noor.
Accepting the accolade on behalf of Sabah Parks was its Director Dr Maklarin Lakim. Also present at the event were Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister and Sabah Tourism Board (STB) Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, STB Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit and Permanent Secretary to the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry Datuk Josie Lai.
In its citation, the STB lauded Sabah Parks for its exemplary commitment to environmental conservation, sustainable development and community engagement.
This recognition comes on the heels of significant achievements that have elevated Sabah’s global profile.
One of Sabah Parks’ most notable milestones occurred on May 24, 2023, when UNESCO designated the Kinabalu Geopark as one of 18 new UNESCO Global Geoparks. Spanning 4,750 square kilometers across Kota Belud, Kota Marudu and parts of Ranau, this designation positions Sabah as only the third UNESCO Triple Crown site globally, alongside Jeju Island in South Korea and Shennongjia in China.
Sabah Parks now manages three UNESCO-recognised sites:
- Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since December 2, 2000, recognised for its biodiversity and ecological significance.
- Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve, designated on June 12, 2014, reflecting efforts in preserving ecosystems and promoting sustainability.
- Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark, recognised in May 2023 for its geodiversity and cultural heritage.
These accolades underscore Sabah Parks’ relentless dedication to conservation, infrastructure development and community empowerment, aligning seamlessly with Sabah’s strategic goals.
The recognition reinforces Sabah Parks’ role as a global leader in conservation and sustainability, contributing to the state’s reputation as a premier destination for ecotourism and cultural heritage.
